User centred design approaches to improve installation and maintenance efficiency in thickener modernization projects

Abstract

In recent years the need for reducing water consumption in heavy industries such as mining has grown significantly and modernization and upgrades play a critical role in achieving this goal. Mining operations lean towards extending the life of their existing equipment rather than investing in new facilities in order to maximize resource utilization while maintaining low production costs. However, the mechanical challenges faced during a modernization project in the design and installation phase become unique for every site and the user inputs and design guidelines play an important role in this process. The main objective of this thesis was to apply User Centred Design (UCD) methodologies specifically for the design of thickener components in order to identify possible opportunities to improve installation and maintenance efficiency. The research followed the principles of UCD and Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) practices. In addition, the user research gathered valuable feedback such as pain points and potential improvement opportunities which would satisfy the needs and concerns of personnel involved in the installation of thickener components. Design guidelines were developed based on the findings and applied in multiple case studies to trigger potential changes in the way design engineers work in modernization projects. The study proposes a practical framework that can support future thickener modernization projects and encourage a more user-focused approach in engineering design.