Search results
1 – 10 of over 1000Jia Wang, Haiyang Sun, Ding Chen, Yongjun Huang, Tao Dong, Hai Li, Lingnan Shen and Ziyu Yang
The paper aims to accurately measure the key motion parameters, such as velocity, azimuth and pitch angle, of the small flying object with a non-uniform curve trajectory. It…
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to accurately measure the key motion parameters, such as velocity, azimuth and pitch angle, of the small flying object with a non-uniform curve trajectory. It proposes a measurement method and its calculation model of non-uniform curve trajectory using a photoelectric sensor array.
Design/methodology/approach
First, the basic composition of the measurement system and mechanism of photoelectric sensor array are described, respectively. Second, a non-uniform curve mathematical measurement model is constructed differently from the traditional linear trajectory, taking into account the influence of gravity and air resistance. Third, the measurement error of the system is analyzed through numerical simulation. Finally, the accuracy and feasibility of the approach are verified by live-ammunition experiments.
Findings
The results show that the systematic error of the hitting point coordinates can be reduced by 9% compared to the traditional linear measurement model. Consequently, this method can meet the higher measurement requirement for the key motion parameters of the small flying object under the non-uniform curve trajectory. Research limitations/implications (if applicable)- although the approach itself is generalizable, the method is unable to detect the motion parameters of multiple small flying objects.
Research limitations/implications
Although the approach itself is generalizable, the method is unable to detect the motion parameters of the multiple small flying objects.
Practical implications
It is evident that the proposed non-uniform curve measurement model is more precise in quantifying the essential characteristics of the small flying object, particularly in consideration of the environmental conditions.
Social implications
The precise measurement of the key motion parameters of the small flying object can facilitate the enhancement of the protective performance of protective materials.
Originality/value
A novel approach to measurement is proposed, which differs from the conventional uniform trajectory model. To this end, the space construction of the photoelectric sensor array is optimized. The number of the sensors is revised.
Details
Keywords
Wenhong Wei, Yong Qin and Zhaoquan Cai
The purpose of this paper is to propose a multi-objective differential evolution algorithm named as MOMR-DE to resolve multicast routing problem. In mobile ad hoc network (MANET)…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to propose a multi-objective differential evolution algorithm named as MOMR-DE to resolve multicast routing problem. In mobile ad hoc network (MANET), multicast routing is a non-deterministic polynomial -complete problem that deals with the various objectives and constraints. Quality of service (QoS) in the multicast routing problem mainly depends on cost, delay, jitter and bandwidth. So the cost, delay, jitter and bandwidth are always considered as multi-objective for designing multicast routing protocols. However, mobile node battery energy is finite and the network lifetime depends on node battery energy. If the battery power consumption is high in any one of the nodes, the chances of network’s life reduction due to path breaks are also more. On the other hand, node’s battery energy had to be consumed to guarantee high-level QoS in multicast routing to transmit correct data anywhere and at any time. Hence, the network lifetime should be considered as one objective of the multi-objective in the multicast routing problem.
Design/methodology/approach
Recently, many metaheuristic algorithms formulate the multicast routing problem as a single-objective problem, although it obviously is a multi-objective optimization problem. In the MOMR-DE, the network lifetime, cost, delay, jitter and bandwidth are considered as five objectives. Furthermore, three QoS constraints which are maximum allowed delay, maximum allowed jitter and minimum requested bandwidth are included. In addition, we modify the crossover and mutation operators to build the shortest-path multicast tree to maximize network lifetime and bandwidth, minimize cost, delay and jitter.
Findings
Two sets of experiments are conducted and compared with other algorithms for these problems. The simulation results show that our proposed method is capable of achieving faster convergence and is more preferable for multicast routing in MANET.
Originality/value
In MANET, most metaheuristic algorithms formulate the multicast routing problem as a single-objective problem. However, this paper proposes a multi-objective differential evolution algorithm to resolve multicast routing problem, and the proposed algorithm is capable of achieving faster convergence and more preferable for multicast routing.
