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Article
Publication date: 16 January 2017

Xuan Song, Zeyu Chen, Liwen Lei, Kirk Shung, Qifa Zhou and Yong Chen

Conventional machining methods for fabricating piezoelectric components such as ultrasound transducer arrays are time-consuming and limited to relatively simple geometries. The…

1169

Abstract

Purpose

Conventional machining methods for fabricating piezoelectric components such as ultrasound transducer arrays are time-consuming and limited to relatively simple geometries. The purpose of this paper is to develop an additive manufacturing process based on the projection-based stereolithography process for the fabrication of functional piezoelectric devices including ultrasound transducers.

Design/methodology/approach

To overcome the challenges in fabricating viscous and low-photosensitive piezocomposite slurry, the authors developed a projection-based stereolithography process by integrating slurry tape-casting and a sliding motion design. Both green-part fabrication and post-processing processes were studied. A prototype system based on the new manufacturing process was developed for the fabrication of green-parts with complex shapes and small features. The challenges in the sintering process to achieve desired functionality were also discussed.

Findings

The presented additive manufacturing process can achieve relatively dense piezoelectric components (approximately 95 per cent). The related property testing results, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, dielectric and ferroelectric properties as well as pulse-echo testing, show that the fabricated piezo-components have good potentials to be used in ultrasound transducers and other sensors/actuators.

Originality/value

A novel bottom-up projection system integrated with tape casting is presented to address the challenges in the piezo-composite fabrication, including small curing depth and viscous ceramic slurry recoating. Compared with other additive manufacturing processes, this method can achieve a thin recoating layer (as small as 10 μm) of piezo-composite slurry and can fabricate green parts using slurries with significantly higher solid loadings. After post processing, the fabricated piezoelectric components become dense and functional.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 23 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 2 November 2015

N Jayakumar, S Subramanian, S Ganesan and E. B. Elanchezhian

The combined heat and power dispatch (CHPD) aims to optimize the outputs of online units in a power plant consisting thermal generators, co-generators and heat-only units…

202

Abstract

Purpose

The combined heat and power dispatch (CHPD) aims to optimize the outputs of online units in a power plant consisting thermal generators, co-generators and heat-only units. Identifying the operating point of a co-generator within its feasible operating region (FOR) is difficult. This paper aims to solve the CHPD problem in static and dynamic environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The CHPD plant operation is formulated as an optimization problem under static and dynamic load conditions with the objectives of minimizations of cost and emissions subject to various system and operational constraints. A novel bio-inspired search technique, grey wolf optimization (GWO) algorithm is used as an optimization tool.

Findings

The GWO-based algorithm has been developed to determine the preeminent power and heat dispatch of operating units within the FOR region. The proposed methodology provides fuel cost savings and lesser pollutant emissions than those in earlier reports. Particularly, the GWO always keeps the co-generator’s operating point within the FOR, whereas most of the existing methods fail.

Originality/value

The GWO is applied for the first time to solve the CHPD problems. New dispatch schedules are reported for 7-unit system with the objectives of total fuel cost and emission minimizations, 24-unit system for economic operation and 11-unit system in dynamic environment. The simulation experiments reveal that GWO converges quickly, consistent and the statistical performance clears its applicability to CHPD problems.

Details

International Journal of Energy Sector Management, vol. 9 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6220

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 18 November 2021

Fauziah Eddyono, Dudung Darusman, Ujang Sumarwan and Fauziah Sunarminto

This study aims to find a dynamic model in an effort to optimize tourism performance in ecotourism destinations. The model structure is built based on competitive performance in…

6660

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to find a dynamic model in an effort to optimize tourism performance in ecotourism destinations. The model structure is built based on competitive performance in geographic areas and the application of ecotourism elements that are integrated with big data innovation through artificial intelligence technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Data analysis is performed through dynamic system modeling. Simulations are carried out in three models: First, existing simulation models. Second, Scenario 1 is carried out by utilizing a causal loop through innovation of big data-based artificial intelligence technology to ecotourism elements. Third, Scenario 2 is carried out by utilizing a causal loop through big data-based artificial intelligence technology on aspects of ecotourism elements and destination competitiveness.

Findings

This study provides empirical insight into the competitiveness performance of destinations and the performance of implementing ecotourism elements if integrated with big data innovations that will be able to massively demonstrate the growth of sustainable tourism performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study does not use a primary database, but uses secondary data from official sources that can be accessed by the public.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for the development of intelligent technology based on big data and also requires policy innovation.

Social implications

Sustainable tourism development.

Originality/value

This study finds the expansion of new theory competitiveness of ecotourism destinations.

Details

Journal of Tourism Futures, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2055-5911

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Article
Publication date: 1 December 2011

Jia Beisi and Jiang Yingying

Although an important facet of modernist architecture in which function plays a prominent role, building flexibility is not entirely a new concept. Its relevance transcends…

65

Abstract

Although an important facet of modernist architecture in which function plays a prominent role, building flexibility is not entirely a new concept. Its relevance transcends generations, allowing space and structure to evolve through time. This paper investigates the relationship among main building structures, infill elements, and space by studying examples in ancient Chinese architecture. It reveals the role of building owners, users, and craftsmen from a survey of historical documentation. In studying these examples, it is concluded that craftsmen in ancient China were involved not only during the construction phase but throughout the period of use as well. Thus, in select cases, the relationship between craftsmen and owners or users had been preserved for generations. Finally, this paper suggests potential strategies for the building industry and technology in the move towards sustainable development.

