Due to the increasing demand for energy and the growing desire to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels in response to climate change, there is significant demand for rooftop solar panel installations. Unfortunately, a large part of roofs currently cannot support solar panels due to structural limitations. These roofs are typically designed to withstand only the weight of their own construction, for example isolation material, and the roof covering, and the snow loads imposed by the NEN-standards, and not the heavy weight of conventional solar panel systems or other installations. Rable has developed a construction solution specifically designed for roofs that would otherwise be too weak for solar panel installations.
The Rable system is a rigid structure composed of centers and sides that together form trusses in two directions. As a truss system, it is significantly stiffer than a standard solar panel structure. This increased stiffness allows the installation to transfer a portion of its weight to the purlins, which, in most cases, can handle more load than just snow. In addition, the Rable system is lighter than standard solar panel constructions.
To determine the actual deflection of the Rable system and understand how much it relies on the roof structure, the centers and sides were first analyzed separately under the load of the Rable system. The resulting deflections were then combined to calculate the deflections for various setups. Once the deflection of the Rable construction without a supporting roof was determined, additional calculations were performed for different configurations to evaluate how much the combined roof and the Rable construction would deflect, how much weight would be transferred to the purlins, and how much insulation would compress at the contact points.
To ensure that the construction is strong enough to support itself, the stiffness added by the Rable system to the roof was analyzed. In all but one setup, the construction added sufficient stiffness to support the additional weight. This means that the Rable system can be installed on most roofs.
To verify the deflection calculations, a 3D model was developed and the deflections were analyzed using the Finite Element Method (FEM). Although the FEM results aligned with the calculations in many cases, discrepancies were observed for some setups. These discrepancies were attributed to the fact that the FEM model was not extensive enough to include elements outside the observed section, which are necessary to counterbalance the system. This resulted in the Rable systems deflecting more in the FEM model for certain setups. However, for other setups, the FEM results matched the calculated values from the study.

In conclusion, the Rable system offers a viable solution for installing solar panels on structurally limited roofs. Its lightweight and stiff design, combined with its ability to transfer a significant portion of the load to the purlins, makes it suitable for many applications, provided that the specific roof conditions and materials are thoroughly analyzed and that an good solutions or alternative has been found for the current cable.

This thesis presents an evaluation of pile run mitigation systems for decreasing the shockload in an offshore crane. Monopiles for windturbines at sea are installed with offshore cranes on jack-up or floating vessels. During driving of the monopile with an impact hammer, the pile can lose its support due to a sudden reduction in soil resistance. This causes falling of the pile which is called pile run. As the hammer has slack rope when it is supported by the pile, it will fall along with the pile until it is suddenly suspended in the crane rigging, which causes a shockload on the crane and in the crane wire. Different pile run and shockload mitigation solutions were collected, after which a shockload model was created with Matlab and Simulink. This model gives insight into the influence of the most important components of the hammer-crane-vessel system on the shockload and calculates the total shockload in sling, MH tackle and crane wire with or without a mitigation solution. It was found that the shock load model should include a hammer, sling, MH tackle, boom, boomhoist and reeving for accurate calculation of the shockload and for evaluation of the mitigation solutions. The vessel roll motion only has a small influence on the shockload and was neglected for the final shockload model. Most of the mitigation solutions were evaluated with the shockload model, except for the solutions that avoid hammer suspension in the crane. The other mitigation solutions were analysed and evaluated for the Bokalift 2 crane, all with the same conditions of 1m slack rope, free fall and a hammer mass of 1400t. As this is a quite conservative calculation, a plot with all the allowable combinations of slack rope length and average hammer acceleration was presented as the main conclusion of this work. With this, the soil resistance can also be taken into account to make the analysis and evaluation more realistic. The shock load absorber under the hook is suitable for reducing the shockload under the allowable load, whereas the shock load absorber in the crane reeving is not as it is too slow. The flexible sling is only a suitable mitigation solution when there is still sufficient soil resistance during the pile run. For free fall and 1m slack rope, it would not be sufficient as common sling materials have a too low strength/Emodulus ratio. Controlling the slack rope length or limiting pile speed is a suitable mitigation solution if the correct combination of slack rope length and average hammer acceleration (from slack to taut rope) can be guaranteed.