Details
Keywords
This chapter provides information on the development of Vietnamese education under the influence of global forces based on the analysis of relevant education research and policies…
Abstract
This chapter provides information on the development of Vietnamese education under the influence of global forces based on the analysis of relevant education research and policies using Wolhuter’s frameworks. In the process of coming up with ways to develop education in the face of different influences of globalization, besides having reactions with patterns commonly found in countries around the world, Vietnam also has responses that reflect its own political, sociocultural and economic characteristics. The state still plays a controlling role in education at all levels and many culture-related features that have existed throughout the country’s history have hardly changed, namely aspects related to teachers, learners and teaching and learning methods. To sustain its education in the globalized era, Vietnam must make more efforts in various aspects such as the link between education and employment, the logic of education objectives, the feasibility and appropriateness of curricula, quality of education, especially of higher education and equality in education for underprivileged groups.
Details
Keywords
Wenlong Liu, Yongxing Guo, Li Xiong and Yi Kuang
The purpose of this paper is to present the latest sensing structure designs and principles of information detection of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) displacement sensors. Research…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present the latest sensing structure designs and principles of information detection of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) displacement sensors. Research advance and the future work in this field have been described, with the background that displacement and deformation measurements are universal and crucial for structural health monitoring.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper analyzes and summarizes the existing FBG displacement sensing technologies from two aspects principle of information detection (wavelength detection, spectral bandwidth detection, light intensity detection, among others) and principle of the sensing elastomer structure design (cantilever beam type, spring type, elastic ring type and other composite structures).
Findings
The current research on developing FBG displacement sensors is mainly focused on the sensing method, the construction and design of the elastic structure and the design of new information detection method. The authors hypothesize that the following research trends will be strengthened in future: temperature compensation technology for FBG displacement sensors based on wavelength detection; a study of more diverse elastic structures; and fiber gratings manufactured with special fibers will greatly improve the performance of sensors.
Originality/value
The latest sensing structure designs and principles of information detection of FBG displacement sensors have been proposed, which could provide important reference for research group.
Details
Keywords
Margaret L. McBeath, Maureen T. B. Drysdale and Nicholas Bohn
Mental illness amongst students in higher education has increased in recent years. Several contributing factors have been identified, including the growing number of students with…
Abstract
Mental illness amongst students in higher education has increased in recent years. Several contributing factors have been identified, including the growing number of students with pre-existing problems who are pursuing university and the fact that emerging adulthood is a time of developmental vulnerability to social pressures. Other key factors include academic pressure, the financial burden of student debt, and increasing uncertainty around making a successful transition to the workplace. These pressures are often more pronounced for minority students – in particular ethnic and sexual minority students. Peer support and connectedness to school have been identified as key areas for building protective factors for positive mental health outcomes and lower rates of health-risk behaviors. Many higher education institutions also offer work-integrated learning programs (WIL) to help ease students’ financial burden and increase their level of employability. However, participation in WIL may impact on students’ academic and social support networks. For instance, programs in which students participate in off-campus work placements (i.e., cooperative education) can cause disruption in students’ connectedness to school and their perceived level of social support. This chapter examines the intensification of mental health problems on campus and explores the importance of sense of belonging and social support as protective factors. Furthermore, the chapter explores how WIL can both protect and hinder students’ mental health and wellbeing and examines current evidence for interventions that can help students prepare for their school-to-work transition.
Details
Keywords
Jie‐xian Huang, Dong‐tao Yang and Cang‐lai Gong
The purpose of this paper is to propose a new inspecting algorithm for defect detection on PCB circuits.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to propose a new inspecting algorithm for defect detection on PCB circuits.
