The article presents the simulation model and simulation experiments aimed at the rationalisation of bottle necks in operations in terms of the capacity utilisation of the material handling equipment, in particular, six conveyance lines. The models and experiments were designed in the Tecnomatix simulation environment which facilitates the modelling of even more complex systems. The simulation model visualises the material flow within the production process comprising individual technological operations and workplaces. The model was used to perform simulation experiments with adjusted production times and added or removed workplaces. The presented article also contains the graphs of the utilised capacity of the machinery and operators. The obtained experimental results suggesting the partial or complete elimination of the accumulation of unfinished products.

The paper presents the results of strain measurement using two methods: videoextensometry (ME46) and digital image correlation (DIC)-ARAMIS. ME46 - allows measuring and monitoring the major and minor strain on a planar surface of a loaded object [1]. Experimental equipment uses a CCD camera for monitoring the process. The software calculates the displacements of contrast dots and subsequently the strain components are obtained. Another method for non-contact measurements is DIC technique; the measurements are done using three-dimensional image correlation system. The system uses two digital high-speed cameras providing a synchronized stereo view of the specimen where speckles are arranged on the surface. The results show the complete strain field during the tests, including details of the strain field when necking develops prior to the failure [2]. Experimental results obtained on ultra high strength automotive steels DP 1000 and 1400M grades during static tensile test are presented in the paper. The outputs of both are deformation maps. Advantages and disadvantages of both methods are compared.

This paper investigates rubber composites subjected to impact loading. One of the objectives was to determine the effect of the support system on the impact force value. Another objective was to identify the correlations between the force characteristics of the impact process, i.e., between the impact force and the tensile force. The identified correlations between the impact process characteristics have been subjected to regression analyses, and their outputs were regression models describing the dynamic stress of rubber composites during the testing of their impact resistance. At dynamic loading, the key factor was the support system, which eliminates the force effects of the falling material that damages the rubber composite, in particular a conveyor belt, and may even lead to the loss if its functionality. In real operations, conveyor belts are stressed by the impact of the transported material onto the belt surface at sites where the conveyor is filled or at chutes, and this often results in belt damage. In many cases, such a belt is no longer usable, and significant financial loss is therefore incurred due to the need for replacement of the damaged belt and due to consequent downtimes.