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Article
Publication date: 6 November 2024

Xiaomin Xiao, Guang Fu, Pengpeng Song, Qingguo Peng, Naihui He, Taiqian Mo and Zhengwen Zhang

This paper aims to offer a comprehensive review and categorization of production optimization throughout the additive manufacturing lifecycle in a cloud environment. It aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to offer a comprehensive review and categorization of production optimization throughout the additive manufacturing lifecycle in a cloud environment. It aims to provide a structured approach to identifying and addressing issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper systematically reviews 75 technical papers on cloud manufacturing, nesting, scheduling and postprocessing in additive manufacturing. This includes a detailed discussion of the key issues.

Findings

This paper introduces a production framework for the entire lifecycle of additive manufacturing in a cloud environment. This framework aids in problem identification and decision-making based on the process flow. It provides an integrated view from cloud to postprocessing, examining decision interdependencies and enhancing problem identification and organization.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to review the complete lifecycle of additive manufacturing, emphasizing the often-overlooked aspects of postprocessing and cloud manufacturing. It offers a comprehensive study of lifecycle optimization challenges and suggests ways to streamline the production process.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 February 2021

Qiancheng Qin, Xue-Feng Wang, Rufu Hu and Xiaomin Cheng

This study aims to investigate the effects of single dent on the film thickness and pressure in elastohydrodynamically lubricated (EHL) point contacts by numerical analysis.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effects of single dent on the film thickness and pressure in elastohydrodynamically lubricated (EHL) point contacts by numerical analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The governing equations of single dent were established and then the variations of the film thickness and pressure induced by the applied load, the entrainment velocity and the ball radius were investigated. Meanwhile, the film thickness and pressure under smooth and dented surfaces were compared with each other.

Findings

The dent enhances both the maximum pressure and the second pressure peak. The minimum film thickness arises before the dent under certain conditions. In the meantime, the pressure decreases at the inside of the dent and the film thickness is just the reverse. The entrainment velocity remarkably affects the overall film thickness, whereas the rest of the input parameters mainly decides the details of the film curve. All input parameters remarkably affect the overall pressure, especially the maximum pressure.

Originality/value

This work is helpful to understanding the effect of the single dent on the lubricating properties of EHL point contacts.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 73 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 December 2018

Yuan Li, J. Zhang, Yudong Zhong, Xiaomin Shu and Yunqiao Dong

The Convolution Quadrature Method (CQM) has been widely applied to solve transient elastodynamic problems because of its stability and generality. However, the CQM suffers from…

Abstract

Purpose

The Convolution Quadrature Method (CQM) has been widely applied to solve transient elastodynamic problems because of its stability and generality. However, the CQM suffers from the problems of huge memory requirement in case of direct implementation in time domain or CPU time in case of its reformulation in Laplace domain. The purpose of this paper is to combine the CQM with the pseudo-initial condition method (PICM) to achieve a good balance between memory requirement and CPU time.

Design/methodology/approach

The combined methods first subdivide the whole analysis into a few sub-analyses, which is dealt with the PICM, namely, the results obtained by previous sub-analysis are used as the initial conditions for the next sub-analysis. In each sub-analysis, the time interval is further discretized into a number of sub-steps and dealt with the CQM. For non-zero initial conditions, the pseudo-force method is used to transform them into equivalent body forces. The boundary face method is employed in the numerical implementation. Three examples are analyzed. Results are compared with analytical solutions or FEM results and the results of reformulated CQM.

Findings

Results demonstrate that the computation time and the storage requirement can be reduced significantly as compared to the CQM, by using the combined approach.

Originality/value

The combined methods can be successfully applied to the problems of long-time dynamic response, which requires a large amount of computer memory when CQM is applied, while preserving the CQM stability. If the number of time steps is high, then the accuracy of the proposed approach can be deteriorated because of the pseudo-force method.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 36 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 April 2023

Qiang Du, Xiaomin Qi, Patrick X.W. Zou and Yanmin Zhang

The purpose of this paper is to develop a bi-objective optimization framework to select prefabricated construction service composition. An improved algorithm-genetic simulated…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a bi-objective optimization framework to select prefabricated construction service composition. An improved algorithm-genetic simulated annealing algorithm (GSA) is employed to demonstrate the application of the framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The weighted aggregate multi-dimensional collaborative relationship is used to quantitatively evaluate the synergistic effect. The quality of service is measured using the same method. The research proposed a service combination selection framework of prefabricated construction that comprehensively considers the quality of service and synergistic effect. The framework is demonstrated by using a GSA that can accept poor solutions with a certain probability. Furthermore, GSA is compared with the genetic algorithm (GA), simulated annealing algorithm (SA) and particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) to validate the performance.

