Patent Publication Number: US-2022228678-A1

Title: Segmental tubes

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/152,304, filed on Jan. 19, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/206,510, filed on Nov. 30, 2018, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,941,886 on Mar. 9, 2021, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/593,489, filed Dec. 1, 2017. The entire disclosure and contents of each of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     1. Field of the Disclosure 
     The present disclosure relates to tubular structures, and more specifically relates to manufacture and deployment of segmental tubes. 
     2. Background of the Disclosure 
     Deployment of conventionally manufactured pipelines (or tubes) can be expensive and time consuming. Generally, the pipes are produced in long spans (e.g., pre-manufactured concrete or metal tubes) that need to be shipped to the job site, and then connected by known techniques, such as welding. Making pipes in smaller segments may make the segments easier to ship, but more difficult or involved to assemble. Conversely, longer segments of pipes may make assembly easier (e.g., less connections), but may render shipment and logistics more difficult. Additionally, both techniques (e.g., utilizing smaller segments or larger segments) require a large footprint at the installation site for staging (as the tube segments must be stored on site prior to connection to the pipeline (or tube structure). 
     Thus, there is a need for an improved method and system for manufacture and deployment of segmental tubes. 
     SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The novel features which are characteristic of the disclosure, both as to structure and method of operation thereof, together with further aims and advantages thereof, will be understood from the following description, considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and they are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure. 
     Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a segmental tube section structure having a length and a circumference. The segmental tube section structure comprises a plurality of tube segments extending the length in a longitudinal direction of the segmental tube section structure and extending in a circumferential direction of the segmental tube section structure. Each tube segment of the plurality of tube segments extends in the circumferential direction to span an equal arc of the circumference of the segmental tube section. Each of the plurality of tube segments are connected to adjacent tube segments of the plurality of tube segments in the circumferential direction to form the segmental tube section structure. 
     In embodiments, the plurality of tube segments comprise a sheet metal, and each of the plurality of tube segments are connected to the adjacent tube segments of the plurality of tube segments via welds formed between the adjacent tube segments. 
     In further embodiments, the plurality of tube segments when welded to the adjacent tube segments of the plurality of tube segments forms an air-tight interior surface to maintain a sub 100 pa pressure environment, for example. 
     In additional embodiments, the plurality of tube segments are nestable with each other when arranged adjacent each other, and are accommodate able in a shipping container for shipping from a manufacturing facility. 
     In yet further embodiments, each of the plurality of tube segments comprises an outer metal layer and an inner metal layer. 
     In embodiments, the inner metal layer comprises a plurality of rib stiffeners. 
     In further embodiments, the plurality of rib stiffeners are welded to the outer metal layer. 
     In additional embodiments, the segmental tube section structure further comprises a middle layer formed between the outer metal layer and the inner metal layer. 
     In yet further embodiments, at least one of the plurality of tube segments comprises a transportation vehicle track or attachment structure to accommodate a vehicle track assembly. 
     In embodiments, at least one of the outer metal layer and the inner metal layer is a steel sheet layer. 
     In further embodiments, the plurality of tube segments is transportable via a shipping container to a tube assembly location, and assemblable into the segmental tube section structure at the tube assembly location. 
     In additional embodiments, the plurality of tube segments comprise six segments each spanning 60 degrees of the circumference of the segmental tube section structure. 
     In yet further embodiments, the plurality of tube segments comprise between six and eight segments. 
     Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a method of making one of the plurality of tube segments of the segmental tube section structure. The method comprises forming the outer metal layer, the forming the outer metal layer comprising: de-coiling a steel sheet, providing a curvature to the steel sheet along a short axis of the steel sheet that extends in a longitudinal axis of the steel sheet, and cutting the steel sheet to a desired length. The method further comprises forming the inner metal layer, the forming the inner metal layer comprising: de-coiling a second steel sheet, forming a plurality of rib blanks from the second steel sheet, and stamping the plurality of rib blanks in a press to form a plurality of ribs having the curvature. The method further comprises welding the plurality of ribs to a concave surface of the outer metal layer. 
     In embodiments, the method further comprises attaching at least one a propulsion track and a levitation track or attachment structure to accommodate a vehicle track assembly to at least one of the plurality of tube segments. 
     In further embodiments, the method further comprises bending longitudinal edges of the outer metal layer to form longitudinal sidewalls of the one of the plurality of tube segments. 
     Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a method of installing the segmental tube section structure. The method comprises de-containerizing the plurality of tube segments from a shipping container at an installation site, queueing the plurality of tube segments on an assembly conveyor, conveying the plurality of tube segments through previously assembled segmental tube sections from the installation site to the tube manufacturing location, and connecting the plurality of tube segments to adjacent tube segments of the plurality of tube segments, and connecting the plurality of tube segments to adjacent tube segments of a previously assembled segmental tube section structure. 
     In embodiments, the method of installing the segmental tube section structure further comprises lowering a tube segment into a transfer mechanism to insert a tube segment into a radial fixture spanning from column to column, then lowering a next tube segment into the transfer mechanism, rotating the tube segment by a distance of the arc, before inserting the tube segment into the radial fixture. This process is repeated on a plurality of tube segments to fully populate the fixture prior to welding or connecting the adjacent segments together along their longitudinal length. 
     In contemplated embodiments, the individual tube segment is welded along their short edge end to end to incrementally lengthen the tube segment longitudinally. This can occur before the inspection station at the containerization site prior to entering the tube or just prior to the installing station. 
     In further embodiments, a plurality of segmental tube section structures are connected with adjacent segmental tube section structures to form a tube extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein tube segments may be installed in the longitudinal direction prior to or at substantially the same time as installation of tube segments in the circumferential direction, such that the tube may be assembled in multiple directions simultaneously. 
     In additional embodiments, the connecting the plurality of tube segments to adjacent tube segments of the plurality of tube segments, and the connecting the plurality of tube segments to tube segments one of the previously assembled segmental tube section structures, comprises welding so as to form an air-tight interior surface. 
     Additional aspects of the disclosure are directed to a segmental tube section structure having a length and a circumference, the segmental tube section structure comprising, a plurality of tube segments extending the length in a longitudinal direction of the segmental tube section structure and extending in a circumferential direction of the segmental tube section structure. At least some of the tube segments of the plurality of tube segments extends in the circumferential direction to span an equal arc of the circumference of the segmental tube section. Each of the plurality of tube segments are connected to adjacent tube segments of the plurality of tube segments in the circumferential direction to form the segmental tube section structure. 
     In some embodiments, all but one of the tube segments of the plurality of tube segments extends in the circumferential direction to span an equal arc of the circumference of the segmental tube section. 
     In additional embodiments, the tube segment not spanning an equal arc of the circumference of the segmental tube section accommodates a transportation track or permanent attachment to accommodate a track assembly. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure are related to modular plate segments that may be attached to form a tubular structure. In an exemplary embodiment, a plate segment may include an inner plate, an outer plate, and a filling. The filling may include, for example, stiffeners and/or ribbing or concrete. 
     Additional aspects of the disclosure are directed to a containerization-ability of the tubular segments in, for shipping containers, for transportation from a production facility to a point of assembly. By implementing aspects of the disclosure, the tubular segments are able to be shipped overseas and around the world, while allowing the tubular segments to be centrally manufactured reducing construction times of hyperloop transportation systems. Reducing construction time is the largest driver to reducing overall cost of an infrastructure project. In accordance with further aspects of the disclosure, by maintaining manufacture at a central manufacturing facility, quality control (e.g., high tolerances), which are paramount with precision products, can be ensured to a very high degree (for example, as compared with a widely distributed manufacturing, where there may be a wide variance in quality). An additional benefit of centralized manufacture is less training may be required for staffing the manufacturing facility and staff needs may be lower (as compared to distributed manufacturing). This manufacturing aspect of the disclosure disrupts conventional less efficient construction industry practices with high volume manufacturing methodologies. 
     Additionally, some countries or regions of the world may not have manufacturing ability. As such, by providing a segmental tubular structure, in which, for example the tube segments can be nested within each other and stored in a shipping container, costs for transportation and installation of the segmental tubular structure can be significantly reduced and the speed of deployment can be increased. Shipping containers containing tube segments can be shipped in weeks to construction zone from a centralized manufacturing facility whereas manufacturing facilities can take at least a year to construct. 
     An embodiment is directed to a method for assembling a tubular structure in the field. The tubular structure may include interlocking modular segments that may be manufactured remotely and delivered to an assembly location. In embodiments, a tube assembling gantry may be deployed at the assembly location. 
     In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, embodiments of the disclosure can be deployed in a variety of terrains. Segments can be designed to desired size specifications and criteria, such as for ease and efficiency of shipping. Segments may also come pre-assembled with components. Thus, the tubular structure can be manufactured, shipped, and deployed in the field rapidly and relatively inexpensively. 
