Search results

The purpose of this study is to systematically investigate the novel phenomenon of rail corrugation on small radius curves with rail joints in mountainous city metros, characterized by the coexistence of short and long wavelengths (30–40 mm and 150–200 mm) on the low rail.

The finite element model of the wheel-rail system in the section with rail joint is constructed based on field surveys. The friction-coupled vibration characteristics of the wheel-rail system are studied from the perspective of friction self-excited vibration of the wheel-rail system and feedback vibration of the rail irregularity.

The rail corrugation with short wavelength is primarily induced by the friction self-excited vibration of wheel-rail system. In contrast, the rail corrugation with long wavelength is predominantly caused by the feedback vibration of rail joint irregularity. Additionally, the feedback vibration of corrugated irregularity accelerates the progression of corrugation depth without triggering the emergence of rail corrugation with new wavelength.

The research advances the understanding of the vibration inducement behind rail corrugation in mountainous city metros.

The construction industry has been investigating “where Henry Ford is in the industry system.” Given that listed construction enterprises are the backbone of the promotion of the high-quality development of the industry, their research and innovation are of considerable importance. This study aims to comprehensively assess the research and development (R&D) status quo and trends within various types of construction enterprises in order to identify effective strategies to enhance R&D efficiency in the construction industry.

Based on the data won from annual reports and the CSMAR database for the period 2016–2020, this study examines 104 listed construction enterprises in China. By applying both the data envelopment analysis (DEA) method and the Malmquist productivity index, this research compares and analyzes the static and dynamic differences in R&D efficiency across different types of construction enterprises.

Results suggest that the magnitude of change in the Malmquist decomposition index of 104 listed construction enterprises gradually narrowed, but the comprehensive technological level remained relatively low. Although state-owned enterprises had an advantage in scale efficiency, meaning they could maximize output with given inputs, their technological progress efficiency, also known as the degree of technological innovation, was significantly lower than that of private enterprises. As one finding, state-owned enterprises in comparison with private enterprises experience significant R&D inefficiency. It represents the main cause of their low degree of technological innovation and efficiency.

This study assesses the R&D efficiency of listed construction enterprises in China from the perspective of different market segments, state-owned and private enterprises and suggests approaches to improve strategies for various corporate types. Thus, the study’s new findings contribute to addressing the challenge of low R&D levels in the construction industry in the fields of engineering, construction and architectural management.

Axleboxes are an important structure that connects the wheelset with the bogie frame. Inside axlebox bogies have lower wheelset yaw angle stiffness and better curve-passing performance. The purpose of this paper to study the differences in the wear evolution law and the influencing factors of the two types of metro vehicles.

This paper established the dynamic model and wear model of both outside axlebox and inside axlebox metro vehicles to research the wheel wear evolution law of the two types of vehicles. The curve passing performance of two vehicles is analyzed. The effect of key parameters on wheel wear is studied, including the lateral distance of the axlebox, the longitudinal stiffness of the rotary arm node, the lateral stiffness of the rotary arm node and the wheel profiles.

The results showed that the model of inside axlebox metro vehicles improved vehicle safety and curve-passing performance. At the same time, inside axlebox metro vehicles reduce wheel wear of the wheel tread area and wheel flange area. When the S1002 wheel tread profile matched with the vehicle parameters, the wheel wear is minimized.

This paper established a dynamic model for inside axleboxes metro vehicles, then used a wheel wear model to analyze the evolution of wheel wear and the key influencing factors of the inside axleboxes metro vehicles.

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-07-2024-0256/

This study examines why long-term relationships between expert users and smart voice assistants (SVAs) develop. It postulates that the five dimensions of experience (i.e. sensory, affective, intellectual, behavioural and relational) generate feelings of love for SVAs. The formation of love is examined considering three components: passion, intimacy and commitment. These feelings encourage users to continue employing and to generate long-term relationships with SVAs.

Data from a survey of 403 USA expert users of SVAs provide the input for structural equation modelling.

The results show that three dimensions of experience influence users’ passion towards SVAs: affective, intellectual and behavioural. Moreover, passion can convert the effect of users’ experiences into intimacy and commitment. Finally, intimacy and commitment increase users’ intentions to continue using SVAs.

The findings obtained make three original contributions. First, this study is the first to analyse expert users of SVAs and the post-technology adoption stage. Therefore, it introduces a new case of relational marketing in smart technologies. Second, this study contributes by applying a new theoretical perspective that evaluates the importance of users’ experiences with SVAs. Third, it takes an interpersonal approach to explore user-SVA interactions, revealing that users can develop human-like love feelings for SVAs.

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-10-2022-0570