Internship: Making airport container positioning for a robot setup smarter

Job TitleInternship: Making airport container positioning for a robot setup smarterJob DescriptionAssignment type: InternshipStart date: February 2027Assignment duration: 6 monthsLocation: VeghelEducation level: Bachelor / MasterDesired study: mechatronics, mechanical engineering, industrial automation, systems & controlLanguage: Dutch / EnglishDescription of assignmentAirports are fast-paced, dynamic environments where every minute counts and operational movements directly impact capacity, safety, and efficiency. At Vanderlande, we develop advanced robotic solutions to automate airport baggage and container handling. However, before a robot can process airplane containers, incoming container trains ("dolly trains") must be positioned accurately, and the system must reliably detect what type of equipment has arrived.In this hands-on internship, you will investigate how our robotic loading setups can better handle diverse dolly train configurations ranging from single-dolly setups to mixed-type trains. You will explore smart detection concepts to help the system distinguish between tractors and container types, evaluate whether driver input can be eliminated through automated sensing, and test your scenarios on a real test setup or via computer simulations. Your insights will directly shape requirements for future airport automation solutions.Department descriptionYou will join the Robotics Airports team within Vanderlande's Technology organization, where we design innovative automation concepts for modern airport baggage operations.Our team works on cutting-edge robotics and smart airport logistics, collaborating closely with experts in software, controls, mechanics, safety, and international customer projects.Tasks/responsibilitiesAnalyze various dolly train configurations and operational flows used in airport container handlingInvestigate smart detection methods to recognize train composition and differentiate between tractors and container typesEvaluate whether driver input can be minimized or replaced through intelligent sensing and process designTest and validate proposed scenarios using computer simulations or hands-on testing on a physical setupTranslate research findings into clear requirements, process flows, and recommendations for future development Your profileCurious and analytical mindset with a strong interest in robotics, automation, and logistics systemsAbility to structure complex operational challenges into clear process flows and practical scenariosStrong communication skills to gather input and validate assumptions with engineers and stakeholdersProactive attitude and eagerness to combine desk research with hands-on testing activities*Mandatory enrolment to a Dutch Education System & resident of The NetherlandsWhat we offerA monthly internship allowance (based on a 40-hour work week):Bachelor: €500 per monthMaster: €550 per monthFull commuting allowance, including public transport, depending on whether you have access to free public transport or notOn-site health center with gymActive employee communities and initiativesExcellent company restaurant and barista coffee barContactDo you recognize yourself in this challenging profile? Are you looking for an internship in our organization? Please fill out the application form and upload your resume and cover letter. For more information, contact us by e-mail: internship@vanderlande.com.