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Covid-19 and disruptive technology in New Zealand
(Emerald Publishing Limited, 2024-02-22) Mat Aripin A; Brougham D
Purpose COVID-19 has immensely disrupted business dynamism, providing catalyst innovation opportunities and transposing society's perception of disruptive technology (DT). This research increases the understanding of the impact of the pandemic in influencing the way organizations perceive DT and whether any mitigating factors were considered when deciding to adopt new technology during the pandemic. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach was adopted in this research, consisting of 14 semi-structured interviews with eight senior managers and six employees, representing both the private and public sectors in New Zealand. All participants had in-depth knowledge of organizational DT adoption during the pandemic. Two separate sets of semi-structured interviews were used to enable comparison between senior managers' and employees' experiences of organizational adoption of DT post-emergence of COVID-19. Due to the nature of this research being conducted on organizational adoption of DT during the pandemic, time constraints and sample size were two of the key limitations of this research. Specifically, potential participants widely cited unavailability due to additional pressure from COVID-19. Given the limited research in this area, this study is explorative by nature and adds significant insights to the literature. Findings The findings suggest that COVID-19 has contributed towards an increased acceptance of, reliance on and adoption of DT across both organizational and social landscapes. The authors found that one of the reasons COVID-19 expedites the adoption of DT correlates with the notion of technology dependency, with organizations citing DT as a viable part of a business continuity plan (BCP) to counter the unpredictability of ongoing disruptive events associated with COVID-19 or any similar disruption which may be on the horizon. These findings are highly relevant as they suggest that the labor market in New Zealand is flexible so organizations and employees can adapt to DT and COVID-19. Originality/value This research adds much-needed insight into the emerging field of research that examines COVID-19's impact on the adoption of DT from both management and employee perspectives
Development of a decision support tool for automation adoption and optimisation in precast concrete plants : a New Zealand case study : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Construction Project Management at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2022) Ansari, Reza
In response to the growing demand in the New Zealand construction market, this study aims to develop a decision-support framework for adopting and optimising automation in precast concrete plants, which are increasingly recognised for their numerous benefits. The primary resources required by these plants include labour, equipment, and materials, and their efficient use is essential for maintaining competitiveness. Automation has been identified as a potential solution for improving productivity and profitability in precast concrete manufacturing; however, an appropriate decision-support tool is currently lacking. The current study commences with a comprehensive literature review, followed by historical data collection, face-to-face interviews, and site observations of precast concrete plants to address this research gap. These methods help identify attributes that affect profitability, leading to developing and validating of a theoretical framework named the Precast Plant Automation System Tool (PPAST) through a case study. The PPAST framework comprises two sequential phases: the strategic phase, which uses the direct rating method for preliminary feasibility evaluation of automation adoption, and the tactical phase, where the AHP method assesses the appropriate automation sequence for the plant. The study’s main findings indicate that the developed decision support system enables decision-makers to articulate their objectives and attitudes towards risk as they explore the feasibility of automation and formulate an optimal automation strategy. Specifically, the system aids in evaluating the impact of automation on cost and quality and identifying necessary process changes before implementing new technologies. The primary contribution of this research is its novel approach to systematically evaluating alternative automation scenarios in precast concrete production plants. The results demonstrate that the proposed model is a valuable and effective decision-making tool for adopting and optimising automation in precast concrete plants. This research fills a critical knowledge gap concerning the crucial measurements of precast concrete plant profitability and the absence of an automation adoption tool. The developed framework can be extended to investigate automation adoption and optimisation in other precast concrete plants across New Zealand. This study's practical implications include empowering precast plants to meet their organisation's profitability measures, thus satisfying stakeholder value propositions. A thriving precast concrete industry will lead to more satisfied clients, attract additional investment, and improve the overall construction industry's quality, productivity, and profitability at the national level. Theoretically, this research contributes a reliable benchmark for future studies by developing decision support tools that facilitate selecting optimised automation methods for precast concrete plants and contributing to theoretical knowledge by establishing an optimised automation decision support method that guides researchers in exploring other avenues for maximising profitability.
