Predicting results of geometrical nonlinear FE analyses using Artificial Neural Networks: Applied to stiffened steel plated structures in sea lock gates

In this research project, an attempt is made to fuse the fields of structural mechanics and machine learning. The goal is to find out if models can be created that are capable of predicting the outcomes of (nonlinear) finite element analyses. These models are created by means of Artificial Neural Networks, which is a powerful method in the...

A parametric decision model for navigational lock components: With the Prinses Marijkesluizen as case study

More than 50 locks owned by Rijkswaterstaat need replacement or renovation in the coming 40 years. Due to this fact an opportunity for changing the traditional way of building and maintaining navigational locks has arisen. Because of the replacement/renovation of locks in the coming time, implementing a new owning and building strategy is...

Analysis of a rolling FRP lock gate: + stability during movement

Fibre-reinforced polymers (FRPs) are becoming a more commonly used building material in many civil engineering applications including locks. One quality of FRPs is the fact that it has a high strength to weight ratio. By applying FRPs in rolling lock gate design, the self-weight of the gate could be significantly reduced. This in turn could lead...

Feasibility study on the application of fiber-reinforced polymers in large lock gates

Fatigue of steel lock gates

The Netherlands contains more than 400 hydraulic structures, of which 120 are locks. Inspections carried out since 2010 by Rijkswaterstaat revealed that a number of cracks per lock gate have been found. Based on experience and an evaluation of the photos made during the inspections it is assumed that the cracks occur due to fatigue. At this...

Feasibility study for FRP in large hydraulic structures

In this master thesis the feasibility of FRP in large hydraulic structures is investigated, specifically the feasibility of FRP in lifting gates. This thesis consists of a literature and case study. In the literature study the possibilities of FRP as construction material are mentioned. In the case study a lifting gate is designed for a storm...

Innovative design for lock gates - curved sliding gate; case study: IJmuiden Nieuwe Zeesluis

Design of a lock gate for Nieuwe Zeesluis in IJmuiden becomes a challenge when the boundary conditions limit the choice for the conventional types of the gate. The available width of the lock does not allow a straight rolling gate to be considered as a possible alternative as it is in most similar cases. All the initial efforts of this study...

Gate Design For Large, High Head Locks: "The development of an innovative lock gate"

This master thesis researches the necessity and possibilities of new/innovative lock gate technologies for future large & high head locks, like the Panama Canal Expansion Project. A historical data analysis has been performed, contemplates over 220 of the worlds largest locks throughout time, analyzing the development and application of...