TY - THES A1 - Nair, Abijay T1 - Development of a CANBUS network for RoboBoat N2 - Autonomous marine vessels have seen use since as far back as World War I, with the Imperial German Navy’s Fernlenkboot. Such vessels find more modern use in the logistics sector and as survey vessels, where the continuous operation made possible by autonomy provides distinct advantages in their respective tasks and industries. This thesis presents the development of a CANBUS-based internal network for the RoboBoat autonomous surface vessel project of the Rhine-Waal university of Applied Sciences. It is designed to be the basis on which further development of on-board electronics can take place. It will also act as a platform for further development of the RoboBoat itself, as well as for future projects by students of Rhine-Waal University’s FabLab Blue that require such communication architecture. The resulting network is built around the NMEA 2000 standard and off-the-shelf microcontroller boards and network cables, which have enabled quick and fairly robust communication between the different control modules employed in the prototype. NMEA 2000 was chosen owing to its compatibility with modern marine hardware like the multi-function displays, as well as for a simple path to backwards-compatibility with older, less expensive NMEA 0183 hardware. The development process incorporates the systematic process of Engineering Design by G. Pahl and W. Beitz, which guides the processes used here to make various design decisions. KW - CANBUS KW - RoboBoat KW - NMEA KW - NMEA 2000 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23481 ER - TY - THES A1 - Parayil Sivan, Kavya T1 - Design and Evaluation of a Mobile Application to Support Autistic Passengers in Air Travel. From Identifying User Needs to Assessing its Effectiveness in Reducing Anxiety and Enhancing Travel Preparedness N2 - Air travel can present significant accessibility barriers for autistic travellers. This study examined the needs, requirements, and challenges experienced by level 1 and level 2 autistic travellers during air travel and evaluated the effectiveness of a user-centred mobile application in reducing anxiety, improving their travel preparedness, and creating a more predictable air travel experience. A mixed-methods approach was employed for the study. In the beginning, an online survey with 35 participants (21 autistic individuals and 14 support persons) was conducted to understand the need, requirement and challenges of the autistic participants. Findings from the survey showed generally low satisfaction among autistic travellers who has prior air travel experience. The major challenges were related to unpredictability, sensory overstimulation, complex airport procedures, difficulty finding sensory-friendly spaces, and in-flight discomforts. Based on the insights from the survey, a high-fidelity mobile application prototype was designed to work across different airlines and airports providing real-time flight updates, airport and airline specific accessibility information, navigation support, communication cards, and travel checklists. The prototype was then evaluated with 5 autistic participants through a moderated remote usability test followed by a post-test interview and questionnaire. The results showed that features such as real-time flight updates, travel checklists, navigation support, and accessibility information were effective and perceived as helpful in reducing anxiety and increasing preparedness but some discoverability issues were identified in the prototype showing the need to iterate it. Overall, the findings suggest that the application is functionally effective and usable but only partially effective in improving overall travel experience as external environmental factors like airport procedures, in-flight discomforts are beyond the scope of the application. The study also highlights that a thoughtfully designed mobile application can partially support autistic travellers by improving the predictability and helping them prepare for the journey. This study contributes to the growing research on accessibility for autistic individuals by examining air travel challenges and evaluating a user-centred mobile application. KW - Autism spectrum disorder KW - Air travel accessibility KW - User centred design KW - Mobile application KW - Usability evaluation KW - Air travel Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23492 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 13/2026 Korrektur der Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Usability Engineering der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 14.10.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-13 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23464 VL - 2026 IS - 13 ER - TY - THES A1 - Feider, Vivien T1 - Einfluss von Ernährungswissen auf Ernährungsverhalten und Körpergewicht im Kontext der Krebsprimärprävention bei Studierenden N2 - Einleitung: Krebs ist sowohl in Deutschland als auch weltweit eine der häufigsten Todesursachen. Zur Entstehung von Krebs tragen genetische Faktoren und Lebensstilfaktoren bei. In der Phase des jungen Erwachsenenalters werden die im Kindesalter etablierten Ernährungsgewohnheiten und Verhaltensmuster infrage gestellt. Der neue Lebensabschnitt und die dadurch eintretende eigenständige Verantwortung für Einkauf und Zubereitung von Mahlzeiten kann zu Veränderungen der Gewohnheiten führen. Bisher gibt es in Deutschland nur wenige bis keine Studien, die die Ernährungsgewohnheiten, das Körpergewicht und das Ernährungswissen in Bezug auf das Krebsrisiko bei Studierenden erfassen. Methodik: Im Rahmen dieser Bachelorarbeit werden Studierende der Hochschule Rhein Waal in Kleve zu ihrem Wissen über ernährungsspezifische Krebsrisiken und Übergewicht als Krebsrisikofaktor sowie zu ihrem individuellen Ernährungsverhalten und Körpergewicht befragt. Die Befragung erfolgt online über einen Fragebogen, der im Rahmen der Bachelorarbeit entwickelt wurde und an bereits standardisierten Fragebögen orientiert ist. Die Daten werden mit deskriptiver Statistik und Korrelationsanalysen ausgewertet, um Zusammenhänge zwischen Ernährungswissen, Ernährungsverhalten und BMI zu identifizieren. Ergebnisse: Bei der untersuchten Stichprobe an Studierenden können signifikante geschlechtsspezifische Unterschiede im Wissen über ernährungsspezifische Krebsrisiken erkannt werden, wobei weibliche Studierende über ein signifikant höheres (p = 0,0066) Wissen als die kombinierte Gruppe aus männlichen und diversen Studierenden verfügen. Im Wissen über Übergewicht als Krebsrisikofaktor können keine signifikanten (p = 0,3513) geschlechtsspezifischen Unterschiede festgestellt werden. Ein höheres Wissen über Ernährung und ernährungsbedingte Krebsrisiken geht mit einem gesünderen Ernährungsverhalten einher (p = 0,0009). Zwischen Wissen über Übergewicht als Krebsrisiko und BMI besteht keine signifikante negative Korrelation (p = 0,8662). Diskussion: Die Ergebnisse zum Wissen über ernährungsspezifische Krebsrisiken und zum Einfluss von Wissen auf das Ernährungsverhalten bestätigen Zusammenhänge, die bereits in internationalen Studien beschrieben wurden. Ein Zusammenhang zwischen Wissen über Übergewicht als Krebsrisikofaktor und BMI von Studierenden wurde bislang nicht untersucht. Zudem wird der Bedarf, bestehende Wissenslücken durch Präventions- und Bildungsmaßnahmen zu schließen, um Übergewicht und ungesunde Ernährungsgewohnheiten sowie deren gesundheitliche Folgen zu verhindern, verdeutlicht. KW - Krebs KW - Primärprävention KW - Ernährung KW - Krebsrisiko KW - Übergewicht KW - Studierende Y1 - 2026 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 12/2026 Dritte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Verwaltungsinformatik – E-Government der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt vom 05.02.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-12 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23419 VL - 2026 IS - 12 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 11/2026 Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Medieninformatik der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 03.02.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-11 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23407 VL - 2026 IS - 11 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 10/2026 Erste Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Sustainable Development Management der Fakultät Gesellschaft und Ökonomie an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 15.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-10 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23392 VL - 2026 IS - 10 ER - TY - THES A1 - Flakowski, Lena Antonia T1 - Digitale Gesundheitsangebote der Krankenkassen: Einfluss auf die Steuerung des Gesundheitsverhaltens und die medizinische Versorgung aus Sicht der Versicherten N2 - Hintergrund: Die Digitalisierung des Gesundheitswesens schreitet zunehmend voran und digitale Gesundheitsangebote der Krankenkassen gelten als ein wichtiger Ansatz für eine effizientere und nutzerorientierte Gesundheitsversorgung. Trotz ihres großen Potenzials zeigen bisherige Studien, dass diese Angebote bislang nur unzureichend genutzt werden. Außerdem wurde die Perspektive der Versicherten dabei bisher nur begrenzt untersucht. Ziel: Ziel dieser Masterarbeit ist es zu analysieren, wie digitale Gesundheitsangebote der Krankenkassen aus Sicht der Versicherten wahrgenommen werden und welchen Einfluss sie auf die Steuerung des gesundheitsbezogenen Verhaltens sowie auf den Zugang zu der medizinischen Versorgung haben. Dabei stehen insbesondere die Bekanntheit, Nutzung und Bewertung dieser Angebote sowie der Zusammenhang mit der digitalen Gesundheitskompetenz im Fokus. Methodik: Methodisch basiert die Arbeit auf einem Mixed-Methods-Ansatz. Zunächst wurden qualitative leitfadengestützte Interviews mit Versicherten durchgeführt, um ein vertieftes Verständnis individueller Wahrnehmungen und Erfahrungen zu gewinnen. Ergänzend wurde eine Online-Befragung durchgeführt. Die Datenauswertung erfolgte mittels qualitativer Inhaltsanalyse sowie verschiedener statistischer Verfahren. Theoretisch stützt sich die Arbeit unter anderem auf das Health Belief Model, das Technology Acceptance Model sowie das Konzept der eHealth Literacy. Ergebnisse: Die Ergebnisse basieren auf 10 durchgeführten Interviews und 172 ausgefüllten Online-Fragebögen. Es zeigt sich, dass digitale Gesundheitsangebote vielen Versicherten bekannt sind und überwiegend positiv bewertet werden aber die tatsächliche Nutzung hinter der Bekanntheit zurückbleibt. Besonders ausgeprägt ist dieser Unterschied bei Angeboten wie der elektronischen Patientenakte und digitalen Gesundheitsanwendungen. Eine zentrale Rolle für Bekanntheit und Nutzung spielen die digitale Gesundheitskompetenz, die Selbstwirksamkeit sowie externe Hinweise auf die Angebote, insbesondere durch Ärzte. Zudem zeigen sich deutliche Unterschiede zwischen gesetzlich und privat Versicherten. Digitale Gesundheitsangebote werden insgesamt als unterstützend für das Gesundheitsverhalten wahrgenommen und tragen aus Sicht der Versicherten vor allem zu einer schnelleren, jedoch nicht zwingend zu einer einfacheren medizinischen Versorgung bei. Schlussfolgerung: Zusammenfassend verdeutlicht die Arbeit, dass digitale Gesundheitsangebote aus Sicht der Versicherten ein hohes Potenzial zur Unterstützung der Gesundheitsversorgung besitzen. Um dieses Potenzial besser auszuschöpfen, sind jedoch gezielte Maßnahmen erforderlich, insbesondere zur Förderung der digitalen Gesundheitskompetenz, zum Abbau konkreter Nutzungshürden sowie zur stärkeren Integration und Empfehlung digitaler Angebote im Versorgungsalltag. KW - Digitale Gesundheitsangebote KW - Digitalisierung im Gesundheitswesen Y1 - 2026 ER - TY - THES A1 - Müsch, Yannick T1 - Kolmogorov-Arnold-Transformer: Untersuchung hybrider KAN-Transformer-Architekturen im Hinblick auf Skalierung, Effizienz und Interpretierbarkeit N2 - Transformers have become the de-facto standard architecture in Machine Learning, particularly in Natural Language Processing. However, they are computationally expensive to train, with approximately two-thirds of non-embedding parameters residing in Multi-Layer Perceptrons (MLPs). Liu et al. (2024) revisited the long-disregarded Kolmogorov-Arnold representation theorem and demonstrated promising results in specific domains such as symbolic regression and PDE solving. Whether Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks (KANs) generalize to other domains, particularly NLP, remains an open research question. This work systematically evaluates five architecture configurations: MLP baseline, MLP with B-Spline activation, KAN with B-Spline, KAN with Mean aggregation, and Group-Rational KAN (GR-KAN) - across three model sizes (15M, 41M, 124M parameters). Experiments are conducted on text classification (“AG News”) and language modeling (“FineWeb”) tasks. Identical components (attention, embeddings) isolate performance differences to the feed-forward topology. Statistical validity is ensured through multiple random seeds and parameter-matched comparisons. KAN-based architectures achieve performance parity with MLPs on classification tasks (±0.5 percentage points accuracy). However, they consistently underperform on language modeling, with perplexity increases of +7 to +28 points. Training efficiency overhead ranges from 1.5–2.0× for KANs, while GR-KAN approaches baseline speed. Notably, KANs exhibit significantly higher sparsity (≈ 90% vs. ≈ 40%), enabling compression factors of 1.4–1.6× with minimal performance degradation. The MLP+B-Spline control condition reveals that performance deficits stem from KAN topology rather than activation functions. KANs present a viable alternative for discriminative NLP tasks but do not outperform MLPs for generative language modeling. The postulated interpretability advantage through learnable activation functions could not be empirically confirmed - learned functions degenerate to quasi-linear transformations. Future research should explore alternative basis functions and selective hybridization strategies. KW - Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks KW - Transformer KW - hybrid architectures KW - naturallanguage processing KW - language modeling KW - interpretability KW - scaling KW - sparsity KW - B-splines Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23376 ER - TY - THES A1 - Mujaya, Tanaka Peter T1 - Design and Development of a Computer Vision System for detecting Assembly Errors in LEGO Models N2 - This thesis presents the design and development of a computer vision system for detecting assembly errors in LEGO models within The Digital Factory Game, a production simulation exercise at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences. The system automates quality assurance by replacing manual visual inspection with machine learning-based classification, deployed on edge hardware. KW - Computer Vision KW - Machine Learning KW - AI Development KW - YOLO KW - Data Analysis KW - Quality Assurance Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23367 ER - TY - THES A1 - Joseph, Balogun T1 - The Role of Online Marketplaces in Reshaping Agribusiness Sales and Distribution: Evidence from Ibadan and Lagos, Nigeria. N2 - 1.1 Context and Background Online marketplaces are applications or web sites on which products are advertised and sold. They are used in the agricultural sector to bring sellers and buyers together. Farmers advertise about their products and customers give their orders. The payment may be done prior or after delivery. The tools enable farmers to sell without traveling. They also decrease the number of intermediaries. There are sites that allow the customer to rate sellers. There are also people sharing updates on delivery or assisting with tracking goods (Eweoya et al., 2021). Trade in farm goods is evolving in Nigeria, owing to online trade. Most of the farmers would sell in open markets only. The prices were frequently low and middlemen absorbed the better part of the profit (Morepje et al., 2024). It is now easier to connect farmers and buyers by way of mobile phones and enhanced internet. Through online, farmers are able to access directly to homes, stores and even export firms. They save time and minimize wastes because customers do not need to travel in order to make an order. This idea was tested with some of the pioneer platforms in Nigeria (Abubakar et al., 2019). Farmcrowdy began as an initiative to finance small growers and match them with consumers. Agricorp constructed a system to exchange crops such as ginger and grains between states. OjaNow also connects small farms with homes and restaurants who desire fresh food. The services are used to assist farmers in selling more as they remain on their farms. Customers are able to shop and deliver farm products to their front door by making an online order. The platforms also assist the farmers to know what is being demanded as well as the price that the buyers are willing to pay. They operate most of them on basic mobile phones and hence can be used even in places with poor internet connections (Ogbeide-Osaretin and Ebhote, 2020). Online market places have changed the way farmers market their produce because they reach a greater distance than the local area. Most farmers used to sell within their towns only, but now digital platforms enable them to sell to the buyers in such cities 2 like Lagos, Abuja and Ibadan. By using such platforms, they are no longer restricted to set days of the market since sales may be carried out at any given time. This flexibility is time-saving, generates more turnover, and allows farmers to deliver food to a larger group of consumers, such as hotels, stores, and schools (Mani and Singh, 2022). Online tools have also decreased the price of selling farm produce in addition to increasing their markets. Farmers will have the opportunity to self-service their prices and deal directly with buyers by eliminating transport costs and bypassing several intermediaries. This enhanced control on prices does not only enhance their earnings, but also promotes fairness and transparency in trade. Buyers, in their turn, have an advantage of price comparison between various sellers prior to acquiring a particular good, which causes more competitive pricing and low fraud potential (Xiao, et al., 2021). The use of online platforms in integrating with local logistics and transport networks has made delivery much faster. Today many platforms collaborate with professional drivers and delivery crews that provide the delivery of the orders and their transportation at the same time. This has been especially beneficial to perishable products like tomatoes, vegetables, and fruits, whose delivery must be done in a timely manner to preserve their freshness and quality. Consequently, fewer produce is wasted as it goes to waste prior to reaching the consumers hence less waste and the general efficiency of the supply chain. Buyers get healthier and fresher food, and sellers save some money and losses of unsold or spoilt products. This credibility also builds trust between the two parties, as