This thesis delineates the redesign process of a very high-capacity selective egg transfer device. The device is used in hatcheries to selectively transfer eggs with living embryos from incubation trays into hatching baskets, while other eggs are left in the trays. Reliable and hygienic selective transfer is essential to achieve high hatchability and low mortality of embryos by preventing bacteria such as Salmonella from spreading, but this is compromised by problems encountered in the current design.

The research contains a comprehensive analysis of the current device and environment, which revealed several shortcomings, especially with the grabbing mechanism of the current device. Thorough literature and patent research was done to identify important design limitations and possibilities for handling eggs. Several designs were then constructed, which were assessed and compared using the weighted criteria method and defined design objectives.

The best-scoring design was then designed in detail. It consists of a removable vacuumbox with movable rods, which can avoid contact with eggs infected with bacteria. The removability of the vacuumbox enables thorough inspection and cleaning, theoretically eliminating most of the problems encountered with the prior art while improving its capacity.

The redesign described in this thesis was thus successful, contributing to a more effective and hygienic selective egg transfer process in industrial hatcheries.

As offshore wind turbines grow beyond 15 MW, the logistical and mechanical challenges of installing large-diameter pin piles have intensified. Conventional upending methods, such as crawler crane-based operations, face increasing limitations in deck space efficiency, motion sensitivity, and operational persistency, thereby constraining the scalability of current offshore foundation installation practices. This study presents an integrated framework to identify and evaluate next-generation logistical concepts for pin pile handling. Through a structured morphological approach, over 120 storage, transport, and upending configurations were generated and screened through a Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA). The top-performing concepts were further analyzed using Multi Operation Persistency (MOP) simulations to quantify weather downtime and operational duration. Cost modeling revealed that concepts combining in-grillage storage with tail-end rotation mechanisms significantly reduce project duration and total project costs compared to the baseline. Following from this, two refined mechanical solutions, Deck Rotation and Dutch Bike Rack, were developed, optimized for lifting height, and validated for structural and dynamic feasibility. Both mechanisms enable safe, reversible upending within compact vessel layouts. The results demonstrate that logistical integration and mechanical innovation can unlock new efficiencies in offshore wind foundation installation, offering scalable and cost-effective solutions for future energy infrastructure.

This thesis presents the design process of an active wire rope tensioner, a device designed for cranes, that serves two primary functions. Firstly, it increases the tension in the wire rope during spooling, ensuring neat and tight winding on the drum to reduce damage to the wire rope and cutting-in problems. Secondly, it reduces the required lower block weight, thereby improving the crane's load curve.

The research has commenced with a study of relevant background information and working principles. A thorough literature and patent review has followed, revealing a gap in the state-of-the-art of tensioning devices that both prevent cutting-in and reduce the required lower block weight. In the conceptual design phase, seven innovative concepts have been generated based on the literature review and current principles. These concepts have been assessed for their capability to meet the requirements and their performance against the key performance indicators (KPIs). Consequently, five concepts remain, with the clamping track concept emerging as the most promising.

The clamping track concept utilizes a chain drive with clamps attached to it that press on the wire rope. By applying force to the chain, the tension in the wire rope can be manipulated. Detailed development of the clamping track concept has yielded a conceptual design with three potential deployment scenarios, each requiring a slightly different version of the active wire rope tensioner and offering distinct advantages and disadvantages. Scenario 1 offers the greatest possible lower block weight reduction but comes with the cost of a more complex and riskier system. Scenario 3 does not allow for any lower block weight reduction but is simpler and safer. Scenario 2 strikes a balance between the two.

