Fengjie Li, Yan Chen and Xiaochun Hu
This paper propose an algorithm for the multiple silicon steel coils multiperiod two-dimensional lengthwise cutting stock problem (m2DLCSP), so as to minimize the total cost of…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper propose an algorithm for the multiple silicon steel coils multiperiod two-dimensional lengthwise cutting stock problem (m2DLCSP), so as to minimize the total cost of materials and production.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors propose a sequential leftovers utilization correction (SLUC) algorithm for the m2DLCSP. The algorithm primarily considers three optimization strategies. First, it considers usable leftovers to simplify the cutting process and improve material utilization. The total quantity and types of leftovers should be limited in order to avoid leftover overstock. Second, it uses a splice method of items to improve the generated cutting plan. Third, it takes into account operational restrictions in the cutting operations. Operational restrictions include imposing maximum and minimum lengths on the cutting patterns, and the limitation of cutting knives at the slitting machines.
Findings
Several sets of benchmark with real-world and randomly generated instances are provided to evaluate the algorithm. Compared with literature algorithm and current procedure applied in enterprises, the computational results indicate that proposed algorithm can effectively reduce the total cost, and the computation time is reasonable for practical use.
Social implications
This algorithm can effectively reduce the total cost.
Originality/value
The proposed method can effectively applied to solve the m2DLCSP and improve the economic efficiency of enterprises.
Details
Keywords
The purpose of this paper is to describe the current status of open access (OA) in China, including problems and possible solutions and to introduce the role of the academic…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe the current status of open access (OA) in China, including problems and possible solutions and to introduce the role of the academic library in OA.
Design/methodology/approach
This research paper analyzes several successful OA projects with a focus on the user requirements and the role of the academic library. The paper also analyzes the current status of OA in three areas. First, publishers. The paper will introduce some Chinese OA websites in detail, and point out the problems facing Chinese OA. Second, OA users (both writers and readers) requirements will be investigated. Third, the role of libraries will be analyzed.
Findings
The libraries goal of sharing resources is similar to that of the OA movement. The paper will recommend some Chinese OA resources set up by libraries. The paper will also describe OA promotion by China libraries. Some suggestions for the way forward are also described.
Research limitations/implications
The paper will analyze OA development and problems in China from a librarian perspective. The paper does not have a deep understanding of the publishing business. Most of the best Chinese academic papers are published in foreign commercial academic journals, which costs Chinese writers their intellectual property rights since their rights of communication through the internet is then owned by foreign publishers. As a result, most products based on public investment in China become a foreign publisher's exclusive property, earning exclusive profit for them rather than for China. This situation exists not only in China, but also in other developing countries. This “problem” is worth researching.
Practical implications
A comprehensive introduction to the current state of OA in China will be useful to those who are unfamiliar with, or seek deeper knowledge of, the Chinese situation. The constructive suggestions to be offered should be useful to Chinese administrators, OA publishers and librarians.
Originality/value
This may be the first research paper describing the status of OA in China in summary and in detail, with an analysis of the problems in OA development and offering recommendations.
Details
Keywords
Yitian Chi, Narayanan Murali and Xiaochun Li
High-performance wrought aluminum alloys, particularly AA6061, are pivotal in industries like automotive and aerospace due to their exceptional strength and good response to heat…
Abstract
Purpose
High-performance wrought aluminum alloys, particularly AA6061, are pivotal in industries like automotive and aerospace due to their exceptional strength and good response to heat treatments. Investment casting offers precision manufacturing for these alloys, because casting AA6061 poses challenges like hot cracking and severe shrinkage during solidification. This study aims to address these issues, enabling crack-free investment casting of AA6061, thereby unlocking the full potential of investment casting for high-performance aluminum alloy components.
Design/methodology/approach
Nanotechnology is used to enhance the investment casting process, incorporating a small volume fraction of nanoparticles into the alloy melt. The focus is on widely used aluminum alloy 6061, utilizing rapid investment casting (RIC) for both pure AA6061 and nanotechnology-enhanced AA6061. Microstructural characterization involved X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Mechanical properties were evaluated through microhardness and tensile testing.
Findings
The study reveals the success of nanotechnology-enabled investment casting in traditionally challenging wrought aluminum alloys like AA6061. Achieving crack-free casting, enhanced grain morphology and superior mechanical properties, because the nanoparticles control grain sizes and phase growth, overcoming traditional challenges associated with low cooling rates. This breakthrough underscores nanotechnology's transformative impact on the mechanical integrity and casting quality of high-performance aluminum alloys.
Originality/value
This research contributes originality and value by successfully addressing the struggles in investment casting AA6061. The novel nano-treating approach overcomes solidification defects, showcasing the potential of integrating nanotechnology into rapid investment casting. By mitigating challenges in casting high-performance aluminum alloys, this study paves the way for advancements in manufacturing crack-free, high-quality aluminum alloy components, emphasizing nanotechnology's transformative role in precision casting.
