Injuries with electric vs conventional scooters and bicycles
A cross-sectional study found more injuries and hospitalizations associated with electric vehicles, highlighting the need for safety changes in micromobility policies and infrastructure.
Transportation Infrastructure
Articles tagged with Transportation Infrastructure
Electric scooter and bike accidents are soaring across the US
A recent study found that e-bicycle injuries doubled every year from 2017 to 2022, while e-scooter injuries rose by 45%. The researchers also noted that e-scooter riders were more likely to suffer internal injuries and conventional scooter riders were more likely to experience upper extremity injuries.
Zero-emissions trucks alone won't cut it: Early retirement of polluters key to California's emission goals
A new study by Stanford University and Arizona State University recommends California implement early vehicle retirement for heavy-duty vehicles. The policy aims to reduce cumulative emissions by two-thirds and pollution-related mortality, particularly among disadvantaged communities. This approach would be more effective than relying ...
Homes, not offices: Researchers recommend changes to transit station area development after COVID-19
The report highlights the benefits of developing transit station areas with a focus on housing, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased walkability. Researchers recommend policy approaches to mitigate gentrification outcomes and bridge the gap between demand for walkable communities and supply.
Innovative demand strategies for clean energy
A study from IIASA researchers highlights the potential of demand-side measures to reduce energy and resource consumption without restricting fossil fuel use. These strategies include improving resource efficiency, promoting shared mobility, reusing materials, and thermal refurbishment of buildings.
AI-controlled stations can charge electric cars at a personal price
A new study from Chalmers University of Technology shows that AI-controlled charging stations can offer personalized prices to electric vehicle users, minimizing both price and waiting time. However, the researchers highlight the importance of addressing ethical issues related to data exploitation by motorists.
What are the risks of hydrogen vehicles in tunnels?
Researchers analyzed hydrogen vehicle risks in tunnels and found extensive damage potential, but low occurrence likelihood. The team recommended stricter speed limits, precise distance controls, and safer tunnel designs to minimize hazards.
Blockchain could offer a solution to the UK’s transport ticketing systems
Experts at the University of Birmingham have proposed a new approach to transport ticketing using blockchain technology and ontology. The system, called STUB, aims to provide a universal and accessible ticketing framework that can be used by multiple providers.
Climate change amplifies severity of combined wind-rain extremes over the UK and Ireland
New research shows climate change will cause more severe combined wind-rain extremes in the UK and Ireland, leading to increased flooding and damage. The study found that stronger winds and heavier rainfall are likely to occur together, posing challenges for coastal areas and emergency response resources.
Hidden threat: Global underground infrastructure vulnerable to sea-level rise
A recent study by University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers highlights the hidden threat of global underground infrastructure vulnerability to sea-level rise. Shallow and saltier groundwater exacerbates corrosion and failure of critical systems such as sewer lines, roadways, and building foundations in cities worldwide.
Retention ponds can deliver a substantial reduction in tire particle pollution, study suggests
A new study reveals that retention ponds and wetlands can significantly reduce the amount of tyre particles entering aquatic environments, with an average reduction of 75%. The research found that tyre wear particles outweigh other forms of microplastics, but are also removed in greater quantities.
Has remote work changed how people travel in the U.S?
A new study finds that remote work has changed urban transportation patterns in the U.S., with significant variation across regions. The research reveals that remote work has reduced vehicle miles driven by about 1% per 1% decrease in onsite workers, but had a more substantial impact on mass-transit ridership.
Road features that predict crash sites identified in new machine-learning model
Researchers used data from 9,300 miles of Greek roads to develop a machine-learning model predicting crash sites. The model identified key features such as abrupt speed limit changes and incomplete lane markings as predictors of crashes. The study's findings have implications for improving road safety globally.
Determining who gets blamed when cars hit pedestrians
A new study found that urban environment, road types, and crosswalk access play a major role in determining who gets blamed for crashes. Pedestrians were more likely to be blamed on roads with high traffic speeds and few crosswalks, while drivers were more likely to be faulted in areas with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Reducing inequality is essential in tackling climate crisis, researchers argue
Tackling inequality is vital to mitigate climate change effectively, as wealthy individuals often have greater ability to reduce their carbon footprint. Deep-rooted inequalities restrict people's capacity to switch to lower-carbon behaviours, making it essential for policymakers to provide equal opportunities across all income brackets.