Details

Open House International, vol. 36 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 1 May 2024

Xiaoling Song, Xuan Qin and XiaoMeng Feng

This study aims to comparatively measure the impact factors of financial inclusion and their spillover effects for Belt and Road countries using panel data from 57 countries in…

902

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to comparatively measure the impact factors of financial inclusion and their spillover effects for Belt and Road countries using panel data from 57 countries in 2011, 2014, 2017 and 2021 and relevant indicators from three dimensions: availability, usage and quality to construct a digital empowerment index of financial inclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

A spatial Durbin panel model is constructed to empirically test the impact mechanism of financial inclusion under digital empowerment.

Findings

Results reveal that improving a country’s quality of regulation, technology and residents’ financial literacy significantly contributes to the development of its financial inclusion, while improving its neighboring countries’ financial literacy also boosts its financial inclusion development. This study provides theoretical support for evaluating the development level of inclusive finance in “Belt and Road” countries, promoting the development of inclusive finance and alleviating the problem of financial exclusion.

Originality/value

This study is original as it creates a research paradigm for “Belt and Road” countries, enabling systematic testing and comparative analysis of inclusive finance development. It incorporates traditional and digital services, evaluating them based on sharing, fairness, convenience and specific group benefits. An inclusive financial index is constructed using the coefficient of variation and arithmetic weighted average methods. Additionally, it introduces a more rational analysis approach for the influence mechanism and spatial effect, using an economic geography nested matrix and spatial Durbin model to explore spatial effects in inclusive finance.

Details

Journal of Financial Regulation and Compliance, vol. 32 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1358-1988

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 10 September 2018

Haiyan Song, Levent Altinay, Ning Sun and Xuan Lorna Wang

This study aims to use the theory of third places to understand how different kinds of social interactions in small hospitality businesses, such as restaurants and cafes, can…

1871

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to use the theory of third places to understand how different kinds of social interactions in small hospitality businesses, such as restaurants and cafes, can enhance senior customers’ experiences and alleviate their loneliness.

Design/methodology/approach

The target population of this study were Hong Kong residents of age 60 or older. The sampling frame comprised respondents who visited a Cha Chaan Teng (i.e. a Hong Kong-style tea restaurant) more than once a year. The authors distributed 500 questionnaires and collected 411 valid responses in 2016. They used structural equation modeling for data analysis.

Findings

The results show that social interactions (service manner and need identification) with employees and other customers have a positive effect on senior customers’ experiences, while the service manner of employees reduces senior customers’ loneliness.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the respective contributions of social interactions with employees and those with other customers to enhancing senior customers’ experiences and alleviating their loneliness. This study’s findings may provide a foundation for future research into the relationships between social interactions, customer experience and loneliness in third places (that are, informal public places that offer individuals opportunities to escape from home and the workplace and to enjoy voluntary conversation, entertainment and gatherings). Further, this study also demonstrates the specific role and importance of the hospitality industry in addressing a contemporary social problem in the form of seniors’ loneliness.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 30 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

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Article
Publication date: 3 April 2023

Dangshu Wang, Jiaan Yi, Luwen Song, Xuan Deng, Xinxia Wang and Zhen Dong

This paper aims to solve the problems of large hard switching loss and unclear resonant parameter design in the existing inverter power supply topology.

55

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to solve the problems of large hard switching loss and unclear resonant parameter design in the existing inverter power supply topology.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a simple and reliable two-stage isolated inverter composed of series quasi-resonant push-pull and external freewheeling diode full-bridge inverter. The power supply topology is analyzed, the topology mode is analyzed, the mathematical model of the converter is established and the DC gain of the converter is deduced. The relationship between the load and the output gain of the resonant tank is presented, a new resonant parameter design method is proposed, and the parameter design of the resonant element of the converter is clarified.

Findings

The resonant components of the converter are designed according to the proposed resonant parameter design method, and the correctness of the method is verified by simulation and the development and testing of a 500 W experimental prototype. After experimental tests, the peak efficiency of the experimental prototype can reach 94%. Because the experimental prototype achieves soft switching, the heat generation of the switch is greatly reduced, so the heavy heat sink is removed, and the volume is reduced by about 30% compared with the traditional power supply, and the total harmonic distortion of the output voltage is about 2%.

Originality/value

The feasibility of the scheme is verified by experiments, which is of great significance for improving the efficiency of the inverter power supply and parameter optimization.