     By implementing aspects of the disclosure, cost savings may be achieved through centralized manufacture of the linear infrastructure. Additionally, mass production techniques and high volume manufacture reduces per pan cost, and thus, costs of the entire assembly can be significantly reduced through scales of economy. Quality is improved through a high-volume methodology. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features which are characteristic of the systems, both as to structure and method of operation thereof, together with further aims and advantages thereof, will be understood from the following description, considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and they are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure. For a more complete understanding of the disclosure, as well as other aims and further features thereof, reference may be had to the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure in conjunction with the following exemplary and non-limiting drawings wherein: 
         FIG. 1  shows an exemplary embodiment of a segmented tubular structure (or section) in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  shows an exemplary overview of a segmented tube manufacture, tube transportation, and on-site tubular structure deployment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 3  shows an exemplary embodiment of a segmented tube manufacturing facility for manufacturing tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  shows an exemplary embodiment of containerization of tube segments for transportation to an on-site tubular structure deployment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  shows an exemplary embodiment of an on-site tubular structure deployment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 6  shows an exemplary embodiment of an on-site tubular structure deployment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 7  shows an exemplary embodiment of an on-site tubular structure assembly and installation in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 8  shows an exemplary overview depiction of a segmented tube manufacturing facility for manufacturing tube segments from a first end of the manufacturing facility in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 9  shows an exemplary overview depiction of a segmented tube manufacturing facility for manufacturing tube segments from a second end of the manufacturing facility in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 10  shows an exemplary side view of an overview depiction of a segmented tube manufacturing facility for manufacturing tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 11  shows an exemplary depiction of tube segment manufacturing lines of a segmented tube manufacturing facility for manufacturing tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 12  shows an exemplary depiction of a steel de-coiling and a coil inventory area of the tube segment manufacturing lines in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 13  shows an exemplary overview depiction of the tube segment manufacturing lines of a segmented tube manufacturing facility from a first end of the of the tube segment manufacturing lines in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 14  shows an exemplary depiction of a straightening and sheeting line manufacturing process of the tube segment manufacturing lines in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 15  shows an exemplary depiction of a forming and variable cut-to-length line of the tube segment manufacturing lines in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 16  shows an exemplary depiction of a formed segment outer skin in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 17  shows an exemplary depiction of a return folds manufacturing process of the tube segment manufacturing line in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 18  shows an exemplary overview depiction of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line of the segmented tube manufacturing facility from a first end of the of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 19  shows an exemplary depiction of a laser blanking manufacturing process and stamp press process of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 20  shows an exemplary depiction of formed sheet metal ribs on the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 21  shows an exemplary depiction of a circumferential rib assembly to outer skin manufacturing process in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 22  shows an exemplary depiction of a robotic welding of ribs to outer skin of the circumferential rib assembly to outer skin manufacturing process in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 23  shows an exemplary depiction of a laser hole cutting manufacturing process of the tube segment manufacturing line in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 24  shows an exemplary depiction of a levitation track assembly line of the segmented tube manufacturing facility in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 25  shows an exemplary depiction of a buffer conveyor of the segmented tube manufacturing facility in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 26  shows an exemplary depiction of a levitation and propulsion track chassis welding manufacturing process in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 27  shows an exemplary depiction of a levitation track/propulsion track to tube segment manufacturing process of the tube segment manufacturing line in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 28  shows an exemplary depiction of an automated vision inspection process of the tube segment manufacturing line in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 29  shows an exemplary depiction of an automated containerization process of the tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 30  shows an exemplary depiction of loading of the tube segments for transport to an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 31  shows an exemplary overview depiction of a segmented tube installation process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 32  shows an exemplary overview depiction of a segmented tube installation process from a first side at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 33  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment container storage area and vehicle unloading process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 34  shows another exemplary depiction of a tube segment container storage area and vehicle unloading process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 35  shows another exemplary depiction of a tube segment container storage area and vehicle unloading process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 36  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment unloading process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 37  shows another exemplary depiction of a tube segment unloading process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 38  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment automated vision inspection process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 39  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment queueing conveyor and tube segment transporter for transporting tube segments to point of use at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 40  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment queueing conveyor transporting tube segments within already constructed segmental tubes to a downstream point of use at the install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 41  shows an exemplary depiction of an automated tube segment installer for constructing segmental tubes at the install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 42  shows another exemplary depiction of the automated tube segment installer for constructing segmental tubes at the install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 43  shows an exemplary tube segment feeding-in process of the automated tube segment installer in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 44  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of the automated tube segment installer in accordance with aspects of the disclosure: 
         FIG. 45  shows an exemplary tube segment rotating process and a feeding-in process of a next (or second) tube segment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 46  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of a second tube segment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 47  shows a tube segment rotating process and a feeding-in process of a next (or third) tube segment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 48  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of the third tube segment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 49  shows a tube segment rotating process and a feeding-in process of a next (or fourth) tube segment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 50  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of the fourth tube segment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 51  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of a final tube segment to form the segmental tube section in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 52  shows an exemplary depiction of an automated tube segment installer for constructing segmental tubes at the install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; and 
         FIG. 53  shows an exemplary environment for practicing aspects of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The following detailed description illustrates by way of example, not by way of limitation, the principles of the disclosure. This description will clearly enable one skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives and uses of the disclosure, including what is presently believed to be the best mode of carrying out the disclosure. It should be understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, and are not limiting of the present disclosure nor are they necessarily drawn to scale. 
     The novel features which are characteristic of the disclosure, both as to structure and method of operation thereof, together with further aims and advantages thereof, will be understood from the following description, considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which an embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and they are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure. 
     In the following description, the various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with respect to the enclosed drawings. As required, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are discussed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the embodiments of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure. 
     The particulars shown herein are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the embodiments of the present disclosure only and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the present disclosure. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the present disclosure in more detail than is necessary for the fundamental understanding of the present disclosure, such that the description, taken with the drawings, making apparent to those skilled in the art how the forms of the present disclosure may be embodied in practice. 
     As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to “a magnetic material” would also mean that mixtures of one or more magnetic materials can be present unless specifically excluded. As used herein, the indefinite article “a” indicates one as well as more than one and does not necessarily limit its referent noun to the singular. 
     Except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all examples by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by embodiments of the present disclosure. At the very least, and not to be considered as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding conventions. 
     Additionally, the recitation of numerical ranges within this specification is considered to be a disclosure of all numerical values and ranges within that range (unless otherwise explicitly indicated). For example, if a range is from about 1 to about 50, it is deemed to include, for example, 1, 7, 34, 46.1, 23.7, or any other value or range within the range. 
     As used herein, the terms “about” and “approximately” indicate that the amount or value in question may be the specific value designated or some other value in its neighborhood. Generally, the terms “about” and “approximately” denoting a certain value is intended to denote a range within ±5% of the value. As one example, the phrase “about 100” denotes a range of 100±5, i.e. the range from 95 to 105. Generally, when the terms “about” and “approximately” arc used, it can be expected that similar results or effects according to the disclosure can be obtained within a range of ±5% of the indicated value. 
     As used herein, the term “and/or” indicates that either all or only one of the elements of said group may be present. For example, “A and/or B” shall mean “only A, or only B, or both A and B”. In the case of “only A”, the term also covers the possibility that B is absent, i.e. “only A, but not B”. 
     The term “substantially parallel” refers to deviating less than 20° from parallel alignment and the term “substantially perpendicular” refers to deviating less than 20° from perpendicular alignment. The term “parallel” refers to deviating less than 5° from mathematically exact parallel alignment. Similarly “perpendicular” refers to deviating less than 5° from mathematically exact perpendicular alignment. 
     The term “at least partially” is intended to denote that the following property is fulfilled to a certain extent or completely. 
     The terms “substantially” and “essentially” are used to denote that the following feature, property or parameter is either completely (entirely) realized or satisfied or to a major degree that does not adversely affect the intended result. 
     The term “comprising” as used herein is intended to be non-exclusive and open-ended. Thus, for example a composition comprising a compound A may include other compounds besides A. However, the term “comprising” also covers the more restrictive meanings of “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of”, so that for example “a composition comprising a compound A” may also (essentially) consist of the compound A. 
     The various embodiments disclosed herein can be used separately and in various combinations unless specifically stated to the contrary. 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in a low-pressure high-speed transportation system, for example, as described in commonly-assigned application Ser. No. 15/007,783, titled “Transportation System,” the contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. For example, the segmental tube structure may be used as a transportation path for a low-pressure, high-speed transportation system. In embodiments, a low-pressure environment within a sealed tubular structure may be approximately 100 Pa. 
       FIG. 1  shows an exemplary embodiment of a segmental tubular structure (or section)  110  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to modular tube segments that may be attached together to form the tubular structure (or segmental tube). For example, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the segmental tube (or segmental tube section)  110  is formed of a plurality of (for example, six) tube segments  100 . While the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure include six tube segments or four tube segments that are connected together to form a tube section, the disclosure contemplates that the tube section may be formed of seven or eight tube segments. Additionally, while the exemplary embodiments include commonly-sized tube segments (e.g., in a direction of curvature or circumferential direction), the disclosure contemplates that one or more of the tube segments may not be commonly-sized with the remaining tube segments. For example, in some contemplated embodiments, a tube segment that includes a track assembly may be larger (e.g., in a direction of curvature or circumferential direction) then the remaining tube segments. Once arranged in place in location at an installation site, the tube segments  100  may be attached (e.g., using fasteners and/or welds) to adjacent tube segments  100  in the tube section  110  and adjacent upstream tube segments of an adjacent segmental tube section (not shown). Additionally, in embodiments as described further below, once arranged in place in location at an install site, the tube segments  100  may be attached to expansion bellows and, in embodiments, may be attached to support columns. 