Findings

The results indicated that GSA has the largest optimal fitness value and synergistic effect compared with other algorithms, and the convergence time and convergence iteration of the improved algorithm are generally at a low level.

Originality/value

The contribution of this study is that the proposed framework enables project managers to clarify the interactions of the prefabricated construction process and provides guidance for project collaborative management. In addition, GSA helps to improve the probability of successful collaboration between potential partners, therefore enhancing client satisfaction.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 January 2023

Xiaomin Qi, Qiang Du, Patrick X.W. Zou and Ning Huang

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model considering synergy effect for prefabricated construction service combination selection.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model considering synergy effect for prefabricated construction service combination selection.

Design/methodology/approach

This research defines prefabricated construction service as a service-led construction method that meets the specific requirements of clients. Based on network theory, the multi-dimensional collaborative relationships of the prefabricated construction inter-services are formulated. The synergy effect is quantitatively calculated through the linear weighting of the strengths of collaborative relationships. Further, a weighted synergy network (WSN) is developed, from which a service composition selection model considering the synergy effect is established. Then, a genetic algorithm is employed to implement the model.

Findings

The results showed that (1) when the number of prefabricated construction services is increased, the synergy effect of combination options is enhanced; (2) The finer-grained prefabricated construction services, the stronger the synergy effect of service combination; (3) Clients have heterogeneous preferences for collaborative relationships, and there are differences in the synergy effect of service combination.

Originality/value

The contribution of this research includes proposed a method to quantify the synergy effect from the perspective of collaborative relationships, explored the specific procedure for the prefabricated construction service combination selection under the service-led construction, and provided a reference for promoting the development in construction. Besides, the model proposed could be applied to prefabricated construction service composition selection with diverse research boundaries or client preferences by executing the same procedure.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 January 2020

Xiaomin Zhou and Zheng Sun

The purpose of this paper is to provide an effective way to assess landslide risk quantitatively. Quantitative assessment plays an important role in mitigating the landslide risk…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an effective way to assess landslide risk quantitatively. Quantitative assessment plays an important role in mitigating the landslide risk and developing a landslide risk-based warning system. However, efficient risk assessment on the large deformation failure process of slope with spatially variable soils is a challenging problem.

Design/methodology/approach

Combining the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) and the higher-order material point method – the B-spline Material Point Method (BSMPM) – the concept of MC-BSMPM to assess the landslide risk quantitatively is proposed in this paper. The overall dynamic evolution of soil slope failure has been simulated by the BSMPM, and the probability density function of the sliding duration, the sliding kinematic energy, the sliding mass and the sliding distance of the landslide are obtained based on the MCS. Through the four risk assessment parameters of the sliding duration, the sliding kinematic energy, the sliding mass and the sliding distance, the landslide risk could be assessed quantitatively.

Findings

It is found that the post-failure behavior of the landslide conforms well to a normal distribution as the soil physical parameter is in a normal distribution. The variation of soil’s shear strength affects the dynamic motion of the landslide greatly.

Originality/value

The result shows that the landslide hazard cannot be estimated comprehensively by the deterministic BSMPM, while the landslide risk could be more clearly understood and quantitatively assessed with more details by the proposed method, which demonstrates that the MC-BSMPM method is an effective way to assess the landslide risk quantitatively.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 37 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 August 2020

Ying An, Xiaomin Sun, Kai Wang, Huijie Shi, Zhenzhen Liu, Yiming Zhu and Fang Luo

Why do some employees choose to prolong their working hours excessively? The current study tested how core self-evaluations (CSEs) might lead to workaholism and how perceived job…

Abstract

Purpose

Why do some employees choose to prolong their working hours excessively? The current study tested how core self-evaluations (CSEs) might lead to workaholism and how perceived job demands might mediate this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Insights from the extant literature underpin the hypotheses on how CSEs would affect the development of workaholism through perceived job demands. A sample of 421 working people in China completed the online surveys, and the mediation model was tested using Mplus 7.0 (Muthén and Muthén, 1998–2012).