Details

Circuit World, vol. 50 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0305-6120

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 25 May 2023

Xuewei Li, Jingfeng Yuan, Xuan Liu, Guangqi Wang and Qian-Cheng Wang

With the continuous improvement of public–private partnership (PPP) projects, the participants' value creation goals are not only limited to achieving the basic performance…

302

Abstract

Purpose

With the continuous improvement of public–private partnership (PPP) projects, the participants' value creation goals are not only limited to achieving the basic performance objectives but also to realising value added. However, the effect of traditional contract management on realising the value creation objectives of PPP projects is limited. According to the view of multifunctional contract, joint-contract functions that integrate contract control and flexibility are likely to be effective in enhancing the value creation of PPP projects. This study aims to explore the effects of joint-contract functions on PPP project value creation and relevant influencing mechanism by investigating the mediating effect of in-role behaviour and extra-role behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

After collecting 258 valid questionnaires from PPP professionals in China, this study used structural equation modelling to validate the hypotheses.

Findings

Contract control and flexibility can improve PPP project value creation. Specifically, contract control improves the achievement of the basic contract objectives of PPP projects, whereas contract flexibility enhances the achievement of the value-added of PPP projects. Moreover, only in-role behaviour mediates the effect of contract control on value creation. In addition, the mediating effect of extra-role behaviour on the impact of contract flexibility on value creation is stronger than that of in-role behaviour. The mediating effect of in- and extra-role behaviour is mainly reflected in the realisation of basic and value-added performance, respectively.

Research implications

The findings of this study can help realise value creation in three ways. Firstly, new perspectives for PPP project value creation should be proposed by combining the improvement of contract objectives and the realisation of the participants' implicit demands. Secondly, the effects of different contract functions on value creation should be analysed instead of a single dimension of contractual governance. Thirdly, the mediating effects of different types of cooperation behaviour that may influence the relationship between contractual governance and value creation should be evaluated.

Originality/value

This study verifies the impacts of different contract functions on PPP project value creation. In addition, cooperative behaviour is embedded as a mediating variable, and the mediated transmission path from contract function to cooperative behaviour and further to PPP project value creation is systematically analysed.

Details

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

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Article
Publication date: 7 December 2022

Haowei Zhang, Lili Sun, Chengli Song, Ying Liu, Xueting Xuan, Fei Wang, Jing Zhong and Li Sun

Design, fabricate and evaluate all-solid-state wearable sensor systems that can monitor ion concentrations in human sweat to provide real time health analysis and disease…

971

Abstract

Purpose

Design, fabricate and evaluate all-solid-state wearable sensor systems that can monitor ion concentrations in human sweat to provide real time health analysis and disease diagnosis capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

A human health monitoring system includes disposable customized flexible electrode array and a compact signal transmission-processing electronic unit.

Findings

Patterned rGO (reduced-graphene oxide) layers can replace traditional metal electrodes for the fabrication of free-standing all solid film sensors to provide improved flexibility, sensitivity, selectivity, and stability in ion concentration monitoring. Electrochemical measurements show the open circuit potential of current selective electrodes exhibit near Nernst responses versus Na+ and K+ ion concentration in sweat. These signals show great stability during a typical measurement period of 3 weeks. Sensor performances evaluated through real time measurements on human subjects show strong correlations between subject activity and sweating levels, confirming high degree of robustness, sensitivity, reliability and practicality of current sensor systems.

Originality/value

In improving flexibility, stability and interfacial coherency of chemical sensor arrays, rGO films have been the developed as a high-performance alternative to conventional electrode with significant cost and processing complexity reduction. rGO supported solid state electrode arrays have been found to have linear potential response versus ion concentration, suitable for electrochemical sensing applications. Current sweat sensor system has a high degree of integration, including electrode arrays, signal processing circuits, and data visualization interfaces.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 42 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

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Article
Publication date: 7 December 2021

Ruilin Zhu, Yanqing Song, Shuang He, Xuan Hu, Wangsu Hu and Bingsheng Liu

Despite the huge potential of social media, its functionality and impact for enhanced risk communication remain unclear. Drawing on dialogic theory by integrating both “speak from…

546

Abstract

Purpose

Despite the huge potential of social media, its functionality and impact for enhanced risk communication remain unclear. Drawing on dialogic theory by integrating both “speak from power” and “speak to power” measurements, the article aims to propose a systematic framework to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The impact of social media on risk communication is measured by the correlation between “speak from power” and “speak to power” levels, where the former primarily spoke to two facets of the risk communication process – rapidness and attentiveness, and the latter was benchmarked against popularity and commitment. The framework was empirically validated with data relating to coronavirus disease (COVID-19) risk communication in 25,024 selected posts on 17 official provincial Weibo accounts in China.

Findings

The analysis results suggest the relationship between the “speak from power” and “speak to power” is mixed rather than causality, which confirms that neither the outcome-centric nor the process-centric method alone can render a full picture of government–public interconnectivity. Besides, the proposed interconnectivity matrix reveals that two provinces have evidenced the formation of government–public mutuality, which provides empirical evidence that dialogic relationships could exist in social media during risk communication.

Originality/value

The authors' study proposed a prototype framework that underlines the need that the impact of social media on risk communication should and must be assessed through a combination of process and outcome or interconnectivity. The authors further divide the impact of social media on risk communication into dialogue enabler, “speak from power” booster, “speak to power” channel and mass media alternative.

Details

Information Technology & People, vol. 35 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-3845

Keywords

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