This research presents a novel approach for real-time stress state estimation in steel bridges using Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors and image recognition techniques. The methodology involves creating a digital model of the bridge, comprising a global finite element model (FEM) and detailed sub-models of critical areas. A database of precomputed load cases is generated, and real-time sensor data is matched to this database using the developed fingerprinting method. Image recognition is employed to detect multiple load scenarios, enhancing the accuracy of stress estimations and ensuring linear scalability for multi-load situations. The accuracy of the developed model was tested using a scaled setup using a 3 meter long aluminium bridge, proving its effectiveness in real-world conditions. The results demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, with reasonable accuracy achieved in both single and multi-load scenarios. Future work should focus on improving model accuracy, enhancing image recognition algorithms, and optimizing computational performance for large-scale applications.

This thesis presents the optimization of chord-bracing connections (tubular joints) in lattice boom structures using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). The research aims to enhance the static and fatigue performance of critical joints, with a focus on the 1600mt LEC crane boom, which is used for offshore wind turbine installation. Through the integration of topology optimization and WAAM, the study seeks to improve structural efficiency by optimizing weld geometry and material distribution.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was employed to identify high-stress regions within the tubular joints, followed by topology optimization to refine their design. The study also investigates the impact of WAAM on material efficiency, fabrication flexibility, and the overall mechanical properties of the joints. The results demonstrate that the optimized tubular joints exhibit significant improvements in fatigue life and static strength compared to traditional designs, providing a more robust and cost-effective solution for lattice boom applications.
The findings of this research contribute to advancing the use of additive manufacturing in structural engineering, particularly in enhancing the performance and sustainability of offshore crane systems. The proposed optimization framework and design methodologies offer valuable insights for future applications of WAAM in heavy-duty structural components.

This report presents the development of a conceptual design for an automated system that feeds, mounts, and dismounts CPT tubes into a Push Frame, addressing the limitations of current manual operations at Geomil. The project aimed to create a reliable, safe, and efficient solution for the tube handling process, with a focus on automation of both positioning and (dis)mounting operations. The design process began with an analysis of the current state of the art, both internally at Geomil and externally in similar applications, to identify existing methods, limitations, and opportunities for automation. Functional requirements, boundary conditions, design limitations, and user preferences were established to guide concept generation and evaluation. Using a morphological analysis and multi-criteria scoring, multiple concepts were developed for positioning mechanisms and (dis)mounting systems. After evaluation, the best concepts were a Robotic Arm for positioning and a Raptor with Clamping blocks for (dis)mounting. After the preliminary designs were made, it was chosen that the Robotic Arm would be replaced with a Rail Gantry.
The final design integrates four key subsystems: a tube storage with charging modules, a Rail Gantry, the Raptor with clamping blocks, and a PLC-based control and safety system. The system allows sequential and reversible operation, enabling automated retrieval, connection, insertion, and storage of standard and casing tubes. Safety, maintainability, and operational efficiency were emphasized through features such as protective fencing, emergency stops, modular components, and intuitive control interfaces.
Strengths of the system include high precision, modularity, and adaptability to different tube types, as well as future-proofing for electronic tube monitoring and recharging. Limitations include higher initial cost, space usage in a vehicle, and a lower operation time per tube. The operation time analysis shows that, under standard settings, the automated system requires 60–70 minutes per full cycle of 30 tubes compared to 45 minutes for manual operation. Where the longer time is for serial operation and the shorter time is for parallel operation, where multiple actions are performed at the same time. However, with a higher motor speed and longer tubes, the cycle time can be reduced to 33.33-40 minutes, outperforming manual operation. The total production and assembly cost of the system is approximately €30,700, leading to a sales price of around €86,000. Although this represents a significant initial investment, the ROI analysis indicates a payback period of roughly one year, after which the system provides substantial long-term economic and ergonomic benefits.
Overall, the proposed system demonstrates a viable, innovative solution for fully automated tube handling in a vehicle-mounted environment, reducing manual labor, improving safety, and ensuring reliable and accurate operation. The report concludes that automated feeding and mounting of CPT tubes is achievable, practical, and adaptable to various operational scenarios, offering significant improvements over current manual processes.