Findings

This study found that different components of CSEs influence workaholism in different ways. Specifically, generalized self-efficacy positively predicts workaholism, whereas emotional stability negatively predicts workaholism. Moreover, most aspects of CSEs (generalized self-efficacy, emotional stability and locus of control) influence workaholism via perceived job demands, specifically via perceived workload but not via perceived job insecurity.

Originality/value

The current study is the first to explore how individuals' fundamental evaluations of themselves (i.e. CSEs) relate to workaholism. The results are helpful for the prevention and intervention of workaholism in organizations.

Details

Personnel Review, vol. 50 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0048-3486

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 December 2021

Yin Shi, Liping Ding, Chenchen He, Fan Zhang, Zumeng Zhang and Qiyao Dai

This study aims to analyze those factors affecting the rural resident’s willingness to adopt solar photovoltaic (PV) which is important for accelerating the popularization of…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to analyze those factors affecting the rural resident’s willingness to adopt solar photovoltaic (PV) which is important for accelerating the popularization of clean energy in China.

Design/methodology/approach

This study contained a sample of 653 households in 8 provinces/regions by stratified, and random sampling in rural China. Descriptive analysis, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis techniques have been used for analytical purposes.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that financial incentive and social interaction have positive effects on rural residents’ adoption willingness, while village leaders’ engagement can indirectly influence their adoption willingness through social interaction and residents’ cognition.

Research limitations/implications

This study mainly considers external and internal factors but ignores the effect of technical factors. In addition, the samples are just selected from the residents who have adopted solar PV.

Practical implications

This study is expected to be useful for the government, regulators, village leaders, village leaders and other institutions.

Originality/value

This study conducts a systematic analysis and clarifies the relationship between factors (external and internal) and rural residents’ adoption willingness. The village leaders’ engagement is first added to the conceptual model as an external factor, which is very essential in rural residents’ adoption in China.

Details

International Journal of Energy Sector Management, vol. 16 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6220

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 September 2014

Anne Marie Doherty, Xiaomin Chen and Nicholas Alexander

The purpose of this study is to explore the franchise relationship in China, focusing on the relational constructs of power, control, support and conflict in this developing…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the franchise relationship in China, focusing on the relational constructs of power, control, support and conflict in this developing franchise environment. Agency theory has dominated franchise research. A more rounded theoretical interpretation of the franchising relationship is offered by employing both agency theory and institutional theory perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts an interpretive approach, employing in-depth interviews with franchisors and franchisees in nine franchise organisations operating in the retail sector in China. It contributes a fuller understanding of how to manage the research process in China.

Findings

The study reveals how the relational constructs of power, control, support and conflict are manifest in the franchise relationship in China. The explanatory power of agency theory is apparent when viewed in terms of the vertical agency problem. However, free-riding outside the franchise system, in the form of counterfeiting, mitigates against the occurrence of free-riding within it. With regard to institutional theory, we demonstrate that the regulatory institutional pillar is a crucial foundation for the franchise relationship.

Practical implications

The study offers insights for franchisors and franchisees considering franchise relationships in China.

Originality/value

For the first time in the literature, this study offers insights into key elements of the franchise relationship in China. Employing both agency and institutional theories facilitates a rounded explanation of the developing franchise environment in China.

Details

European Journal of Marketing, vol. 48 no. 9/10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0566

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 August 2019

Pankaj Singh and Gaurav Agrawal

The purpose of this paper is to review research on weather index insurance (WII) for mitigating the weather risk in agriculture and to identify research gaps in current available…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review research on weather index insurance (WII) for mitigating the weather risk in agriculture and to identify research gaps in current available literature through integrative review.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the integrative review method as proposed by Whittemore and Knafl. QualSysts tool was adopted for assessing the quality appraisal of articles. Reporting followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Findings

Detailed critical analysis of content reveals that WII studies are growing and shifting from traditional to the newest themes. Efficacy of WII is significantly influenced by the impacts of climate change. This paper generates a conceptual framework by synthesizing the published literature on WII.

Research limitations/implications

This paper will be used to improve the WII practices and influence public policy. It is also beneficial in research by contributing to the systematic body of knowledge and useful for researchers to analyze the past and present status with future prospects of further studies on WII.

Originality/value

The paper is the original work of the author. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper on integrative review on the efficacy of WII. An attempt has been made in the current paper to critically examine the studies of WII.

Details

International Journal of Ethics and Systems, vol. 35 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9369

Keywords

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