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Article
Publication date: 13 May 2022

Canjun Yang, Weitao Wu, Xin Wu, Jifei Zhou, Zhangpeng Tu, Mingwei Lin and Sheng Zhang

Variable stiffness structure can significantly improve the interactive capabilities of grippers. Shape memory alloys have become a popular option for materials with variable…

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Abstract

Purpose

Variable stiffness structure can significantly improve the interactive capabilities of grippers. Shape memory alloys have become a popular option for materials with variable stiffness structures. However, its variable stiffness range is limited by its stiffness in two phases. The purpose of this paper is to enhance the manipulation capabilities of tendon-driven flexible grippers by designing a wide-range variable stiffness structure.

Design/methodology/approach

Constitutive models of shape memory alloy and mechanical models are used to analyze the performance of the variable stiffness structure. A separated solution was used to combine the tendon-driven gripper and the variable stiffness structure. The feed-forward control algorithm is used to enhance the control stability of the variable stiffness structure.

Findings

The stiffness variable capability of the proposed variable stiffness structure is verified by experiments. The stability of the feedback control algorithm was verified by sinusoidal tracking experiments. The variable stiffness range of 8.41 times of the flexible gripper was tested experimentally. The interaction capability of the variable stiffness flexible gripper is verified by the object grasping experiments.

Originality/value

A new wide-range variable stiffness structure is proposed and validated. The new variable stiffness structure has a larger range of stiffness variation and better control stability. The new flexible structure can be applied to conventional grippers to help them gain stiffness variable capability and improve their interaction ability.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 49 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

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Article
Publication date: 12 October 2020

Xin Wu, Canjun Yang, Yuanchao Zhu, Weitao Wu and Qianxiao Wei

This paper aims to present a natural human–robot teleoperation system, which capitalizes on the latest advancements of monocular human pose estimation to simplify scenario…

430

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a natural human–robot teleoperation system, which capitalizes on the latest advancements of monocular human pose estimation to simplify scenario requirements on heterogeneous robot arm teleoperation.

Design/methodology/approach

Several optimizations in the joint extraction process are carried on to better balance the performance of the pose estimation network. To bridge the gap between human joint pose in Cartesian space and heterogeneous robot joint angle pose in Radian space, a routinized mapping procedure is proposed.

Findings

The effectiveness of the developed methods on joint extraction is verified via qualitative and quantitative experiments. The teleoperation experiments on different robots validate the feasibility of the system controlling.

Originality/value

The proposed system provides an intuitive and efficient human–robot teleoperation method with low-cost devices. It also enhances the controllability and flexibility of robot arms by releasing human operator from motion constraints, paving a new way for effective robot teleoperation.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 48 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

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Article
Publication date: 17 April 2023

Ruibin Geng, Xi Chen and Shichao Wang

Endorsement marketing has been widely used to generate consumer attention, interest and purchase decisions among targeted audiences. Internet celebrities who become famous on the…

2892

Abstract

Purpose

Endorsement marketing has been widely used to generate consumer attention, interest and purchase decisions among targeted audiences. Internet celebrities who become famous on the Internet are dependent on strategic intimacy to appeal to their followers. Our study aims to examine how multiple exposures to Internet celebrity endorsements influence consumers’ click and purchase decisions in the context of influencer marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a unique and representative dataset, the authors first model consumers’ choices for clicks and purchases with two panel fixed-effect logit models linking clicks and purchases with the frequency of exposure to Internet celebrity endorsement. To further control the endogeneity produced by the intercorrelation between the click and purchase models, the authors also adopt the two-stage Heckman probit structure to jointly estimate the two models using Maximum Likelihood Estimation. Robustness checks confirm the effectiveness of the models.

Findings

The results suggest that Internet celebrity endorsement plays a significant role in bringing referral traffic to e-commerce sites but is less helpful in affecting conversion to sales. The impact of repetitive Internet celebrity endorsements on consumers’ click decisions is U-shaped, but the role of Internet celebrities as online retailers will “shape-flip” this relationship to a negative linear relation.

Originality/value

Our study is the first to investigate the repetitive exposure effect of Internet celebrity endorsement. The results show a contradictory pattern with a wear-out effect of repetition in the advertising literature. This is the first study to show how the endorsing self, which is a common business model in influencer marketing, moderates the effectiveness of influencer marketing.