This thesis investigates vibration transmission during \ac{vp} with a focus on risks to the lifting equipment. The work is motivated by incident reports and by the absence of field measurements on cranes during offshore operations. The study aims to identify resonance frequency(ies), quantify component displacements, determine forces in the hoist cable, and characterize how each component responds across the input frequency range. A secondary aim is to relate frequencies that favor pile penetration to potential risks for the crane.

A two stage modeling approach is adopted. First, the crane is generalized to a \ac{2d} form and converted to a \ac{1d} system of lumped masses and linear springs aligned vertically. The pedestal is idealized as fixed. Linear behavior and small displacements are assumed. Second, the \ac{mp} is modeled in Ansys with shell elements to capture flexible body behavior. A mode reduction retains only axial modes of the \ac{mp}, since bending, torsion, and circumferential shell modes do not directly couple to the vertical vibration path that governs \ac{vp}. Depth dependent stiffness and damping represent the soil at the toe. Hoist stiffness varies with depth through cable length.

The calculation method separates free and forced vibration. In free vibration, the system eigen-problem provides resonance frequency(ies) and mode shapes with the \ac{mp} first treated as rigid. The axial flexible body natural frequency of the \ac{mp} is then obtained from the shell model. In forced vibration, the harmonic response is computed to obtain frequency response functions and absolute displacement magnitudes for the components, as well as the hoist cable force.

Results show two frequency families that govern the response. The first family contains the system resonance frequency(ies) with a rigid \ac{mp}. The second family contains the axial flexible body natural frequency of the \ac{mp}. Modes 1, 2, and 4 are largely insensitive to \ac{mp} flexibility. Mode 3 and the axial flexible body frequency depend strongly on the soil stiffness at the toe and shift with depth. Within the operational range of the \ac{vh}, the fourth system resonance and the first axial flexible body frequency of the \ac{mp} lie close together and can interchange order as depth changes.

The harmonic response clarifies component participation at key frequencies. Near Mode 3, motion concentrates in the exciter and \ac{mp} and engages the soil stiffness most strongly. Near Mode 4, the lower block and bias mass dominate while the \ac{mp} response is limited. At the axial flexible body frequency of the \ac{mp}, the head and toe move in opposite directions with a near stationary point along the pile length, consistent with a fundamental axial mode. These behaviors explain the locations and amplitudes of the observed peaks.

A verification step compares boom tip response and hoist cable force between the simplified system and the full \ac{fe} crane. The first peak aligns in both models, supporting the validity of the simplified representation for global behavior. Differences at higher frequencies are traced to flexible crane substructures that the simplified model does not include. This comparison establishes where the simplified model is reliable and where detailed crane is more suitable for cranes structure fatigue study.

Mitigation is explored conceptually. Removing the hoist load path would eliminate force transmission into the boom, but this is often impractical. Introducing an isolator between the lifting equipment and the piling equipment is a more practical option. When tuned near the axial flexible body frequency of the \ac{mp} and near the fourth system resonance, an isolator can reduce force transmission into the boom while preserving penetration performance.

The study concludes that frequencies that favor penetration can occur near frequencies that amplify responses in the lifting equipment. Managing this close proximity requires attention to frequency modes, awareness of depth effects through soil stiffness, hoist force fluctuations, and consideration of isolation in the load path. The work provides a structured method to identify critical frequencies, quantify responses, and separate the roles of monopile flexibility and crane structure, while pointing to targeted measurements and modeling extensions that would complete a validated framework for decision making.

