PDEng project at ASPARi in the University of Twente

The asphalt construction process is still mainly carried out without the use of high-tech instruments to monitor key process parameters, and little research effort has been put into the systematic mapping and analysis of construction processes. The ASPARi developed Process Quality improvement (PQi) methodology has successfully been used to map operational behaviour during construction using GPS and other sensors; and provide essential feedback to operators with the aim of improving process control. There is however, a need to continually introduce, test and validate the use of new sensors and technologies given rapid developments within the ICT sector and in so doing, further develop and refine the PQi methodology.

The mission of this design project is to:
“Develop and refine the PQi methodology in order to improve process control”
The overall purpose is to improve process control using a data-driven approach. The main outcomes are:
Matching the needs of asphalt teams with the required accuracy and measuring frequency of sensors and instruments
Improving the PQi data collection method and analysis using new sensors
Developing a robotosised measuring platform to automate on-site measurements e.g. nuclear density measurements and asphalt cooling measurements
Developing suitable non-invasive/non-destructive measuring regimes for determining post-construction mechanical properties
During the educational part of the programme, you will receive a customised education package consisting of among others, courses in decision-support system design, systems engineering & design, sensor development, operations research, statistics, structural equation modelling and supply chain management.

Closing Date: 15-03-2017

Further details:
PDEng project at ASPARi in the University of Twente