     In some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, a tube segment  100  may include an inner layer  115  (e.g., including in some embodiments stiffening ribs thereon), for example formed from a steel sheet or plate (e.g., with thickness of approximately 6 mm-12 mm), an outer layer  120 , for example formed from a steel sheet or plate (e.g., with thickness of approximately 6 mm-13 mm), and a filling (not shown) formed or arranged between the inner layer  115  and the outer layer  120 . The filling may include stiffeners and, in some embodiments, ribbing). With other contemplated embodiments, the tube segment  100  may include an outer layer (e.g., with thickness of approximately 6 mm-13 mm) with internal and/or external ribbing attached (e.g., welded) to the outer layer. In embodiments, a frequency of the ribbing can be determined using, for example, a finite analysis. The inner layer  115  may include a metal (e.g., steel) sheet. The metal sheet may be roll-formed, to produce a desired curvature and adjusted for material variation. The outer layer  120  may include a metal (e.g., steel) sheet. The metal sheet may be roll-formed to produce a desired curvature. The metal sheet may be made in any of a variety of sizes that are common in the field, such as a width of approximately 3 meters. The metal sheet may be cut in any length that is desirable for the finished product, such as a length of approximately 11.5 meters. The outer layer  120  and the inner layer  115  may be substantially fixed to the filler, such that the filler (or filler layer) is nested substantially within the outer layer&#39;s radius and the inner sheet is nested substantially in the filler layer&#39;s radius. The tube segment  100  may include connectors for connecting to other a tube segments  100  radially and lengthwise, including, for example, bolt holes, hooks, and/or clamps. Desired holes may be cut from the tube segment  100 . In embodiments, desired paint may be added to the tube segment  100 . Additionally, desired accessories may be attached to the tube segments  100  (or at least some of the tube segments  100 ), such as a track section if the tube segment  100  is used to form a transportation system. 
       FIG. 2  shows an exemplary overview of a segmented tube manufacture, tube transportation, and on-site tubular structure deployment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 2 , aspects of the disclosure include: (A) manufacture of the tube segments  100  at a manufacturing facility  800 ; (B) a containerization process  400  of the tube segments  100  in transportation containers; (C) a transportation  500  of the transportation containers via shipping, automobile, ship, etc.; (D) de-containerization and pre-staging process  3500  of the tube segments  100  at an assembly location; and (E) an installation/assembly process  4500  at the assembly location, wherein the tube segments  100  are installed and assembled to form a plurality of the segmental tubes (or segmental tube sections)  110 . 
       FIG. 3  shows an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment of a segmented (or segmental) tube manufacturing facility  800  for manufacturing tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 3 , the segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  includes a process starting side  805  at one end of the facility  800  and a process ending side  810  at the other end of the facility  800 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  outputs the tube segments  100  at the process ending side  810 . 
       FIG. 4  shows an exemplary embodiment of containerization process  400  of tube segments  100  for transportation to an on-site tubular structure deployment location in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 4 , a transportation container  405  is loaded with tube segments  100 . In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, by nesting the tube segments  100  in adjacent tube segments  100 , the space necessary for transporting the tube segments  100  is minimized, such that costs of moving the tube segments  100  to an installation location are significantly reduced (e.g., as compared to transporting an already-formed tube section), and the and efficiencies for moving the tube segments  100  to an installation location are significantly increased. As shown in  FIG. 4 , the transportation container  405  may be arranged on a vehicle (e.g., a truck  410 ) for moving the tube segments  100  to an installation location. As additionally, shown in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 4 , in embodiments, the transportation container  405  is loaded with a number of tube segments  100  to form a single segmental tube section  110 . Thus, with this exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the transportation container  405  is loaded with six tube segments  100 . 
       FIG. 5  shows an exemplary embodiment of transportation  500  of the transportation containers  405  (each containing a number of tube segments  100 , e.g., to form a single segmental tube section  110 ) in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in the  FIG. 5 , a cargo ship  505  may be used transport the transportation containers  405 , for example, regionally and/or globally. As should be understood, however, a variety of transportation modes may be utilized to transport the transportation containers  405 , including, for example, ships, trains, trucks, etc. Moreover, world-wide export of the transportation containers  405  may utilize existing logistics networks. 
       FIG. 6  shows an exemplary embodiment of an on-site tubular structure deployment process  3500  at an installation site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 6 , in embodiments, trucks  410  may transport the transportation container  405  to the installation site. The transportation containers  405  may be stacked and stored in a storage area at the installation site, and may be arranged at an unload station for removal (e.g., serial removal) of the tube segments  100  from the transportation container  405 . The removed tube segments  100  are then assembled to form a segmental tube section. 
       FIG. 7  shows an exemplary embodiment of an on-site tubular structure assembly and installation process  4500  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 7 , a plurality of tube segments  100  are transported to an install position and assembled (e.g., fastened and/or welded) with adjacent tube segments  100  to form a segmental tube section  110 . Once a segmental tube section  110  is formed, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the installation process  4500  continues by forming a next downstream segmental tube section  110 . Additionally, in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the installation process  4500  may proceed in parallel, with two tube pathways formed side-by-side. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a method for assembling/manufacturing a segmental tube segment. At least one plate (or tube segment layer) is formed by roll-forming a metal sheet into desired characteristics, including thickness, width, length, and radius of curvature. (While the description refers to a plate, it should be understood that the “plate” or tube layer is not planar, but rather is curved). In embodiments, ribbing, holes, and/or paint may be added to the plate. With some contemplated embodiments, a filling may be attached to a face of the plate, such as ribbing and/or stiffeners. In some contemplated embodiments, a second plate may be attached to the opposing side of the filling, such that the first plate, filling, and second plate substantially form a “sandwich” structure. Additionally layers of filling and plates may be added. In other contemplated embodiments, the tube segment may only have one outer layer with ribs attached thereto. This manufacturing/assembly process substantially forms a plate (or tube) segment. In some contemplated embodiments, attachment points, such as bolt holes, brackets, hooks, and/or clamps, may be added to the outer edges of the plates and/or filling to allow multiple plate segments to connect to one another in the direction of length and in the direction of curvature. 
       FIG. 8  shows an exemplary overview depiction of a segmented (or segmental) tube manufacturing facility  800  for manufacturing tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. The segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  includes a process starting side  805  at one end of the facility  800  and a process ending side  810  at the other end of the facility  800 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , the perspective of the facility  800  is from the process starting side  805  of the manufacturing facility. As further shown in  FIG. 8 , the exemplary and non-limiting segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  includes two side-by-side tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  for manufacturing the tube segments  100 . Each of the manufacturing lines  1100  includes an adjacently-arranged circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  for forming circumferential rib stiffeners for assembling the tube segments  100 . The segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  additionally includes a propulsion track fabrication line  2400  and a levitation track assembly line  2800  for manufacturing the propulsion track and levitation track. 
       FIG. 9  shows another exemplary overview depiction of the segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  for manufacturing tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. The segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  includes the process starting side  805  at one end of the facility  800  and the process ending side  810  at the other end of the facility  800 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the perspective of the facility  800  is from the process ending side  810  of the manufacturing facility. Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 9 , at the process ending side  810 , transportation vehicles  410  are arranged for receiving loaded transportation containers  405  for transportation to an installation site (and for delivering unloaded transportation containers  405  for subsequent loading with tube segments  100 ). As shown in  FIG. 9 , the exemplary and non-limiting segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  includes two side-by-side tube segment manufacturing lines  1100 . Each of the manufacturing lines  1100  includes a circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  for forming circumferential rib stiffeners adjacent to each respective manufacturing line  1100 . The segmented tube manufacturing facility additionally  800  includes a propulsion track fabrication line  2400  and a levitation track assembly line  2800 . 
       FIG. 10  shows an exemplary side view of an overview depiction of the segmented tube manufacturing tube facility  800  for manufacturing tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 10 , the segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  includes the process starting side  805  at one end of the facility  800  and the process ending side  810  at the other end of the facility  800 . 
       FIG. 11  shows an exemplary depiction of two side-by-side tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  of a segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  for manufacturing tube segments in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 11 , the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  start near the process starting side  805  at one end of the facility  800  and extend through the facility  800  to the process ending side  810  at the other end of the facility  800 .  FIG. 11  also shows one of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing lines  1800  arranged adjacent one of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100 . 
       FIG. 12  shows an exemplary depiction of a steel de-coiler  1205  and a coil inventory area  1215  of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 12 , the process for each manufacturing line  1100  begins with a de-coiling of metal (e.g., steel) rolls  1210  using a de-coiler  1205 . As shown in  FIG. 12 , coils (or metal rolls)  1210  may be stored in a coil inventory area  1215  of the facility  800 . Once the steel is de-coiled, the metal layer is feed down the respective tube segment manufacturing lines  1100 .  FIG. 12  also depicts a steel de-coiling for one of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing lines  1800 , which is arranged adjacent to one of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100 . 
       FIG. 13  shows an exemplary overview depiction of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  of the segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  from a first end of the of the tube segment manufacturing lines in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 13 , the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  start near the process starting side  805  at one end of the facility  800  and extend through the facility  800  to the process ending side  810  at the other end of the facility  800 . Each of the manufacturing lines  1100  includes a conveyor  1510  structured and arranged for conveying the components of the tube segments  100  along the respective manufacturing lines  1100 . As shown in  FIG. 13 , the conveyors  1510  may include rollers (e.g., driven rollers) and the conveyors may be curved to support the formed curved metal layer  1405  during formation of the tube segments.  FIG. 13  also shows the two circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing lines  1800  arranged adjacent each of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100 . 
       FIG. 14  shows an exemplary depiction of a straightening and sheeting line manufacturing process of the tube segment manufacturing lines in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 14 , after the de-coiling of metal (e.g., steel) rolls  1210  using a de-coiler  1205 , the metal layer is feed down the respective tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  to a straightening and sheeting apparatuses  1400 . In the straightening and sheeting apparatus  1400 , the metal layer is formed into the curved metal layer  1405  (e.g., continuous sheet), which moves down the conveyer  1510 .  FIG. 14  also depicts one of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing lines  1800 , which is arranged adjacent to one of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100 . 
