Transfer of technology from academic (universities) and technological (research and experimental centres) circles to the industrial (engineering and companies) circle, has been an arduous task, and even more so in countries with mid-sized economies. If this is more pronounced in circles such as that of the transportation and highway industry, this is where the greatest gap exists between experimental sciences, in highly complex technology, and construction and public works applications, where, for reasons of distance, cost savings, etc., many less complex technological applications must be introduced. In each country, by gathering the industrial experience and the current academic tradition, different approaches have been used regarding the problem. In Spain, based on the experience after having participated in European programmes of technological cooperation, and the development of the national infrastructures programme, coherent models are being developed, one of which is the so-called Integrated Projects. The aim of this comprehensive approach is to find a solution to complex problems that often affect modes of transportation in different ways: lighter structures, improved resistance, new materials applications and safety improvements. This paper also develops some examples of projects underway in this integrated project in transportation and participating businesses together with the technological innovations and developments involved. (A)
Samenvatting