Earthquake-Resistant Industrial Wooden Housing in Turkey
Anastasiia Plekhanova
Kocaeli University, (Türkiye)
Nevnihal Erdoğan
Kocaeli University, (Türkiye)
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-01
Abstract. Since the 1500s, Turkey has experienced over twenty earthquakes exceeding magnitude 7.0. The 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake, affecting 11 provinces and causing tens of thousands of deaths, stands as one of the century’s most devastating disasters. This tragedy renewed attention to the seismic resistance of building structures and materials. Wood, with its lightweight, flexible, and durable nature, offers strong potential for safe housing in seismic regions. Integrating industrial timber with modern construction techniques enables earthquake-resistant, sustainable, and environmentally responsible housing solutions. This study examines the technical properties of industrial timber and explores its application in contemporary residential systems, highlighting the first industrial timber housing project implemented in a seismic region of Turkey. By providing both theoretical insights and practical examples, it aims to support the wider adoption of timber construction and contribute to resilient, sustainable housing development in earthquake-prone regions.
Keywords: Wooden Housing, Earthquake Zone, Industrial Wood, Industrial Wood Production
Driving Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Engineering: Insights from the Triangle Eit Hei Project
Genta Rexha
Polytechnic University of Tirana, (Albania)
Kejda Nuhu
Universiteti Barleti, (Albania)
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-02
Abstract. Innovation and entrepreneurship are increasingly vital in engineering education and practice, driven by global challenges and rapid technological change. This paper examines the contribution of the TRIANGLE EIT HEI project, an interdisciplinary initiative designed to foster entrepreneurial mindsets and innovation capacity in higher education institutions within its partner countries (Albania, Greece, Cyprus, and Spain). While TRIANGLE is not limited to a specific discipline, evidence shows that many participating startups operate in IT and engineering domains, making its outputs especially relevant for technological and engineering contexts. By integrating real-world co-creation environments, interdisciplinary collaboration, digital and green skills training, and an AI-powered participation platform, TRIANGLE contributes to building inclusive innovation ecosystems that support students, academics, and entrepreneurs. These outcomes are of particular value for engineering, where the ability to combine technical expertise with entrepreneurial competences is essential for addressing complex societal and technological challenges.
Keywords: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Engineering, Digital Transformation, TRIANGLE Project
Analysis of TolAnalyst Functionality
Petar Goranov
Technical University of Sofia
Desislava Georgieva
Technical University of Sofia
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-03
Abstract. TolAnalyst is a SolidWorks extension for stack-up calculation and analysis of geometric accuracy of an assembly. This work attempts to outline its functionality in terms of the scope of tasks solved and the accuracy of the results. This is done by examining numerous examples that demonstrate the capabilities of TolAnalyst.
Keywords: geometric accuracy; stack-up analysis; SolidWorks; TolAnalyst; DimExpert
About a Document Management System for Small Business
Petar Goranov
Technical University of Sofia
Desislava Georgieva
Technical University of Sofia
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-04
Abstract. Effective work with documents presupposes the presence of a computerized system for their management. Here we consider a universal system that links document management with production and sales management. An analysis of the required functionality is made and a possible structure is proposed.
Keywords: BOM; document management; structure of document management system
Additive Manufacturing and Prospects for its Future Development
Elena Todorova
Technical University of Sofia
Mariana Mitova
Technical University of Sofia
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-05
Abstract. In recent decades, additive manufacturing (AM) has established itself as a key technology of growing importance across various industrial sectors. This paper examines the main applications of AM and outlines several directions for its future development - the expansion of the range of materials used, technological innovations and hybrid systems, integration with Industry 4.0, sustainability, and the circular economy. The limitations and challenges associated with the advancement of AM are also identified.
Keywords: additive manufacturing, 3D printing, Industry 4.0, digitalization, sustainable development
Prevention for Health and Safety at Work in the Company
Irena Nikolova
Technical University of Sofia
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-06
Abstract. This publication is dedicated to ensuring prevention of health and safety at work in a company. To achieve the goal as much as possible, the company needs to build and implement a health and safety management system at work. The main procedure of the system is the procedure for prevention of health and safety at work.
The publication defines and develops the main elements that will ensure prevention of health and safety at work in the company. These are: a register of regulatory acts for ensuring health and safety at work in the company; awareness of personnel about risks; identification and assessment of risks; health care for personnel; briefings and training; use of personal protective equipment; occupational accidents and injuries.
Conclusions have been drawn about ensuring prevention for health and safety at work in a company.