       FIG. 15  shows an exemplary depiction of a forming and variable cut-to-length apparatus  1500  of the tube segment manufacturing lines in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. After the straightening and sheeting apparatus  1400 , the curved metal sheet  1405  (e.g., continuous sheet) is fed along the conveyor  1510  into the forming and variable cut-to-length apparatus  1500 , in which the curved metal sheet  1405  is formed (e.g. cut) into a tube segment outer skin (or layer)  1505 . As should be understood, the forming and variable cut-to-length apparatus  1500  is operable to cut (e.g., using a laser, water, mechanical shearing, etc.) the curved metal sheet  1405  (e.g., continuous sheet) into the outer skin (or layer)  1505  of a selectable predetermined length. 
       FIG. 16  shows an exemplary depiction of a formed segment outer skin  1505  fed along the conveyor  1510  after leaving the forming and variable cut-to-length apparatus  1500  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 16 , a queue of segment outer skins  1505  are proceeding down the conveyor  1510 . 
       FIG. 17  shows an exemplary depiction of an optional return folds manufacturing process/station  1700  of the tube segment manufacturing line  1100  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. With some contemplated embodiments, after the segment outer skin  1505  is conveyed from the forming and variable cut-to-length apparatus  1500 , the segment outer skin  1505  is formed (e.g., via press  1710 ) to provide folds (or flanges)  1705  on the longitudinal sides of the segment outer skin  1505 . As shown in  FIG. 17 , a queue of segment outer skins  1505  with folds  1705  are proceeding down the conveyor  1510 . With other contemplated embodiments, however, folds (or flanges) may not be provided to the tube segments for connecting to adjacent tube segments, and the tube segments are securely connected to each other by a laser welding process, in which a butt weld is formed between adjacent tube segments. In such a manner, materials for forming the flange may be saved, and costs for manufacturing the tube segments may be reduced. With such embodiments, there would not be any return folds manufacturing process/station  1700  needed. 
       FIG. 18  shows an exemplary overview depiction of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  of the segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  from a first end of the of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 18 , after the dc-coiling of metal (e.g., steel) rolls  1210  using a de-coiler  1205 , the metal layer is feed down the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  to a straightening and sheeting apparatus  1805 . In the straightening and sheeting apparatus  1805 , the metal layer is formed into a flat metal sheet  1815 , which moves further down the conveyer  1810 . 
       FIG. 19  shows an exemplary depiction of a laser blanking manufacturing process/station  1900  and stamp press process/station  1920  of the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. After the flat metal sheet  1815  leaves the straightening and sheeting apparatus  1805 , the flat metal sheet  1815  is fed into a laser blanking process/station  1900 , in which the flat metal sheet  1815  is cut into blanks  1915  using, e.g., a laser. The blanks  1915  may be temporarily stored in a receiving bin  1930  prior to placement in the stamp press process/station  1920 . While the exemplary embodiment utilizes a laser blanking process/station  1900 , it should be understood that the disclosure contemplates other known blank cutting methods and techniques. 
     As shown in  FIG. 19 , a robot  1910  (or a plurality of robots) may be configured to remove the blanks  1915  from the receiving bin  1930  (e.g., individually) for placement in the stamp press process/station  1920 . In the stamping press process/station  1920 , the blanks  1915  are formed into sheet metal ribs  1925 . For example, the stamp press process/station  1920  includes presses and molds configured to form one or more of the blanks  1915  into ribs  1925 , remove the ribs  1925  from the press, and one or more manipulation devices configured to arrange the formed ribs  1925  on the conveyor  1810 ′ in a predetermined orientation. 
     While described above as individual ribs, in contemplated embodiments, the ribbed structure stamping press process/station  1920  may be configured (e.g., the stamping presses may be configured) to form a ribbed structure comprising a plurality of ribs. In embodiments, the ribbed structure may be of approximately equal length to the outer layer  1505  (or a factor thereof, in a mathematical sense; that is the length of the outer layer  1505  is a multiple of the length of the ribbed structure). 
       FIG. 20  shows an exemplary depiction of formed sheet metal ribs  1925  on the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 20 , after the laser blanking process and the stamping press process  1920 , the curved metal sheet  1815  is formed into a plurality of sheet metal ribs  1925 , which continue along the conveyor  1810 ′. In embodiments (e.g., when transporting the individual ribs  1925  as opposed to a ribbed structure comprising a plurality of ribs), the conveyor  1810 ′ may include a belt surface  1825  to support the individual ribs  1925  during transport along the conveyor  1810 ′. 
       FIG. 21  shows an exemplary depiction of a circumferential rib assembly to outer skin manufacturing process  2100  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 21 , the formed ribs  1925  are moved down the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  on conveyor  1810 ′ to a rib-skin assembly area of the manufacturing facility  800 . Adjacent to the conveyor  1810 , outer skins  1505  with folds  1705  (as used with some contemplated embodiments) are proceeding down the tube segment manufacturing line  1100  on conveyor  1510  to the rib-skin assembly area of the manufacturing facility  800 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 21 , an overhead crane  2105  is moveable along tracks  2110  back-and-forth in directions  2140 ,  2145 . The overhead crane  2105  is operable to carry and raise/lower one or more (e.g., an array of) the formed ribs  1925  from the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  to the tube segment manufacturing line  1100 . For example, in embodiments, the overhead crane  2105  may be configured to carry a number of formed ribs  1925  necessary for a single outer skin  1505 . Additionally, the overhead crane  2105  may be operable to move the plurality of ribs  1925  while maintaining an orientation and spacing of the ribs  1925  relative to one another. In embodiments, the overhead crane  2105  may secure the one or more formed ribs  1925  for transport to the tube segment manufacturing line  1100  using magnets, actuating grips, and/or vacuums, for example. 
     As shown in  FIG. 21 , with the circumferential rib assembly-to-outer skin manufacturing process  2100 , the overhead crane  2105  is operable to position itself over the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800 , and lower a rib securing mechanism (e.g., that utilizes, magnets, actuating grips, and/or vacuums, for example) over one or more ribs  1925  arranged (e.g., in a predetermined relative spacing) on the rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800 . The overhead crane  2105  is further operable to secure one or more ribs  1925  arranged (e.g., in a predetermined relative spacing) on the rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  and raise the one or more ribs  1925  vertically off the rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800 . The overhead crane  2105  is further operable to move the one or more ribs  1925  in direction  2145  so as to position the one or more ribs  1925  over the tube segment manufacturing line  1100 . The overhead crane  2105  is further operable to lower the one or more ribs  1925  vertically onto an outer skin  1505  arranged on the tube segment manufacturing line  1100 . The overhead crane  2105  is further operable to release the rib securing mechanism so as to release the one or more ribs  1925  arranged (e.g., in the predetermined relative spacing) on the outer skin  1505 . The overhead crane  2105  is further operable to raise the rib securing mechanism and position itself over the circumferential rib stiffener manufacturing line  1800  to begin the next cycle of the circumferential rib assembly-to-outer skin manufacturing process  2100 . 
     As should be understood (see, e.g.,  FIG. 8 ), the same overhead crane  2105  has a movement range in directions  2140 ,  2145  so as to be operable for both of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  and both of the rib stiffener manufacturing lines  1800 . Additionally, in contemplated embodiments, the overhead crane  2105  may have two rib securing mechanisms and may be operable to carry a plurality of rib arrays (e.g., ribs arranged in the predetermined relative spacing) for example in a side-by-side arrangement on a left side and a right side of the overhead crane  2105 . For example, as depicted in the exemplary and non-limiting depiction of  FIG. 21 , the overhead crane  2105  may be transporting a plurality of ribs in a right-side rib securing mechanism of the overhead crane  2105 . 
     As noted above, while described above as individual ribs, in contemplated embodiments, the ribbed structure stamping press process  1920  may be configured (e.g., the stamping presses may be configured) to form a ribbed inner layer structure comprising a plurality of ribs. With such embodiments, for example, the disclosure contemplates the circumferential rib assembly-to-outer skin manufacturing process  2100  may be configured for such ribbed inner layer structure comprising a plurality of ribs. For example, the overhead crane  2105  may have rib securing mechanisms configured for the ribbed inner layer structure comprising a plurality of ribs. 
     In embodiments, operation and control of the circumferential rib assembly-to-outer skin manufacturing process  2100  may be performed in an automatic/autonomous manner using computer-aided manufacturing. In other contemplated embodiments, manual control may be utilized for one or more steps of the circumferential rib assembly-to-outer skin manufacturing process  2100  (e.g., transport in direction  2145 ). 
       FIG. 22  shows an exemplary depiction of a robotic welding process/station  2200 , in which the ribs  1925  are welded to outer skins  1505  as the outer skins  1505  are processed in the side-by-side tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 22 , the robotic welding process/station  2200  may include four robotic welders  2205 , with two of each dedicated to each of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100 . The robotic welding process/station  2200  is operable to receive the outer skin  1505  having the ribs  1925  arranged thereon (e.g., in the predetermined relative spacing), which is moved on the conveyor  1510  into position for welding. The robotic welding process/station  2200  is further operable to control the robotic welders  2205  to move into proper position and to perform the welds connecting the outer skin  1505  and the ribs  1925 . As shown in  FIG. 22 , after the welding is performed, the outer skin  1505  and the ribs  1925  together form the layered panel  2115 , which continues down the conveyor  1510 . 
       FIG. 23  shows an exemplary depiction of a laser hole cutting manufacturing process/station  2300  of the tube segment manufacturing line  1100  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. Some embodiments of the present disclosure contemplate providing the layered panel  2115  with holes  2310  for connecting the layered panel  2115  to adjacent panels (e.g., layered panels  2115  in a same tube segment and layered panel  2115  upstream and downstream). Other contemplated embodiments, due to, for example, potential difficulties maintaining a low-pressure environment that may be encountered with providing the layered panel  2115  with holes  2310  (or too many holes) or logistics of fastening a large number of fastener connections, may not utilize a laser hole cutting manufacturing process/station  2300  (or may use a laser hole cutting manufacturing process/station  2300  to provide fewer holes  2310  than depicted in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 23 . 