Details

Internet Research, vol. 34 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1066-2243

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Article
Publication date: 7 June 2024

Yi Guo, TianYi Huang, Haohui Huang, Huangting Zhao and Weitao Liu

The purpose of this paper is to propose an accurate and practical imitation learning for robotics. The modified dynamic movement primitives (DMPs), global fitting DMPs (GLDMPs)…

47

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an accurate and practical imitation learning for robotics. The modified dynamic movement primitives (DMPs), global fitting DMPs (GLDMPs), is presented. Framework design, theoretical derivation and stability proof of GLDMPs are discussed in the paper.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the DMPs, the hierarchical iterative parameter adaptive framework is developed as the hierarchical iteration stage of the GLDMPs to tune the designed parameters adaptively to extract richer features. Inspired by spatial transformations, the coupling analytical module which can be regarded as a reversible transformation is proposed to analyze the high-dimensional coupling information and transfer it to trajectory.

Findings

With the proposed framework and module, DMPs derive majority features of the demonstration and cope with three-dimensional rotations. Moreover, GLDMPs achieve favorable performance without specialized knowledge. The modified method has been demonstrated to be stable and convergent through inference.

Originality/value

GLDMPs have an advantage in accuracy, adaptability and practicality for it is capable of adaptively computing parameters to extract richer features and handling variations in coupling information. With demonstration and simple parameter settings, GLDMPs can exhibit excellent and stable performance, accomplish learning and generalize in other regions. The proposed framework and module in the paper are useful for imitation learning in robotics and could be intuitive for similar imitation learning methods.

Details

Robotic Intelligence and Automation, vol. 44 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2754-6969

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Article
Publication date: 11 October 2024

Jungang Luo, Djoen San Santoso and Weitao Xu

This study aims to investigate the process of adjustment for international construction professionals when facing new technical contexts. It introduces a framework called…

31

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the process of adjustment for international construction professionals when facing new technical contexts. It introduces a framework called construction technical intelligence (CTI) and seeks to provide valuable insights and practical guidance for professionals involved in international construction projects.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a grounded theory approach was employed, which included conducting in-depth interviews with 28 professionals engaged in international construction projects. The qualitative data gathered from these interviews underwent systematic analysis to identify important categories and develop theoretical perspectives.

Findings

The findings demonstrate the framework of CTI, which encompasses four essential dimensions that play a significant role in facilitating the successful adjustment of international construction professionals to new technical contexts. These dimensions underscore the multidimensional nature of CTI and offer valuable insights into the necessary capabilities for professionals to thrive in dynamic and globalized construction environments.

Originality/value

By proposing this comprehensive framework, the study contributes to the knowledge and understanding of the technical adjustment process for international construction professionals. It also establishes a foundation for future quantitative research to validate and refine the proposed model, enabling a deeper comprehension of the dynamics involved in professionals' technical adjustment.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 29 May 2007

Ping‐Kit Lam, Kwai‐Sang Chin, Jian‐Bo Yang and Weitao Liang

This research paper aims to present the critical managerial issues and a self‐assessment system of conflict management in client‐supplier collaborative new product development…

1984

Abstract

Purpose

This research paper aims to present the critical managerial issues and a self‐assessment system of conflict management in client‐supplier collaborative new product development (NPD) environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Critical managerial issues and success factors for conflict management in client‐supplier collaborative NPD were first identified. A self‐assessment process and associated methodologies were then established. With the development of a prototype self‐assessment system, the proposed self‐assessment methodologies and process were validated in industry.

Findings

A total of 13 critical factors for conflict management in client‐supplier collaborative NPD environment were identified. Based on the hierarchy model of the factors, a self‐assessment system and process, called PAIR, was established. The proposed self‐assessment system and process was developed and validated with six companies with positive results.

Originality/value

Conflict is an inevitable phenomenon in client‐supplier collaborative NPD, which affects NPD performance in terms of product quality, meeting of target delivery schedule and development cost. The developed system and process enables clients and suppliers to assess their conflict management practices and identify improvement areas. It provides a platform for the collaborating parties to continually improve their conflict management and in turn NPD performance.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 107 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

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Article
Publication date: 10 June 2021

Xiaoliang Liu, Xiaoming Huang, Jian Zhang and Weitao Sun

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence mechanism of different interface component surface textures on the ultrasonic motor (USM) output performance.