Researchers find way to weld metal foam without melting its bubbles
Researchers at North Carolina State University have identified a welding technique that can join composite metal foam components without impairing their properties. The new method uses induction welding, which penetrates deeply into the material and insulates it against heat.
Seattle metro residents near Amazon delivery stations face more pollution but order fewer packages
Researchers found that neighborhoods within 3 kilometers of an Amazon last-mile delivery station experience twice the amount of delivery van and truck traffic as farther-away areas. These neighborhoods are disproportionately home to low-income households and people of color, who order 14% fewer packages than average. The study highligh...
Rail industry urged to consider safety risks of space weather
Researchers found that space weather events can trigger 'wrong side' failures in rail signalling systems, which are more hazardous than 'right side' failures. This study highlights the need for the industry to consider the risks of space weather and explore mitigation strategies.
Digital emblem for humanitarian law in cyberspace
The ETH Zurich-developed Authentic Digital EMblem (ADEM) aims to protect humanitarian organizations' digital infrastructure from cyberattacks. The system uses a combination of security protocols, including web PKI and CT ecosystem, to ensure authenticity, accountability, and covert inspection.
Soil carried on sea freight loaded with dangerous pests and diseases
Research reveals that most types of sea freight carry soil with live bacteria, fungi, worms, seeds, and insects, including regulated biosecurity organisms. The study highlights the need for efficient measures to prevent exotic species establishment through contaminated cargo.
UBC Okanagan researchers hope to prevent catastrophes with next-generation sensors
UBC Okanagan researchers have developed sensors that can detect erosion and breaches in protective coatings, reducing inspection time and error risk. The AI-enabled sensors can also distinguish individual layer erosion within multi-layer coatings, enabling proactive monitoring and addressing of equipment degradation.
$7.5 million in federal funds to establish Mobility Center of Excellence at UCLA
The UCLA Mobility Center of Excellence will conduct research on the impacts of new mobility technologies and highly automated vehicles on transportation systems. The center aims to improve efficiency, mobility, and sustainability by studying the long-term effects of emerging mobility technologies.
University of Missouri establishes Missouri Work Zone Safety Center of Excellence
The University of Missouri's Missouri Work Zone Safety Center of Excellence aims to reduce fatalities and serious injuries in highway work zones through research and outreach. The center will focus on integrating emerging technologies, data analysis, and countermeasures to address distracted driving and other safety concerns.
LRT, REM, mass transit projects and their fuzzy reality
New research from the University of Ottawa's Telfer School of Management suggests that managing public transit projects requires a comprehensive approach considering rational, psychosocial, and political dimensions. This involves engaging stakeholders, including non-users, to ensure societal impact and cost-effectiveness.
Self-driving cars can make traffic slower
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that connected vehicles improve travel time through intersections, but automated vehicles without connectivity actually increase wait times. The study suggests that incorporating vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication is crucial for optimizing traffic flow.
Walkable neighborhoods help adults socialize, increase community
A study published in Health & Place found that walkable neighborhoods foster social interactions with neighbors, promoting a sense of community. Researchers analyzed data from 1,745 adults living in Seattle, Baltimore, and Washington D.C., revealing that these environments encourage active behaviors like walking and socializing.
Reading between the cracks: artificial intelligence can identify patterns in surface cracking to assess damage in reinforced concrete structures
Researchers develop AI-based method to quantify cracking patterns in reinforced concrete structures, enabling more accurate and efficient assessments of structural damage. The approach uses graph theory and machine learning algorithms to create a unique 'fingerprint' for each set of cracks, allowing for quick and consistent evaluations.
To avoid a battery crisis, more of us should share small, lightweight EVs
Researchers suggest sharing smaller, lightweight EVs to manage resource use in EV batteries. They found that reducing material supply risks requires systemic approaches and investments in new battery technologies.
Model aims to help first responders reach accident sites faster
The new model maximizes coverage area and minimizes response time, accounting for hot spots. It outperformed existing techniques in computational testing, improving response times regardless of traffic size.
FAU lands $2 million for ‘Center for Equitable Transit-Oriented Communities’
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University will investigate the links between multimodal transportation, climate adaptation and resilience. The center aims to promote transit access, sustainable communities and resilient development.
