Floor Peters: a fresh perspective on construction logistics

Welcome Floor Peters: a fresh perspective on construction logistics

We are delighted to introduce Floor Peters, our new colleague who is joining the team as part of the Digital Twin project. Floor is currently writing her master’s thesis for the program Analytics and Operations Research in Logistics, focusing on a crucial aspect of construction logistics.

Optimizing material transport in the construction sector

Floor’s research focuses on optimizing material transport from a central Construction Hub to various construction sites. The main challenge lies in dealing with the uncertainty in the timing of construction activities. “The core question is simple, but the solution is complex: how much logistical capacity should you commit to in advance when the exact needs are still unknown?” Floor explains. “This is essential for efficient and cost-effective construction projects, as misjudging the required capacity due to uncertainty leads to unnecessary fleet expenses.”

A smart decision model for capacity planning

The main objective of Floor’s thesis is to develop a decision model that estimates the long term required vehicle capacity. “To achieve this, I solve a stochastic routing problem,” Floor explains. “This advanced model must efficiently combine deliveries to multiple construction sites, while also accounting for the dynamic and uncertain nature of construction projects. Like unexpected delays or sudden changes; the model must be equipped to deal with such changes.”

Benefits of the model? Cost reduction and sustainability!

“The benefits of this model are twofold,” Floor says confidently. Firstly: an accurate estimate of the required capacity helps to prevent unnecessary costs, for example by minimizing overcapacity. “That’s a direct gain for companies,” Floor adds. Secondly: optimized routes contribute to more sustainable transport by reducing the number of kilometres driven, which positively impacts both the ecological footprint and traffic congestion. “Every kilometre not driven is a win for the environment and reduces transport costs,” she emphasizes.

Innovation and digitalization in construction sector

“What interests me most about this project is the significant progress that can still be made in optimization and digitalization within the construction sector,” Floor says enthusiastically. “Construction is a sector where many processes still rely on manual workflows. There’s enormous potential here for improving efficiency through data analysis and advanced optimization techniques. I’m excited to contribute to this innovative project through my research and to make a tangible impact on logistics in practice.”

We wish Floor the best of luck with her research and look forward to the valuable insights and the decision model she will develop!