customers get to trust merchants with quality goods, and sellers go out of their way to keep their standards (Agrawal et al., 2021). Farmcrowdy, Thrive Agric, OjaNow, and Agricorp are the ones that have introduced similar systems in Nigeria, where both large-scale and smallholder farmers can engage in an effective and efficient digital trade (Akinwale et al., 2023). Most farmers access them via mobile phones as majority of the applications are phone-based. These sites are very popular in cities where there are greater internet connectivity. They are used by farmers to add the name of crops and buyers to make orders. During harvest, when there is plenty in supply, use is greatest. These tools are more acceptable by young farmers compared to the old. They are also common among traders and restaurants as they require constant supply. Information is also 3 useful on online platforms. Farmers are aware of the demand of crops and their price rates. This helps them plan better. They grow what people want. They also make the best decision regarding the time to sell. Buyers utilize the same information to determine whether the prices can increase or decrease. Other websites provide notifications to make fast decisions. This enhances better planning of farmers and reduces waste (Alkahtani et al., 2021). Online sales have simplified the process of farming, but a number of issues also persist. Previous research has concentrated largely on the rural farmers with little attention paid to the use of these digital tools by the smallholder and urban farmers. Visiting the city like Ibadan and Lagos, farmers have special marketing and distribution issues that are not the same as found in the countryside (Sadiq et al., 2025). A large number of these urban farmers work on small pieces of land and depend on fast sales in order to avoid losses after harvest. Nevertheless, they have problems with the lack of storage facilities and the inadequacy of transport systems (Agri et al., 2020). Few studies have examined these particular constraints in the smallholder farmers (Kabo-Bah & Bannor, 2025). The available research is rather inclined to investigate farmers access to the online platform instead of studying the impact of these tools on logistics, the speed of delivery, or storage (Trang et al., 2024; Olamide et al., 2024). Consequently, some critical questions will go unanswered, including the ways in which digital platforms can mitigate food wastage or make supply more efficient. Smallholder and urban farmers should be given more attention in future studies to offer a complete picture of the effects of online marketplaces (Akanni and Gabriel, 2020). There are numerous impediments in agribusiness in online marketplaces. Trust is a major concern. Online payments are a worry to the farmers since they are not sure that they are safe. Customers are concerned with counterfeits that are sold via these sites. A lot of farmers also cannot access because of poor power supply and weak network. Other farmers are not phone savvy and like their traditional mode of selling (Eweoya et al., 2021). One of the concerns is capacity building. The farmers should be well trained on how to utilize online sales tools. In their absence, a number of them might not enjoy the use of digital platforms. Hence, further research is necessary that will help to investigate the ways these tools are applied in the day-to-day life of farmers and how they can be trained to achieve better results. Online sales can empower farm 4 markets in Nigeria, albeit, its implementation requires farmers to leverage it effectively. It will be possible to understand which areas these platforms are most effective and which ones provide difficulties and use this information to develop more effective training and support programmes by the government and agricultural support groups. It will contribute to reinforcing what is already effective and bridging the gaps that may still exist (Ogbeide-Osaretin and Ebhote, 2020). Therefore, online stores are influencing the movement of food between farms and Nigerian households. They create new sales opportunities and enhance crop planning but there are still numerous problems. The studies are required to observe the impact of these platforms on storage, transportation as well as urban agriculture. An explicit analysis of the areas will inform policies that can empower farmers and enhance food supply. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23358 ER - TY - CHAP A1 - Menne, Jannis A1 - Becker, Rolf A1 - Sonntag, Jan A1 - Waldmann, Anja A1 - Kreter, Ana C. A1 - Wiedemann, Steffi T1 - AI-Driven Approaches for Animal Welfare Monitoring in Agroforestry Systems N2 - Climate change and shifting agricultural practices require innovative methods to monitor and improve animal welfare for pasture-based and other outdoor livestock. Agroforestry systems, integrating livestock with trees, shrubs and other woody vegetation, might provide shade, shelter, diversified feed and improved microclimates but require advanced monitoring to assess their impact on animal well-being. As part of the Agroforestry Living Laboratory at Rhine-Waal University, we are developing AI-driven, sensor-based solutions to monitor livestock welfare, focusing on small ruminants as well as poultry. To achieve this, we are evaluating AI-based monitoring methods to improve our understanding of animal welfare, while evaluating the role of different data sources. Sensors on animals collect data on movement patterns, and shade use, potentially providing insights into behavioral adaptations and stress responses. Stationary non-invasive camera systems are tested using computer vision and AI to assess posture, interactions, and activity on individual and group levels. Additionally, microclimate sensors might measure environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and radiation to evaluate their effects on animal behavior. As agroforestry systems are often in remote areas without external power, we also analyze the potential of self-sustaining sensor networks powered by solar energy and edge computing. These systems minimize energy consumption through deep-sleep modes and decentralized data processing, ensuring continuous monitoring without constant human intervention. By integrating AI-driven pattern recognition with agroforestry systems, we aim to establish an autonomous, energy-efficient monitoring network for further insights into animal welfare, behavioral changes, and environmental adaptation. Though still in development, early findings suggest these methods might enhance data-driven decision-making for sustainable pasture management, benefiting both animal welfare and agroforestry system resilience. KW - animal welfare monitoring KW - agroforestry systems KW - Sensor-based monitoring KW - pasture based livestock systems Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23348 SP - 44 PB - European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP) CY - Zuerich ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 09/2026 Fünfte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang International Business and Administration der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 19.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-09 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23332 VL - 2026 IS - 09 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang 08/2026 Information and Communication Design der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 20.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-08 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23326 VL - 2026 IS - 08 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 07/2026 Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Bio Science an Health der Fakultät Life Sciences an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 23.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-07 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23314 VL - 2026 IS - 07 ER - TY - THES A1 - Ko, Tin Long T1 - The advancement of the ball point game N2 - Lean management concepts are dynamic, yet students often meet them as static definitions. This thesis advances the Ball Point Pen Game into a production simulation that exposes bottlenecks, queues, work-in-process accumulation and defects while keeping the pen-assembly task simple and standardised. Using design-based research, one design-test-reflect cycle was executed: redesign requirements were derived from Lean and lean-game education literature, implemented as roles, control rules and learning objectives, and piloted in class. The revised game increases complexity without adding product difficulty by introducing an explicit order-release rhythm (takt), separated material and information flows, visual control, and progressive pull logic across three rounds. Across rounds, batch size is reduced stepwise, supermarket/Kanban replenishment is introduced, and a simple poka-yoke prevents assembly errors. A pilot execution with seven students evaluated the redesign using a single-group pre–post knowledge test, a post-game perception questionnaire, and in-game KPIs (throughput, lead time, WIP and defects) supported by observation notes. Results are interpreted as exploratory due to the small sample and lack of a control group. Participants reported high engagement and that game discussions helped translate observations into improvement actions, aligning with prior evidence that simulation games can support understanding and transfer in Lean education. However, implementation deviations required by the small group (role merging and ad-hoc facilitation changes) reduced instruction clarity for at least one participant. The thesis delivers a reusable player/instructor manual plus design rationales and measurement procedures to guide the next test and a larger evaluation with stronger internal validity. KW - Lean Management KW - Simulation games KW - Game based learning Y1 - 2026 ER - TY - THES A1 - Hossain, Md Istiaque T1 - A Computational Study on the Effect of Water-to-Air Volume Ratio on Water Rocket Performance. N2 - This thesis presents a three-dimensional computational investigation into the influence of the water-to-air volume ratio on the flight performance of a water rocket. As a critical design parameter, this ratio fundamentally governs the trade-off between available propellant mass and expansion energy, and thereby dictates the rocket's achievable altitude and range. A comprehensive numerical model is developed to simulate the complete trajectory through its three principal phases: water expulsion, compressed-air expansion, and ballistic flight. The governing equations, derived from the conservation of mass, momentum, and energy, are solved using a fourth-order Runge-Kutta (RK4) scheme. The model incorporates variable mass effects, aerodynamic drag, gravitational forces, launch geometry, and ambient wind conditions. Implemented in MATLAB with a modular graphical user interface (GUI), the simulation framework facilitates systematic parametric studies. The numerical predictions are validated against experimental launch tests conducted at elevation angles of 60° and 77°. Maximum altitude and horizontal range are extracted from multi-camera recordings using image-based analysis. The results demonstrate strong agreement, with both approaches converging on an optimal water fill fraction. The simulation identifies an optimum of approximately 43%, while the experimental measurements indicate a slightly higher optimum of 45.5%. Considering the collective evidence, an overall optimal fill range of 40 to 50% for 250 mL water rocket bottle, is established. The consistency between computational and experimental findings validates the robustness of the proposed model and confirms the identified optimum as a reliable benchmark for water rocket performance. KW - Water Rocket KW - Rocket KW - Trajectory KW - Matlab KW - RK4 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23248 ER - TY - THES A1 - Bedoya Giraldo, Leidy Johanna T1 - Farmer Experiences and Responses to Agroforestry Interventions in San Martín, Peru: Exploring Social Group Perspectives Including Women’s Voices Across Social Groups N2 - Smallholder agroforestry systems are central to sustainable land-use transitions in the Peruvian Amazon, yet little is known about how farmers themselves perceive these systems or how such perceptions shape long-term management. This study examines how indigenous, non-indigenous, and female smallholder farmers in San Martín, Peru, perceive the benefits and challenges of agroforestry interventions and how these perceptions influence system maintenance, adaptation, and sustainability. The research is guided by the question: How do farmers in San Martín perceive the benefits and challenges of agroforestry interventions, and how do these perceptions shape their adaptive decisions over time? Using a qualitative, comparative case-study design, data was collected through 50 semi-structured interviews and three participatory focus group discussions. The Group Concept Mapping methodological approach used enabled farmers to identify, cluster, and prioritize benefits, challenges, and adaptations using their own categories and reasoning. Findings reveal two main pathways shaping agroforestry trajectories. A maintenance pathway emerges when farmers perceive tangible ecological and labor-related benefits, such as soil improvement, reduced weeding, and microclimate regulation, particularly when market and legality conditions allow value to be captured. An adaptation pathway is triggered when challenges, such as excessive shade, crop-tree competition, legality barriers, or uncertain markets, are perceived as immediate constraints, prompting pruning, thinning, or removal of timber species. These pathways are influenced by organizational support, training access, gendered participation, and tenure conditions. The study highlights the need for long-term technical support, participatory system design, gender-inclusive training, and stronger institutional support for timber legality. The insights are intended to contribute to the development of the SMART platform, offering evidence to strengthen future agroforestry interventions in San Martín. KW - Agroforesty KW - Sustainability KW - Farmer perceptions KW - Group Concept Mapping KW - Inductive Coding. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Süyrüge, Eyüp T1 - Vergleich von FPGA und Mikrocontroller für die Echtzeitverarbeitung von Audiosignalen zur Richtungserkennung mittels FFT und TDOA einschließlich LED-basierter Visualisierung N2 - Das Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, ein praxisnahes System zur Echtzeitverarbeitung von Audiosignalen mit dem Fokus auf der Richtungsbestimmung von Schallquellen zu entwickeln. Als Hardwareplattformen werden dafür ein Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) und ein Mikrocontroller (MCU) eingesetzt. Dabei konzentriert sich die Arbeit auf die Untersuchung der beiden Plattformen, wobei die Leistungsfähigkeit, Genauigkeit und Ressourceneffizienz verglichen werden. Zu diesem Zweck werden Algorithmen der Signalverarbeitung, besonders die Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) und die Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA), implementiert und ausgewertet. KW - FPGA KW - Mikrocontroller KW - Echtzeitverarbeitung KW - Audiosignale KW - FFT KW - TDOA Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23229 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 06/2026 Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Bioengineering der Fakultät Life Sciences an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 23.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-06 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23207 VL - 2026 IS - 06 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 05/2026 Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Sustainable Agriculture der Fakultät Life Sciences an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 26.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-05 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23192 VL - 2026 IS - 05 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 04/2026 Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Agribusiness der Fakultät Life Sciences an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 26.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-04 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23185 VL - 2026 IS - 04 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 03/2026 Dritte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Biological Resources der Fakultät Life Sciences an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 21.