Design/methodology/approach
PCB circuit images were processed by a radon transformation. A Radon histogram was formed and utilized to establish a texture directional characteristic similarity function. Then, a region of the image which contained the same texture directionality feature was segmented. Furthermore, a directionality estimation method is presented. As the circuit was damaged, the directionality was weakened correspondingly. According to principle, the concept of directional intensity was proposed and then used to measure directionality through analysis of the Radon histogram fluctuation. Finally, the defect was detected based on directional intensity.
Findings
The method has been applied to an inspecting system used in practice and it achieved a higher accuracy and efficiency in comparison with similar methods.
Research limitations/implications
Although work on highly intensive PCB circuitry inspection and flaw detection is presented, defect classification was not involved although this is also a very important requirement of inspection.
Originality/value
The paper provides a new way to detect PCB circuitry defects based on texture directionality and proposes evaluating the similarity between image texture directionalities using a radon transformation to search the inspected area. As the inspected region was located, the concept of directional intensity was defined to measure texture directionality to identify defects. The new algorithm performs stably and efficiently and is fit for practical application.
Details
Keywords
Rabab Allouzi, Awni Abu-Shamah and Amer Alkloub
Concrete-filled double-skin tubular (CFDST) columns have been gaining significant attention since these columns proved to be more efficient compared to concrete-filled…
Abstract
Purpose
Concrete-filled double-skin tubular (CFDST) columns have been gaining significant attention since these columns proved to be more efficient compared to concrete-filled steel-tubular (CFST) columns. This paper presents a tool to design slender CFDST columns with/without inclination.
Design/methodology/approach
First, 3D nonlinear finite element (FE) models of twenty-two straight CFDST columns are calibrated and it is found that FE results are in good agreement with the experimental outcomes. This is validated based on available experimental data. Subsequently, a parametric study is conducted by adjusting each calibrated FE model to account for three different angles of inclination. These models are used to quantify the effective length factor of these inclined columns.
Findings
It is found that FE results are in good agreement with the experimental outcomes. An equation is developed in this paper to calculate the characteristic concrete compressive strength for the design of straight CFDST columns. In addition, an equation is presented for engineering practice to calculate the effective length factor at different inclination angles and slenderness ratios to design CFDST columns. The predicted load capacity compares well with the experimental results of straight columns and FE results of inclined columns.
Originality/value
Advancement in the structural design procedure is required as a response to the continuous innovations in architectural design. Designers might introduce an inclination in columns in buildings or bridges, and there are no available guidelines to design them.
Details
Keywords
Wei Qian, Ping Zhu and Carol Tilt
Recent research has drawn attention to the tension between the Central and local governments in China regarding their roles in environmental protection. This paper aims to explore…
Abstract
Purpose
Recent research has drawn attention to the tension between the Central and local governments in China regarding their roles in environmental protection. This paper aims to explore this tension and examine the extent to which local/provincial government’s environmental oversight has influenced the quality of corporate environmental disclosure in China.
Design/methodology/approach
A sample of 198 listed companies in heavily polluting industries were selected to examine the relationship between their environmental disclosure quality and the respective local government’s environmental oversight level.
Findings
The results provide evidence that local/provincial government’s environmental oversight significantly influences environmental disclosure in China. Despite the coercive pressure from the powerful Central government on corporate environmental disclosure, local/provincial governments are able to buffer the pressure and adjust the intensity of their environmental oversight on companies during the implementation of central policies to retain local economic and political interests. This may partially explain the persistent issue of low environmental disclosure quality in China.
Research limitations/implications
This study enriches our understanding of the significant role of local governments in China in enhancing or sometimes discounting the regulatory enforcement of the Central government on corporate environmental disclosure, pointing to the need for concerted efforts by both local and Central governments to advance environmental disclosure development.
Originality/value
Research on environmental disclosure in developed countries has been well established in the literature. However, such research in developing nations is still limited, especially in China, the world largest developing country. The existing literature on environmental disclosure in China links it with either market demands, or regulatory enforcement from the Central government. The importance of local/provincial governments and their environmental oversight has long been ignored, which motivates this research.
