Dongping Cao, Shiting Shao, Bin Huang and Guangbin Wang
Despite its great potential to improve the sustainability of architectural, engineering, construction and facility management activities, the implementation of building…
Abstract
Purpose
Despite its great potential to improve the sustainability of architectural, engineering, construction and facility management activities, the implementation of building information modeling (BIM) in many projects has failed to achieve expected benefits due to negative behavioral responses such as user resistance. This paper aims to characterize the complexity of end user's behavioral responses to BIM implementation in construction projects using a multidimensional perspective and examines how these responses are impacted by different levels of contextual factors.
Design/methodology/approach
By integrating technology acceptance, resistance and adoption literature, this paper theoretically proposes a research model to characterize the associations between different dimensions of behavioral responses and different levels of contextual factors. The model is then empirically tested with survey and interview data collected from BIM-based construction projects in China.
Findings
The empirical results not only validate the two-dimensional view of the behavioral responses (i.e. the dimension of support/resistance that ranges from aggressive resistance to enthusiastic support, and the dimension of actual use that ranges from non-use to high use) but also provide evidence for the prevalence of ambivalent responses such as supporting but lowly using and resisting but highly using. The empirical results also provide evidence that different levels of contextual factors generally play different roles in shaping the behavioral responses. Specifically, the dimension of support/resistance is more substantially impacted by the team-level factor while the dimension of actual use of BIM is more significantly associated with the project-level factor.
Originality/value
While previous research on BIM adoption or implementation behaviors has primarily focused on investigating users' response from single-dimension perspectives such as acceptance or non-acceptance, this study represents an exploratory effort of using a two-dimensional view to characterize the complexity and ambivalence of end users' behavioral responses to the implementation of innovative technologies such as BIM in construction projects. This study also contributes to deepened understandings of how these different dimensions of behavioral responses are intricately shaped by different levels (i.e. individual-, team- and project-levels) of contextual factors in construction projects which are characterized as temporary and inter-organizational.
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Xunjia Zheng, Bin Huang, Daiheng Ni and Qing Xu
The purpose of this paper is to accurately capture the risks which are caused by each road user in time.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to accurately capture the risks which are caused by each road user in time.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors proposed a novel risk assessment approach based on the multi-sensor fusion algorithm in the real traffic environment. Firstly, they proposed a novel detection-level fusion approach for multi-object perception in dense traffic environment based on evidence theory. This approach integrated four states of track life into a generic fusion framework to improve the performance of multi-object perception. The information of object type, position and velocity was accurately obtained. Then, they conducted several experiments in real dense traffic environment on highways and urban roads, which enabled them to propose a novel road traffic risk modeling approach based on the dynamic analysis of vehicles in a variety of driving scenarios. By analyzing the generation process of traffic risks between vehicles and the road environment, the equivalent forces of vehicle–vehicle and vehicle–road were presented and theoretically calculated. The prediction steering angle and trajectory were considered in the determination of traffic risk influence area.
Findings
The results of multi-object perception in the experiments showed that the proposed fusion approach achieved low false and missing tracking, and the road traffic risk was described as a field of equivalent force. The results extend the understanding of the traffic risk, which supported that the traffic risk from the front and back of the vehicle can be perceived in advance.
Originality/value
This approach integrated four states of track life into a generic fusion framework to improve the performance of multi-object perception. The information of object type, position and velocity was used to reduce erroneous data association between tracks and detections. Then, the authors conducted several experiments in real dense traffic environment on highways and urban roads, which enabled them to propose a novel road traffic risk modeling approach based on the dynamic analysis of vehicles in a variety of driving scenarios. By analyzing the generation process of traffic risks between vehicles and the road environment, the equivalent forces of vehicle–vehicle and vehicle–road were presented and theoretically calculated.
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Hongxing Han, Wei Chen, Bin Huang and Xudong Fu
This paper aims to propose a shape factor for granular materials based on particle shape. The scientific goal is to investigate the influence of particle shape on the mechanical…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to propose a shape factor for granular materials based on particle shape. The scientific goal is to investigate the influence of particle shape on the mechanical properties of rockfill materials.
Design/methodology/approach
The method of generating four regular-shaped particles is based on the observation that most rockfill grains are regarded as like-triangle, like-rhombus, like-square and like-hexagon. A shape factor F that is developed using the Blaschke coefficient and a concave–convex degree is proposed. A biaxial compression test on rockfill materials under stress path is numerically simulated by discrete element method. The evolution of the shape factor F under the simulated stress paths is analyzed, and particle breakage rate, peak intensity and peak-related internal friction angle for rockfill materials are derived. A method of determining the shape factor F involved in the two functions is proposed.
Findings
A new micro-parameter is calibrated using the test data of one rockfill material. Particle shape greatly affects the particle breakage rate, peak intensity and peak-related internal friction angle for rockfill materials. The final experimental grading curves all approach the particle breakage grading curve proposed by Einav (the fractal dimension is 2.7).