New lightweight battery set to provide alternatives for electric transport
Researchers at Cranfield University are developing a new generation of lithium-sulfur batteries that offer improved performance and reduced weight compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The technology has the potential to support electrification of short-haul aircraft, light goods vehicles, and passenger vehicles.
‘Talking’ concrete could help prevent traffic jams and cut carbon emissions
A sensor embedded in concrete allows for more precise data on pavement strength, reducing the need for repairs and improving road sustainability. This technology has been implemented in several states, including Indiana and Texas, to reduce traffic delays and save taxpayer dollars.
Where the sidewalk ends
A new open-source tool called TILE2NET uses aerial imagery and image-recognition to create complete maps of sidewalks and crosswalks. The tool has been trained on 20,000 aerial images from Boston, Cambridge, New York City, and Washington, recognizing 90% or more of all sidewalks and crosswalks in these cities.
Minimizing electric vehicles’ impact on the grid
Researchers found that strategically placing charging stations, especially at workplaces and in delayed home settings, can reduce peak electricity demand, store solar energy, and conveniently meet drivers' needs. This approach could help minimize the strain on the grid and avoid costly new power plants.
New LiDAR System pinpoints pedestrian behavior to improve efficiency and safety at intersections
A new LiDAR system pinpoints pedestrian behavior to improve safety and efficiency at intersections. The system tracks pedestrians' true intent to cross, reducing conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles.
UTSA ScooterLab receives $1.7M NSF award to deploy a fleet of data collecting e-scooters
The UTSA ScooterLab will collect data on riders' mobility, context and environment to improve sustainable transportation solutions. The project aims to transform the way we think about micro-mobility.
America on the move: How urban travel has changed over a decade
A Florida Atlantic University study reveals that while private automobiles remain dominant, the share of car trips has decreased since its peak in 2001. In contrast, transit, non-motorized, and taxicab trips have increased. Lower-income groups rely heavily on public transportation due to limited mobility options.
New funding proposal aims to reduce bottlenecks on Upper Mississippi River
A new funding proposal for a major rehabilitation of the 27 locks and dams on the Upper Mississippi River suggests a public-private partnership to finance the project. The plan, proposed by Iowa State University's Yoshinori Suzuki, could pay off in the long run and reduce delays and bottlenecks for shippers.
Helping transit agencies visualize the transition to electric bus fleets
A new modeling and visualization tool assists transit agencies in making the transition to electric buses, considering both cost and environmental equity. The bi-objective optimization framework model enables agencies to explore the interdependency of an electric bus transit system and a city's energy infrastructure.
Researchers propose a fourth light on traffic signals – for self-driving cars
A new approach, called the white phase concept, uses autonomous vehicles to control traffic flow at intersections, reducing fuel consumption and travel time. The system informs human drivers through a clearly identifiable signal, improving safety and efficiency.
Proximity to electric vehicle charging stations positively impacts home values
A recent study found that homes near electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) in California see a significant increase in value, with those within 0.4-0.5 km of EVCSs valued up to 5.8% higher. The study also showed reduced air pollution and increased traffic, but no effect on property values within closer proximity.
The Dutch cycle twice as much as Germans in Winter
A study by Dr Ansgar Hudde found that the Dutch cycle around twice as often as Germans during winter months due to differences in mobility culture. This is attributed to a cycling culture in Germany that only encourages seasonal cycling, whereas the Netherlands promotes year-round cycling.
Padgett named NSF BRITE Fellow
Jamie Padgett, a Rice University professor, has been awarded a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation's BRITE Fellows program. With this funding, she will develop methods for infrastructure resilience modeling in response to uncertain, evolving conditions resulting from earthquakes, hurricanes, and other disasters.
Story tips from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, December 2022
Researchers developed biocomposites from corn stover and switchgrass for 3D printing with satisfactory properties. A national hydropower testing facility network can accelerate innovation and adoption of clean energy technologies. An EV truck stop design enables megawatt-scale charging, reducing carbon emissions.
Simulations show how bridges are damaged during earthquakes, and how we can prevent it
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University conducted a simulation to study bridge failure during large-scale earthquakes. The study highlights the importance of girder end design in improving resilience, with reinforcing ribs shown to be effective against lateral forces.