Details
Keywords
Jasperina Brouwer, Ellen Jansen, Andreas Flache and Adriaan Hofman
This chapter employs a longitudinal social network approach to research small group teaching in higher education. Longitudinal social network analyses can provide in-depth…
Abstract
This chapter employs a longitudinal social network approach to research small group teaching in higher education. Longitudinal social network analyses can provide in-depth understanding of the social dynamics in small groups. Specifically, it is possible to investigate and disentangle the processes by which students make or break social connections with peers and are influenced by them, as well as how those processes relate to group compositions and personal attributes, such as achievement level. With advanced methods for modelling longitudinal social networks, researchers can identify social processes affecting small group teaching and learning.
Details
Keywords
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to propose a two-degrees-of-freedom wire-driven 4SPS/U rigid‒flexible parallel trunk joint mechanism based on spring, in order to improve the robot’s athletic ability, load capacity and rigidity, and to ensure the coordination of multi-modal motion.
Design/methodology/approach
First, based on the rotation transformation matrix and closed-loop constraint equation of the parallel trunk joint mechanism, the mathematical model of its inverse position solution is constructed. Then, the Jacobian matrix of velocity and acceleration is derived by time derivative method. On this basis, the stiffness matrix of the parallel trunk joint mechanism is derived on the basis of the principle of virtual work and combined with the deformation effect of the rope driving pair and the spring elastic restraint pair. Then, the eigenvalue distribution of the stiffness matrix and the global stiffness performance index are used as the stiffness evaluation index of the mechanism. In addition, the performance index of athletic dexterity is analyzed. Finally, the distribution map of kinematic dexterity and stiffness is drawn in the workspace by numerical simulation, and the influence of the introduced spring on the stiffness distribution of the parallel trunk joint mechanism is compared and analyzed. It is concluded that the stiffness in the specific direction of the parallel trunk joint mechanism can be improved, and the stiffness distribution can be improved by adjusting the spring elastic structure parameters of the rope-driven branch chain.
Findings
Studies have shown that the wire-driven 4SPS/U rigid‒flexible parallel trunk joint mechanism based on spring has a great kinematic dexterity, load-carrying capacity and stiffness performance.
Research limitations/implications
The soft-mixed structure is not mature, and there are few new materials for the soft-mixed mixture; the rope and the rigid structure are driven together with a large amount of friction and hindrance factors, etc.
Practical implications
It ensures that the multi-motion mode hexapod mobile robot can meet the requirement of sufficient different stiffness for different motion postures through the parallel trunk joint mechanism, and it ensures that the multi-motion mode hexapod mobile robot in multi-motion mode can meet the performance requirement of global stiffness change at different pose points of different motion postures through the parallel trunk joint mechanism.
Social implications
The trunk structure is a very critical mechanism for animals. Animals in the movement to achieve smooth climbing, overturning and other different postures, such as centipede, starfish, giant salamander and other multi-legged animals, not only rely on the unique leg mechanism, but also must have a unique trunk joint mechanism. Based on the cooperation of these two mechanisms, the animal can achieve a stable, flexible and flexible variety of motion characteristics. Therefore, the trunk joint mechanism has an important significance for the coordinated movement of the whole body of the multi-sport mode mobile robot (Huang Hu-lin, 2016).
Originality/value
In this paper, based on the idea of combining rigid parallel mechanism with wire-driven mechanism, a trunk mechanism is designed, which is composed of four spring-based wire-driven 4SPS/U rigid‒flexible parallel trunk joint mechanism in series. Its spring-based wire-driven 4SPS/U rigid‒flexible parallel trunk joint mechanism can make the multi-motion mode mobile robot have better load capacity, mobility and stiffness performance (Qi-zhi et al., 2018; Cong-hao et al., 2018), thus improving the environmental adaptability and reliability of the multi-motion mode mobile robot.
Details