     In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, in some contemplated embodiments, the laser hole cutting manufacturing station  2300  includes laser configured and positioned to provide the layered panel  2115  with holes  2310  in the flange portions of the layered panel  2115 . In embodiments, the holes  2310  for connecting the layered panel  2115  to adjacent panels may be used to receive bolts for securely connecting adjacent panels  2115 . In other contemplated embodiments, the holes  2310  for connecting the layered panel  2115  to adjacent panels may be used to receive bolts for connecting adjacent panels  2115  for positioning, after which the adjacent panels  2115  are welded together to securely connect the adjacent panels  2115 . As noted above, with other contemplated embodiments, the adjacent tube segments may be connected by laser welds, such that holes in the layered panel  2115  for accommodating connection bolts may not be necessary. 
       FIG. 24  shows an exemplary depiction of a levitation track assembly line  2800  of the segmented tube manufacturing facility  800  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 24 , the levitation track assembly line  2800  includes a conveyor  2805  operable to move a plurality of levitation track tracks  2810 . 
     As further shown in  FIG. 25 , the conveyor  2805  transports a plurality of levitation track tracks  2810  downstream, for example, in a predetermined arrangement (e.g., of  8  tracks  2810 ). The levitation track tracks  2810  are then removed from the conveyor  2805  and arranged (e.g., using robots and/or manually) on the conveyor  2430 ′ adjacent a propulsion track assembly propulsion track  2425  (for example, as shown in  FIG. 26 ). As shown in  FIG. 25 , in embodiments, the propulsion track fabrication line  2400  may be arranged adjacent to a tube segment manufacturing line  1100 . 
       FIG. 26  shows an exemplary depiction of a levitation track-to-propulsion track welding manufacturing process  3000  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 26 , after the levitation track tracks  2810  are removed from the conveyor  2805  and arranged on the conveyor  2430 ′ adjacent a plurality of propulsion track propulsion track assemblies  2425 , the conveyor  2430 ′ transports a plurality of levitation track  2810  in a downstream direction  3030  with the welded propulsion track assembly propulsion track  2425  arranged adjacent the levitation tracks  2810  in a welding arrangement (e.g., with this exemplary embodiment in which the welded propulsion track assemblies  2425  are placed on their side and opening inwardly with respect to the approximate propulsion track profile and the levitation track tracks  2810  are placed outwardly of the welded propulsion track assemblies  2425 ). As shown in  FIG. 26 , a plurality of robotic welders (not shown) are arranged adjacent the conveyor  2430 ′ and are operable to weld the levitation track tracks  2810  to the plurality of propulsion track assemblies  2425  to form levitation track/propulsion tracks  3020 . The conveyor  2430 ′ then transports the track/propulsion tracks  3020  in a downstream direction  3030 . As shown in  FIG. 26 , in embodiments, the propulsion track line  2400  may be arranged adjacent to a tube segment manufacturing line  1100 . 
       FIG. 27  shows an exemplary depiction of a levitation track/propulsion track-to-tube segment manufacturing station/process  3100  of the tube segment manufacturing line  1100  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 27 , an overhead crane  3130  is moveable along tracks  3110  back-and-forth in directions  3140 ,  3145 . The overhead crane  3130  is operable to carry and raise/lower one or more (e.g., a parallel arrangement of two) track/propulsion tracks  3020  from the propulsion track line  2400  to the tube segment manufacturing line  1100 . For example, in embodiments, the overhead crane  3130  may be configured to carry a number of track/propulsion tracks  3020  necessary for a single layered panel  2115 . Additionally, the overhead crane  3130  may be operable to move the track/propulsion tracks  3020  while maintaining an orientation and spacing of the track/propulsion tracks  3020  relative to one another. In embodiments, the overhead crane  3130  may secure the one or more track/propulsion tracks  3020  for transport to the tube segment manufacturing line  1100  using a track holder  3120  comprising magnets, actuating grips, and/or vacuums, for example. 
     As shown in  FIG. 27  (and  FIG. 26 ), with the levitation track/propulsion track-to-tube segment manufacturing station/process  3100 , the overhead crane  3120  is operable to position itself over the propulsion track line  2400 , and lower a track securing mechanism or track holder  3120  (e.g., that utilizes, magnets, actuating grips, and/or vacuums, for example) over one or more track/propulsion tracks  3020  arranged (e.g., in a predetermined relative spacing) on the propulsion track line  2400 . The overhead crane  3130  is further operable to secure one or more track/propulsion tracks  3020  arranged (e.g., in a predetermined relative spacing) on the propulsion track line  2400  and raise the one or more track/propulsion tracks  3020  vertically off the propulsion track line  2400 . The overhead crane  3130  is further operable to move the one or more track/propulsion tracks  3020  in direction  3145  so as to position the one or more track/propulsion tracks  3020  over the tube segment manufacturing line  1100 . The overhead crane  3130  is further operable to lower the one or more track/propulsion tracks  3020  vertically onto an layered panel  2115  arranged on the tube segment manufacturing line  1100 . The overhead crane  3130  is further operable to release the track holders  3120  so as to release the one or more track/propulsion tracks  3020  arranged (e.g., in the predetermined relative spacing) on the layered panel  2115 . The overhead crane  3130  is further operable to raise the track holders  3120  and position itself over the propulsion track line  2400  to begin the next cycle of the levitation track/propulsion track-to-tube segment manufacturing process  3100 . 
     As should be understood (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 8 and 9 ), the same overhead crane  3130  has a movement range in directions  3140 ,  3145  so as to be operable for both of the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  and the propulsion track line  2400 . Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 27  the overhead crane  3130  may have two track/propulsion track securing mechanisms  3120  and may be operable to carry a plurality of track/propulsion tracks  3020  for example in aside-by-side arrangement on a left side and a right side of the overhead crane  3130 . 
     Once the track/propulsion tracks  3020  are arranged (e.g., in the predetermined relative spacing) on the layered panel  2115 , the track/propulsion tracks  3020  may be attached to the layered panel  2115 , for example, using robotic welders (not shown) to form a track layered panel  3115 . As with this exemplary and non-liming embodiment, six layered panels  2115  may form a group to be assembled together to form a segmental tube section, and as track/propulsion tracks  3020  may only be necessary for one (or two, for example) of the six layered panels  2115  of the group, the levitation track/propulsion track-to-tube segment manufacturing station/process  3100  may be configured to attach track/propulsion tracks  3020  to form a track layered panel  3115  for every sixth layered panel  2115  proceeding on the conveyor  1510 . 
       FIG. 28  shows an exemplary depiction of an automated vision inspection process/station  3200  of the tube segment manufacturing line  1100  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) may be inspected just prior to containerization for subsequent delivery, for example, to ensure conformance with specifications and quality control. As shown in  FIG. 28 , the depicted exemplary automated vision inspection station  3200  includes one or more sensors, cameras, and/or scanners  3210  moveable along tracks  3215  above one of the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115  and operable to perform a vision inspection of the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 . As shown in  FIG. 28 , the vision inspection station  3200  may include a hood  3220  to, for example, reduce outside interference during the inspection process. 
       FIG. 29  shows an exemplary depiction of an automated containerization process/station  3300  of the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 29 , one or more overhead cranes  3330  are moveable along tracks  3310  back-and-forth in directions  3340 ,  3345 . The overhead cranes  3330  are operable to carry and raise/lower one or more tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) from the tube segment manufacturing lines  1100  into a container  405 . For example, in embodiments, the cranes  3330  may raise one side of the tube segments (e.g., layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) into a vertical orientation on the conveyor  1510  for insertion into a container  405 , which is arranged (e.g., via tracks  3360 ) into alignment with the end of the manufacturing lines  1100 . Additional containers  405  (e.g., ready to be loaded with tube segments) may be arranged in a container holding/queueing area  3350 . In embodiments, the overhead crane  3130  may secure the one or more tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) for transport from the tube segment manufacturing line  1100  to the container  405  using one or more tube segment holders  3370  (comprising for example, hooks, chains, magnets, actuating grips, and/or vacuums, for example). As shown in  FIG. 29 , in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115  are nested within adjacent panels for efficient containerization. In an exemplary embodiment, each container may be configured to accommodate five layered panels  2115  and one track layered panel  3115  in each container  405  (e.g., a standard shipping container). 
       FIG. 30  shows an exemplary depiction of a loading process station  3400  of the tube segments for transport to an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 30 , trucks  410  may queue near the process ending side  810  of the facility  800  to receive containers  405  for transport to an install site. 
     Additional aspects of the disclosure are directed to an assembly system and method for connecting a plurality of tube segments in the direction of curvature such that a tube section (e.g., a cylindrical tube section or approximated cylindrical tube section) is formed. The tube segments may be welded or attached by any of known approaches. Additional elements, such as a track for a transportation system, may be attached to an internal face of a tube segment at a point during assembly, such as before tube segments have been attached to sufficiently close the tube section and/or during initial assembly of the plate (or tube) segments. Additionally, in some contemplated embodiments, concrete may be added to the filling. A plurality of tube sections may be connected in the direction of length to form a segmented tube, e.g., a first tube section and a second tube section may be connected at a first open end and a second open end such that the first tube section and the second tube section form a continuous tube. 
       FIG. 31  shows an exemplary overview depiction of a segmented tube installation process at an installation site  3500  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 31 , in embodiments the installation site  3500  may include a storage area  3505 , a de-containerization area  3507 , a pre-staging area  3510 , a track assembly area  3520 , along which a track is being assembled  3525 . As shown in  FIG. 31 , the track assembly area  3520  may be arranged along a roadway  3515 , which may be used to deliver construction materials, such as, tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) to the installation site  3500 . 