Cycling data for 2,500 municipalities – data portal in the MoveOn project launches on 1 December
The MoveOn project has launched a nationwide cycling data platform, providing municipalities with access to high-quality cycling data. The platform is based on 5.2 million journeys collected from 340,000 cyclists across Germany, offering insights for efficient and user-oriented planning.
Organ donations, transplants increase on days of largest motorcycle rallies
A study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that organ donations and transplants increase by 21% during the week of large motorcycle rallies, with 26% more transplant recipients per day. The surge in donations does not alleviate the critical shortage of donor organs, highlighting the need for improved safety protocols.
Sea level rise to dramatically speed up erosion of rock coastlines by 2100
A new study models likely future cliff retreat rates of two rock coasts in the UK, finding that rock coasts are likely to retreat at a rate not seen for 3,000-5,000 years. The researchers predict that rock coast cliffs will retreat by at least 10-22 meters inland due to accelerating sea level rise.
A navigation system with 10 centimeter accuracy
Researchers have created a more robust and accurate positioning system that surpasses GPS, particularly in urban settings. The new mobile network infrastructure achieved an accuracy of 10 centimeters, making it suitable for applications such as automated vehicles and quantum communication.
Chung-Ang University researchers develop a meta-reinforcement learning algorithm for traffic signal control
The study developed an extended deep Q-network (EDQN)-incorporated context-based meta-RL model that can autonomously detect traffic states, classify regimes, and assign signal phases. The model outperformed existing algorithms in simulation experiments and showed adaptability to new tasks without adjusting parameters.
Silicon photonic MEMS take a step forward
Researchers have demonstrated a power-efficient component for demultiplexing operation using silicon photonic MEMS, enabling efficient wavelength demultiplexing for fiber-optic communications. The compact footprint of the add-drop filter allows fast operation compared to established MEMS products.
Using AI to operate critical infrastructure autonomously
A new research group aims to develop an interdisciplinary approach for secure operation of critical infrastructure systems using artificial intelligence. The goal is to create a 'hybrid architecture' that combines AI-based strategic development with rule-based systems, ensuring safe and reliable behavior.
Q&A: UnlockedMaps provides real-time accessibility information for urban rail transit in six metro areas
Researchers developed UnlockedMaps to provide real-time accessibility information for urban rail transit stations, with a focus on elevators. The system shows accessible and inaccessible stations, allowing users to plan their trips accordingly.
New approach would improve user access to electric vehicle charging stations
Researchers from NC State University have developed a dynamic computational tool to help improve user access to electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The technique accounts for factors such as charging time, cost, and wait times to provide users with the most convenient options.
Online grocery shopping during COVID-19: Barriers, access, and what happens next
A study found that online grocery shopping filled gaps for people with mobility limitations, quarantine, or sick with COVID. Despite technological limitations, many consumers predicted continued high usage of e-commerce in the food sector.
CityAccessMap: Addressing urban inequalities with open-source data
The CityAccessMap tool assesses urban infrastructure distribution and identifies areas for improvement, helping policymakers address socio-economic disparities. Disadvantaged communities face lower access to urban services, which can hinder social mobility and exacerbate inequalities.
New tools can operationalize equity in 239 e-scooter and bike share programs across the U.S.
A team of researchers has created an online dashboard to track equity requirements in 239 shared micromobility programs across the US. The dashboard provides city officials with valuable insights on best practices for expanding access to these programs, including technology access, reduced fare options, and adaptive vehicles.
Extending the shelf life of vaccines
A new hydrogel-based platform increases vaccine thermal stability, enabling distribution in diverse regions without strict temperature control. The technology has the potential to reduce economic costs and health risks associated with cold chain logistics.
Active transportation projects offer solid returns on investment, economic study finds
The Active Transportation Return on Investment Study found positive effects on business activity in retail and food sectors, benefiting areas outside of downtown Portland. The research team evaluated 12 projects constructed between 2001 and 2016 and recommended investments for Metro's Regional Flexible Funding Allocations.
Municipalities’ resource allocation to promote physical activity does not solve all the challenges of physical inactivity
A study found that individual factors such as education level and health status are more influential on leisure-time physical activity than municipal resources. Commuting physical activity is also lower in rural municipalities due to longer distances and limited public transport.