Integrating Automation and Optimisation of Runway Components Design in Rapid Offer Creation Process of Industrial Cranes

Abstract

This thesis, commissioned by Konecranes, focuses on scrutinizing the equations governing the design of essential runway beam elements — clamps, support plates and end stoppers — with a particular focus on their adherence to the latest Eurocode standards. The primary objective is to ensure alignment of these equations with contemporary standards and enhance them where necessary, thereby establishing a robust foundation for integration into internal computational software dedicated to the design of said elements.

In addition, the study involves the compilation and consolidation of methods dispersed across various spreadsheets within the organization. This process entails harmonizing disparate techniques, subjecting them to a rigorous evaluation against established standards, and effecting updates where deemed necessary. Until now, the fundamental aspects of the runway design have been adequately addressed in the computational software, leaving, however, the indispensable peripheral components to be computed manually through alternative methods such as spreadsheet calculations. Consequently, the creation of manufacturing drawings necessitates a manual update with these components each time, a process that can be streamlined when automating the calculation of these elements is coupled with the parametric design capabilities inherent in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) programs.

The research methodology includes a comprehensive investigation, analysis and evaluation of existing methods and calculation tools. This scrutiny is supported by a thorough exploration of prevailing standards, with a commitment to incorporating best practices exercised by leading industry experts.

In two instances minor discrepancies were identified, having a marginal impact on final outcomes. Furthermore, one specific case prompted an extension of calculations to incorporate additional checks. The outcome of this evaluative process culminated in the creation and consolidation of analytical formulas. This development paves the way for the seamless integration of these formulas into the calculation software, significantly advancing the project.

Lastly, during this thesis considerable progress was achieved in integrating some parts of the calculations into the software, and in developing a usable (although not final) User Interface. This integration signifies a noteworthy advancement in the overall project.