With the European Union targeting a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, the shift to renewable energy sources like offshore wind is crucial. Another consequence of the 55% reduction goal is the new upcoming registration and levy on carbon emissions. Since there is a noticeable lack of research on the emissions from the installation offshore wind farms, and marine contractors will have to pay for those emissions in the near future, there is a need for a framework to predict those emissions prior to the installation process. This thesis aims to develop such a framework to predict GHG emissions during the installation process using Wind Turbine Installation Vessels (WTIVs).

The study starts with a review of current methods for calculating maritime GHG emissions, following the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) guidelines. It then looks at the steps and technology involved in offshore wind farm installations, pinpointing the main energy consumers. Using a physics-based approach, the model estimates fuel consumption and the the GHG emissions for the installation of wind turbines for an offshore wind farm.

For the complete installation of 50 wind turbines, the model predicts a total effective energy requirement of approximately 408,000 kWh, leading to GHG emissions of around 312,533 kg CO2.
The results highlight the significant impact of activities like vessel transit and auxiliaries on total emissions. The sensitivity analysis performed identifies critical parameters influencing the model's accuracy, such as vessel speed, jack-up height, and crane efficiency. The model's validation through a real-world case study for the crane part of the developed model shows its accuracy in predicting emissions.

The thesis ends with suggestions for improving the model and finding ways to reduce emissions in offshore wind installations. This involves the validation of the other aspects of the model, technology upgrades, and checking if feedering might me an interesting solution to reduce the impact on the environment even more.

Overall the developed model for the prediction of greenhouse gas emissions proves to be a stable framework that could be used in the future by marine contractors when negotiating contracts and installation costs, including the predicted costs of the carbon levy.

At a dry bulk terminal, coal and iron ore are transported in the open air by conveyor belts and handled by large (mainly automated) equipment. The dry bulk material is rough and the equipment is installed in the harsh environment of the harbour. With vessels continuously being unloaded by quay cranes and outgoing vessels and trains being loaded, the conveyor belts make lots of operational hours. With more than 27 kilometers of conveyor belts running at 4.5 m/s it is important these systems are maintained well.

To reduce downtime and maintenance cost, a new maintenance strategy will be created. Therefore, different maintenance strategies and methodologies will be explained and the current situation will be investigated. A new maintenance strategy will be created by using the FMECA method (Failure Modes, Effects and Criticality Analysis), where malfunctions of the conveyor belt systems will be prioritized according to their criticality. Malfunctions happening during the period of this thesis will be investigated and used as an example to proof the new maintenance strategy works. This strategy is applicable to other equipment and other terminals as well. In the end some future remarks will be discussed to further improve the new maintenance strategy.

Dust emissions developed during the handling of dry bulk products pose increased risks for health, safety and the environment. Legislation drives bulk handling facilities to face the challenge of maintaining dust emissions within limitations. At the bulk terminal of Verbrugge multiple bulk products are handled, making the dust control problem even more difficult. The aim of this research is to improve the dust control methods of bulk handling equipment handling various dry bulk products to further reduce the dust emissions.
A dust control strategy is developed based on the knowledge gathered through theoretical and practical research concerning the formation and control of dust emissions. The strategy provides a structural approach to identify the most suitable dust control methods, applicable for all types of bulk handling operations and bulk products. It incorporates the specifications of the dust source, investigates the feasibility of dust control measures, and creates and evaluates combinations through a weighted multi-criteria analysis.
The decision-making tool is implemented at three dust sources at Verbrugge and proposes dust control methods to improve the reduction of dust emissions. The strategy suggests providing transfer chutes between two conveyor belts with a flex-flap system to avoid dust dispersion within the installation. The proposed method offers a safer, more reliable, less expensive, and maintenance-friendly solution as opposed to the currently applied dust collector. The implementation of the dust control strategy at the transfer between a grab and hopper offers the valuable insight that the design of wind screens need to be optimised in order to improve the extent of dust control. The ship loader is best equipped with a cascade chute and dust skirt, as suggested by the strategy.
This study shows the developed dust control strategy not only substantively proposes the most suitable dust control methods, but also offers valuable insights into potential issues, provides possible solutions or improvements, and significantly reduces the time and effort invested in the decision-making process. To further enhance the findings of this research, it is recommended to include the effects of organisational dust control measures and a design aspect in the dust control strategy. Additionally, a more reliable assessment of dust control measures can be achieved by quantifying the generation and control of dust emissions.