       FIG. 32  shows an exemplary overview depiction of a segmented (or segmental) tube installation process  3500  from a first side at an installation site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 32 , the installation site  3500  includes a storage area  3505  for containers  405  holding containerized tube segments. As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 32 , the installation site  3500  includes a de-containerization area  3507  for removing the tube segments from the containers  405 . As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 32 , roadways are arranged around the storage area  3505  and the de-containerization area  3507  to provide access for trucks  410  (e.g., carrying containers  405 ). As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 32 , the installation site  3500  includes a pre-staging area  3510  for pre-staging the tube segments removed from the containers  405 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 32 , the installation site  3500  also includes a track assembly area  3520 , along which a track is being assembled  3525 . As shown in  FIG. 32 , the track assembly area  3520  may be arranged along a roadway  3515 , which may be used to deliver construction materials, such as, tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) to the installation site  3500 . In an exemplary embodiment, the installation site  3500  may be located at ground level near a transportation tunnel  3540  (e.g., of a high-speed, low-pressure tube transportation system). 
       FIG. 33  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment container storage area  3505  and vehicle unloading process at an install site  3500  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 33 , the installation site  3500  includes a storage area  3505  for containers  405  holding containerized tube segments. As shown in  FIG. 33 , the installation site  3500  includes a de-containerization area  3507  for removing the tube segments from the containers  405  adjacent the storage area  3505 . Container handling vehicles  3705  (e.g., lifts, mobile cranes, etc.) may be utilized to move containers  405  from the vehicles  410  and/or the container storage area  3505 . As shown in  FIG. 33 , roadways are arranged around the storage area  3505  and the de-containerization area  3507  to provide access for trucks  410  (e.g., carrying containers  405 ) that may be inbound (e.g., containing tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ). As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 33 , the installation site  3500  includes a pre-staging area  3510  for pre-staging the tube segments removed from the containers  405 . As shown in  FIG. 33 , the installation site  3500  also includes a track assembly area  3520 , along which a track is being assembled  3525 . 
       FIG. 34  shows another exemplary depiction of a tube segment container storage area and vehicle unloading process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 34 , the installation site  3500  includes the de-containerization area  3507  for removing the tube segments from the containers  405  adjacent the storage area  3505 . Container handling vehicles  3705  (e.g., lifts, mobile cranes, other logistics equipment, etc.) may be utilized to move containers  405  from the vehicles  410  and/or within the de-containerization area  3507 . As shown in  FIG. 34 , roadways are arranged around the de-containerization area  3507  to provide access for trucks  410  (e.g., carrying containers  405 ) that may be inbound (e.g., containing tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 )) or outbound (e.g., empty). As shown in  FIG. 34 , the installation site  3500  includes the pre-staging area  3510  for pre-staging the tube segments removed from the containers  405 . 
       FIG. 35  shows another exemplary depiction of a tube segment container storage area and vehicle unloading process at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in the exemplary depiction of  FIG. 35 , the installation site  3500  includes the de-containerization area  3507  for removing the tube segments from the containers  405  adjacent the storage area  3505 . Container handling vehicles  3705  (e.g., lifts, mobile cranes, other logistics equipment, etc.) may be utilized to move containers  405  from the vehicles  410  and/or within the de-containerization area  3507 . As shown in  FIG. 35 , the installation site  3500  includes the pre-staging area  3510  for pre-staging the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115 ) removed from the containers  405 . As shown in  FIG. 35 , a container  405  may be arranged (e.g., via tracks  3960 ) into alignment with the starts of the assembly lines (e.g., side-by-side assembly lines). Additional containers  405  (e.g., ready to de-containerized or be unloaded of tube segments) may be arranged in a container holding/queueing area  3950  having automated material/container handlers  3905 . Empty containers  3975  can be moved to a removal queueing area  3970  for subsequent loading on vehicles for transport. 
       FIG. 36  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment unloading process  3900  at an installation/assembly site  3500  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 36 , the installation site  3500  includes the de-containerization area  3507  for removing the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115 ) from the containers  405 . Container handling vehicles  3705  (e.g., lifts, mobile cranes, other logistics equipment, etc.) may be utilized to move containers from the vehicles  410  and/or within the de-containerization area  3507 . As shown in  FIG. 36 , the installation site  3500  includes the pre-staging area  3510  for pre-staging the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) removed from the containers  405 . As shown in  FIG. 36 , a container  405  may be arranged (e.g., via tracks  3960 ) into alignment with the starts of the assembly lines  4005  (e.g., side-by-side assembly lines). Additional containers  405  (e.g., ready to de-containerized or be unloaded of tube segments) may be arranged in a container holding/queueing area  3950  having automated material/container handlers  3905 , for example, moving the container in direction  4010 . Empty containers  3975  can be moved in direction  4020  to a removal queueing area  3970  for subsequent loading on vehicles for transport. 
       FIG. 37  shows another exemplary depiction of the tube segment unloading process  3900  at an installation site  3500  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 37 , the installation site  3500  includes the de-containerization area  3507  for removing the tube segments (e.g., the track layered panels  3115 ) from the containers  405 . Container handling vehicles  3705  (e.g., lifts, mobile cranes, other logistics equipment, etc.) may be utilized to move containers  405  from the vehicles  410  and/or within the de-containerization area  3507 . As shown in  FIG. 37 , the installation site  3500  includes the pre-staging area  3510  for pre-staging the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) removed from the containers  405 . As shown in  FIG. 37 , once unloaded from their nested configuration in the containers  405 , the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) are lowered from their containerization orientation and arranged on an assembly conveyor  4005 . While on the assembly conveyor  4005 , the pre-assembled tube segments (e.g., layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115  can be positioned for downstream handling. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the arrangement of the tube segments on the assembly conveyor  4005  allows for flexible automation, e.g., for varying span lengths, and may allow for end-to-end segment fastening, as necessary. 
       FIG. 38  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment automated vision inspection process/station  4200  at an install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) may be inspected just prior to installation to, for example, ensure conformance with specifications. As shown in  FIG. 38 , the installation site  3500  includes the pre-staging area  3510  for pre-staging the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) removed from the containers  405 . As shown in  FIG. 38 , once unloaded from their nested configuration in the containers  405 , the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) are lowered from their containerization orientation and arranged on an assembly conveyor  4005 . While on the assembly conveyor  4005 , the pre-assembled tube segments (e.g., layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) are passed through an inspection station  4200  arranged along and above the assembly conveyor  4005 . In an exemplary embodiment, the assembly conveyor  4005  utilizes an automated vision inspection apparatus  4200 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 38 , the depicted exemplary automated vision inspection apparatus  4200  may include one or more sensors, cameras, and/or scanners  4205  moveable along tracks  4210  above the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115  and operable to perform a vision inspection of the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 . As shown in  FIG. 38 , the vision inspection station  4200  may include a hood  4220  to, for example, reduce outside interference during the inspection process. 
       FIG. 39  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment queueing assembly conveyor  4005  and tube segment transporter system  4300  for transporting tube segments (e.g., layered panels  2115 ) to point of use at a track installation site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 39 , once passed through an inspection station  4200 , the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) are conveyed along the assembly conveyor  4005  to the tube segment transporter system  4300  for transporting the tube segments (e.g., layered panels  2115 ) to the point of use at a track installation site. As shown in  FIG. 39 , the tube segment transporter system  4300  include overhead levitation/propulsion tracks  4210  that are arranged along the track installation path  3525  from the current installation/assembly site  3500  to the current point of use at a track installation site downstream. The tube segment transporter system  4300  additionally includes carriers  4205  configured to travel on the overhead levitation/propulsion tracks  4210  and operable to carrier a plurality of tube segments (e.g., layered panels  2115 ). In embodiments, the carriers  4205  may secure the tube segments (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) for transport to the track installation site with a segment holder comprising magnets, actuating grips, hooks, chains, and/or vacuums, for example. 
     As shown in  FIG. 39 , once the tube segments (e.g., two or more segments) are attached to the carriers  4205 , the carriers  4205  are directed to travel down the overhead levitation/propulsion tracks  4210  to deliver the tube segments to the track installation site downstream. As further shown in  FIG. 39 , already-formed tubes comprising tube segments  110  (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) are constructed along the track installation path  3525  from the assembly conveyor  4005  of the current installation/assembly site  3500  to the current point of use at a track installation site downstream. 
       FIG. 40  shows an exemplary depiction of a tube segment transporter system  4300  transporting tube segments  2115  within already constructed segmental tubes comprising tube segments  110  to a downstream point of use at the install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 40 , carriers  4205  are configured to travel on the overhead or underneath levitation/propulsion tracks  4210  and operable to carriera plurality of tube segments (e.g., layered panels  2115 ). As shown in  FIG. 40 , the carriers  4205  (one shown) are directed (e.g., semi-autonomously, under computer control, and/or under manual (human) control) to travel down the overhead levitation/propulsion tracks  4210  to deliver the tube segments to the track installation site downstream. It should be understood, that the present disclosure contemplates track arrangements, including an overhead track or an underneath track. As further shown in  FIG. 40 , already-formed tubes comprising tube segments  110  (e.g., the layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) are constructed along the track installation path  3525  to the current point of use at a track installation site downstream. As the tube segments  110  are arranged in place, joints may be mechanically fastened (e.g., using the formed holes in the tube segments) for speed of assembly. Once the joints are mechanically-fastened, the seams between adjacent tube segments  110  may be welded together to create a vacuum-sealable structure. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the tubes are designed and constructed to optimally provide strength in the tube segments where needed in an effort to reduce material costs. As also depicted in  FIG. 40 , a tube cover layer  4405  (e.g., metal layer, tensioned fabric, composite material, etc.) may be provided to cover the tubes of the track afler assembly of the tube sections and connection to the tube. 
