Untitled - Ministerstwo Rozwoju Regionalnego

4.9. Innovations in the construction and operation
of transport infrastructure
Innovation processes in the field of transport means and their propulsion cause
the need for new generation transport infrastructure. This is particularly conspicuous
in aviation and rail transport, where the design characteristics of innovative
vehicles preclude them from using traditional routes and terminals.
There is, however, a tendency for breakthrough technologies to be introduced in
infrastructure, irrespective of developments in propulsion concepts and technologies.
This is because of the need for improved functionality, safety and security
as well as durability of the infrastructure, which is expected to operate more
smoothly and at a lower cost. The most significant breakthrough in the construction
of roads was the advanced mechanization of construction works
(see: Fig. 19).
Fig. 19. Roadbuilding – yesterday, today and in the future
Source: http://curbstone.com/_macadam.htm; http://blog.voyou.org/2008/07/27/our-other-1950s/#more-229
and http://www.e-core.org/content/workshops/nov03/phillips.pdf.
Rationalization of construction and operation of transport infrastructure
takes many forms, which can be grouped as follows:
– innovations in infrastructure design and integration with the environment;
– innovations in the use of materials;
– concepts of extra fittings and furnishings;
– systems improving traffic flow and safety;
– intermodal solutions.
Innovative design of transport infrastructure means a comprehensive approach
to the solving of project-specific problems, which concern not only engineering,
natural and financial issues, but also long-term macroeconomic aspects,
attitudes of the public, business risk as well as other important socio-economic
concerns.
Innovative design of transport infrastructure is close to the notion of Integrated
Transport Planning, which has for some years been in the focus of na-
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