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-03 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23174 VL - 2026 IS - 03 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 02/2026 Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Lebensmittelwissenschaften der Fakultät Life Sciences an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 22.01.2026 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-02 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23163 VL - 2026 IS - 02 ER - TY - THES A1 - Heesen, Lisa T1 - Anforderungsorientiertes BGM für Flughafenfeuerwehren: Konzeption eines gesundheitsförderlichen Maßnahmenpaketes nach EASA-Vorgaben am Airport Weeze N2 - Hintergrund: Flughafenfeuerwehren sind spezifischen physischen und psychischen Belastungen ausgesetzt, die sich besonders durch Schichtarbeit und seltene, aber hochintensive Einsatzlagen auszeichnen. Trotz der zunehmenden Bedeutung eines Betrieblichen Gesundheitsmanagements (BGM) existieren insbesondere an kleinen und mittleren Regionalflughäfen bislang wenig systematische und arbeitsplatzspezifische Gesundheitskonzepte. Die Anforderungen an Gesundheit und Einsatzfähigkeit der Flughafenfeuerwehren werden zudem durch die Vorgaben der Europäischen Agentur für Flugsicherheit (EASA) maßgeblich mitbestimmt. Ziel dieser Arbeit war es, das Belastungs- und Bedarfsprofil der Flughafenfeuerwehr am Airport Weeze zu erfassen und darauf basierend ein ganzheitliches und EASA-konformes Maßnahmenkonzept zur Gesundheitsförderung und Erhaltung der Einsatzfähigkeit zu entwickeln. Methode: Die Untersuchungen erfolgten im Rahmen eines Mixed-Methods-Designs. Insgesamt 28 der 37 angestellten Einsatzkräfte wurden mittels eines teilstandardisierten Fragebogens zu physischen und psychischen Belastungsfaktoren, Trainings- und Erholungsverhalten sowie der Akzeptanz und den Wünschen zu gesundheitsbezogenen Maßnahmen befragt. Ergänzend wurde eine systematische Dokumenten- und Umfeldanalyse sowie eine SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)-Analyse durchgeführt, um strukturelle Ressourcen, Barrieren und Entwicklungspotenziale zu identifizieren. Ergebnisse: Die Auswertung zeigt eine heterogene Alters- und Diensterfahrungsstruktur. Belastungsschwerpunkte wurden im Dienst durch Schichtdienst, Lärmexposition und sitzende Tätigkeiten verzeichnet. Gleichzeitig existieren Lücken in der Erfassung psychischer Belastungen und in der systematischen Dokumentation des Dienstsports. Darüber hinaus wurde festgestellt, dass bislang keine einheitlichen Trainings- oder Testungsverfahren für den Dienstsport vorhanden sind, sodass die körperliche Leistungsfähigkeit der Einsatzkräfte nicht regelmäßig überprüft oder gezielt gefördert wird. Die Einsatzkräfte äußerten ein hohes Interesse an strukturierten Trainings-, Resilienz- und Teammaßnahmen sowie den Bedarf an niederschwelligen Unterstützungsangeboten. Jedoch wurde eine geringe Bereitschaft zur aktiven Mitgestaltung verzeichnet. Schlussfolgerung: Auf Grundlage der Analyse wurde ein modular aufgebautes und EASA-konformes BGM-Konzept entwickelt. Das Konzept umfasst eine jährliche sportmedizinische Leistungsdiagnostik, individualisierte Trainingspläne, Peer-Support-Strukturen, Maßnahmen zur Resilienzförderung, Schulungen für Führungskräfte sowie partizipative Team- und Kommunikationsformate. Darüber hinaus bietet es einen praxisorientierten Ansatz zur strukturierten Gesundheitsförderung in sicherheitsrelevanten Einsatzbereichen und kann unter Berücksichtigung lokaler Rahmenbedingungen auf andere Regionalflughäfen übertragen werden. KW - Flughafenfeuerwehr KW - Resilienz KW - Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement KW - Belastungsprofil KW - Sport KW - EASA KW - Einsatzkräfte Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Ustritski, Nikita T1 - Competitiveness of Green vs. Traditional Companies: A Comparative Study in the Automotive, Hospitality, and Fashion Industry N2 - This thesis compares short-term and long-term competitiveness between green and traditional companies in the automotive, hospitality, and fashion industries. Existing research rarely examines multiple industries together or evaluates competitiveness using both time perspectives, creating a clear research gap. The research question asks how green and traditional companies differ in financial performance, innovation, consumer trust, and regulatory responsiveness. The hypothesis proposes that green companies show lower short-term competitiveness, but higher long-term competitiveness than traditional firms. A qualitative comparative case study approach is applied using secondary data, including annual reports, sustainability disclosures, ESG ratings, and international regulatory frameworks. Six companies are analysed: Tesla and Toyota in the automotive sector, Hilton and Wyndham in hospitality, and Kering and H&M in fashion. Their competitiveness is assessed through a structured framework that distinguishes between immediate business outcomes and long-term strategic development. The findings show that traditional companies perform better in the short term due to efficient cost structures, established operating models, and stable supply chains. Green companies, however, achieve stronger long-term competitiveness by investing in innovation, transparency, and alignment with tightening regulatory and consumer expectations. Tesla, Hilton, and Kering demonstrate superior long-term performance, while Toyota, Wyndham, and H&M maintain advantages mainly in the short term. The results support the hypothesis and highlight sustainability as an important driver of long-term competitiveness. The study offers cross-industry insights for academics, managers, and policymakers and identifies opportunities for future research on sustainable business models. KW - Sustainability KW - Competitiveness KW - Innovation KW - Green companies KW - Traditional companies Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23123 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 01/2026 Korrektur der Ersten Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang „Engineering“ an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 10.10.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2026-01 Y1 - 2026 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23114 VL - 2026 IS - 01 ER - TY - THES A1 - Achale Arrah Nyama, Bateatey T1 - Development of Sustainable Nanofibre Wound Dressing Using Solution Blow Spinning. N2 - This thesis investigates the production of polylactic acid (PLA) fibrous mats using a low-energy, airbrush-based solution blow spinning (SBS) method with dimethyl carbonate (DMC) as a greener solvent. The study addresses how changes in PLA concentration and air pressure influence fibre formation, fibre diameter distribution, and non-woven mat structure, and examines the implications for incorporating tea tree oil(TTO) and pectin into the resulting materials. PLA solutions in DMC were prepared at multiple concentrations, and the SBS process was evaluated using realistic deposition observations and calculated estimates of material consumption. Fibre morphology was analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing fibrous structures and parameter-dependent differences in diameter distributions and mat heterogeneity. Chemical structure was assessed via FTIR spectroscopy, which indicated that the produced fibre mats were dominated by PLA-characteristic spectral features (and possible DMC contributions), while providing limited evidence for substantial pectin or TTO contributions in the measured spectra under the tested conditions. Thermal analysis (STA) was used to interpret important PLA thermal transitions and to identify possible traces of composites within the fibres. A qualitative hydrophilicity approach based on water droplet wetting behaviour was applied as an initial indicator of surface wettability and potential pectin effects, while recognising its limitations compared to full contact-angle measurements. Overall, the results support SBS with DMC as a viable route to produce PLA fibrous mats and show clear process–structure relationships. However, they also show that better mixing methods and stronger confirmation evidence are needed at every step of the characterisation chain in order for additive incorporation to work. KW - PLA KW - Nanofasern KW - Airbrush-Spinning KW - Wundauflagen KW - Grüne Chemie KW - Dimethylcarbonat KW - Nachhaltige Biomaterialien KW - Antibakterielle Wundauflagen KW - Faserherstellung KW - Polylactic acid KW - Nanofibers KW - Solution blow spinning KW - SBS KW - Low-energy fiber fabrication KW - Wound dressing materials KW - Green solvents KW - Dimethyl carbonate KW - DMC KW - Sustainable biomaterials KW - Antibacterial coatings Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23107 ER - TY - THES A1 - Saw, Daniel Chern Hao T1 - Implementation of Bayesian Optimisation for FEM Simulation N2 - Optimisation of engineering problem involving FEM simulations is time consuming especially when dealing with high-fidelity structures. The conventional methods of searching and exploring the design space such as grid search or golden section search require a lot of evaluations before converging on an optimal solution. When there is a time constraint, the final solution found could be suboptimal due to the vast amount of FEM simulation necessary to converge. Therefore, with the utilisation of probabilistic surrogate models such as Gaussian process regression to reduce the amount of computation necessary. Surrogate models approximate unobserved areas in the design space based on the observed data. Together with the use of acquisition function to select the next observation point, it forms this optimisation method known as Bayesian optimisation. This research aims to implement Bayesian optimisation method in a few test cases involving FEM simulation to compare its performance against conventional methods. The results from the test cases showed that Bayesian optimisation converged up to 12 iterations faster compared to convention-al optimisation methods. It also provided a better optimised solution in a multiparameter optimi-sation problem with constraints. KW - Bayesian Optimisation Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23092 ER - TY - THES A1 - Ahmed, Syed Nasif Uddin T1 - Designing a Launching System for a Robotic Boat N2 - Based on the learning in this degree program, the author was tasked with developing a transport system for the current research boat, called Roboboat. The aim was to examine the components and reverse engineer them to calculate the mechanics of the boat. Because no design or measurement data were available, this thesis began by modeling the boat. After modeling, a literature review was conducted, and a launch system was designed with a focus on utility and cost-effectiveness. This report presents the design process, calculates the stress and strain on the design elements, and presents the concept of a launch system. Finally, the stability of the boat is calculated, and the mathematical validation of Roboboat is presented. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Terhardt, Isabel T1 - Nachhaltiger Sonnenschutz für die Haare: Produktentwicklung und experimentelle Methodenfindung zur Bewertung der Lichtschutzwirkung N2 - Human hair is significantly affected by UV radiation. UVA and UVB radiation in particular cause hair to become drier and more porous, making it more prone to structural damage. These effects can be attributed to the breakdown of the hair protein keratin. Suitable in vitro and ex vivo models were used to demonstrate the degradation of hair keratin by UV radiation and to illustrate this visually using real strands of hair. The aim of this work was to develop physically effective protection for hair against UV radiation and to demonstrate the protective effect of such sunscreen products on hair keratin using a specially developed methodology. In line with the current trend toward “skinification” concepts and formulation approaches from facial care were transferred to the hair care sector. For this purpose, a sun protection spray with modern oil-soluble and water-soluble UV filters was developed. Particular attention was paid to the optimal solution of the UV filters in an aqueous O/W emulsion and the subsequent sprayability of the emulsion in order to be able to apply the product evenly to the hair. The aspect of sustainability also played an important role in the selection of raw materials and the manufacturing process. In vitro tests were performed on specially manufactured keratin-containing agarose plates, irradiated with UV light, and then evaluated photometrically using a BCA assay. The samples treated with the product showed a significantly higher keratin content compared to untreated samples, indicating a protective effect against UV-induced keratin degradation. In addition, ex vivo tests on real hair strands confirmed a positive effect of the product treatment on the appearance and feel of the hair. The methodology developed represents an innovative approach to investigating the protective effect of hair sunscreen products on hair keratin and provides a basis for further research and product development. However, adjustments and optimizations of the formulation are necessary for standardization of the methodology. KW - Hair photoprotection KW - UV induced hair damage KW - Keratin degradation KW - In vitro hair model KW - Keratin agarose plate KW - Protein quantification KW - BCA assay KW - Sunscreen for hair KW - Hair fiber protection KW - UVA UVB irradiation KW - Photostability KW - Cosmetic formulation KW - Sprayable emulsion KW - Sustainable hair care KW - Film former KW - Color fading KW - Hair photodegradation KW - Ex vivo model KW - Protein loss KW - Biomimetic substrate KW - UV exposure assay KW - Spectrophotometric analysis KW - Statistical analysis ANOVA. Y1 - 2026 ER - TY - THES A1 - Gravenhorst Arias, Valentina T1 - Betalain accumulation and biosynthetic gene expression in grain Amaranth species exposed to salt stress N2 - Amaranth species have gained renewed interest as a nutritional pseudocereal, with increased climate resilience and a high content of bioactive compounds, such as betalains. These nitrogen-containing pigments contribute to stress tolerance and have applications as natural colorants and food supplements due to their antioxidant properties. This study investigated the effect of high salt stress (200mM NaCl) on growth, physiological performance, betalain accumulation, pigment composition, and gene expression in six Amaranth accessions over a 14-day period of exposure. Phenotypic observations revealed visible stress symptoms, such as reduced growth and leaf senescence, whereas physiological parameters such as photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, and internal CO2 concentration remain unaffected by salinity. Spectrophotometric quantification showed an increase in betalain concentrations after the 14-day testing period in all genotypes, salt treatment showed minor inconsistent effects. The total betalain concentration was quantified, the results per accession are for Ama 104 3.013 mg/100 g FW, Ama 124 2.944 mg/100 g FW, Ama 154 4.088 mg/100 g FW, Ama 157 4.735 mg/100 g FW, Ama 162 2.227 mg/100 g FW, Ama 169 18.248 mg/100 g FW. Characterization of betalains with HPLC-DAD-MS analysis confirmed the presence of amaranthine and isoamaranthine as the dominant betalain present in Amaranth leaves, which is consistent with the known betalain presence of grain amaranth species; no betaxanthins were detected. Gene expression analysis of CYP76AD2, DODA2, DODAα2, and SOS1 revealed no significant transcriptional induction under salt stress after the 14-day salt stress treatment. These results may suggest that betalain accumulation occurred due to normal developmental regulation rather than a salinity effect. However, analysis 24-48 after salt stress induction is recommended to conclude. The combined results reveal variation in pigment levels and salinity-stress response and demonstrate the resilience of grain amaranth to increased salinity exposure. The variation in pigment accumulation indicates the importance of selecting high-betalain accessions for industrial applications at an early stage. Future research should focus on early transcriptional levels and regulatory mechanisms to better understand stress response in the betalain pathway of these amaranth accessions. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Aziz, Sk Tarik T1 - The Impact of Employee Job Satisfaction on Organization's Long-Term Performance N2 - The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of employee job satisfaction on organizational long-term performance and focus on the key factors that increase satisfaction among employees. Previous research has mostly focused on short-term organizational outcomes, and there is limited evidence about the factors that enhance job satisfaction and ensure long-term performance of an organization. To fill this gap, qualitative research was conducted, and data was collected through semi-structured interviews, and the data was analyzed using MAXQDA software. The findings represent some of the factors that significantly increase job satisfaction, such as positive and supportive work environment, flexibility and autonomy at work, career growth and continuous learning opportunities, and fair compensation with meaningful recognition. The participants repeatedly highlighted these factors as a source of enhancing motivation, dedication, commitment, and employee performance. The study suggests that when organizations actively follow and implement these factors, it is more likely to increase employee satisfaction and satisfied employees improve productivity, achieve organizational goals, and increase a higher level of dedication, which ensures organizational long-term performance. KW - Job satisfaction KW - Organizational long-term performance Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-23053 ER - TY - THES A1 - Bhalla, Kushagra T1 - Strategic Obsolescence Management: Developing a Process-Oriented and Financially Viable Concept N2 - Industrial machinery is designed for long operating periods, but many electronic and mechatronic components used in these systems are discontinued after a short product lifecycle. This situation causes challenges for Strama-MPS, especially in the Global Service division, where long-term spare-parts availability and reliable customer support are required. When components are no longer available, urgent procurement, redesigns under time pressure, longer downtimes and higher service costs put additional load on internal departments and can negatively affect customer relationships. This thesis develops a structured and financially viable approach to obsolescence management for Strama-MPS. The current situation was analysed using expert interviews and SAP and PRO.FILE data for the period 2018 to September 2025. The evaluation of more than 13,000 obsolete materials showed fragmented communication, insufficient lifecycle documentation and that only a few large suppliers systematically send PCN notifications, while many others do not. To summarise the results, a Power BI dashboard was created that shows portfolio age, part criticality, successor availability and supplier concentration. The analysis identified an average part age of 6.75 years, a cost-at-risk of around €1 million and a high-risk group mainly consisting of electrical and control components. In a second step, the active parts portfolio was evaluated to identify future risks. Using manually cleansed Excel files and Power BI models, a lifecycle forecast was developed for the period 2026–2029. It highlights early-warning patterns in connectors, sensors, I/O modules and control units with short technology cycles and high dependency. These results enable earlier evaluation of alternatives, more controlled last-time-buy decisions and more proactive customer communication. Based on these findings, the thesis proposes a target framework in line with DIN EN IEC 62402:2025-05. It defines responsibilities, decision and communication paths, and workflows between the relevant departments. A dedicated Obsolescence Manager is assigned as the central process owner and is supported by SmartPCN-compatible input formats, lifecycle dashboards and an implementation plan that starts with an internal pilot and later includes the roll-out of PCN Global as the OM software. The strategic options were assessed using an MCDA, comparing reactive, proactive and strategic approaches. The results show that a dedicated role combined with suitable software offers a good balance between cost control, early-warning capability and acceptance. The financial analysis indicates that the concept can pay back within the first year by reducing emergency sourcing, redesign work and service delays, while also improving collaboration, decision quality and long-term service performance. Overall, the proposed structure provides a clear basis for more consistent and reliable lifecycle handling across the organisation. KW - Obsolescence Management KW - Product Lifecycle Management KW - Spare Parts Availability KW - Global Service Engineering KW - Product Change Notification KW - DIN EN IEC 62402 KW - Industrial Engineering KW - After-Sales Service KW - Capital Goods Industry KW - Lifecycle Risk Management Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Friesen, Emilie T1 - Optimierung des administrativen und pflegerischen Aufnahmeprozesses in einer Akutklinik – Eine praxisorientierte Prozessanalyse N2 - Das deutsche Gesundheitswesen steht vor einer Vielzahl von Herausforderungen. Die durch den demografischen Wandel ausgelöste Alterung der Bevölkerung verursacht einen wachsenden Versorgungsbedarf und verstärkt parallel dazu den bereits bestehenden Fachkräftemangel. Bei gleichzeitig abnehmenden Kapazitäten sowie steigenden Kosten entsteht ein Kostendruck, der sich in negativen Jahreszahlen und Krankenhausinsolvenzen äußert. Krankenhäuser stehen demnach vor der Aufgabe, ihre Strukturen und Prozesse effizienter zu gestalten, um trotz begrenzter Ressourcen die Patientenversorgung sicherzustellen. Prozessoptimierungen bieten hierbei den entscheidenden Ansatz, um diesen Anforderungen entgegenzuwirken. Die vorliegende Arbeit beschäftigt sich mit der Optimierung des administrativen und pflegerischen Aufnahmeprozesses der Klinik Öschelbronn. Zur Erhebung des Ist-Zustands wurden halbstrukturierte Interviews mit sechs Mitarbeitern1 entlang des Aufnahmeprozesses durchgeführt. Die Prozesse wurden mittels Business Process Model and Notation visualisiert und anschließend analysiert. Als theoretischer Rahmen wurde das Lean Management gewählt. Die Analyse der Schwachstellen orientierte sich an den grundlegenden Lean Prinzipien und der Identifikation von Muda (Verschwendung), Mura (Ungleichmäßigkeit) und Muri (Überlastung). Anschließend wurden Maßnahmen entwickelt und der optimierte Soll-Prozess visualisiert. Im Rahmen der Analyse konnten strukturelle, digitale und kommunikative Schwachstellen herausgearbeitet werden. Diese Schwachstellen konnten den Handlungsfeldern Prozesssteuerung und Planung, Digitalisierung und Informationsmanagement zugeordnet werden. Die Maßnahmen zielen unter anderem auf die Reduktion von Prozessungleichmäßigkeiten, insbesondere durch klare Strukturen, und auf die Verbesserung der internen und externen Informationsweitergabe ab. Ergänzend sollen digitale Lösungen zur Prozessvereinfachung und zur Reduktion des administrativen Aufwands beitragen. Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen, dass Handlungsspielräume bestehen, um Prozesse effizienter zu gestalten und Ressourcen einzusparen. Den aktuellen Herausforderungen des deutschen Gesundheitswesens kann demnach in gewissem Maße eigenständig begegnet werden, um die internen Strukturen zu stärken. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Arslan, Yesim T1 - Evaluation of Urban Consumer Behaviour in Düsseldorf: Practical Implications for Strengthening Farmer-Consumer Relationships N2 - This study examines how to strengthen the relationship between urban consumers and local farmers in Düsseldorf through direct purchase. The background of climate change, long supply chains, and growing consumer detachment from food production form the motivation to bring consumers and agricultural producers closer together, especially in urban areas such as Düsseldorf. Therefore, this study explores which factors influence consumer willingness (intention) and actual purchasing behavior of regional products. The work is based on the Theory of Planned Behavior model (TPB), extended by the additional variable trust and uses a mixed-method approach, which combines literature review, an online survey (n=150), and two semi-structured interviews with local farmers. The statistical results show that attitude, social norms, perceived behavioral control, and trust do not significantly influence regional purchasing intention or actual behavior. The only significant effect can be seen on the willingness to pay higher prices for regional products in different age groups. Older consumers (>36) show significantly higher willingness to pay higher prices than younger consumers (<35). Furthermore, the findings show a clear attitude-behavior gap, where interest or positive attitude towards regional products cannot be translated into real purchasing behavior of regional products. Additional descriptive results show that prices, convenience, and product variety influences grocery choices the most, and social media and recommendations from friends/family are most relevant information sources. Based on these insights, this study develops implications for farmers, consumers, and the city with the goal of strengthening the relationship between local farmers and urban consumers. Key recommendations include hybrid approaches by combining stronger digital visibility with strong personal interaction. Additionally, target group specific actions for younger and older consumers are presented as well as models that combine flexibility with direct exchange such as hybrid CSA. All in all, to strengthen the relationship between urban consumers and local producers cultural and structural changes are required, in which consumers, producers and the city itself share common responsibility. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Jagjit Singh, Humjeet Singh Gill T1 - The effect of shearing in a twin-screw extruder on the mechanical properties of biopolymers (PLA+PBAT) using varied screw designs N2 - The primary aim of this research project was to determine the effects of shearing on the structure of a blend of biopolymers (PLA+PBAT) through tailored screw designs in a twin-screw extruder. To achieve this, 3 different twin intermeshing co-rotating screw designs of an extruder were used. The designs were mainly focused on the kneading and mixing part of the screw which has a shearing effect on the biopolymer. The experiments were carried out by keeping the temperature, screw speed and feed rate constant. To carry out the experiment, a 60:40 blend of PBAT and PLA was utilized. The compounded pellets produced from the 3 screw designs were then used in a Blown Film machine. Furthermore, tensile test was conducted on the resulting samples. The shear strength and strain of the films were calculated. Tear test of the films were additionally carried out to validate the findings. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) test was conducted to study the functional groups, identifying the chemical interactions and phase compatibility of the of PLA&PBAT blend. The results showed that the screw with 3 kneading blocks (HS) and 2 kneading blocks (MS) exhibited almost similar ultimate strength and ultimate strain. The screw design with only conveying elements had lower ultimate strength and strain. The kneading blocks played a role on the mixing and shearing of the biopolymer structure in the blend. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22950 ER - TY - THES A1 - Ganev, Ivan T1 - Design and Implementation of a Virtual Gearbox N2 - This thesis represents the design and implementation of a virtual gearbox functionality as a system with an end goal to be used on the Electric Gokart platform. The design includes a 3-part solution consisting of: - Human-machine interface (HMI) – that is a physical hardware as a separate unit with its own housing - Intermediary software for transfer of input information and output feedback of the user – as software code - Control Model – MATLAB Simulink model to be run on the main computer of the platform to facilitate the motion control Due to the system complexity and multidomain solution the work has been broken down and documented to focus on a specific aspect for each deliverable. The human machine interface focuses on the hardware aspect of the functionality – research on and evaluation of different components for the input, feedback and communication and the impact of each component to the further development of the intermediary software. The software part is focused on choosing and implementing an efficient and logical handling of the sampling and relay of information to prevent the potential problem of communication network overload. And finally, the Simulink Control Model will focus on investigating input information, processing and motion control realised via torque control. The information is to be used used in developing a system response model evaluating it on the prototype and allowing tuning via system identification in the MATLAB Simulink development environment. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Malov, Ernest T1 - Development of selection criteria and systematic methodology for the design of novel hydrogels N2 - Hydrogels are a broad field of materials with applications in many niche areas. To advance the state of the art, research should explore new combinations of chemical and practical components to discover syntheses with novel emergent properties. However, given the vast amount of information available, it is challenging to systematically narrow the search to an effective comparison of a few select candidates. This work proposes a selection and evaluation methodology for building a comparative scope to decide on a set of hydrogel recipe components. Recipe design needs are determined using an existing bibliometric analysis of a hydrogel subfield, and available options are sourced from literature reviews, then assessed based on properties discussed in the literature. Candidates for the crosslinking initiation mechanism, the monomer system, and the crosslinking control method are evaluated separately and sequentially. Recipe permutations are possible as multiple choices are scored. The resultant recipe is a photoinitiated (LAP; irradiated at 380.5nm), thiol-ene (TMPMP-Maleimide), light-patterned (maskless PWM-DLP) hydrogel that swells and bends in response to water due to osmolyte (D-Sorbitol) diffusion. This novel formulation is not currently present in the literature; however, it does not exhibit any chemical or practical incompatibilities. A range of component concentrations, possible failure scenarios, and recommended fixes are provided for initial testing. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22934 ER - TY - THES A1 - Biehn, Joshua T1 - Design and Validation of a Bio-Inspired Tendon-Driven Continuum Manipulator N2 - This thesis develops bio-inspired, multi-segment tendon-driven continuum manipulator through a structured, iterative design process. Combining piecewise constant-curvature modeling, for design validation, with hybrid soft-rigid joint fabrication, three prototypes explore trade-offs among anatomical scale, actuation efficiency, and structural compliance. Novel, internal, soft-rigid components, buckling-mitigation features and internally routed tendons are integrated and evaluated under a common experimental frame work. Demonstrations include single-finger grasps and coordinated bimanual object handling, confirming the manipulator’s viability for humanoid end-effector tasks. The final design produced a tip-load of ≈ 17N for a pinching grasp and ≈ 12N in a power grasp, with 4 degrees of freedom and a maximum bending angle of 209°. Future work will focus on closed-loop control, dynamic interaction testing, and scaling to multi-digit hands. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22928 ER - TY - THES A1 - Heesen, Jacquelin T1 - Eine qualitative Studie zur beruflichen Teilhabe im deutschen Arbeitskontext: Wahrnehmungen, Herausforderungen und Handlungsspielräume bei (potenzieller) Demenz am Arbeitsplatz N2 - Demenz wird überwiegend als altersassoziiertes Gesundheitsproblem betrachtet, kann jedoch auch bereits vor dem 65. Lebensjahr auftreten. Angesichts der allgemein prognostizierten Zunahme von Demenzerkrankungen und des steigenden gesetzlichen Renteneintrittsalters erhöht sich die Wahrscheinlichkeit, dass Menschen mit beginnender Demenz noch aktiv am Erwerbsleben teilnehmen. Während international bereits erste empirische Erkenntnisse zum Umgang mit demenziell erkrankten Mitarbeitenden vorliegen, besteht für den deutschen Arbeitskontext bislang eine Forschungslücke. Um diese Lücke zu adressieren, wurde im Rahmen der vorliegenden Untersuchung ein exploratives Stimmungsbild zur Wahrnehmung, Sensibilisierung und Handlungsbereitschaft im Umgang mit (potenziell) an Demenz erkrankten Mitarbeitenden erhoben. Hierzu wurden qualitative, halbstrukturierte Expert:inneninterviews mit Fachpersonen aus dem Betrieblichen Gesundheits- und Eingliederungsmanagement sowie aus der Demenzberatung durchgeführt und mithilfe der inhaltlich-strukturierenden qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse nach Kuckartz ausgewertet. Zur Berücksichtigung der Perspektive von Menschen mit Demenz wurden darüber hinaus Interviews mit Betroffenen und ihren Angehörigen, die im Rahmen der Studie STELDA (Untersuchung zu Stigmatisierungserfahrungen von Menschen mit Demenz und ihren Angehörigen) erhoben wurden, im Zuge einer Sekundäranalyse erneut analysiert, um vertiefende Einblicke aus der Betroffenenperspektive in das Thema Demenz am Arbeitsplatz zu erhalten. Die Untersuchung verdeutlicht, dass Demenz im betrieblichen Kontext bislang kaum thematisiert wird. Es zeigt sich ein deutlicher Sensibilisierungs- und Informationsbedarf sowie begrenzte strukturelle Voraussetzungen für die Weiterbeschäftigung betroffener Mitarbeitender. Gleichzeitig bestehen Potenziale innerhalb etablierter BGM- Strukturen und im Ausbau der Zusammenarbeit mit externen Beratungsstellen, die eine verbesserte Unterstützung ermöglichen könnten. Auf Grundlage der gewonnenen Erkenntnisse wurden praxisorientierte Handlungsempfehlungen formuliert, die darauf abzielen, die berufliche Teilhabe von Menschen mit Demenz im deutschen Arbeitskontext zu fördern. KW - Demenz am Arbeitsplatz KW - Young-Onset-Dementia (YOD) KW - Berufliche Teilhabe KW - Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement (BGM) KW - Betriebliches Eingliederungsmanagement (BEM) KW - Sensibilisierung KW - Demenz-Stigma Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 25/2025 Erste Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang „Engineering for Sustainability“ an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 14.10.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-25 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22900 VL - 2025 IS - 25 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 24/2025 Erste Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang „Engineering“ an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 10.10.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-24 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22893 VL - 2025 IS - 24 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 23/2025 Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Usability Engineering der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 14.10.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-23 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22888 VL - 2025 IS - 23 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 22/2025 Zehnte Änderungssatzung zur Satzung über die Ausgestaltung des Auswahl- und Zulassungsverfahrens in zulassungsbeschränkten Studiengängen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 28.10.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-22 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22871 VL - 2025 IS - 22 ER - TY - THES A1 - Kazimli, Farid T1 - Origami Applications in Engineering N2 - This thesis explores how origami-inspired modular structures—specifically uniformly thick, load-carrying designs—can be prototyped using accessible 3D printing work flows. We focus on translating geometric folding principles into real materials and hinges suitable for repeated deployment by designing printable panels and connectors, and by validating performance with a bar-and-hinge simulation approach. Physical prototypes are fabricated and tested for packing ratio, deployment re peatability, and stiffness-to-mass. Results indicate that thick-panel origami can be produced with consumer 3D printers while retaining compact storage, rapid deployment, and promising structural behavior. The work outlines a practical path toward portable, reusable, and more sustainable engineering systems that minimize material use, support repair and reuse through modularity, and simplify logistics through high packing ratios. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22848 ER - TY - THES A1 - Al Sela', Subhi Moh'd S. T1 - Application of Carbon Fiber and Advanced Composites in Restorative Dentistry: A Study in Material Efficiency, Manufacturing viability, Market Potential and Innovation. N2 - This work presents a multidisciplinary evaluation of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polyether Ether Ketone (CF-PEEK) as a core material for hybrid dental crowns, combined with lithium disilicate (E-max) veneers. The objective was to assess the mechanical, manufacturing, and economic feasibility of introducing CF-PEEK into restorative dentistry through an engineering-driven approach. A systematic literature review compared the elastic modulus, flexural strength, and density of CF-PEEK with conventional materials such as zirconia and porcelain-fused-to-metal. Results show that CF-PEEK exhibits a modulus close to natural dentin and lower density, offering improved biomechanical compatibility and reduced stress transmission. Additive manufacturing (3D printing) was identified as the most flexible and sustainable production method, minimising material waste and enabling customised crown fabrication. The study concludes that the CF-PEEK + E-max hybrid crown is mechanically viable and aligns with sustainability goals, though improvements in bonding, colour masking, and clinical validation remain necessary. This approach demonstrates how industrial engineering tools including TRIZ, QFD, and KANO can effectively guide innovation in dental materials and workflows. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22823 ER - TY - THES A1 - Kumar, Vivek T1 - Assessing Sustainability Reporting Obligations and Regulatory Compliance for LINEG: An Analysis of EMAS Alignment with Emerging EU Directives. N2 - This thesis assesses the preparedness of LINEG, a German public water utility, for the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). It evaluates the extent to which LINEG’s EMAS-based environmental disclosures align with CSRD/ESRS and where extensions are required to meet comprehensive ESG obligations. The analysis is grounded in Stakeholder Theory and Valente’s Stage Model to connect accountability expectations with organizational sustainability maturity. Methodologically, a qualitative case study and qualitative content analysis are applied to LINEG’s EMAS statements and relevant regulatory texts, using deductive categories derived from CSRD/ESRS and SASB, complemented by inductive coding to capture LINEG-specific themes. Peer utilities are referenced to contextualise findings. Findings show a strong environmental foundation— externally validated data on energy, emissions, water, and biodiversity—indicating partial readiness for ESRS E-standards. However, material gaps remain in social and governance areas (e.g., workforce metrics, affordability and service quality indicators, stakeholder engagement processes, and board-level oversight of sustainability). Applying Valente’s model positions LINEG between Defensive and Isolated stages: largely compliancedriven, with initiatives not yet embedded across strategy and governance. The thesis proposes a roadmap to consolidate environmental disclosures into ESRS structures, conduct a double-materiality assessment, expand S and G indicators, formalise stakeholder engagement, and assign clear governance responsibilities. Limitations arise from a single-case, document-based approach and the evolving German transposition of CSRD, which may adjust timelines and specific requirements once fully enacted. KW - CSRD KW - EMAS KW - Sustainability Reporting KW - Water Utilities Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 21/2025 Vierte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Gesundheitswissenschaften und -management der Fakultät Life Sciences an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 21.05.