ABOUT VAN DIJK FEM ENGINEERING
Van Dijk FEM Engineering, led by Ronald Van Dijk, is a seasoned player in the world of finite element simulations and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Their bread and butter? Delivering detailed structural analyses for everything from inland ships to offshore constructions, primarily serving the marine industry. With operations spanning the Netherlands, UK, and Ukraine, Ronald and his team have carved out a niche for themselves, offering critical insights that keep ships and offshore structures safe and sound.
THE CHALLENGE
In 2018, Ronald had an idea that would push his company beyond their usual services: creating the Universal Aquatic Drone (UAD Uni1.0). This wasn’t just any drone—it was designed for underwater photography, videography, and water quality research. The potential market was broad, targeting waterboards, port authorities, and diving companies, among others. But there was a major hurdle: How do you make a drone that’s not only durable and waterproof but also easy to transport and modify?
THE SOLUTION
Enter Peli cases. If you know anything about protective cases, you know Peli’s reputation is unmatched. Ronald and his team decided to incorporate Peli Protector cases directly into the drone's design. Why Peli? Because these cases ticked all the boxes: rugged, waterproof, available in multiple sizes and colours, and, most importantly, modular—exactly what the UAD-Uni-1.0 needed.
The team opted for Peli 1150 and 1400 cases. These weren’t just add-ons; they became an integral part of the drone. The 1150 cases housed the batteries, while the 1400 case protected the electronics at the drone’s core. This setup wasn’t just about protection—it was about making the drone easy to repair and upgrade, something potential users would value.
THE RESULTS
FINAL THOUGHTS
Van Dijk FEM Engineering’s experience shows how the right choice in materials—in this case, Peli cases—can make all the difference. By incorporating these protective cases into the heart of their aquatic drone, Ronald’s team didn’t just meet their design goals—they exceeded them, creating a product that’s not only functional but also instils confidence in every user. And in a market as competitive as this one, that’s a game-changer.
To find out more about Ronald’s UAD-Uni1.0 visit VanDijkAqua.nl.
To find out more about how you can incorporate Peli cases in the design for your product, visit www.Peli.com.