Details
Keywords
Zhanhong Wan, Zongfu Ren, Xiaochun Wang and Honghao Zheng
To observe the relations between three important factors resulting in estuarial Hypoxia phenomena of Yangtze River – wind, river flow, and stratification. The purpose of the paper…
Abstract
Purpose
To observe the relations between three important factors resulting in estuarial Hypoxia phenomena of Yangtze River – wind, river flow, and stratification. The purpose of the paper is to analyze the possible reasons why hypoxia occurs in late spring and disappears in October.
Design/methodology/approach
To overcome the difficulty in examining the role of physical and biological factors affecting hypoxia based on measurement alone, finite-volume community ocean model (FVCOM) was introduced into the investigation. Observed freshwater flux data from Yangtze River, monthly averaged wind speed data, and other observed data were input into the model; the accuracy of which was validated with various kinds of data. The authors used the trajectories of Lagrangian particles from Yangtze River to study the regions of strong riverine influence under different wind forcing conditions and compared the simulation results with former observations.
Findings
Trade wind is a significant factor to influence the forming and receding of hypoxia across the Yangtze River.
Originality/value
Using FVCOM to investigate estuary hypoxia is more economical and effective.
Details
Keywords
Xiaochun Guan, Sheng Lou, Han Li and Tinglong Tang
Deployment of deep neural networks on embedded devices is becoming increasingly popular because it can reduce latency and energy consumption for data communication. This paper…
Abstract
Purpose
Deployment of deep neural networks on embedded devices is becoming increasingly popular because it can reduce latency and energy consumption for data communication. This paper aims to give out a method for deployment the deep neural networks on a quad-rotor aircraft for further expanding its application scope.
Design/methodology/approach
In this paper, a design scheme is proposed to implement the flight mission of the quad-rotor aircraft based on multi-sensor fusion. It integrates attitude acquisition module, global positioning system position acquisition module, optical flow sensor, ultrasonic sensor and Bluetooth communication module, etc. A 32-bit microcontroller is adopted as the main controller for the quad-rotor aircraft. To make the quad-rotor aircraft be more intelligent, the study also proposes a method to deploy the pre-trained deep neural networks model on the microcontroller based on the software packages of the RT-Thread internet of things operating system.
Findings
This design provides a simple and efficient design scheme to further integrate artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm for the control system design of quad-rotor aircraft.
Originality/value
This method provides an application example and a design reference for the implementation of AI algorithms on unmanned aerial vehicle or terminal robots.
Details
Keywords
Wiboon Kittilaksanawong and Huijing Liu
Students will be able to analyse competitive situations of the focal firm in the platform market, factors that make the focal firm become dominant in the sharing economy through…
Abstract
Learning outcomes
Students will be able to analyse competitive situations of the focal firm in the platform market, factors that make the focal firm become dominant in the sharing economy through the technology platform and the focal firm’s motives and growth strategies through mergers and acquisitions and overseas expansion, as well as give recommendations on the focal firm’s strategies to move forward to achieve and maintain its competitive position in the platform market.
Case overview/synopsis
On 4th April, 2018, Meituan-Dianping (Meituan), a Chinese group-buying website for consumer products and retail services acquired Mobike, a Chinese dockless bike-sharing platform for US$2.7bn. Mobike had raised several rounds of funding for its large investments and operations in this highly competitive and cash-intensive industry. However, it was still struggling to survive and make a profit in the Chinese and overseas markets. It was believed that the merger between the companies was the only viable alternative. Had Meituan’s Chief Executive Officer made the right decision in acquiring Mobike? After Mobike became an integral part of Meituan, what should be done to turn this technology platform to be profitable in the Chinese and overseas market?
Complexity academic level
The case is intended for senior undergraduate or graduate-level courses in business schools.
Supplementary materials
Teaching Notes are available for educators only.
Subject code
CSS 11: Strategy.
Details
Keywords
Khaoula Nasr, Michele Fedel, Khaled Essalah, Flavio Deflorian and Nebil Souissi
This study aims to investigate the inhibition performance of an aqueous extract of Matricaria recutita chamomile on the corrosion of S235JR steel in 0.5 M NaCl by using…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the inhibition performance of an aqueous extract of Matricaria recutita chamomile on the corrosion of S235JR steel in 0.5 M NaCl by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and polarization measurements.
Design/methodology/approach
The inhibition performance was investigated using EIS and polarization measurements. Surface analysis demonstrates the presence of a protective layer on the steel surface in the presence of the extract. Quantum chemical parameters calculated for the molecules contained in the aqueous extract are interpreted to predict the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the considered extract.
Findings
The inhibition efficiency of chamomile aqueous extract for S235JR steel increases with increasing amounts of plant concentration and with an increase in the immersion time. The optimal inhibition efficiency of chamomile extract, 98.90 per cent, was achieved for S235JR steel when immersed in 15 per cent v/v of extract concentration for 2 h. The surface analysis in the absence and presence of the chamomile extract confirmed the formation of a protective layer on steel surface. The quantum chemical calculations allowed to explain the great inhibition efficiency values by interpreting the calculated quantum parameters.
Originality/value
This is the first study carrying out an experimental and theoretical investigation on M. recutita chamomile as a green corrosion inhibitor, with interesting potential industrial applications.