KCI Konecranes, the world's leading manufacturer of overhead lifting solutions, is engaged in extensive cooperation with TUT both in education and research.
"A good dialogue has developed between us – we understand each other and know what each party wants. For the University, it’s important that research has a scientific aspect. For our part as a company, we want everything we engage in to forward our business," describes President & CEO of KCI Konecranes Stig Gustavson.
TUT participates in the company’s development projects, e.g. by conducting various test runs, strength analyses and research on material characteristics. In Gustavson’s view, research leading to Master's theses is a significant form of cooperation.
“Through Master’s theses, the University’s theoretical perspective is combined with the practical R&D of industry. Master’s theses also provide a bridge for students to cross over from the university to industry. For us it’s important that MSc graduates possess the basic tools required in a rapidly developing international corporate environment. Our future employees need a solid theoretical foundation and international research experience.”
At the Institute of Machine Design, Master’s theses are composed for KCI Konecranes in areas such as 3D design and product platforms.
"For the institute, KCI Konecranes is a significant partner in many research initiatives. One such initiative has been Konsta, a part of the Rapid programme on product configuration development by the Finnish Agency of Technology and Innovation (Tekes). The company has also participated, for instance, in software procurement," says Director of the Institute of Machine Design, Professor Asko Riitahuhta.