An economic analysis of a robotic harvest technology in New Zealand fresh apple industry : a dissertation presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Agribusiness, Massey University School of Agriculture and Environment, Manawatu, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2020) Ghahremani, Morteza
The New Zealand apple industry is predominately an export-oriented industry relying on manual labour throughout the year. In recent years, however, labour shortages for harvesting have been jeopardising its competitiveness and profitability. Temporary immigration labour programs, such as the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) program have not been able to solve the labour shortages, urging the industry to consider use of harvesting automation, i.e. robotic technology, as a solution. Harvesting robots are still in commercial trial stage and no studies have assessed the economic feasibility of such technology. The present study for the first time develops a bio-economic model to analyse the investment decision for adopting harvesting robots compared to available alternatives, i.e. platform and manual harvesting systems, using net present value (NPV) as the method of analysis; for newly established single-, bi-, and multi-varietal orchards across different orchard sizes, and three apple varieties (Envy, Jazz, and Royal Gala); and implications of orchard canopy transition and associated sensitivities are considered. The results of the analysis identified fruit value and yield as the key drivers for the adoption of harvesting automation. For relatively low value and or yielding varieties such as Jazz or Royal Gala, robots are less profitable in single-varietal orchard compared to bi-varietal orchard planted with relatively low value and yielding varieties. In a multi-varietal orchard, a relatively high value and high yield variety, such as Envy, is crucial to compensate for the costs incurred for harvesting other varieties using robots or platforms. The greatest potential benefit of utilising harvesting robots was reducing pickers required by an average of 54% for Envy and 48% for each of Jazz and Royal Gala across all orchard sizes compared to manual harvesting; and 7% in average for each of Envy, Jazz, and Royal Gala across all orchard sizes compared to platform harvesting system. This study also identified the break-even price for a robotic harvester in a single-varietal orchard, showed that the break-even prices exceeded the assumed price of the robot, and are highly variable depending on the varietal value and yield, where Envy as a relatively higher value and yielding variety returns a break-even price of $2.92 million compared to relatively lower value and yielding varieties, Jazz with $674,895, and Royal Gala with $689,608. Sensitivity analyses showed that both harvesting speed and efficiency are key parameters in the modelled orchard and positively affected the net returns of the investment and must be considered by researchers and manufacturers. However, for developers and potential adopters of robots, it should be more important that robots operate faster, but not necessarily as more efficient in order to generate a high return while substituting the highest number of pickers and leaving less unharvested fruit on trees in the limited harvesting window. Reducing robot price by 12% and 42% can generate an equivalent level of profit similar to manual or platform harvesting, respectively. Increases in labour wages, and decreases in labour availability and efficiency adversely affected the NPV and profitability outlook of the investment, but NPV was more affected by the decreases in labour efficiency and availability than wage increases. This research has important science and policy implications for policy makers, academics, growers, engineers, and manufacturers. From an economic perspective, for late adopters or those growers who may not be financially able to invest in robots or may be uncertain about their performance, platform harvesting system can be utilised as an alternative solution that is commercially available until robotic harvesting technology improves or becomes more affordable, and commercially available. Alternatively, it may be possible for these orchardists to benefit from utilising the robotic harvester in the form of a co-operative or contract-harvesting business model to avoid the capital costs associated with purchasing and operating the robots. Besides the economic factors, robotic harvesters have the potential to be considered as a solution for non-economic factors such as food safety problems. This is more apparent in the post-Covid-19 pandemic era, which has not only made it more difficult for growers to source their required workers due to border closures, but also has led consumers to be more cautious about food safety when they make purchase decisions and prefer to have their fresh fruit touchless from farm to plate. This may not be a problem for packhouses as most are automated, but it may be an issue for harvesting operations, because pickers have to pick apples by hand. Even though robots cannot be the only option for growers to rely on for the foreseeable future as they are not commercially available, in the current situation robot harvesting may be the most ideal solution.
Plasma-arc cutting control : investigations into machine vision, modelling and cutting head kinematics : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering at Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2018) Flemmer, Mathew
Plasma-arc cutting (PAC) is widely used in industry, but it is an under-researched fabrication tool. A review of the literature reveals much study is needed to improve the PAC process regarding efficiency, quality, stability and accuracy. This research investigated a novel control method for PAC. The PAC process was investigated to identify the gaps, and develop feasible methods, methodologies and systems to improve the PAC cutting quality and process control using machine vision. An automated, visual-inspection algorithm was successfully developed. The algorithm uses NC code to path plan and perform kerf width measurement. This visual inspection facilitated research into several aspects of PAC such as the extent of radiative heat transfer, the significance of kerf asymmetry, and a model describing the slope of the leading edge of the kerf-with respect to feed rate and material thickness. A kinematic investigation was conducted on 3 bevel capable plasma heads to complete the elements of a novel control method. An automated, visual-inspection (AVI) system for PAC was designed that consists of a vision unit and a mounting rig. This system is able to perform real-time, kerf width measurement reaching an accuracy