Description

Innovation is linked to performance and growth through improvements in efficiency, productivity, and quality. The Texas Transportation Institute’s Rail Research Group studies the deep changes that have occurred within the rail sector as well as their impact, and how to better manage the development and deployment of key innovative technologies in the railway sector.

One example of an innovative technology is the Universal Freight Shuttle, which consists of electrically powered vehicles propelled by linear induction motors that travel on a specialized, derailment-proof guideway similar to the “people movers” operating at some major airports and cities. However, these shuttles are large enough to move any standard freight container or trailer. Major benefits include the low operational costs and the promise of congestion relief.

Research Initiatives

To view an abstract of current and past projects, click on the following titles:

• Texas Urban Triangle: Pilot Study to Implement a Spatial Decision Support System (SDSS) for Sustainable Mobility
• System Assessment and Evaluation for Emergency Responders (SAVER)
• Automated Horn Evaluation in Gering, Nebraska (PDF)
• EVA Grade Crossing Warning Assessment, Tenneco Road, Houston (PDF)
• Low-Cost Active Warning Systems for Highway-Rail Grade Crossings (PDF)

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