Originality/value
This study proposes a shape factor F, which describes the geometric features of natural rockfill particles. The proposed shape factor F has a simple structure, and its parameters are easy to determine. The method provides an opportunity for a quantitative study on the particle shape of granular materials, and this study helps to better understand the influence of particle shape on the mechanical characteristics of rockfill materials.
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Bin Huang and Sarat B Singamneni
This paper aims to develop a new slicing method for fused deposition modelling (FDM), the curved layer adaptive slicing (CLAS), combining adaptive flat layer and curved layer…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to develop a new slicing method for fused deposition modelling (FDM), the curved layer adaptive slicing (CLAS), combining adaptive flat layer and curved layer slicing together.
Design/methodology/approach
This research begins with a review of current curved layer and adaptive slicing algorithms employed in the FDM and further improvement of the same, where possible. The two approaches are then integrated to develop the adaptive curved layer slicing based on the three-plane intersection method for curved layer offsetting and consideration of facet angles together with the residual heights for adaptive slicing. A practical implementation showed that curved layer adaptive layers respond in similar lines to the flat layer counterparts in terms of the mechanical behaviour of FDM parts.
Findings
CLAS is effective in capturing sharply varying surface profiles and other finer part details, apart from imparting fibre continuity. Three-point bending tests on light curved parts made of curved layers of varying thicknesses prove thicker curved layers to result in better mechanical properties.
Research limitations/implications
The algorithms developed in this research can handle relatively simple shapes to develop adaptive curved slices, but further developments are necessary for more complex shapes. The test facilities also need further improvements, to be able to programmatically implement adaptive curved layer slicing over a wide range of thicknesses.
Practical implications
When fully developed and implemented, CLAS will allow for better FDM part construction with lesser build times.
Originality/value
This research fills a gap in terms of integrating both curved layer and adaptive slicing techniques to better slice and build a part of given geometry using FDM.
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Yunfei Du, Chuntian Li, Bin Huang, Ming Tang and Changhua Du
This paper aims to identify a variety of binary system solders by alloying, and relevantly derive multiple system Pb-free solders from the former, attempting to replace the high…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to identify a variety of binary system solders by alloying, and relevantly derive multiple system Pb-free solders from the former, attempting to replace the high temperature Sn-Pb solder.
Design/methodology/approach
The basis of the paper is the synthesis of previous studies. In terms of some binary high temperature solder alloys, such as Au-20Sn, Bi-2.5Ag, Sn-5Sb, Au-12.5Ge, Zn-6Al and Zn-Sn, taking the alloy phase diagram as the starting point, the melting characteristics, microstructure, mechanical properties, wetting ability and reliability of solder joint are analysed and the prospect is consequently indicated.
Findings
Based on the analysis of the six groups of Pb-free solders, the present binary system solder alloys, from the perspective of melting properties, mechanical properties, soldering or reliability of solder joint, rarely meet the comprehensive requirements of replacing the high-temperature Sn-Pb solder. It is assumed to be a solution that multiple-system Pb-free solders derive from a variety of binary system solders by means of alloying. The future development of high temperature Pb-free solder may focus on some factors such as physical properties, mechanical properties, processing, reliability of solder joint, environmental performance and expense.
Originality/value
The paper concentrates on the issue of Pb-free solders at high temperature. From a specific perspective of binary system solders, the presently available Pb-free solders are suggested from the starting point of the alloy phase diagram and the prospect of alternatives of Sn-Pb solders at high temperature are indicated.
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Bin Huang, Le-qin Wang and Jia Guo
– The purpose of this paper is to study the different performance of circular, two-lobe and elliptical journal bearings by TEHD analysis.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to study the different performance of circular, two-lobe and elliptical journal bearings by TEHD analysis.
Design/methodology/approach
A complete 3D TEHD model of journal bearings is set up and applied to the lubricant performance calculation of the conventional circular, two-lobe and elliptical journal bearings. The finite difference method is employed to solve the THD model, and the thermo-elasto deformations on the pad are obtained by the finite element software ANSYS11.0. The data transfer between the THD model and ANSYS11.0 is carried out automatically by Interface Program.
Findings
It is found that under the identical geometric parameters and operating condition, the circular journal bearing possesses the greatest magnitude of the maximum oil film pressure, the two-lobe one takes the second place and the elliptical one possesses the smallest magnitude. The thermo-elasto deformations on the pad is the same order of magnitude with the minimum film thickness.
Practical implications
A complete 3D TEHD model made up of the THD model and ANSYS11.0 can be applied on journal bearings in practice applications.
Originality/value
This paper set up a complete 3D TEHD model that is in common use for the lubricant performance analysis of circular and non-circular journal bearings.
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Chang-Yeoul Choi and Joo-Young Lee
Since the declaration of reform and market opening from China in 1990, China has drawn much attention from the world thanks to its rapid economic growth and its emergence as the…
Abstract
Since the declaration of reform and market opening from China in 1990, China has drawn much attention from the world thanks to its rapid economic growth and its emergence as the world's major consumer market and the center of the global economy. Moreover, it established the new trade order, making East Asia the center of the new trade trend as it becomes a manufactural and sales stronghold of multinational companies. The Chinese distribution market is expected to show a high growth rate by 2010 and it draws attention as a new business sector which can bring huge profits. However, advancement of the Chinese distribution industry now faces systemic problems and research on such problems is insufficient. Therefore, in this study we will conduct SWOT analysis based on previous studies on the Chinese distribution industry and use it as a ground to propose strategic solutions for development.