This thesis focuses on a vertical farming system designed for growing crops. The system’s deficiencies were identified during a company visit where the system was operating. An analysis was conducted to see when all deficiencies would be resolved. It revealed that the vertical farm robot had to be redesigned to grab seven benches deep to eliminate the system’s shortcomings and significantly enhance its performance. Thus, a literature review was conducted to determine possible solutions. As a result, various alternatives were devised based on the requirements and constraints considering the available design space and a morphological chart. These alternatives were scored with a weighted criteria method, and the best view was elaborated in more detail. Subsequently, a computer-aided design of the best overall-looking design was created. After ordering all materials, a design prototype was built inside a climate cell in the research centre, and all sensors and drives were wired and controlled by a programmable logic controller to fully automate the prototype. A proof of concept was successfully obtained from the test results. Therefore, this redesign of the system’s performance was enhanced, and this thesis was successful.

This research investigated the feasibility of designing an on-board system for the installation of fully assembled Tension Leg Platform Floating Offshore Wind Turbines (TLP FOWTs). The study aimed to identify a potential design that would enhance the overall feasibility of such installations, which required a combination of a literature review, a design methodology, and a concept evaluation.

The main research questions guided the study, focusing on the essential design elements and systems needed for the installation process. Key insights from the literature review helped form a basis for answering the first four sub-questions, while the subsequent sub-questions were addressed through concept development and analysis. The most crucial design decisions revolved around the connection between the installation deck and the ship and the selection of the actuating system.

Multiple concepts were developed, all incorporating a three-beam parallelogram configuration. A load analysis established an installation method and indicated three critical scenarios during the whole procedure. Force analysis, based on the load analysis, revealed two designs as the most feasible. This analysis provided crucial information on the direction and magnitude of forces within the system, guiding further refinement. Further specification of these designs addressed critical parameters, including the dimensions and structure of the beams, the size of the actuating system, and the integration of water ballast.

The study identified two potential solutions. One concept featured an additional framework within the three-beam configuration, optimising force distribution and introducing compressive forces in the actuating system, making a hydraulic cylinder the best choice. The other concept consisted of a simpler three-beam configuration, where the actuating system faced only tensile forces, making a winch system the most suitable solution.

The design methodology structured the development of these concepts, with analyses providing critical insights for further refinement. This iterative process highlighted the advantages and challenges of each concept.

In conclusion, this thesis contributed significantly to the current understanding of TLP FOWT installation by proposing potential solutions for the on-board installation system and identifying future research directions. Through its systematic approach and iterative design process, this research laid the groundwork for further advancements in the installation of TLP FOWTs.

The increasing automation in various industries has underscored a notable gap in the airline catering sector, where predominant manual transport of airline catering trolleys within facilities results in substantial costs and physical strain. This paper addresses these challenges by proposing an automated solution for the transport logistics of airline catering trolleys within catering facilities.
The suggested solution involves implementing a Unit Load Device (ULD) designed to securely carry multiple airline catering trolleys. This ULD is engineered for compatibility with various transport systems, including Automated Guided Vehicles, highloaders and conveyors.
The paper outlines the design process for a ULD within an airline catering facility. To formulate a comprehensive design, several design problems are identified, and potential solutions are presented. Subsequently, multiple viable load plate prototypes are constructed and tested on an Automated Guided Vehicle and highloader, resulting in the identification of a single viable all-purpose ULD for the entire process. Additionally, an in-house ULD emerges as a cost-effective alternative to the all-purpose ULD.
In this context, this paper introduces a comparative analysis of three possible future airline catering facilities: utilizing 1 ULD, using 2 ULDs, and employing no ULDs (or maintaining the current status quo). The comparison reveals minimal cost differences between facilities employing 1 or 2 ULDs, both facilities however show significantly more cost efficient compared to using no ULDs.

