Method and apparatus for global rapid transit

Abstract

Subterranean tunnels extend deep into the Earth's crust between two points on the Earth's surface. A magnetically levitated rail transportation system operates in each tunnel. Gravity provides most of the energy needed to propel the trains. One or more magnetic accelerators in the tunnel provide the energy boost needed to compensate for frictional energy losses. Steam turbine-powered generators, disposed in the tunnels, provide electrical power to the magnetic levitation system and accelerators. The heat from the surrounding rock may be used to produce steam for powering the turbines. A machine for constructing the tunnels bores through solid rock and molten or partially molten rock. As the machine moves forward, it lays pipes that are fed from the surface through the newly-bored tunnel. The pipes carry chiller fluid that solidifies magma that comes into contact with the pipes. As a result, the machine bores through molten or partially molten rock and leaves a tunnel having hardened rock walls behind it as it moves. The chiller fluid is continuously pumped through the pipes from one end of the tunnel to the other, not only to maintain the tunnel walls in a solidified state but also to provide steam for powering the turbines.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.