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-21 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22814 VL - 2025 IS - 21 ER - TY - THES A1 - Mohajeri Nejad, Mostafa T1 - Development and implementation of an adaptive control system for automizing and optimizing the performance of a rolling fluid (setur) hydro-turbine N2 - This thesis presents the design and implementation of an automated control system for a laboratory-scale SETUR (Sedlacek's Blade-less Rolling Fluid Turbine) hydro turbine test rig. The goal was to enable precise and repeatable experiments by automating the regulation of the turbine’s water level and data acquisition process. The developed system integrates multiple sensors, including discrete liquid level sensors, pressure transducers, and a flow meter, interfaced with an Arduino-based controller. A PID-based control algorithm with gain scheduling was designed to adapt to the nonlinear flow dynamics across different operating regimes of the turbine. The control loop operates at a 0.5 s sampling rate and employs layered signal filtering and calibration routines to compensate for sensor noise, offset, and scaling errors. The complete hardware setup includes signal conditioning circuits for analog sensors, digital communication for actuator control, and real-time data monitoring via serial output. Experimental results demonstrate that the system achieves stable water-level regulation within approximately two minutes after pump activation and maintains steady-state operation without overshoot or sustained valve saturation. The overall measurement uncertainties were quantified as ±3.06 % FS for pressure and ±5.2 % FS for flow, meeting the predefined accuracy requirement of ≤ 5 % FS. The developed automation platform provides a reliable foundation for further research on the SETUR turbine, including efficiency characterization, advanced control development, and future integration of IoT-based supervisory monitoring and data analysis tools. KW - SETUR KW - Automated Test-bench KW - Process Automation KW - Renewable Energies KW - Hydro Turbines KW - SCADA Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 20/2025 Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Infotronic Systems Engineering der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 23.06.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-20 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22782 VL - 2025 IS - 20 ER - TY - THES A1 - Usluer, Egehan T1 - Applying Different Path Planning Algorithms to a Mini Mars Rover for an Uncharted Maze N2 - This thesis explores how an already built Mini Mars Rover can autonomously navigate an uncharted maze, first by mapping it and then by applying different pathfinding strategies. The Mini Mars Rover uses IR sensors for wall detection, encoder-based odometry for tracking movement, an IMU for heading corrections, for input for more accurate localization. The strategy combines exploration techniques with practical path execution on real hardware, focusing on the challenges that come up when algorithms meet the physical world. Exploration applied by using a combination of Breadth-First Search (BFS) with the Travelling Salesman Problem (TSP) approach, as well as a Partially Observable Markov Decision Process (POMDP) strategy. Although both methods showed promising results in simulation, in hardware testing same results were not gathered. For the path planning, three pathfinding algorithms Flood Fill, Dijkstra’s, and A* are implemented and compared. The results of those algorithms and the strategy to adopt them into the robot is implemented. The project demonstrates a possibility of adaptation of those algorithms and their feasibility. The Mini MarsRover serves as a solid base for further development and improvements. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22775 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 19/2025 Vierte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Environment and Energy der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 08.08.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-19 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22769 VL - 2025 IS - 19 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 18/2025 Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Information Engineering and Computer Science der Fakultät Kommunikation und Umwelt an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 14.08.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-18 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22753 VL - 2025 IS - 18 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 17/2025 Erste Änderungssatzung zur Fakultätsordnung der Fakultät Technologie und Bionik der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 16.06.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-17 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22748 VL - 2025 IS - 17 ER - TY - THES A1 - Tariq, Suleman T1 - Optimising Heat Loss Reduction and Facilitating the Transition to Biogas in Industrial Applications. N2 - This study has evaluated the heat loss potential and energy consumption at the industrial level. Notably, heat loss on a large scale at the industrial level has been recognized as neither economically nor environmentally sustainable. Moreover, the continued use of fossil fuels (natural gas) has been reviewed as unsustainable due to their adverse effect and limited availability, posing challenges for the present and future. Heat loss is optimized at the continental production site in Villingen-Schwenningen. Heat loss through exhaust fans, which extract heat from inside the building and release it to the environment to maintain the internal temperature, has been analysed. The released heat is lost in the environment. To recover this energy loss, the integration of a plate-to-plate heat exchanger is proposed. This approach recovers the rejected heat to preheat the incoming fresh air supply, replacing the traditional heat coil operated on natural gas. Additionally, the transition of natural gas to biogas has been explored. The district heating twin pipe (DN 80) is considered for the smooth flow of thermal energy. For this project, a financial analysis of return on investment (ROI) for 10 years is conducted, the thermal energy flow rate over 2.1km, and heat loss during the transfer phase are calculated. The results have shown significant importance for the recovered energy by integration of a plate-to-plate heat exchanger; yearly, 1.2 GW of energy can be recovered, reducing the consumption of natural gas and making a complete transition towards biogas, economically and environmentally beneficial. KW - Industrial heat loss recovery using plate-to-plate heat exchangers: Transition from natural gas to biogas for sustainable energy at the Continental AG Villingen-Schwenningen site. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Flören, Marie Catherine T1 - Immersives Erleben Ein Einblick in das Immersionsverständnis der Anbieter:innen immersiver Besucherattraktionen N2 - Immersive experiences have been gaining popularity for the past few years within the tourism industry. This bachelor thesis aims to collect and present the understanding of the word immersion as it is interpreted by different organizers of immersive experiences within the tourism industry. Further, this thesis seeks to collect strategies and artistic methods used in the creation of immersive events and attractions to understand which are used to facilitate an immersive experience for the visitors. Moreover, looking to the future, the thesis also intends to garner possible future developments within the immersive industry, as predicted by the organizers interviewed for this thesis. To answer these questions, five organizers and designers of different immersive experiences were interviewed. The results show that the understanding of the term immersion differs between different organizers. It was possible to identify that the individual definitions range from overly spatial and design-oriented to strongly narrative-oriented, as well as an immersion as the absorption of an environment or the participation within the environment. Furthermore, it was possible to identify multiple strategies used in immersive experiences, some of which have not yet been found in current research. The interviewed organizers suggest that immersive design will be a trend within the tourism industry. However, they also state that the term is currently already being overused and diluted in its meaning. This work establishes a basis on which future research can expand by further investigating the definition of the term ‘immersion’ within the tourism industry. KW - Immersive Experiences KW - Immersion KW - Spatial Design KW - Narrative Design KW - Experience Economy Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Mietz, Selma T1 - Entwicklung eines kardiovaskulären Präventionskonzeptes für den Kreis Kleve auf Grundlage eines 10- Jahres Vergleiches des Patientenkollektivs mit ST-Hebungs-Myokardinfarkt N2 - Trotz des medizinischen Fortschrittes gehören kardiovaskuläre Erkrankungen weiterhin zu den führenden Todesursachen in Deutschland. Der akute Herzinfarkt mit ST- Streckenhebung ist eine mögliche Manifestationsform. Zu den Risikofaktoren für die Entstehung von Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen zählen viele modifizierbare Parameter (Nikotinkonsum, Übergewicht, Bewegungsmangel usw.), so dass das Risiko an einem Herzinfarkt zu erkranken, zumindest teilweise beeinflussbar ist. Mit dem „Gesunde[n]-Herz-Gesetz“ wollte die 24. Bundesregierung der Bundesrepublik Deutschland auf diese Mechanismen aufmerksam machen und Präventionsprogramme zur Reduktion kardiovaskulärer Risikofaktoren etablieren. Die vorgestellte Arbeit befasst sich mit dem kardiovaskulären Risikoprofil sowie demographischen Daten der Herzinfarkt-Patienten in der Kardiologie des katholischen Karl-Leisner-Klinikums (St. Antonius Hospital Kleve und Marienhospital Kevelaer) im Vergleich der Jahre 2014 und 2024. Es soll untersucht werden, wie das Risikoprofil der Herzinfarkt-Patienten in den beiden Krankenhäusern aussieht, und wie es sich im Vergleich der letzten 10 Jahre verändert hat. Ziel der Arbeit ist es, herauszufinden welches Patientenkollektiv in den kardiologischen Abteilungen des katholischen Karl-Leisner-Klinikums von Herzinfarkten betroffen ist, um gezielt Präventionsmaßnahmen abzuleiten. Hierfür wurden die Krankenakten aller Patienten, die im Jahr 2014 im Krankenhaus Kleve sowie im Jahr 2024 in den Krankenhäusern Kleve und Kevelaer mit einem ST-Hebungsmyokardinfarkt behandelt wurden, eingeschlossen. Mittels Student’s T-Test und Mann-Whitney-U-Test wurden demographische Parameter, Laborwerte und weitere kardiovaskuläre Risikofaktoren zwischen den beiden Zeiträumen verglichen. Es zeigt sich eine signifikante Zunahme von Gesamtcholesterin und LDL-Cholesterin im Jahr 2024 verglichen zu 2014. Außerdem besteht die Tendenz zur Abnahme der Nierenfunktion zwischen den untersuchten Jahren. Im Hinblick auf weitere Risikofaktoren wie manifeste Atherosklerose, Diabetes mellitus und arterielle Hypertonie zeigt sich eine Tendenz zur Entwicklung eines multimorbiden Patientenkollektives. Als Ansatzpunkte zur Optimierung des Risikoprofils seien Maßnahmen zur Raucherentwöhnung, Reduktion von Bewegungsmangel sowie eine Verbesserung der Gesundheitsvorsorge und -aufklärung zu nennen. KW - ST-Hebungsinfarkt KW - Kardiovaskuläre Prävention KW - Kreis Kleve Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22708 ER - TY - THES A1 - Vasovic, Luka T1 - Development, Controller Design and Validation of a Torque Vectoring System for an All-Wheel Drive Electric Go-Kart N2 - This thesis investigates the design and simulation-based evaluation of a yaw-rate control system using torque vectoring for an all-wheel-drive electric go-kart with independently driven wheels. The work is conducted within a purely model-based framework, employing MATLAB and Simulink to replicate the vehicle dynamics and control interactions in a controlled virtual environment. Torque vectoring describes the distribution of drive torque between individual wheels to influence the yaw moment of the vehicle. This enables targeted improvements in stability, responsiveness, and cornering performance beyond what is achievable with steering input alone. In this study, yaw rate is selected as the primary control variable. A reference yaw rate is derived from the linear bicycle model, and the control objective is to minimize the error between the reference and the simulated actual yaw rate by applying corrective yaw moments through differential torque allocation. A Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller is implemented to track the reference yaw rate. Gain tuning is performed using MATLAB’s PID Tuner, leveraging the system transfer function extracted from the simulation model. The complete control system is integrated into a modular Simulink model of the go-kart, which incorporates the 2-DOF bicycle model for lateral and yaw dynamics, as well as subsystems for maneuver generation and torque vectoring logic. Controller performance is assessed through standard vehicle dynamics test maneuvers, including ramp steer, step steer, and double lane change. For each maneuver, simulations are performed both with and without torque vectoring, allowing quantitative comparison of yaw rate tracking accuracy, stability, and trajectory. The results demonstrate that torque vectoring substantially improves yaw rate tracking and reduces the understeer tendency of the simulated vehicle, particularly during transient maneuvers. Even in a simplified small-scale vehicle model, the benefits of active yaw moment control are evident, underscoring the relevance of torque vectoring for enhancing dynamic performance in electric vehicles with independent wheel actuation. The modular simulation framework developed in this work also provides a foundation for future experimental validation on the physical research platform as well as further developments on the simulation model. KW - Torque Vectoring KW - Vehicle Dynamics KW - Vehicle Simulation KW - Bicycle Model Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Simsek, Seyda T1 - The Impact of Increasing Use of Artificial Intelligence in Human Resource Management on Employees N2 - This study examines the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in human resource management (HRM) and its effects on employees, considering both operational benefits and the ethical, social, and psychological implications. Its analyzes real-world applications of AI in recruiting, performance management, talent development, and HR administration using qualitative secondary data from academic papers, industry publications, and case studies published between 2018 and 2024. To examine employee experiences, organizational issues, and ethical implications, a combined analytical approach is used, which incorporates the Technology Acceptance Model, Job Demand-Control Model, human-centered AI concepts, and the European Commission's Ethics Guidelines for Trustworthy AI. While AI can increase effectiveness, reliability, and strategic HR results, the findings highlight concerns about algorithmic bias, reduced human engagement, and risks to employee autonomy and well-being. This paper addresses the significance of organizational planning, transparency, and responsible oversight in AI implementation, highlighting that technology should supplement rather than replace human judgment. The study offers an understanding of the human-centered and ethical aspects of AI in HRM, as well as insights for organizations seeking to use AI responsibly while maintaining employee trust and engagement. KW - artificial intelligence in human resources KW - HR automation KW - AI in HRdecision-making KW - AI in recruitment KW - AI in the workforce Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22687 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 16/2025 Zugangsprüfungsordnung für Bildungsausländerinnen und -ausländer für den Studiengang International Business and Management an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 04.08.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-16 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22662 VL - 2025 IS - 16 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 15/2025 Erste Änderungssatzung zur Einschreibungsordnung der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 06.08.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-15 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22655 VL - 2025 IS - 15 ER - TY - THES A1 - Aldorino, Bryan T1 - Design, Development, and Testing of a Vision-Based Calibration System for Liquid Handling Robot N2 - This thesis presents the development of a vision-based calibration routine for an open-source liquid handling system, addressing the challenge of integrating reliable labware detection into an existing robotic platform with minimal hardware redesign. The study adopts an experimental, prototype-driven approach, evaluating multiple proof-of-concept configurations before selecting a top-mounted camera solution as the most viable. The implemented system employs OpenCV’s ArUco marker detection to locate labware, combined with a closed-loop tracking routine that iteratively aligns the camera’s principal point with the detected tag. Alternative approaches, such as rule-based detection with a side-mounted camera, provided valuable insight into system constraints including lighting sensitivity, and variability of labware. The chosen final setup demonstrated reliable calibration output in the form of labware position and orientation data, stored in .JSON format for integration into higher-level control software. The system proved capable of reliable marker-based calibration under controlled conditions. Furthermore, the results highlight both the strengths of the approach such as modularity and adaptability, and its limitations, particularly possible interference due to glare and relatively high setup time. Future work includes integrating object detection models, multi-camera systems for improved pose estimation, and extending the system towards real-time quality control in laboratory automation. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22637 ER - TY - THES A1 - Wienands, Noa Lilly T1 - The Motivation behind the International Mobility of German University Graduates and Students: A focus on Economic Perceptions and Aspirations for Cultural and Professional Growth N2 - This thesis examines the motivations behind the international mobility of German university students and graduates focusing on the role of economic conditions, personal motives, the labor market and perceived career opportunities. It evaluates how the assessment of these aspects influences the willingness to pursue a life and career abroad through a review of existing literature and an online survey conducted by the author. The theoretical background draws on Push-Pull Theory to present migration motives, Neoclassical Economics and the New Economics of Labor Migration to highlight economic reasons and the evaluation of cost and benefits, and Expectancy-Value Theory and Self-Determination Theory to examine the connection of expectations and intrinsic motivations and values related to migration intentions. The data of the survey, conducted among German university students and graduates shows that the economic assessment is not a main motivator for a life abroad but a mix of socioeconomic factors can increase the willingness to go abroad. The study highlights the importance of personal reasons, especially personal growth and cultural experience as it increases the willingness among educated Germans to migrate. Professional growth particularly, if evaluated as better abroad as well as a bad assessment of the German labor market increase the willingness for international mobility. The thesis contributes to a better understanding on the dynamics behind the international mobility intentions among highly skilled individuals in Germany. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22620 ER - TY - THES A1 - Mughal, Abdul Qadir T1 - Design and Development of an Automated Hyperspectral Imaging System for Plant Monitoring N2 - This thesis presents the design and construction of a prototype automated plant monitoring system that integrates hyperspectral imaging with a custom linear motion structure for greenhouse applications. Controlled by an Arduino-driven stepper motor, the system positions two hyperspectral cameras (covering visible–near-infrared and short-wave infrared ranges) and a stereo RGB camera along a linear guide to capture consistent and repeatable measurements. Calibration and data acquisition are managed by specialized software, enabling detection of early drought stress indicators such as pigment and water content changes before visible symptoms occur. Assembled and tested at Fraunhofer IGD, the prototype demonstrated reliable operation and consistent spectral data collection, providing a versatile foundation for future enhancements including automated workflows, machine learning–based analysis, and application in diverse agricultural settings. KW - Hyperspectral Cameras KW - Linear Motion KW - Automation KW - Agriculture Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22614 ER - TY - CHAP A1 - Weinbach, Heike A1 - Al Cabir, Yasmin A1 - Zander, Margherita A1 - Swiderek, Thomas A1 - Stroop, Nicola A1 - Nürenberg, Denise A1 - Knippert, Max ED - Weinbach, Heike ED - Al Cabir, Yasmin T1 - Veränderung ist möglich - Kinderarmut in Deutschland und im Kreis Kleve N2 - Die Publikation zum Thema Kinderarmut ist eine Dokumentation einer Vortragsreihe im Rahmen der Mittwochsakademie der Fakultät Gesellschaft & Ökonomie der Hochschule Rhein-Waal. In den Beiträgen werden die Konstanz und die Regionalität von Kinderarmut thematisiert sowie Lösungsansätze dargestellt, die sowohl individuell als auch strukturell Sinn machen. Die Beiträge repräsentieren Perspektiven auf Kinderarmut aus Theorie und Praxis. Die Ziele dieser Publikation sind die Bereitstellung von Wissen und Anregungen für umsetzbare Handlungen. KW - Kinderarmut KW - Klassismus KW - Armut KW - Kinderrechte KW - Kindergrundsicherung; KW - Kleve Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22467 ER - TY - THES A1 - Afzal, Umair T1 - AI-Driven Comic Generation: Exploring the Creative Potential of Generative AI in Digital Storytelling N2 - Creative sectors have accepted AI into their industry for establishing modern methods of generating digital content. This study introduces a novel AI-based framework based on AI technology, using GANs along with Stable Diffusion models to automate comic development. This study looks at juxtaposing narrative outlining through text with automated visual generation toward an integrated system that produces adaptable comic panels with appropriate visual structure. The research methodology that the project has followed can be built on three cornerstones: advanced GAN schemes for text generation and pre-processing, followed by image synthesis through Stable Diffusion. A specially developed algorithm for speech bubbles determined the optimal placement of that text, so it would function well and maintain a semblance of beauty. By iteratively refining and tuning the model, this system was evaluated. Initial observations regarding visual coherence and narrative alignment were hopeful, but further tests using quantitative metrics-for instance, FID for images and BLEU for text, as well as broader user feedback-would be needed to validate the efficacy of the model entirely. The impediments were, however, GAN mode collapse, irregular speech-bubble layout, and inconsistent artistic styles. Further research would uncover the potential role of AI systems in easing the comic generation process for creators, educators, and designers of digital content to enhance accessibility and efficiency. This method shows promising applicability in various domains like automated narratives, customizable comics, and educational material. Further along the way, the scientists plan to improve panel storytelling, create an intuitive interface, and expand the dataset to include more artistic styles. Such enhancements could maximize the gain from automated comic conception. KW - AI-driven comics KW - Generative Adversarial Networks KW - Stable Diffusion KW - Automated storytelling KW - Speech bubble optimization KW - Image synthesis KW - Digital content creation. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22581 ER - TY - THES A1 - Ziriko, Ponsiano T1 - Provenance influence on African Baobab (Adansonia digitata) mycorrhization potential. N2 - African baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) tree parts are mostly harvested for nourishment and economic purposes. However, the products are only extracted from the wild and are threatened by depletion which necessitates research into the species domestication and cultivation. Mycorrhization involves promoting foreign and native mycorrhiza linkages to improve the roots’ efficiency in nutrients and moisture acquisition. While origin can impact the development of A. digitata, its impact on the species mycorrhization potential is not well understood, and was investigated in this thesis. A. digitata plants were grown from seeds of semi-arid, sub-humid and humid zone origins of Benin inside a controlled climate chamber. The seedlings from each origin received native soil, commercial mycorrhiza fungi (alternative) and control treatments. Growth parameters were determined before treatments application and at termination. Models combining the effects of treatment, zone origin, unique tree characteristics and block arrangement were used for statistics. Only seedlings of the humid zone origin had significantly higher initial leaf count than counterparts from other origins. Insignificant differences among origins and treatments were observed for all the other parameters. Inconsistent significant interaction of treatment and origins was observed for final leaf count, stem diameter, root collar diameter, fresh taproot and dry lateral root weights. The results indicated A. digitata seedlings’ ability to show morphological similarities when grown under uniform conditions irrespective of the genetic variations which might exist among seedlings. These growth trends were not 1 affected by the presence of commercial and native microbes. Inconsistent interaction effects warrant further investigation to ascertain specific individual tree seedlings which might have been significantly impacted by treatments. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Koch, Daniel T1 - Emotionserkennung über den Einsatz von Messinstrumenten. N2 - Die zuverlässige Erkennung von Emotionen mittels Herzfrequenzvariabilität ist eine große methodische Herausforderung, da Verfahren von der Emotionsinduktion über die Datenbereinigung bis zur Modellierung stark voneinander abweichen. In diesem Method-Paper wurden die verschiedenen methodischen Entscheidungen systematisch dargestellt und anhand eines exemplarischen Studiendesigns verdeutlicht. Die Untersuchungen haben gezeigt, dass bisher kein einheitliches methodisches Vorgehen definiert wurde. Demnach sollten das Studiendesigns an die gewünschten Anwendungssituationen angepasst werden. Untersuchungen im Rahmen der Emotionsforschung sollten demnach mit einer festen Zielsetzung und umfassender Planung erstellt werden. KW - Emotionserkennung KW - HRV KW - HRV-Methoden KW - EKG Signalverarbeitung KW - Emotion KW - Emotionspsychologie KW - Herzfrequenzvariabilität KW - Herzratenvariabilität Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - GEN A1 - Fazlikhani, Ghazaleh T1 - Appendix Files of the Master’s Thesis “Experimental Determination of Microbial Preservation in Cosmetic Formulations Using Modified ISO 11930 Methods” N2 - This dataset contains the appendix files of the Master’s Thesis “Experimental Determination of Microbial Preservation in Cosmetic Formulations Using Modified ISO 11930 Methods.” The files include raw experimental data in Excel format, covering microbial counts, preservative efficacy testing, and neutralizer validation across different formulations and bacterial strains. These supplementary materials provide detailed numerical results that support the analyses and figures presented in the main thesis document. They ensure transparency and reproducibility of the study by granting access to the complete underlying data. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22557 ER - TY - THES A1 - Boulmane, Aya T1 - Development of a Web-Based Tool for Estimating Lifecycle CO₂ Emissions of Electric vs. Diesel Vehicles in Germany N2 - Due to rapid technological development, the transport sector has emerged as one of the most difficult areas to reduce decarbonization, balancing its high global greenhouse gas emissions. In Germany, the shift from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) to electric vehicles (EVs) has become a key focus of national and EU climate policies. Nevertheless, the transition to EVs is associated with a multitude of factors that need to be considered, including emissions from manufacturing, the energy used during operations, and post-operational treatment. This thesis focuses on the design, development, and refinement of a web-based CO₂ Lifecycle Emission Calculation tool that compares cradle-to-grave emissions of EVs and diesel ICEVs based on different driving scenarios in Germany. It is based on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Methodology as indicated in ISO 14040/14044. With the tool, the manufacturing, operational, and end-of-life emissions are estimated based on validated datasets from peer-reviewed literature and authoritative bodies (IPCC, IEA, UBA). The tool’s modular structure, which was developed in Python with the Streamlit framework, also allows for other languages to be added, selection of the region’s grid mix, scenario comparisons, and results visualization in multi-level dashboards. Findings of the literature review show that the tool is accurate for both types of vehicles as the known lifecycle emissions ranges for both types are captured. Carbon payback periods for EVs ranged from less than three years to over eight years depending on the grid context, from renewable-rich to coal-intensive. Sensitivity analysis demonstrates that both grid CO₂ intensity and annual mileage hold the greatest influence over lifecycle results. This research contributes to sustainability as it fills the void that exists between academic LCA models and consumer-facing applications with a transparent, reproducible, and user-configurable decision-support tool. Improvements can be made by incorporating real-time grid emission data, expanding the vehicle datasets, and including additional CO₂ environmental impact categories. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - GEN A1 - Tewes, Thomas T1 - Luminescence and Raman spectroscopic data of bacteria with and without exposure to water-soluble polymers (WSPs) N2 - Data from luminescence measurements of bacteria exposed to water-soluble polymers (WSPs), as well as Raman spectra of bacteria with and without contact to the WSPs. Polyacrylamide (PAM) – tested in different molecular weights (e.g., 40,000 g/mol, 150,000 g/mol, 15,000,000 g/mol). Polyethylene glycol (PEG) – investigated at molecular weights such as 8,000 g/mol, 20,000 g/mol, and 35,000 g/mol. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) – studied at molecular weights like 16,000 g/mol, 47,000 g/mol, and 61,000 g/mol. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) – analyzed in molecular weights such as 24,000 g/mol, 40,000 g/mol, and 360,000 g/mol. The used bacteria was Aliivibrio fischeri. KW - A. fischeri KW - water-soluble polymers Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22486 ER - TY - THES A1 - -, Monish Suresh T1 - Buck Converter Control using Gaussian Process Regression N2 - In this bachelor thesis, I investigate the feasibility of Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) (Williams and Rasmussen 2006) in the control of a buck converter (R. W. Erickson and aksimovic 2020). I develop a prototype digital controller for a buck converter, which uses a trained GPR model to predict the PWM duty cycle required to obtain a desired output voltage. I use an Analog Discovery 2 (AD2) (Digilent Inc. n.d.) as an interface between the GPR controller and the buck converter hardware by providing real-time voltage measurements to the controller and generating the PWM signal. I compare the performance of the GPR controller with the TPS629210DRLR Integrated Circuit (IC) (Texas Instruments 2022), which uses an analog control method and serves as the reference performance standard. I compare the performance of the GPR controller and the IC based on their ability to maintain a target voltage during a load change involving an RC load. The results are evaluated based on the voltage regulation accuracy and load voltage settling time. The results show that both controllers are able to set the load voltage within 1% of the target value. However, the GPR controller has a settling time around 3 times longer than the analog controller. The longer settling time is due to latencies from communication with the AD2 and the time required for duty cycle computation. Despite this, the settling time difference is short enough to consider the digital GPR controller competitive to the reference analog control method, especially since the current prototype is not optimized to reduce these latencies. The findings of this thesis highlight both the potential and limitations of the digital control of a buck converter. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22458 ER - TY - RPRT ED - Zimenkova, Tatiana ED - Baumgart, Luisa Emelie ED - Ascani, Katrin T1 - Days of Antidiscrimination 4 N2 - This brochure shows the results and impressions of the five-day event “Days of Antidiscrimination 4” at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, which took place from April 15 to April 19, 2024. The Vice-President for Internationalisation and Diversity and the AStA jointly organized this exchange of all university members and, with this report, make visible the voices of the participants, the expertise of the academics and activists and the contributions of the students. KW - Antidiscrimination KW - Diversity KW - DoA KW - Abuse of Power Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22448 ER - TY - THES A1 - Böttcher, Lena T1 - Prototypische Entwicklung einer Low-Code-Anwendung zur Visualisierung statistischer Kennzahlen und Analyse ihrer Aussagekraft für die Finanzverwaltung. N2 - Diese Bachelorarbeit stellt dar, wie statistische Kennzahlen für die Finanzverwaltung möglichst aussagekräftig visualisiert und analysiert werden können, um statistische Eigenschaften großer Datenmengen intuitiv und schnell verständlich nutzbar zu machen. Mit einer Low-Code-Plattform wurde ein Prototyp entwickelt, der diese Anforderungen realisiert und mit geringen Programmierkenntnissen erweitert werden kann. Diese Arbeit nutzt den Design Science Research (DSR)-Ansatz und erläutert ihn. Die Phasen der Demonstration der Nutzung und der Evaluation des Prototyps dieses Ansatzes wurden zusammengefasst. In dieser zeigte sich, dass die visualisierten statistischen Kennzahlen kontextbezogen eine hohe Aussagekraft besitzen können. Eine ganzheitliche Analyse, die auf anwendungsfallbezogenem Datenwissen basiert, bildet die Grundlage für eine fundierte Interpretation. In Zusammenhang mit der Betrachtung und kombinierten Interpretation mehrerer statistischer Kennzahlen können so Fehlinterpretationen vermieden und der Gewinn zusätzlicher Erkenntnisse gefördert werden. Die erzeugten Visualisierungen ermöglichen eine strukturierte Auswertung großer Datenmengen, setzen jedoch teilweise statistische Grundkenntnisse bei den Nutzenden voraus, die diese Ausarbeitung vermittelt. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Elmessiry, Abdalrahman T1 - implementation and investigation of a distributed robotic chess system N2 - This thesis presents and evaluates a distributed robotic system that successfully integrates a native Windows chess engine (Fritz 19) with a containerized ROS2-based robot control system, operating on a single host computer. The architecture is designed to solve the common challenge of bridging disparate operating systems in real-time robotics. Performance analysis over 35 moves demonstrates the architecture’s high reliability, achieving a 100% success rate in the software pipeline from command generation to execution planning. The study quantifies the system’s primary performance bottleneck, showing that the physical robot movement averaged 22.6 seconds, while the underlying communication latency was negligible at 2.89 ms. This highlights a crucial distinction between computational speed and the challenges of physical manipulation. Compared to existing human-robot chess systems, which typically operate within a single OS or rely heavily on computer vision, this work contributes a validated architectural alternative. Its primary contribution is a single-host framework that integrates a native Windows application with a containerized ROS2 system. This provides a robust solution for developers needing to bridge disparate software ecosystems in real-time robotics and establishes a performance baseline demonstrating that such integration is highly efficient. KW - ROS2 KW - Distributed Systems KW - Containerization KW - Chess Robot. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Malani, Ajaykumar T1 - Development of a Key Performance Indicator Based Method for the Evaluation of Scan Strategies N2 - In the Laser powder bed fusion of metal, the laser beam melts and fuse the powder material to produce the part layer by layer. The scan strategy, which defines the pattern in which the laser moves on the powder bed, affects the mechanical properties, residual stress and quality of the parts. There are many scanning strategies and it is difficult to select the appropriate scanning strategy based on the required quality of the parts. In this thesis, key performance indicators related to scanning strategy are developed, based upon the literature, which can influence the quality of the parts like high density and low surface roughness. The developed KPI is used to evaluate the scanning strategy of printed parts and their results on surface roughness and density. The developed KPIs are integrated into custom software to collect the data for evaluation of scanning strategy. The correlation analysis is also performed to understand the relation between developed KPI and quality of the parts (surface roughness and density). The results shows that developed method can be used for evaluation of the scanning strategy but it needs to be further improved to get more accurate results. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22414 ER - TY - THES A1 - Siddireddy, Pradeep Chand T1 - Energy-Efficient Design of Filament Spooling Machines for Sustainable 3D Printing Workflows. N2 - The Thesis encompasses a comprehensive design framework, incorporating detailed calculations for motor selection, tensioning system design, and guide mechanism optimization. The design prioritizes energy efficiency through the implementation of high-efficiency motors, optimized control algorithms, and energy-saving features. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22408 ER - TY - THES A1 - Heidenreich, Kathrin Lilli T1 - Assessing National Resilience to Hybrid Threats: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of European Countries N2 - Hybrid threats pose a growing challenge to European security, targeting state vulnerabilities through combined military and non-military means. Resilience has become the key strategy to counter these threats, yet little empirical research explains why some countries are more resilient than others. This thesis uses Qualitative Comparative Analysis on 36 European countries to identify which conditions lead to national resilience. Findings show that resilience results from specific combinations of factors: strategic prioritization of hybrid threats, prior exposure to attacks, EU and NATO membership, and the absence of Soviet-era legacies. The study recommends states develop clear strategies, institutionalize learning from past incidents, and strengthen multilateral cooperation. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Ghosh, Anup Kumar T1 - Analyzing individual chickens' life data to predict egg and growth performance N2 - The 2022 ban on killing male chicks, implemented in Germany and France, tackled ethical problems within egg-laying hen farming. Because of this policy, alternative poultry production methods were created to better meet animal welfare guidelines. To meet this challenge, the University of Bonn launched research into dual-purpose chickens, specifically the British Ixworth breed. Integrating male and female chicken farming offers a new, innovative solution to ethical and sustainability issues in traditional farming by combining egg and meat production. The importance of this research for revolutionizing poultry farming cannot be overstated (Becker et al., 2023). A University of Bonn research team is studying this alternative farming method to determine its productivity and viability. To meet industry needs while prioritizing animal welfare, they evaluate dual-purpose chicken potential by analysing egg (number and weight) and meat (weight) yields. This thesis has four sections, exploring different facets of dual-purpose chickens across four generations via diverse statistical and machine learning methods. First, it examines existing research on various facets of analysing and forecasting individual chicken egg and growth data. It further explores Becker et al.’s 2023 study, “The British Ixworth: individual growth and egg production of a purebred dual-purpose chicken.” Moreover, the linear regression, SVR, KNN, and decision tree models were applied to this data for advanced analysis and prediction. The thesis’s second part details the methodology, including requirements analysis and dataset preparation. This thesis's third section details how data from four generations of chicken life were analysed to predict future egg production and individual chicken growth. Across generations, individual chickens' average body weight and egg weight all showed an increase in the results. Predictions from linear regression and decision tree models show an increase in individual chickens' growth across generations to come. Egg production forecasts were better with the KNN model. This research will use advanced statistical methods and machine learning to model and assess the generational performance of dual-purpose chickens. These tools will forecast future egg and meat production, thus giving key insights to enhance breeding programs. This research aims to optimize dual-purpose chicken production for growth and egg-laying performance. The researchers eagerly anticipate the results, which will help to shape their future poultry farming projects. KW - Dual-purpose chickens KW - British Ixworth KW - Poultry farming KW - Machine learning KW - Statistical analysis KW - Predictive modeling KW - Linear regression KW - K-nearest neighbors (KNN) KW - Support Vector KW - Regression (SVR) KW - Decision tree KW - Sustainable agriculture KW - Generational analysis KW - Chicken growth prediction KW - Egg-laying performance KW - Alternative poultry production Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Thissen, Erik T1 - Entwicklung eines prototypischen Tools zur Automatisierung der Erstellung von Linked Open Data aus Open Data Datensätzen N2 - Linked Data has become an increasingly important publication format for structured information. This thesis explores the extent to which the conversion of Open Data into Linked Open Data can be automated and identifies the main challenges and sources of error. The creation of a prototypical tool was used to gain insights into these challenges and sources of error during the conversion to Linked Data. These were then analyzed and solutions to these problems created. The resulting tool was evaluated with different Open Data datasets. The results show that it is able to partially automate the process of converting Open Data to Linked Open Data and that it succeeded in eliminating key barriers, like the necessary programming skills, currently needed to create Linked Data. This prototype contributes towards decreasing the barrier of entry to create Linked Data and indicates that further research could lead towards the fully automatic conversion to RDF. KW - Linked Data KW - Open Data KW - Automation KW - Data Processing KW - RDF Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Olgun, Ismail T1 - Standardisierung der REST-Services in der IT-Landschaft des BLB NRW N2 - Standardisierung der REST-Services in der IT-Landschaft des BLB NRW Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Rademacher, Jens T1 - Evaluierung eines Onboarding-Konzepts im Rettungsdienst mit Handlungskonzeptempfehlung N2 - Der Rettungsdienst in Deutschland steht angesichts steigender Einsatzzahlen, des demographischen Wandels und veränderter Erwartungen an Arbeitgeber:innen vor der zunehmenden Herausforderung ausreichend Fachkräfte zu gewinnen und zu halten. Vor diesem Hintergrund gewinnt Personalmarketing zunehmend an Bedeutung. Der Erstkontakt im Rahmen des Onboardings ist ein entscheidender Faktor, um Integration, Zufriedenheit und langfristige Mitarbeiterbindung zu sichern. Im Rahmen dieser Bachelorarbeit wurde beim Deutschen Roten Kreuz - Kreisverband Neuss e.V. (DRK-Neuss), ein neues Onboarding-Konzept für angehende Rettungssanitäter:innen entwickelt und im Ausbildungszeitraum August bis September 2024 mit 17 neuen Mitarbeitenden erprobt. Ziel war es, das Konzept mithilfe qualitativer Interviews nach Mayring zu evaluieren und Handlungsempfehlungen für eine systematische Einarbeitung im Rettungsdienst abzuleiten. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass insbesondere fehlende Standardisierung, inkonsistente Kommunikation und uneinheitliche Betreuung Schwächen im bisherigen Prozess darstellen. Gleichzeitig wurden positive Ansätze wie die Einführung eines Begrüßungstages und die individuelle Betreuung hervorgehoben. Die Arbeit leitet konkrete Empfehlungen ab, u. a. zur Einführung eines Paten-Systems, strukturierte Checklisten sowie klare Verantwortlichkeiten im Einarbeitungsprozess. Ein durchdachtes Onboarding ist essenziell, um neue Mitarbeitende effektiv einzugliedern und den Rettungsdienst des DRK-Neuss zukunftssicher im Personalbereich aufzustellen. KW - Onboarding KW - Rettungsdienst KW - Evaluation KW - Qualitative Inhaltsanalyse KW - Handlungsempfehlung Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Hadi, Abdul T1 - Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Capital Market Efficiency and Investment Behavior: A Comparative Analysis of Investors in Developed and Emerging Markets N2 - This thesis explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on capital market efficiency and investor behavior, with a comparative lens on developed and emerging markets. It investigates how AI technologies—such as machine learning, robo-advisors, and algorithmic trading—are reshaping investment strategies, reducing behavioral biases, and influencing market dynamics. The study integrates theoretical frameworks, including the Efficient Market Hypothesis, Behavioral Finance, and the Adaptive Markets Hypothesis, to contextualize AI’s role in modern finance. A mixed-methods approach combines literature review, empirical analysis, and survey data from Germany, India, and Pakistan to assess regional disparities in AI adoption, trust, and effectiveness. Findings reveal that while AI enhances decision-making and market efficiency, its benefits are unevenly distributed due to infrastructural, regulatory, and digital literacy gaps. German investors exhibit higher trust and adoption rates, leading to more efficient and diversified investment behavior, whereas emerging markets face barriers such as limited access and awareness. The thesis concludes with policy recommendations to foster inclusive AI integration and outlines future research directions to bridge the digital divide in global financial systems Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22350 ER - TY - THES A1 - Bhatt, Revant Nitin T1 - Characterization and Optimization of Process Parameters for Polycaprolactone-based Medical Scaffolds for a Magnetic Planar Drive-based 3D Printer N2 - This thesis investigates the optimization of process parameters for a Magnetic Planar Drive (MPD)-based 3D printer to fabricate Polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds for medical applications. The study aims to identify an optimal set of parameters that ensures high-dimensional accuracy while maintaining structural integrity. A systematic experimental methodology was adopted, beginning with a full-factorial design to establish baseline parameters for printing temperature (170°C), printing speed (15 mm/s), and nozzle diameter (0.4 mm). A Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was employed to optimize critical parameters, specifically layer height, raster width, and mover levitation height. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) identified layer height as the most dominant factor influencing dimensional accuracy (p < 0.0001), while raster width and mover levitation had lesser effects. The experimental validation of the optimization results revealed discrepancies between the numerically and empirically optimized parameter sets. Although the numerically optimized settings had a theoretically superior accuracy of 98.29%, their practical implementation led to structural failures, specifically the collapse of scaffold bridges. In contrast, the empirically optimized set (layer height: 0.2 mm, raster width: 0.45 mm, mover levitation height: 2.25 mm) consistently achieved a mean dimensional accuracy of 97.14% while maintaining stable printability. The findings demonstrate the potential of MPD-based 3D printing for fabricating medical scaffolds and establishing a validated parameter set. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22330 ER - TY - THES A1 - Müller, Anna T1 - The Dialectic of Enlightenment & Gender Equality : Potentials of Critical Theory for the Re- and Deconstruction of Women's Roles in a Patriarchal Society N2 - This thesis examines the ambivalent nature of a supposedly enlightened society using the tools of Critical Theory. The work employs the dialectical method, drawing on Horkheimer and Adorno’s 'Dialectic of Enlightenment' to analyze the contradictory development of gender relations within a seemingly rational and emancipated modernity. The central thesis posits that the ideals of the Enlightenment—devoted to liberty, reason, and equality—dialectically reverse into their opposites. The focus lies on the social role of women, who experience societal subjugation as a result. Through a historical analysis of Early, High, and Late Enlightenment, two structural concepts are identified that emerge from Enlightenment thought: (1) the categorically dichotomized production of knowledge, and the (2) transition from monarchical to physiocratic bourgeois systems. It is shown how a complementarity of the sexes is legitimized on the basis of categorial-dichotomized knowledge production, which is divided into dichotomized social spheres in the sense of an equal society on the basis of their supposedly natural abilities. This creates a dialectical moment that places women in a seemingly natural, but actually ideologically shaped position of subjugation. The third part of the thesis applies Negative Dialectics to deconstruct prevailing gender relations. It questions the foundations of dichotomous knowledge production and explores the compatibility of feminist theories with Critical Theory. Furthermore, it critically engages with identity politics. The aim is to rethink the concept of “woman” from a dialectical-feminist perspective and to outline possibilities for a more equitable societal order beyond rigid categorical designations. KW - Critical Theory KW - Dialectic of Enlightenment KW - Intersectionality KW - Negative Dialectics Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22319 ER - TY - THES A1 - Moncada Torres, Valentina Bernardita T1 - Identifying Policy Opportunities for the Costa Rican Cocoa Market: A Comparative Analysis with the Dominican Republic N2 - Cocoa is a crop native to Costa Rica that once thrived as one of the country’s principal exports. Its decline began in the late 1970s following severe disease outbreaks and has been further affected by a lack of sustained institutional support. This thesis presents a comparative analysis of the cocoa sectors in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic due to the latter’s good positioning in the global cocoa market. It aims to identify policy opportunities that could support the revitalization of Costa Rican cocoa production. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders across both countries and thematically analysed according to six key areas: general characteristics, exports and market access, labour conditions, public policy and framework, support framework, and growth potential. Findings suggest that the Dominican Republic’s success is due to continued governmental prioritization and support, alongside the presence of strong producer associations that facilitate access to post-harvest infrastructure, international markets, and organic certification. In contrast, Costa Rica’s sector remains fragmented, with limited coordination, restricted market access, and minimal governmental support. Nonetheless, recent increases in global cocoa prices and renewed institutional interest have created favourable conditions for reactivating and strengthening the sector. This study highlights the need for strengthened producer organization and culturally grounded support for Indigenous cocoa producers. The broader aim of the study is to enable producers to improve their quality of life through increased profitability. KW - Cocoa production KW - Costa Rica KW - Dominican Republic KW - Comparative study KW - Agricultural Policy KW - Market Access KW - Producer Support Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22308 ER - TY - THES A1 - Malani, Ajaykumar Jayasukhbhai T1 - Development of a Key Performance Indicator Based Method for the Evaluation of Scan Strategies N2 - In the Laser powder bed fusion of metal, the laser beam melts and fuse the powder material to produce the part layer by layer. The scan strategy, which defines the pattern in which the laser moves on the powder bed, affects the mechanical properties, residual stress and quality of the parts. There are many scanning strategies and it is difficult to select the appropriate scanning strategy based on the required quality of the parts. In this thesis, key performance indicators related to scanning strategy are developed, based upon the literature, which can influence the quality of the parts like high density and low surface roughness. The developed KPI is used to evaluate the scanning strategy of printed parts and their results on surface roughness and density. The developed KPIs are integrated into custom software to collect the data for evaluation of scanning strategy. The correlation analysis is also performed to understand the relation between developed KPI and quality of the parts (surface roughness and density). The results shows that developed method can be used for evaluation of the scanning strategy but it needs to be further improved to get more accurate results. KW - Additive manufacturing KW - Laser Powder Bed Fusion process KW - LPBF KW - Scanning strategy KW - Effect of scanning strategy KW - Scan vector length KW - Overlap KW - Scan vector direction KW - KPI Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22293 ER - TY - THES A1 - Stolbova, Kristina T1 - What is the impact of the level of democracy on voter turnout among youth? N2 - In the last decades, two disturbing trends have been developing simultaneously: a declining state of democracy worldwide and a growing electoral disengagement of youth (18-24 years old). The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between the level of democracy and youth voter turnout. Gathering secondary data from publicly available data sets and reports (the CSES, Afrobarometer, and the Economist Intelligence Unit), I conduct six correlation analyses between the level of democracy (and its components) and voter turnout among youth. As a result, I find a significant positive association between the level of democracy and youth turnout. Among the components of democracy, functioning of government demonstrates the most significant positive correlation with electoral participation among youth. I conclude that autocratisation could serve as an explanans of youth growing abstention