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@ @In line with the national policy of raising technological standards, the
Ministry of Transport has positively promoted or aided technological development
projects through its own facilities or those of private corporations.
@ @Main research projects include the following:
| @ | Ship sector The main projects include the development of icebreakers, atomic powered ships, energy-saving technology for vessels, and research concerning large-size, float-type maritime structures. |
| A | Port and harbor sector The main projects include the development of technology for construction of new-type structures and for hardening soft grounds. |
| B | Railway sector Since 1962, the JNR has been pursuing the development of a superconductive magnetic float car. In 1982, test runs were conducted using a U-shaped three-car train. As for the normal conductive magnetic float car, the Japan Airlines is trying to develop an HSST system as a means of highspeed transportation to and from an airport. An EML system (a low-pollution railway) has been developed by Japan Association of Rolling Stock Industries as a means of medium-speed transportation for suburban commuters (Fig. 4). |
| C | Automobile sector In addition to such conventional fuel-saving technologies as higher combustion efficiency, lighter bodies, and smaller air drag, various new technologies have been developed, including ceramic engines, turbo-chargers, and engines with variable cylinders. Efforts have also been made to develop a car featuring low pollution and higher safety. |
| D | Aviation sector Technologies concerning an aircraft collision prevention system, a microwave landing aid system, and precise visual approach slope indicator system have been developed or planned to be developed |
| E | Ocean development sector A concrete study Is under way of the construction of artificial off-shore islands. |
@ @ The use of computers m the transport industry has made rapid progress m
recent years. Particularly, on-line systems have been introduced in increasing
numbers to make business speedy, accurate and efficient, as well as to enhance
the convenience of users (Fig 5)
@ @ The Ministry of Transport has been pursuing the development of various systems
of a high public nature, including @ research and development concerning the
use of a port and harbor cargo information network; A research concerning the
development of an international air cargo transport information system; and
B research and studies concerning the systematization of trade-related procedures.
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