Mammoet is developing a new type of system for the transportation of offshore power cables. With this system the cables can be spooled, stored, and transported both on land and on heavy transport vessels in a more efficient way. There are a few uncertainties for the system, mainly about the loads on the carousel and the behavior of the cable stack. These uncertainties resulted in some assumptions that have been used for the proposed design. Furthermore, there are a few challenges for the system that need to be addressed to compete with the current offshore power cable transportation methods. The main challenges include the structural strength and stability in combination with the self-weight, the used cylinder stroke of the hydraulic SPMT cylinders and other issues with the SPMTs. In this study these uncertainties and the challenges for the current design of the system are investigated, which resulted in more insight in the uncertainties and a new concept with improved performance against the challenges.

Over the years the introduction of new Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) software into the design process allowed engineers to significantly shorten the time necessary to produce finished designs. There seems to be an agreement that using CAE tools shortens the time of the design process and improves the quality of finished products. Although, oftentimes in research it is the improvement in quality, which is focused on when presenting new tools. However, in an industrial setting, what also matters and is frequently the main concern are the improvements in time efficiency. It would be undesirable for the newly incorporated software to elongate the process.

In this study, the effects of incorporation of a new CAE tool on the design process is researched in an industrial setting. The opportunity, which allowed for this research is the incorporation of a new post-processing software for the finite element analysis Jan De Nul Marine Engineering and Design Department. In order for the new tool to be implemented, its effects on the design process should be tested. In order to do that, the methods of design were researched in order to find what is the current design methodology and its structure. This is done based on a case study, a draghead gantry for a trailing suction hopper dredger vessel. In this case study the equipment is designed according to the methodology used in the department. Based on the first design, the methodology of design used in the department was codified. Then, problems which were found in that process are addressed and a new design methodology is proposed based on the solutions, literature and adaptation to the new software. Next, the new design process is presented. Lastly, the results of both approaches are shown and compared.

Increasing global parcel shipping volumes and just-in-time delivery force distribution centers to handle increasingly larger volumes of greatly varying parcel types. Automated material handling systems are essential to achieve these challenging requirements. A push divert sorter is one of these systems. This system uses a series of sliding plastic blocks to divert items from a main conveyor onto specific lanes. The performance of a push divert sorter is highly influenced by the design of components interacting with parcels. The shape and materials of these components influence the locations, directions and magnitude of forces acting on parcels, which influences their dynamic behaviour. The influence of the design of these components on the system performance is analyzed in the study. Moreover, based on these insights, an improved design is proposed and assessed.

Maintenance of complex machines or assemblies is an essential part of machine-building companies. Besides building and designing machines, they are responsible for replacing components and restoring the machines to maintain good operational conditions. An optimal maintenance plan ensures that customers spend less on maintenance and remain satisfied. Also, for the machine builders, an optimal maintenance plan shows efficient use of the service mechanics, trust in the machines and the quality of the knowledge. This research aims to create a maintenance framework that leads to a suitable maintenance plan starting from experience-based maintenance. The framework proposes steps in which initial data points are collected, calculates the maintenance intervals and estimates values for a failure distribution to obtain knowledge of components, while it is still manageable (practical) for the service department. Eventually, this paper shows the benefits of the proposed maintenance framework relative to maintenance based on experiences like reactive maintenance. A simulation model has been developed, showing the KPIs of the framework and results from the framework. In addition to the simulations, this project provides guidelines for the service department to implement the framework.