Environmental Engineering

The course provides an integrated overview of land transport systems, covering the mechanical, infrastructural, electrical, and managerial aspects that determine their performance and efficiency. 1. Introduction to transport systems Definition and classification of transport systems. Components: vehicles, infrastructures, facilities, users, and management. Performance parameters: capacity, speed, safety, efficiency, sustainability. The role of transport in economic and territorial development. 2. Mechanics of locomotion Basics of vehicle kinematics and dynamics. The wheel concept and wheel–track interaction. Motion resistances: rolling, grade, curve, aerodynamic, inertial. Force balance and traction power. Speed–time diagrams and energy consumption. Overview of traction and braking systems (thermal and electric). 3. Flow theory and road vehicle interactions Concepts of flow, density, and speed. Fundamental flow relationships. Microscopic and macroscopic models (car-following, fundamental diagrams). Capacity and level of service. Traffic congestion phenomena and queue behavior. Elements of traffic control and road safety. 4. Railway infrastructure, vehicles and signaling systems Components of the railway system: vehicles, track, and fixed installations. Geometric and functional features of the track. Power supply systems and traction equipment. Signaling and train spacing systems (block sections, signals, safety). Operating principles and vehicle–track interaction. Overview of automatic control and protection systems. 5. Transport planning Structure of transport systems: demand, supply, and their interaction. Analysis of mobility demand: socio–economic and spatial factors. Supply models and network performance indicators. Concepts of equilibrium and traffic assignment. Efficiency and accessibility measures. 6. Elements of logistics Definition and objectives of transport logistics. The logistics chain and supply chain management. Intermodality and freight terminals. Efficiency of material and information flows. Urban and sustainable logistics. 7. Exercises and applications Analysis of speed–time diagrams and motion resistances. Evaluation of road and rail capacity. Simple exercises on transport planning and flow assignment. Discussion of real or simulated case studies of integrated transport systems.

Basic knowledge of physics, mathematics, and rational mechanics is required, particularly regarding kinematics and dynamics of rigid bodies. Introductory understanding of transport engineering fundamentals and infrastructure systems is helpful but not mandatory.

Dispense: Trasporto Stradale - Prof Vitetta Teoria del Deflusso - Prof Fusco Trasporto Ferroviario - Prof Malavasi

Attendance is strongly recommended, as the course is conducted in an interactive format that requires continuous student engagement. During lectures, practical exercises are solved collectively, and students are encouraged to work at the board and actively participate in guided discussions.

Learning assessment is carried out through an oral examination consisting of two integrated parts: Practical section – students are required to solve one or more quantitative or graphical exercises concerning the main topics of the course (locomotion mechanics, motion resistances, traffic flow theory, railway systems, transport planning, and logistics). This part assesses the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems and to use analytical models correctly. Theoretical and discussion section – students must explain the fundamental concepts of the course, demonstrating understanding of the physical, technical, and management principles that govern transport systems. Clarity, proper use of technical language, and the ability to connect theory and practice will be evaluated. The final grade (out of 30) will be based on the accuracy of technical reasoning, conceptual mastery, and critical thinking skills.

The course is delivered through lectures, practical exercises, and guided discussion of case studies. Lectures: presentation of theoretical and methodological principles concerning vehicles, transport facilities, and transport systems. The approach integrates locomotion mechanics, traffic flow theory, railway facilities, transport planning, and logistics. Numerical exercises: practical application of the models introduced in class through problem-solving sessions on motion resistances, traction power, speed–time diagrams, capacity, flow analysis, and basic transport planning and logistics exercises. Case studies: analysis of real or simulated transport systems (road and rail), with interpretation of data and evaluation of technical or operational solutions. Learning materials: slides, notes, problem sheets, and reference extracts provided by the instructor; use of calculation tools and graphical methods to verify results. The teaching method adopts an interactive and progressive approach, encouraging active student participation and the development of analytical and critical thinking skills.