Origin of railways and transition of bearings for railway cars(1) - the cradle of ground transportation centering on railways

摘要

Since the practical railway systems with steam locomotives originated in the beginning of 19th century, it had played the major part of ground transportation for about one hundred years. On the other hand, automobiles appeared at the end of 19th century and remarkably developed as the important means of transportation during 20th century. At present, both ground transportation means are playing the peculiar part in respective field and more technological developments are necessary to meet social requirements such as global environment protection. Here the cradle of ground transportation means which have developed for 200 years centering on railways is described.