Keywords: prevention; occupational health and safety; risks; briefings and trainings
Metrological Examination of Flow Meter Type IRM 3 DUO
Desislava Koleva,
Marieta Yancheva-Popova,
Vasil Penchev
Technical University of Sofia
Viktor Arsov
University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy – Sofia (Bulgaria)
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-07
Abstract. This report presents a metrological examination of the stability of a rotary flow meter type IRM 3 DUO to prove its metrological traceability and its use as a working standard. The examination was carried out in the period between two consecutive calibrations, analyzing the results of the relative error of the flow meter, in order to confirm the stability during operation. The study is performed with a test bench with reference rotary flow meters, type ITF 2500-1-A.
Keywords: research; standards; stability; gas flow meter
Technical Features of Urgent and Preliminary Investigative Measures in the Road Traffic Accidents Investigation
Vasil Penchev,
Marieta Yancheva-Popova,
Desislava Koleva
Technical university – Sofia (Bulgaria)
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-08
Abstract. Road traffic accidents are incidents that result in both material and non-material damages. Depending on the nature and extent of the harm caused to individuals and property, it is necessary to undertake various procedural and urgent investigative measures. These actions are carried out by the competent investigative authorities and are governed by legal provisions set forth in the Criminal Procedure Code. In cases specified by the applicable legal framework, a scene inspection is carried out, along with the documentation of key findings located at the site of the specific incident. These findings – their nature, location, and mutual positioning – often serve as initial data for the subsequent technical and forensic analysis of the event. In this context, the importance of these actions is undeniable, and their proper execution is, to a large extent, a prerequisite for an adequate and accurate analysis of the incident.
Keywords: Road Traffic Accident; Investigation; Immediate and Initial Investigative Procedures
Methodology for Analysis of a Road Accident in the Conditions of Limited Output Information
Vasil Penchev,
Marieta Yancheva-Popova,
Desislava Koleva
Technical university – Sofia (Bulgaria)
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-09
Abstract. Often in judicial practice, especially in civil proceedings, it is necessary to appoint an auto-technical expert, who must work with materials with very limited informativeness regarding the participants, the place of occurrence of the event, the mechanism of its occurrence. The questions posed to the expert are most often related to the mechanism of occurrence of the event and the reasons for its occurrence. In such cases, it is very difficult for the autoexpert to prepare the expert opinion based on objective data available in the case and after subjecting them to engineering and technical analysis. In such cases, the conclusions often cannot be unambiguous and would always be subject to doubt as to their veracity.
Keywords: Road Traffic Accident; Expertise; Limited Source Information
Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for Optimizing the Occupational Risk Assessment Process
Efstathios Titopoulos,
Boryana Ilieva,
Georgi Stanchev
Technical university – Sofia (Bulgaria)
Filostratos Titopulos
American University in Bulgaria
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-10
Abstract. Occupational risk assessment is a crucial component of the occupational safety and health (OSH) management system. Traditional methods, although well-established, are often characterized by a certain level of subjectivity, limited objectivity and take up significant time and resources. In this context, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) represents a significant innovation with the potential to optimize the process through automated collection, analysis and interpretation of data on working conditions, technological risks and the human factor.
This study aims to explore the possibilities for integrating AI into the occupational risk assessment process in the context of national legislation and good European and international practices. The basic algorithms and machine learning models applicable to the identification, classification and prediction of risk factors are analysed. Practical examples are presented from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU – OSHA), the International Labour Organization (ILO) and leading private organizations implementing AI in their risk management systems.
The results of the analysis highlight the potential of AI to increase the efficiency, accuracy and preventive nature of risk assessment, while highlighting the challenges related to ethical aspects, data protection and the need to increase the digital competences of OSH professionals.
Keywords: risk assessment; machine learning; digital transformation
Study of Waste Requirements in the Textile Industry
Rositsa Dimitrova
Boryana Ilieva–Mihaylova,
Georgi Stanchev
Technical University of Sofia
https://doi.org/10.53656/voc25-5-6-11
Abstract. The textile industry is among the sectors with the highest level of carbon emissions, due to high energy consumption, use of chemicals, transport and production of huge volumes of waste. Directive 2008/98/EC, known as the Waste Framework Directive, is the main European act that sets the principles and requirements for waste management, including textiles. From 2025, this directive places the textile sector under a strict regulatory regime. The main emphasis is on separate collection, extended producer responsibility and the promotion of a circular economy through reuse and recycling. For the textile industry, this means the need for rapid adaptation to the new rules and investments in sustainable models of production and waste management. As of October 2025, Bulgarian legislation lacks clear mechanisms for implementing the requirements.
Keywords: textile industry; carbon footprint; Directive 2008/98/EC; Directive 2009/125/EC; Waste Management Act
