Ignition Magazine: News from TRB's IDEA Programs - Fall/Winter 2008

The latest issue of Ignition, a periodic news magazine from TRB's Studies and Special Programs Division, examines the use of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) technology in the transit bus environment to kill bacteria and germs, explores the application of time domain reflectometry (TDR) to measure a variety of properties related to the performance of fresh and early-stage concrete, and highlights the virtual construction of bridge components.  This issue of Ignition also investigates a portable device that gives drivers safety-related feedback at railroad grade crossings, and more.

Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA) programs provide start-up funding for promising but unproven innovations in surface transportation systems. The programs’ goal is to foster ingenious solutions that are unlikely to be funded through traditional programs.  Managed by the Transportation Research Board, IDEA programs are supported by the member state departments of transportation of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the Federal Transit Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.