from voting. At the same time, this suggests a potential for the level of democracy to boost the electoral behaviour of youth by influencing the functioning of government. While further research is needed to establish the causal relationship, this study lays a relevant foundation for it. KW - Youth voter turnout KW - Level of democracy KW - Correlation analysis Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Nguyen, Minh Duy T1 - Development of an arduino-controlled smart storage rack for component reels using MQTT and RS485 communication protocols N2 - This thesis represents the development of an innovative storage rack system designed to manage electronic component reels in the manufacturing environment efficiently. The system integrates multiple custom-designed PCBs equipped with many LEDs and sensors, each assigned to individual storage slots. Each storage slot is equipped with an LED and an infrared (IR) sensor. The sensors detect the presence of reels, while the LEDs provide visual guidance for storing or locating specific reels. To manage multiple sensors efficiently, a multiplexing method is used, allowing each Arduino Pro Mini to control up to 16 sensors with fewer pins. Multiple Arduino Pro Mini microcontrollers are deployed across different rack sections and communicate with a central master controller using the RS485 protocol. The master controller, based on an ESP32, connects to an MQTT broker to send and receive data from a storage management system. Users interact with the system through a web interface. When storing a reel, the user scans it into the online system, which then activates an LED to indicate the appropriate storage slot. When retrieving a reel, the system highlights its location via the corresponding LED. Sensors are used to confirm the presence or absence of reels within the slots ensuring accurate tracking of stored items in real time. The system is modular and scalable. In this thesis, the prototype demonstrates two levels of storage racks, each independently controlled and networked, validating the communication between multiple slave units and a master. Additionally, because of the different sizes of the reel, the design includes removable metal dividers between slots. When storing larger reels, dividers can be removed, and this change is also updated via MQTT to the online system. Power is supplied through a 5V, 30A power supply, ensuring stable operation of all electronic components. Overall, the results confirm that the system achieves reliable performance in both hardware and communication aspects, offering a practical and scalable solution for modern electronic component inventory management. KW - Smart Storage Rack MQTT RS485 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22237 ER - TY - GEN A1 - Dobariya, Binal A1 - Bockmühl, Dirk P. T1 - Comparative analysis of microbial community on apricot kernel shells and walnut shells influenced by post-harvest conditions. N2 - Apricot kernel shells (AKS) and walnut shells (WS) are byproducts from fruit processing lines and may serve as sustainable alternatives to microplastics in industrial applications due to their high content of natural polymers such as cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Their use necessitates understanding the associated microbial risks to secure the quality of raw materials. This study investigates microbial communities on AKS and WS collected from Kyrgyzstan over a three-year period of harvests (2022-2024), using culture-dependent total viable count (TVC) as well as culture-independent shotgun metagenomic sequencing to explore the taxonomic and functional profile of microorganisms present on the shells. Results indicated higher microbial loads in more recent harvests with a dominance of Proteobacteria on WS comprising Pantonea agglomerans and Xanthomonas arboricola. On AKS, the phylum Firmicutes was prevalent emphasizing on Weissella confusa and Weissella cibaria. Incubation at humid conditions increased the fungal diversity in particular, especially Rhizopus microsporus in WS and Pichia membranifaciens in AKS, highlighting storage humidity as a critical factor which may induce microbial shifts. Functional metagenomic profiling based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway database, highlighted metabolic and relational pathways of microbial community present on AKS and WS. Furthermore, microbial similarities between shell samples and their respective storage environments suggest that handling and storage practices may significantly affect contamination profiles. KW - Walnut shells, Apricot kernel shells, Alternatives to microplastics, Cosmetics, Microbial communities Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22214 ER - TY - THES A1 - Regmi, Khem Raj T1 - Interactive Visualisation Tool for Teaching Environmental Data: A Guideline of how to set up the tool taking user feedback into account N2 - This thesis will study the creation of an interactive data visualization tool for environmental dataset that concentrates specifically on Nitrate concentrations in groundwater. This project is intended to create a tool for exploratory/experiential learning - one that allows learners to investigate regional data and pursue genuine learning opportunities. The plan is to use regional data in a specific user journey to create this interactive learning experience. The project uses open environmental data: Hygris dataset of LANUV(Landesamt für Natur, Umwelt und Verbraucherschutz) related to the regions Kleve and Wesel in Germany, and realizes this with help of python programming language and python streamlit framework, web development tools and data visualization libraries (pandas , plotly.express, streamlite.components.v1). This study explores tailored visualization strategies that address key challenges such as the inherent complexity of environmental datasets and the need for more engaging and comprehensible educational tools. These strategies include deploying interactive visualizations that allow hands-on data exploration, and temporal visualizations. The role of user feedback in refining educational tools for teaching environmental data is examined, particularly in designing effective visualization techniques like line char, bar chart, bubble chart, pie chart, scatter plot and intensity graph for representing groundwater nitrate concentrations. The impact of different visualization techniques on the understanding and interpretation of open environmental data among educators and students is analyzed, with an emphasis on the spatial distribution of groundwater nitrate concentrations over time. This approach aims to increase user engagement and deepen understanding of environmental data, facilitating a more profound embedding of information within learners' cognitive processes. KW - Interactive data visualization KW - Data representation KW - Environmental data KW - Nitrate concentration KW - Groundwater KW - Open data KW - User feedback KW - Education KW - Data accessibility KW - Data inclusivity KW - Educational tools KW - Digital teaching Y1 - 2024 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21594 ER - TY - THES A1 - Chng, Ci Ern Katelyn T1 - Effects of Sewage Sludge Biochar as a Growing Media Component and Phosphate Fertiliser on the Cultivation of Potted Ornamental Plants N2 - There is increasing pressure from the German government on its citizens to reduce dependency on phosphate rock and peat, in agriculture and horticulture. This is due to the phosphate rock oligopoly with associated political instabilities, and the environmental consequences of peat harvesting. Past studies on soilless crop cultivation have shown promising outcomes for the phosphorus (P)-rich sewage sludge biochar (SSB) as an answer to these issues. However, SSB remains as one of the least studied biochar types in soilless ornamental cultivation. The objectives of this study were to investigate the viability of SSB as a P fertiliser and growing media component in pot cultivation of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) and poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima). The addition of SSB at a 10% (v/v) rate to coco peat (SSB 10) was determined as the best composition. Although it did not outperform the control, SSB 10 plants were not significantly lower than the control plants in height, dry aboveground biomass, and number of poinsettia stems across all three species – except in poinsettia biomass. Other rates (5%, 15%, 20%) had significantly lower values in more than one parameter. Physicochemical characterisation also revealed increased P with increasing SSB rates in the growing media. Contrary to other studies, the pH of all growing media did not exceed ideal growing media pH values (5.3-6.5), further solidifying SSB’s viability as a growing media component. The reliability of our results could be improved by recording water uptake of the media, and selection of species with quantifiable aesthetics. KW - Biochar KW - P recovery KW - Sewage sludge KW - Pyrolysis KW - Ornamentals KW - Substrate KW - Growing media KW - Peat reduction Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22189 ER - TY - THES A1 - Rigotti, Roberta T1 - Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and climate change: Assessing the potential in German agriculture with insights from Italian practices N2 - Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) is a crop loved in the Mediterranean, particularly in Italy, where it has a long tradition holding both cultural and economic value. It has many different uses, from fresh consumption to medicinal use and potential in the energy and cheese-making industry. In northern European countries, such as Germany, artichoke cultivation has not been largely present up until now, mostly due to climate limitations, like very cold winters. However, climate change may offer new opportunities for its introduction. This study wants to assess the viability and potential of artichoke cultivation in Germany under current and future climate conditions, with the support of climate reports and literature sources. Past German trials, together with insights from the Italian artichoke cultivation, are integrated into the analysis to offer a better understanding of potential practices and implications for a future cultivation of the crop in Germany. The study concludes that winter cultivation is unfeasible without proper winter protection practices or the development of reliable frost-resistant varieties. However, annual cultivation with harvest within the same season represents a promising option in most German states. Locally grown artichokes could translate into economic and environmental advantages by answering the increasing interest in fresh, healthy, and regionally sourced products. It would also presents an opportunity for diversifying agricultural production in response to climate change and shifting market demands while also filling a gap in the artichoke offer on the market. KW - Artichoke KW - Cynara scolymus KW - Climate change KW - Climate adaptation KW - Agriculture in Germany KW - Agriculture in Italy KW - Crop cultivation KW - Cultivation potential KW - Sustainable agriculture KW - Carciofo KW - RCP Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22178 ER - TY - THES A1 - Yankouski, Matsvei T1 - Simulation of Satellite Flares and their Impact on Ground-Based Observations N2 - With a growing number of satellites on Low Earth Orbit (LEO) the problem of light pollution arises, which is caused by the light reflected from satellite modules and directed to the ground-based observatories. This phenomenon is called satellite “flares” or “glints”. The goal of this work is to create a physical simulation model, which can recreate the conditions when the satellite flare is visible. The model is made in Python and uses a simplified geometry of reflection, orbit, solar panel parameters, and real-time TLE data. With the developed model it is possible to evaluate a variety of scenarios: single satellite, constellation and global maps of flare distribution with the given parameters. The simulation model allows for analysing the distribution of flares of time and space and checking the effectiveness of technical and legal norms. In the flow of the work numerical simulations are performed, heat maps are created, analysis and comparison with real data are made. The obtained results demonstrate the potential of this model as an instrument for planning and scheduling observations, developing less bright satellites and creating policy measures to decrease light pollution of the night sky. The results of this thesis are fundamental for expanding the model and integrating real data of all satellites. KW - Satellite flares KW - Light pollution KW - Astronomical observations KW - Satellite simulation KW - Satellite constellation KW - Specular reflection KW - Python modelling KW - Observation impact. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22166 ER - TY - GEN A1 - Kudla, Matthias A1 - Tewes, Thomas A1 - Gibbin-Lameira, Emma A1 - Harcq, Laurence A1 - Bockmühl, Dirk T1 - Unlocking the Power of Short Cycles: Enhancing Hygiene in Domestic Dishwashers N2 - This study investigated how factors associated with Sinner’s principle—namely temperature, time and the chemical composition of detergents—affected the antimicrobial efficacy of domestic dishwashers, particularly during short cycles. We chose a range of bacterial strains, including standard test strains such as Micrococcus luteus and Enterococcus faecium, as well as important foodborne pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella Typhimurium. To account for the complexity of dishwasher cycles, we correlated hygiene efficacy with area under the curve (AUC) measurements derived from the respective cycle profiles. Our findings revealed that the reductions in M. luteus and E. faecium were minimally affected by the reference detergent. In contrast, a high-tier market detergent demonstrated a significant decrease in bacterial counts. Notably, both strains exhibited reduced efficacy at a main cycle temperature of 45 °C, suggesting that temperatures below 50 °C might represent a critical threshold at which the hygiene efficacy of domestic dishwashing processes declines. However, since food-related pathogens were more susceptible to the dishwashing process, even lower temperatures might deliver a sufficient level of hygiene. Plotting the logarithmic reduction/AUC ratio against the AUC indicated that the main cycle contributed approximately 10-fold more to microbial reduction than the rinse cycle. Furthermore, the antimicrobial impact of detergents was greatest at the lowest AUC values (i.e. during short cycles). Taken together, our results suggest that the main wash temperature, the type of detergent, and the specific strain tested all impact bacterial hygiene performance. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22153 ER - TY - THES A1 - Pogrebnyak, Anna T1 - Application of the Ant Colony Algorithm for solving routing optimization problem in logistics N2 - In logistics there are different options of how the Traveling Salesman Problem can be solved. For that purpose, the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) may be used. In the thesis, the method is implemented in order to solve the routing optimization problem. In that case, the mathematical application is observed and analyzed. ACO parameters that affecting the working principles were researched in the thesis with the corresponding graphical representation. Based on the theoretical logic the Java language program is written for the purpose of realizing the ACO algorithm. In order to grade the effectiveness of the obtained results the additional model the Greedy method was applied. The developed program tool demonstrates the practical applications and a solution of the routing problem based on the real data in Wesel region. The thesis is focused on the route length optimization and cost reduction in terms of ACO implementation. KW - Ant Colony Optimization KW - Traveling Salesman Problem KW - Routing problem KW - Cost reduction KW - Route length optimization KW - Java software program Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22135 ER - TY - THES A1 - Torabizadeh, Mohammad T1 - Evaluating Tool Support for User-Centric Requirements Engineering in Software Development: A Jira-Based Approach N2 - User requirements are important for a successful software development process, yet their effective integration throughout the development lifecycle remains challenging. This study evaluates requirements engineering (RE) tools and addresses the gap in the requirements engineering process and the systematic integration of user requirements into development processes. After literature review and expert evaluations, a framework was established for the evaluation of RE tools across key dimensions. This evaluation revealed significant limitations in requirements management and analysis capabilities. A Jira-based prototype was developed using Atlassian Forge, consisting of an Issue Panel for requirement-to-issue linkage and a Global Page for the rest of the requirement engineering process, with its main goal being to integrate user requirements in the software development lifecycle. Testing with 16 participants proved high satisfaction (mean of 4.382/5) and effectiveness in integrating requirements into development workflows (mean of 4.438/5). The study also provides areas for future improvements, useful for the future work to be done in the field. KW - Usability engineering KW - Requirement engineering KW - Jira KW - User requirements Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - RPRT T1 - One Mission. Mission Statement (Version 1) N2 - Das Mission Statement der Arbeitsgruppe 04, „One Mission“, zum Hochschulentwicklungsplan (HEP) 2026–2030 der Hochschule Rhein-Waal leistet dreierlei: Erstens erfolgt eine Definition der „One Mission“ als Interpretation der Einheit von Studium, Lehre, Forschung und Transfer, dadurch versteht sich „One Mission“ auch als Beitrag zum Humboldt'schen Bildungsideal. Zweitens wird die Vision für die angestrebte Zielerreichung im Jahr 2030 beschrieben, wobei die „One-Mission“-Profilierung in Kombination mit weiteren identitären Eckpfeilern der Hochschule (Regionalität und Internationalität, Diversität und Nachhaltigkeitstransformation) als Alleinstellungsmerkmale projektiert wird. Drittens werden Gelingensbedingungen für „One-Mission“-Vorhaben in verschiedenen Skalierungen (vom Ad-hoc-Projekt bis zum transdisziplinären Studiengang) und Statusgruppen (Studierende, Lehrende, Forschende, Mitarbeitende) vorgeschlagen. Die fortlaufende Ergänzung und kontinuierliche Infragestellung der Inhalte, insbesondere der Gelingensbedingungen, ist dabei als work in progress ausdrücklich gewünscht. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22108 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 14/2025 Vierte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Economics and Finance der Fakultät Gesellschaft und Ökonomie vom 24.03.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-14 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22119 VL - 2025 IS - 14 ER -