The Origin and Transformation of Technology in The Transport Industry in The United States

Technology (Transportation)

Over the centuries, the evolution in transportation highly depends upon technological advancements. Developments in transport technological served in shaping the transportation systems. From the motive power technology to innovative transport, communication and control systems, all have led to a progressive approach in moving passengers and cargo around the globe. Therefore, it is important to note the evolution of various technologies in and their influences on human life, culture and the environmental landscape.

Technological Development of Transport in the United States

In the United States, inventors and entrepreneurs developed transportation systems for faster movement of people and goods, in the early 19th century (“Transportation Technology,” para. 6-7). They repaired and improved from human and animal power to steam engine powered locomotives and ships (para. 3). In 1807, Robert Fulton launched the first commercially recognized steamboat (para. 7). His innovation made it possible to carry thousands of passengers and tons of cargo across the sea over a long distance in a short period. By 1830, the first commercial railroads began operations (para. 9). American inventors modified British designs into efficient and swift locomotives. Bridges and tunnels developed to pave way for rail tracks and by the end of the century, railroads hauled an estimated 500 million passengers and an approximated 690 million tons of cargo (para. 9). During this period, steam locomotives were acknowledged as the most efficient means of transportation. Despite their efficiency, within the cities they posed as a threat and this lead to the invention of carriages and street vehicles within cities.

During the wake of the 20th century, inventors developed and harnessed new and old transportation technologies. Both internal combustion and electric motors were incorporated to power transportation machines (para. 13). Steam-powered locomotives now ran on diesel as they moved along electrified tracks. The number of freight increased while the capacity of human workforce reduced to put the locomotives in motion. At sea, oil power took the place of coal and fuel. This led to the development of commercial fishing boats and recreational boats (para. 14-15). In the automobile sector, cars and tracks advanced from steam to gasoline and electric technology. Gasoline-powered automobiles became the preferred choice due to two vital factors: firstly, internal combustion engines were lighter and efficient than steam engines and secondly, new oil discoveries influenced a steady and bountiful supply of cheap gasoline. The first factor of the internal combustion made it possible for the invention of the aircraft which led to advances in aeronautical designs and piston engines for higher, faster and farther flying. Currently, in the 21st century, cock- pits, bridge, and control tower technologies have seen extensive advancements to improve on transportation (para. 18-19). On the other hand, computerization of electronic devices in the locomotive, automobile and aircraft transmission, ignition, combustion and exhaust systems revolutionized the transportation system during this period.

Technological Advances in Transportation

In a magazine issued by UCONNECT, emerging technologies are transforming the planning, design and operational systems of transportation (“Transportation Technologies for 21st Century” para. 1). Transportation systems have made it possible to control traffic, detect accidents, assist in fare collection and manage transit and traffic signal systems. As a matter of fact, such advancements have a progressive, dynamic with the aim of abating greenhouse emissions, improvement of the atmospheric quality and the promotion of economic development. On the other hand, the transition from steam-driven locomotives to electric ones became possible through technological advancement. Consequently, automobile technology allowing an all-round view and information gathering systems as part of safety systems has assisted in regulating road carnages. Additionally, computerized auto systems have made it possible for the connectivity of vehicles to each other and the infrastructure through an internet connection with computers, smartphones, and wireless communication systems. Equally important, new technologies in the aviation transportation sector have made it possible for fuel efficiency in aircraft.

Benefits of Technological Advancement in Transportation

Technological upgrade in trains has led to an improvement of performance and energy efficiency (Advancements in Transportation, para. 2). Moreover, the operational cost of electric trains is cheaper than diesel operated ones and they are environmentally conducive. Electric trains don’t produce gas, which can pollute the atmosphere. Equally important, the Magnetic levitation (MagLev) trains float above the track, hence eliminating possible friction between the train and track. Notably, in the automobile sector, battery management systems designs ensure high performance and extend life (Crawford, para. 5). New battery chemistries and subsystem technologies have emerged in order to expand the operational range and reduce their costs. Additionally, downsizing and turbocharging have both a thermodynamic and mechanical advantages. Downsized engines are lighter than conventional ones, hence reducing vehicle mass and improving fuel consumption. On the other hand, turbocharging retains the energy of exhaust gasses to promote charge induction (para. 8). Also, engineers have developed advanced combustion technologies to increase the efficiency internal combustion engines (para. 9). For this reason, the level of carbon emissions, road carnages have reduced while safety levels have elevated in transportation due to technological improvements.

Impact of Technological Advances in Transportation

The impact of computerized and wireless capabilities in transportation has created a potentially positive and negative transportation atmosphere (Emerging Technology Trends In Transportation, p. 3). On a positive perspective, technological advancement has affected the travel patterns by increasing the demand for transportation through the facilitation of personal independent mobility which boosts productivity (p. 4). Additionally, the advent of transport applications for taxi and transit services through smartphones has resulted in new ways of performing transport business and services with customers (p. 7). As an illustration, the Uber Transport service which operates across 58 countries and 311 cities have portrayed high demand for such service, due to swift responsiveness and pocket-friendly costs (p.7). On the other hand, negative impacts of technological developments in transportation are notable. Firstly. In the case of insurance cover, technology in the transport sector ensures more accurate and informed decisions contrary to human error. In this case during an insurance claim, the presence of the human factor is eliminated (p. 4-5). Consequently, with the development of cybercrime, hacking and identity theft, and wireless connectivity in transport systems poses as threats in terms of security of automobiles (p. 5). Notably, some transport technologies tend to result in alteration of the landscapes through design, maintenance and operations capacity (p. 7). As a result, the development of such technology proves costly.

Conclusion

The transportation sector has experienced a tremendous degree of changes due to technological developments. Over the last three centuries, mankind has thrived to improve his traveling methods and goods. This has been attributed to the technological advancement with the main objective of achieving an eco-friendly transport system while maintaining high performance and efficiency.