train-on-train in Austria

[miyakoji]

You know how Wikipedia is; you click on one thing, then another, then another, and you find yourself reading about something that has nothing to do with what you originally looked up (case in point, Nora the Piano Playing Cat to Zillertal Railway).

 

Anyway, I found this picture and clicked on it to marvel at the European buffer and chain coupling system, when I realized that this car is on a car.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Binder2.JPG .  Unlike the train-on-train that was researched for 1067mm to 1435mm operation in the Tsugaru Strait tunnel, this is apparently to operate standard gauge on narrow gauge, only 760mm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zillertalbahn .  Wikipedia calls these things transporter wagons: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transporter_wagon

[kvp]

Yes, a very simple construction. Two versions exist, one where they essentially make up a movable standard gauge line under the cars, the second smaller version fits under the wheels and the standard buffers are used to keep the train coupled. Their biggest problem (besides clearances) is the relatively low speed of operation to avoid the cars getting derailed. Also, this solution doesn't really solve the air pressure problem the enclosed japanese cars try to solve.

 

Personally, i think the most simple solution for the tunnel would be to install a thin steel wall along the middle line of the tunnel with fire escape doors placed at regular intervals.