of 0.1mm. The methodology was validated by experiment, testing cuts on parts with varying size, shape and complexity. The outcomes of this research were published in the International Journal of Mechanical and Production Engineering and the proceedings of the 2017 Mechatronics and Machine Vision in Practice (M2VIP) international conference. With this developed vision rig, further research was conducted such as an empirical investigation into the relationship between kerf angle and kerf width with respect to torch height, feed rate and material thickness. This investigation was comprised of 35 combinations of the process parameters with 9 replicates for each. A relationship between the process parameters and quality measures was developed, and the magnitudes of kerf asymmetries were quantified. The understanding of the phenomenology of PAC is deficient in several areas. An experimental study was undertaken that reduced the effects of heat transfer by conduction and convection in order to estimate the contribution by radiative heat transfer. This experimental study maintained an arc between a water-cooled anode and plasma torch for 15 seconds. A test piece was specifically designed with imbedded, resistance-temperature-device thermometers positioned around the transferred arc and the temperature was measured. This investigation was able to estimate the effects of radiation from the plasma-arc. The study found radiative heat transfer is less than 3% of the total power input. Another experimental study obtained information on the shape of the leading edge of the kerf. For this study slots were cut into steel plates of 6, 8 and 10mm thickness, at feed rates between 350 and 2000mm/min with a torch height of 1.5mm. Edge points for the centre axis of the leading profile were obtained. A relationship between surface angle and material thickness and feed rate was established and is validated through the test range. A study on obtaining cutting profile data on the front face of the kerf was also undertaken. Slots were cut into plates of 6 and 10mm thickness. Edge points were obtained for the front 180 degrees of the kerf face at sections in 2mm increments. A 3D representation of the shape of the face was then able to be presented. Finally, the kinematics for 3 bevel capable PAC heads was developed. Two of the heads are existing industrial heads, and the third head is being developed by Kerf Ltd. The kinematics investigation produced the DH parameters and transformation matrices for the forwards kinematics. These were validated using MATLAB®. The resulting dynamics were also produced. In conclusion, PAC is a complicated process. This research carried out several studies and has addressed several literature gaps with the proposed methods, methodologies and systems, developed through machine vision and PAC head kinematic study. This research was funded by Callaghan Innovation PhD research funding and received financial support from Kerf Ltd. Callaghan Innovation is a New Zealand government research funding body. Kerf Ltd. is a New Zealand PAC machine manufacturer and distributor.
Towards the paperless office : an introduction to electronic structured document interchange : a thesis submitted to the Faculty of Technology in candidacy for the degree of Master of Technology (Computing), Department of Production Technology
(Massey University, 1992) Fraser, PJ
Despite the advances in computing technology and office automation, and forecasts of the paperless office having become a reality by now, there remains the fact that very few companies would face less paper today than they did five years ago. Offices today are still deluged with paper because current office automation technology has failed to address one aspect of paperwork common in the office environment: the electronic equivalent to structured internal paper-based documents. Electronic structured document interchange (ESDI) has been proposed as the last remaining technology in providing the complete infrastructure for the "paperless office." Complementing current electronic office system technology, including imaging technologies, electronic mail, and electronic data interchange, ESDI was designed to provide the electronic equivalent to structured internal paper-based documents. Electronic structured document interchange is the intra-company computer-to-computer processing of business transactions in a format that allows the receiver to process the transaction by traditional business practices. Fundamentally, ESDI is a data processing concept that spans a single business enterprise, providing the complete electronic equivalent to the handling and processing of internal paper-based documents. The rationale being to take advantage of the benefits of electronic processing and delivery, while retaining traditional business practices. In some respects, ESDI systems have the potential to improve business practices by providing capabilities that are simply not possible with traditional paper-based systems. This emerging technology, the justification for such a technology, and features of the technology, including details of the administrative ESDI system implemented at Massey University, are discussed.
Automated body condition scoring of dairy cattle : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2018) O'Connor, Aaron
This research demonstrates the development and implementation of an automatic body condition scoring system for dairy cattle that can operate in a real-world environment. Body condition scoring is a subjective method used for measuring changes in energy reserves in many animals, including dairy cattle. These energy reserves can be measured by analysing specific regions on the cow to estimate the amount of fat the animal is carrying. This information allows for greater management of the herd by adjusting the feeding strategies to ensure that each cow is at an optimal condition score. Maintaining an optimal condition throughout the year has implications for milk yield, reproductive performance, animal welfare, and overall farm profits. Current condition scoring methods are manual and are highly subjective, time consuming, expensive, and require a high level of training and competency. These limitations have created a demand for an accurate and objective scoring system. This research presents an automated system that utilises a single camera to be placed above the path of the cow at the entrance or exit to a milking platform or weigh scale. When the cow passes in view of the camera, the features are automatically extracted and converted to a conditions score. Tests have shown that the system successfully predicted the condition score within half a point of the true score for 83% of the 710 cows scored, and 96% within one point.