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Patrick X.W. Zou, Shouqing Wang and Dongping Fang
The purpose of this paper is to develop a life cycle risk management framework for public private partnership (PPP) infrastructure projects that lead to the realization of value…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to develop a life cycle risk management framework for public private partnership (PPP) infrastructure projects that lead to the realization of value for money and balance of interests between different partners including the public and end users.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper draws on extensive theoretical research and literature reviews, coupled with case study methodologies. A comprehensive review of current literature in the field was first carried out. Then three PPP infrastructure projects, two from Australia and one from China, are studied to scrutinize reasons leading to their dilemma and articulate the valuable lessons learnt in relation to risk analysis and mitigation.
Findings
The paper found that properly assessing risks (financial, government's political and public's acceptance/rejection risks), ensuring value for money and protecting the public (and end users') interests are essential in PPP infrastructure projects and this can only be achieved through optimal risk identification, assessment, allocation and management from a life cycle perspective and balanced interests between the Government/public and private partners as well as product end users.
Research limitations/implications
The paper was limited to proposing the framework; therefore the next step should be testing the framework.
Practical implications
The framework proposed in this paper should be practical and useful for professionals in managing the risks associated with the procurement of PPP infrastructure projects.
Originality/value
The PPP method has been increasingly used to procure large‐scale infrastructures such as freeways, railways, tunnels and bridges worldwide. While there have been many successful PPP projects, unsuccessful cases abound and studying them can help people better manage the risks in future PPP infrastructure projects. To ensure the success of PPP infrastructure projects, it is important for all partners to manage the risks from a project life cycle perspective, in which risks are identified and assessed in the earliest possible project stage and are allocated to the parties who are in the best position to control them. Furthermore, it is also important to continuous monitor the risks and develop proactive risk respond strategies throughout the project life cycle. To this end, this paper provides a life‐cycle risk management framework for PPP infrastructure projects.
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Li Yu, Zaifang Zhang and Jin Shen
In the initial stage of product design, product portfolio identification (PPI) aims to translate customer needs (CNs) into product specifications (PSs). This is an essential task…
Abstract
Purpose
In the initial stage of product design, product portfolio identification (PPI) aims to translate customer needs (CNs) into product specifications (PSs). This is an essential task, since understanding what customers really want is at the center of product design. However, design information is incomplete and design knowledge is minimal during this stage. Furthermore, PPI is often a confusing and frustrating task, especially when customer preferences are changing rapidly. To facilitate the task, the purpose of this paper is to capture the time-sensitive mapping relationship between CNs and PSs.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper proposes a design sequential pattern mining model to uncover implicit but valuable knowledge from chronological transaction records. First, CNs and PSs from these records are transformed and connected according to the transaction time. Second, procedures such as litemset generation, data transformation and pattern mining are conducted based on the AprioriAll algorithm. Third, the uncovered patterns are modified and applied by engineers.
Findings
Using the retrieved patterns, engineers can keep up with the dynamics of customer preferences with regard to different PSs.
Research limitations/implications
Computational experiments on a case study of customization of desktop computers show that the proposed method is capable of extracting useful sequential patterns from a design database.
Originality/value
Considering the times tamps of the transactions, a sequential pattern mining-based method is proposed to extract valuable patterns. These patterns can help engineers identify market trends and the correlation among PSs.
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Cam Tu Nguyen, Kum Fai Yuen, Thai Young Kim and Xueqin Wang
Crowd logistics is a rising phenomenon in last-mile delivery that integrates technological applications and sources a large number of participants to do logistical activities…
Abstract
Purpose
Crowd logistics is a rising phenomenon in last-mile delivery that integrates technological applications and sources a large number of participants to do logistical activities, achieving sustainable shipping in urban environments. However, up until now, there has been limited literature in this field. This research aims to investigate the extrinsic and intrinsic factors that impact the participative behaviour of driver-partners in crowd logistics.
Design/methodology/approach
An integrated model is developed based on motivation theory, incorporating attitude as a contributor to both extrinsic and intrinsic motivations. A questionnaire was constructed and distributed to collect data from 303 respondents who are existing or potential driver-partners in Vietnam.
Findings
Our findings confirm (1) the influence of monetary rewards on extrinsic motivation and (2) the power of self-efficacy, trust and sense of belonging on intrinsic motivation. Further, we find that attitude positively impacts extrinsic motivation, whereas there is no effect between attitude and intrinsic motivation. Both extrinsic and intrinsic motivations are demonstrated to significantly influence driver-partners' participative intentions. Additionally, a positive association is found between extrinsic and intrinsic motivations.
Originality/value
Findings from this study theoretically enrich the literature on crowd logistics, especially on the supply side, and empirically contribute to implications that are valuable to crowd logistics firms on driver-partner recruitment and business strategy development.