147

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence mechanism of different interface component surface textures on the ultrasonic motor (USM) output performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The energy transmission mechanism of the traveling-wave ultrasonic motor 60 (TRUM-60) was numerically and experimentally investigated by fabricating dimple textures with different feature types on the friction material and the stator.

Findings

Textured friction material can increase the contact range effectively, and thus, can improve the friction characteristics of the interface and the output performance of the TRUM-60. The experimental results verified the expected influence mechanism and demonstrated that the use of either a textured friction material or stator has a very different effect on USM output performance. A textured PI-based friction material improved the TRUM-60 output performance, resulting in a maximum energy conversion efficiency of 57.11%. However, a textured stator degraded the TRUM-60 output performance, resulting in a minimum energy conversion efficiency of only 44.92%.

Originality/value

The results of this study provide a theoretical foundation for improved USM designs with textured interfaces.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 73 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

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Case study
Publication date: 30 January 2024

Youwei Wang

As an Internet fashion brand, HSTYLE has developed into an Internet enterprise with annual sales of 1.5 billion RMB within 10 years, establishing its position as the top industry…

Abstract

As an Internet fashion brand, HSTYLE has developed into an Internet enterprise with annual sales of 1.5 billion RMB within 10 years, establishing its position as the top industry performer in China. This case studies HSTYLES' innovation in business model and organizational management. HSTYLE's workgroups have achieved the balance of responsibilities and rights in a small team of three members at minimum, while mobilizing the enthusiasm and initiative of the line managers with the support of public service sector. At the same time, HSTYLE enriches its brand style, establishes a fashion cloud platform, and integrates individual and organizational consumers into its existing fashion design, manufacturing and sales system.

Details

FUDAN, vol. no.
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2632-7635

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Article
Publication date: 27 September 2023

Siddhesh Umesh Mestry, Vardhan B. Satalkar and S.T. Mhaske

This study aims to describe the design and synthesis of two novel azo and imine chromophores-based dyes derived from two different aldehydes with intramolecular colour matching…

119

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to describe the design and synthesis of two novel azo and imine chromophores-based dyes derived from two different aldehydes with intramolecular colour matching that are pH sensitive.

Design/methodology/approach

The visible absorption wavelength (λmax) was extended when azo chromophore was included in imine-based systems. The dyed patterns created sophisticated colour-changing paper packaging sensors with pH-sensitive chromophores using alum as a mediator or mordant. Due to the tight adhesive bonding, the dyes on paper’s cellulose fibres could not be removed by ordinary water even at extremely high or low pH, which was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy analysis. The dyed patterns demonstrated an evident, sensitive and fast colour-changing mechanism with varying pH, from pale yellow to red for Dye-I and from pale yellow to brown-violet for Dye-II.

Findings

The λmax for colour changing was recorded from 400 to 490 nm for Dye-I, whereas from 400 to 520 for Dye-II. The freshness judgement of food was checked using actual experiments with cooked crab spoilage, where the cooked crab was incubated at 37 oC for 6 h to see the noticeable colour change from yellow to brown-violet with Dye-II. The colour-changing mechanism was studied with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra at different pH, and thin layer chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance and FTIR spectroscopy studied the desired structure formation of the dyes. Potential uses for smart packaging sensors include quickly detecting food freshness during transportation or right before consumption.

Originality/value

1. Two novel azo-imine dyes have been synthesized with a pH-responsive effect. 2. The pH-responsive mechanism was studied. 3. The study was supported by computational chemistry using density functional theory. 4. The obtained dyes were used to make pH-responsive sensors for seafood packaging to judge the freshness.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 53 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

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Article
Publication date: 1 August 2003

Xiaoyong Zhan

A mathematical model and numerical method for water flow and solute transport in a tidal river network is presented. The tidal river network is defined as a system of open…

575

Abstract

A mathematical model and numerical method for water flow and solute transport in a tidal river network is presented. The tidal river network is defined as a system of open channels or rivers with junctions and cross sections. As an example, the Pearl River in China is represented by a network of 104 channels, 62 nodes, and a total of 330 cross sections with 11 boundary sections for one of the applications. The simulations are performed with a supercomputer for seven scenarios of water flow and/or solute transport in the Pearl River, China, with different hydrological and weather conditions. Comparisons with available data are shown. The intention of this study is to summarize previous works and to provide a useful tool for water environmental management in a tidal river network, particularly for the Pearl River, China.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 20 no. 5/6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

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