       FIG. 41  shows an exemplary depiction of an automated tube segment installer  4505  and installation process  4500  for constructing segmental tubes  4520  at the track installation site  4530  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 41 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  is operable to move layered panels  2115  (e.g., one or more layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) into location along the transportation path between pre-installed expansion bellows  4515  arranged on pillars  4510 , for example. As shown in  FIG. 41 , by implementing aspects of the disclosure, the installation can utilize a limited install footprint, and reduce costs. Once the automated tube segment installer  4505  moves the tube segments  100  (e.g., one or more layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) into location (e.g., longitudinally along the transportation path and in a circumferential direction of the tube transportation path), the tube segments  100  may be welded (and in some embodiments, fastened) to one another (and to the bellows  4515 ) to form individual tube sections  110  of the segmental tubes  4520 . 
       FIG. 42  shows another an exemplary depiction of an automated tube segment installer  4505  and installation process  4500  for constructing segmental tubes  4520  at the track installation site  4530  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 42 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  may be arranged via a mounting arrangement, for example between two pillars  4510  (e.g., adjacent pillars or non-adjacent pillars). The automated tube segment installer  4505  is operable to move layered panels  2115  (e.g., one or more layered panels  2115  and track layered panels  3115 ) into location along the transportation path between pre-installed expansion bellows  4515  arranged on pillars  4510 , for example. 
       FIG. 43  shows an exemplary tube segment feeding-in process (e.g., segment one) of the installation process  4500  of the automated tube segment installer  4505  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 43 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  may be arranged via a mounting arrangement  4550  (one shown), for example between two pillars  4510  (e.g., adjacent pillars or non-adjacent pillars). As shown in  FIG. 43 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  moves a layered panel  2115  into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 . In embodiments, the automated tube segment installer  4505  may utilize conveyors with panel securing elements  4560  (e.g., magnets, vacuums, etc.) mounted thereon to move a layered panel  2115  into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515 . 
       FIG. 44  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process (e.g., segment one) of the installation process  4500  of the automated tube segment installer  4505  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 44 , once the automated tube segment installer  4505  moves a layered panel  2115  into location (longitudinally) along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  is operable to lower the layered panel  2115  (in a radial direction) into position on the expansion bellows  4515 . In embodiments, the panel securing elements  4560  are operable to move the layered panel  2115  (in a radial direction) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515 . Once the layered panel  2115  is arranged into position on the expansion bellows  4515 , the layered panel  2115  may be fastened and/or welded to the expansion bellows  4515 . 
       FIG. 45  shows an exemplary tube segment rotating process and a feeding-in process of a next (or second) tube segment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 45 , the expansion bellows  4515  are rotated (e.g., using a rotating mechanism arranged in the mounting arrangement  4550 ) to move the first panel in a circumferential direction (of the tube under construction), e.g., 60° for a six-panel commonly-sized segmental tube construction. As shown in  FIG. 45 , while (or after or before) the expansion bellows  4515  are rotated to move the first panel in a circumferential direction, the automated tube segment installer  4505  performs a feeding-in process of a next layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment two) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 . 
       FIG. 46  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of a second tube segment of the installation process  4500  of the automated tube segment installer  4505  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 46 , once the automated tube segment installer  4505  performs a feeding-in process and moves a layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment two) into location (longitudinally) along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  is operable to lower the layered panel  2115  (in a radial direction) into position on the expansion bellows  4515 . In embodiments, panel securing elements  4560  are operable to move the layered panel  2115  (in a radial direction) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515 . Once the layered panel  2115  is arranged into position on the expansion bellows  4515 , the layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment two) may be fastened (and/or welded) to the expansion bellows  4515  and/or to the adjacent panel  2115  (e.g., segment one). 
       FIG. 47  shows an exemplary tube segment rotating process and a feeding-in process of a next (or third) tube segment of the installation process  4500  of the automated tube segment installer  4505  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 47 , the expansion bellows  4515  are rotated (e.g., using a rotating mechanism arranged in the mounting arrangement  4550 ) to move the first panel and second panel in a circumferential direction (of the tube under construction), e.g., 60° for a six-panel commonly-sized segmental tube construction. As shown in  FIG. 47 , while (or after or before) the expansion bellows  4515  are rotated to move the first and second panels in a circumferential direction, the automated tube segment installer  4505  performs a feeding-in process of a next layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment three) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 . 
       FIG. 48  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of the third tube segment of the installation process  4500  of the automated tube segment installer  4505  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 48 , once the automated tube segment installer  4505  performs a feeding-in process and moves a layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment three) into location (longitudinally) along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  is operable to lower the layered panel  2115  (in a radial direction) into position on the expansion bellows  4515 . In embodiments, panel securing elements  4560  are operable to move the layered panel  2115  (in a radial direction) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515 . Once the layered panel  2115  is arranged into position on the expansion bellows  4515 , the layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment three) may be fastened (and/or welded) to the expansion bellows  4515  and/or to the adjacent panel  2115  (e.g., segment two). 
       FIG. 49  shows a tube segment rotating process and a feeding-in process of a penultimate tube segment of the installation process  4500  of the automated tube segment installer  4505  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 49 , the expansion bellows  4515  are rotated (e.g., using a rotating mechanism arranged in the mounting arrangement  4550 ) to move the first, second, third, and fourth panels in a circumferential direction (of the tube under construction), e.g., 60° for a six-panel commonly-sized segmental tube construction. As shown in  FIG. 49 , while (or after or before) the expansion bellows  4515  are rotated to move the first, second, third, and fourth panels in a circumferential direction, the automated tube segment installer  4505  performs a feeding-in process of a next layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment five) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 . 
       FIG. 50  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of the fifth (e.g., penultimate) tube segment of the installation process  4500  of the automated tube segment installer  4505  in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 50 , once the automated tube segment installer  4505  performs a feeding-in process and moves a layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment five) into location (longitudinally) along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  is operable to lower the layered panel  2115  (in a radial direction) into position on the expansion bellows  4515 . In embodiments, panel securing elements  4560  are operable to move the layered panel  2115  (in a radial direction) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515 . Once the layered panel  2115  is arranged into position on the expansion bellows  4515 , the layered panel  2115  (e.g., segment five) may be fastened (and/or welded) to the expansion bellows  4515  and/or to the adjacent panel  2115  (e.g., segment four). 
       FIG. 51  shows an exemplary tube segment lowering process of a final (e.g., sixth) tube segment of the installation process  4500  of the automated tube segment installer  4505  to form the segmental tube section in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. The expansion bellows  4515  are rotated (e.g., using a rotating mechanism arranged in the mounting arrangement  4550 ) to move the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels in a circumferential direction (of the tube under construction), e.g.,  60 W for a six-panel commonly-sized segmental tube construction. While (or after or before) the expansion bellows  4515  are rotated to move the first, second, third, fourth and fifth panels in a circumferential direction, the automated tube segment installer  4505  performs a feeding-in process of a layered track panel  3115  (e.g., segment six) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 51 , once the automated tube segment installer  4505  performs a feeding-in process and moves a layered track panel  3115  (e.g., segment six) into location (longitudinally) along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515  arranged on adjacent pillars  4510 , the automated tube segment installer  4505  is operable to lower the layered track panel  3115  (in a radial direction) into position on the expansion bellows  4515 . In embodiments, panel securing elements  4560  are operable to move the layered track panel  3115  (in a radial direction) into location along the transportation path between the expansion bellows  4515 . Once the layered panel  2115  is arranged into position on the expansion bellows  4515 , the layered panel  3115  (e.g., segment six) may be fastened (and/or welded) to the expansion bellows  4515  and/or to the adjacent panel  2115  (e.g., segments five and one). As shown in  FIG. 51 , once the final tube segment is arranged and secured (e.g., fastened and/or welded) in place, the panels  2115  and track panel  3115  together form the segmental tube section  110 . Moreover, in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, by placing the track panel  3115  last (e.g., as the sixth tube segment with this exemplary and non-limiting embodiment), the track panel  3115  is in proper position (circumferentially) for an underneath track when it is moved longitudinally and vertically into arrangement (without need for rotation in the circumferential direction). It should be understood, however, that the present disclosure contemplates other track arrangements, including an overhead track. 
       FIG. 52  shows an exemplary depiction of an automated tube segment installer for constructing segmental tubes at the install site in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in  FIG. 52 , with this exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the segmental tube section  110 ′ is formed of four (quadrant) tube segments  100 ′. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, automation systems may assemble the tube segments in the field (e.g., at an installation location). In embodiments, the tube is assembled from the center outward, enabling assembly inside tunnels, keeping manufacturing tooling standard and amortized over large volumes of the constructed tube. 
     In embodiments, the tube segments are manufactured in a production facility on flexible roll forming lines to accommodate different lengths and, in embodiments, to accommodate different diameters. In embodiments, a sheet metal tube design is used that applies material strength where needed, while, e.g., minimizing material (and thus, weight and cost) in regions where material strength less necessary. In accordance with further aspects of the disclosure, using a sheet metal construction (e.g., as opposed to other manufacturing/construction techniques) advantageously utilizes a mature, low-cost, quality- and safety-conscious industry sheet metal construction base. 