Virtual road signs : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Technology in Computer Systems Engineering at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2001) Nicholls, Rhys David
Conventional road signs are subject to a number of problems and limitations. They are unable to disseminate dynamic information to road users, their visibility is heavily dependent on environmental conditions, they are expensive to maintain and frequently the target of vandals and thieves. Virtual road signs (VRS) differ from conventional signs in that they exist only in an information database - no physical signs exist on the roadside. By projecting virtual signs into a driver's field of view at the correct time, virtual road signs attempt to mimic conventional road signs. In addition, their visibility is independent of weather and traffic conditions, they can be tailored to specific driver and vehicle needs (such as truck drivers), and they cannot be vandalised like physical signs. This thesis examines many of the major technical design decisions that must be made in implementing a virtual road sign system. A software prototype was designed and written to implement an experimental VRS system. The prototype served as a testbed to assess the technical feasibility of a VRS system and investigate alternative VRS designs. One limitation of the project was the lack of suitable display device that could display virtual signs inside a vehicle in real-time. Therefore, this project examined only the proof-of-concept. A test world was created around a university campus in which virtual signs were "erected" to target a visitor to the campus. The prototype used a handheld GPS receiver to track a vehicle as it was driven around the campus. A Kalman filter was implemented to filter the GPS data and predict the motion of the vehicle when GPS data was unavailable. A laptop PC provided onboard processing capability inside the test vehicle. The prototype shows that technical implementation of virtual road signs is potentially feasible, subject to limitations in current display devices such as heads-up displays. Potential applications include signs custom designed for tourists to indicate places of interest, bilingual signage, and aiding co-drivers in rally car driving. Before large-scale implementation can be considered, however, much research is needed, particularly with respect to systems acceptability to the public and road authorities.
Development of a low-cost automated sample presentation and analysis system for counting and classifying nematode eggs : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering in Mechatronics at Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2017) Pedersen, Benjamin
This thesis discusses the concept development and design of a low-cost, automated, sample presentation system for faecal egg counting, and classification. The system developed uses microfluidics to present nematode eggs for digital imaging to produce images suitable for image analysis and classification. The system costs are kept low by using simple manufacturing methods and commonly available equipment to produce microfluidic counting chambers, which can be interfaced with conventional microscopes. This thesis includes details of the design and implementation of the software developed to allow capture and processing of images from the presentation system. This thesis also includes details on the measures taken to correct for the optical aberrations introduced by the sample presentation system.
Design and motion control of a 6-UPS fully parallel robot for long bone fracture reduction : a thesis presented in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering in Mechatronics at Massey University
(Massey University, 2007) Wu, Yimin
The incidences of long bone fractures in New Zealand are approximately 1 in 10,000. Long bones such as tibia and femur have complicated anatomic structures, making the realignment of these long bone fractures reliant on the skill of the surgeon. The drawbacks of current practice result in long time exposure to radiation, slow recovery and possible morbidity. A semi-automated long bone fracture reduction system based on a 6-DOF parallel robot platform has been in development since 2004. The developed 6-DOF parallel robot platform comprises of six linear actuators with rotary incremental encoders. To implement a realignment of long bone fractures, a framework for the 6-DOF platform robot has been developed. The inverse kinematics and singularity of the 6-DOF parallel robot has been studied to obtain the actions and Jacobin matrices. In motion control a multiple axis motion controller and amplifiers were used for 6-DOF parallel robot. PID tuning algorithms were developed based on the combination of the general tuning result and the contour control principle. The PID parameters have been validated by a number of experiments. The practical realignment of bone fractures requires a "Pull-Rotate-Push" action implemented by the 6-DOF parallel robot. After calibration, the reduction trajectories were generated accurately. The actual trials on the artificial fractures have shown that the robot developed is capable of performing the required reduction motion.
Development of a headrig process information system : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Technology in Computer Systems Engineering at Massey University
(Massey University, 1999) Bayne, Peter
A computer-based process information system was developed to gather operational information about the headrig handsaw at the Timber Technology Centre (TiTC) sawmill in the Waiariki Institute of Technology, store the data in a database, and display the information in various forms to the user. The project was the first part of an encompassing programme to instrument an entire commercial sawmill. This research programme aims to determine which variables are crucial to quantifying the sawing processes and to investigate the best techniques for measuring the variables. The system developed was extremely modular. Both analysis modules and sensor hardware can be added or removed without any need for restarting the system. A client-server architecture using networking communications was used to facilitate this. A central server gathers and stores the data, and individual clients analyse the data and display the information to the user. This enables analysis modules to be added and removed without even restarting the system. An experiment to determine the effect of wood density on the variables measured was used to test the viability of the completed system. The system successfully gathered all of the information required for the experiment and performed 70% of the data collation and analysis automatically. The remainder was performed using spreadsheets as this was deemed to be the most suitable method. The loosely coupled design of the system allows it to be up-scaled to a mill-wide program easily. Experiments performed to gather information about pivotal process variables are currently being planned, and should be underway as the expansion into other machine stations is being designed.

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