     In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, material handling systems transport tube segments from an infeed of the tube and transport/supply segments to installation robots. As shown in  FIG. 52 , in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, a plurality of tube segments can be accommodated nested in an open trailer  405 ′ attached to a truck  410 . As noted herein, tube segments can also be accommodated in a container (e.g., a  40 ′ shipping container) for fast deployment anywhere in the world. As shown in  FIG. 52 , in accordance with additional aspects of the disclosure, the tube segments  110 ′ may be pre-populated with, e.g., tested components pre-assembled in the controlled environment of a production facility. In such a manner, manufacturing in the field is minimized, and in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the tube segments  110 ′ can be “plugged and played” in the field. 
     As shown in  FIG. 52 , aspects of the disclosure are directed to a tube assembling gantry  5615 . The tube assembling gantry includes an at least one assembly track  5620 , at least one platform  5625 , and at least one robotic manipulator  5610 . In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one robotic manipulator  5610  may include an actuator, an end effector, and a welding cell. The assembly track  5620  may be assembled in the location where the tube is desired. The at least one robotic manipulator  5610  may be positioned on the track  5620  such that it has at least one direction  5630  of motion in the direction of the track. 
     As shown in  FIG. 52 , an embodiment is directed to a method for assembling a segmented tube in the field. A plurality of plate segments may be delivered to an assembly site, such as a location where a segmented tube is desired to be located. A tube assembling gantry  5615  may be deployed. The robotic manipulator  5610  may position the end effector to move a plate or tube segment (e.g., layered panel  2115 ′) to a desired location. In embodiments, the robotic manipulator  5610  may utilize a bolting system to substantially connect a first plate segment and a second adjacent plate segment to assemble a tube segment  110 ′. In other contemplated embodiments, the robotic manipulator  5610  is operable to arrange and hold the plate in proper position while welding is performed (e.g., by a welding robot) with need for fastening (e.g., with bolts) the tube segments to one another. One or more of the plate segments may have an alignment track  5650 . A separate robot manipulator  5610  may move along an alignment track and apply a fastening method, such as epoxy and/or grout, for example, to secure the track. A separate robot manipulator may serially laser weld the tube segments to form a vacuum sealable structure along the track. The gantry  5615  may concurrently move to additional pylons (or pillars)  5655  for further assembly independently of the fastening robot manipulators  5610 . A first plate segment may be connected by any number of connectors, such as, for example, welds, fasteners and/or by an interlocking baffled design. In some contemplated embodiments, concrete may be pumped into the inner sandwich of the plate segments. The assembly track  5620  may be extended and relocated linearly along the path of the assembly as the tube segments  110 ′ are built. 
     As shown in  FIG. 52 , an additional aspect of the disclosure is directed to attaching plate segments in the direction of length prior to or at substantially the same time as plate segments in the direction of curvature, such that the tube may be assembled in multiple directions simultaneously. 
     While the specification describes particular embodiments of the present disclosure, those of ordinary skill can devise variations of the present disclosure without departing from the inventive concept. For example, with another contemplated installation process, the tube segments could be transported to the installation site, assembled into a segmental tube section, and lifted or raised into final position (e.g., using suitable crane(s)). 
     System Environment 
     Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure (e.g., control systems for the robots for assembly or for unloading and queueing of the tube segments and control systems for manufacturing the tube segments) can be implemented by such special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions and/or software, as described above. The control systems may be implemented and executed from either a server, in a client server relationship, or they may run on a user workstation with operative information conveyed to the user workstation. In an embodiment, the software elements include firmware, resident software, microcode, etc. 
     As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present disclosure may be embodied as a system, a method or a computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure (e.g., control systems) may take the form of a computer program product embodied in any tangible medium of expression having computer-usable program code embodied in the medium. 
     Any combination of one or more computer usable or computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readable medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), an optical storage device, a transmission media such as those supporting the Internet or an intranet, a magnetic storage device, a usb key, and/or a mobile phone. 
     In the context of this document, a computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be any medium that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The computer-usable medium may include a propagated data signal with the computer-usable program code embodied therewith, either in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. The computer usable program code may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc. 
     Computer program code for carrying out operations of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the users computer, partly on the user&#39;s computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user&#39;s computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user&#39;s computer through any type of network. This may include, for example, a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). Additionally, in embodiments, the present disclosure may be embodied in a field programmable gate array (FPGA). 
       FIG. 53  is an exemplary system for use in accordance with the embodiments described herein. The system  3900  is generally shown and may include a computer system  3902 , which is generally indicated. The computer system  3902  may operate as a standalone device or may be connected to other systems or peripheral devices. For example, the computer system  3902  may include, or be included within, any one or more computers, servers, systems, communication networks or cloud environment. 
     The computer system  3902  may operate in the capacity of a server in a network environment, or in the capacity of a client user computer in the network environment. The computer system  3902 , or portions thereof, may be implemented as, or incorporated into, various devices, such as a personal computer, a tablet computer, a set-top box, a personal digital assistant, a mobile device, a palmtop computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a communications device, a wireless telephone, a personal trusted device, a web appliance, or any other machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that device. Further, while a single computer system  3902  is illustrated, additional embodiments may include any collection of systems or sub-systems that individually or jointly execute instructions or perform functions. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 53 , the computer system  3902  may include at least one processor  3904 , such as, for example, a central processing unit, a graphics processing unit, or both. The computer system  3902  may also include a computer memory  3906 . The computer memory  3906  may include a static memory, a dynamic memory, or both. The computer memory  3906  may additionally or alternatively include a hard disk, random access memory, a cache, or any combination thereof. Of course, those skilled in the art appreciate that the computer memory  3906  may comprise any combination of known memories or a single storage. 
     As shown in  FIG. 53 , the computer system  3902  may include a computer display  3908 , such as a liquid crystal display, an organic light emitting diode, a flat panel display, a solid state display, a cathode ray tube, a plasma display, or any other known display. The computer system  3902  may include at least one computer input device  3910 , such as a keyboard, a remote control device having a wireless keypad, a microphone coupled to a speech recognition engine, a camera such as a video camera or still camera, a cursor control device, or any combination thereof. Those skilled in the art appreciate that various embodiments of the computer system  3902  may include multiple input devices  3910 . Moreover, those skilled in the art further appreciate that the above-listed, exemplary input devices  3910  are not meant to be exhaustive and that the computer system  3902  may include any additional, or alternative, input devices  3910 . 
     The computer system  3902  may also include a medium reader  3912  and a network interface  3914 . Furthermore, the computer system  3902  may include any additional devices, components, parts, peripherals, hardware, software or any combination thereof which are commonly known and understood as being included with or within a computer system, such as, but not limited to, an output device  3916 . The output device  3916  may be, but is not limited to, a speaker, an audio out, a video out, a remote control output, or any combination thereof. As shown in  FIG. 53 , the computer system  3902  may include communication and/or power connections to robot  5610 , and a robot controller  5705  to control activation/deactivation of the robots  5610 , in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 53 , the computer system  3902  may include one or more sensors  5710  (e.g., positional sensors, GPS systems, magnetic sensors) that may provide data (e.g., positional data) to robot controller  5705 . 
     Furthermore, the aspects of the disclosure may take the form of a computer program product accessible from a computer-usable or computer-readable medium providing program code for use by or in connection with a computer or any instruction execution system. The software and/or computer program product can be implemented in the environment of  FIG. 53 . For the purposes of this description, a computer-usable or computer readable medium can be any apparatus that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The medium can be an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system (or apparatus or device) or a propagation medium. Examples of a computer-readable storage medium include a semiconductor or solid state memory, magnetic tape, a removable computer diskette, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disk and an optical disk. Current examples of optical disks include compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM), compact disc-read/write (CD-R/W) and DVD. 
     Although the present specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in particular embodiments with reference to particular standards and protocols, the disclosure is not limited to such standards and protocols. Such standards are periodically superseded by faster or more efficient equivalents having essentially the same functions. Accordingly, replacement standards and protocols having the same or similar functions are considered equivalents thereof. 
     The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that utilize the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments may be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. 
     Accordingly, the present disclosure provides various systems, structures, methods, and apparatuses. Although the disclosure has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it is understood that the words that have been used are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made within the purview of the appended claims, as presently stated and as amended, without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure in its aspects. Although the disclosure has been described with reference to particular materials and embodiments, embodiments of the disclosure are not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed; rather the disclosure extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses such as are within the scope of the appended claims. 
     While the computer-readable medium may be described as a single medium, the term “computer-readable medium” includes a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. The term “computer-readable medium” shall also include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by a processor or that cause a computer system to perform any one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein. 
     The computer-readable medium may comprise a non-transitory computer-readable medium or media and/or comprise a transitory computer-readable medium or media. In a particular non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, the computer-readable medium can include a solid-state memory such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more non-volatile read-only memories. Further, the computer-readable medium can be a random access memory or other volatile re-writable memory. Additionally, the computer-readable medium can include a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a disk, tapes or other storage device to capture carrier wave signals such as a signal communicated over a transmission medium. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include any computer-readable medium or other equivalents and successor media, in which data or instructions may be stored. 
     While the specification describes particular embodiments of the present disclosure, those of ordinary skill can devise variations of the present disclosure without departing from the inventive concept. For example, while some embodiments of the present disclosure utilize the tube segments to form a segmental tube for a low-pressure, high-speed transportation path, it should be understood that the segmental tube structure could also be utilized in the wind industry, the hydro industry, and/or the oil pipe industry. 
     One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular disclosure or inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description. 
     The above disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments which fall within the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present disclosure is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description. 
     Accordingly, the novel architecture is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. 
     While the disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the embodiments of the disclosure. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. In addition, modifications may be made without departing from the essential teachings of the disclosure. Furthermore, the features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the disclosure. 
     Insofar as the description above and the accompanying drawing disclose any additional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claims below, the embodiments are not dedicated to the public and the right to file one or more applications to claim such additional embodiments is reserved.