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Article
Publication date: 9 December 2020

Juliang Xiao, Yunpeng Wang, Sijiang Liu, YuBo Sun, Haitao Liu, Tian Huang and Jian Xu

The purpose of this paper is to generate grinding trajectory of unknown model parts simply and efficiently. In this paper, a method of grinding trajectory generation of hybrid…

307

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to generate grinding trajectory of unknown model parts simply and efficiently. In this paper, a method of grinding trajectory generation of hybrid robot based on Cartesian space direct teaching technology is proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

This method first realizes the direct teaching of hybrid robot based on 3Dconnexion SpaceMouse (3DMouse) sensor, and the full path points of the robot are recorded in the teaching process. To reduce the jitter and make the speed control more freely when dragging the robot, the sensor data is processed by Kalman filter, and a variable admittance control model is established. And the joint constraint processing is given during teaching. After that, the path points are modified and fitted into double B-splines, and the speed planning is performed to generate the final grinding trajectory.

Findings

Experiment verifies the feasibility of using direct teaching technology in Cartesian space to generate grinding trajectory of unknown model parts. By fitting all the teaching points into cubic B-spline, the smoothness of the grinding trajectory is improved.

Practical implications

The whole method is verified by the self-developed TriMule-600 hybrid robot, and it can also be applied to other industrial robots.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is to realize the direct teaching and trajectory generation of the hybrid robot in Cartesian space, which provides an effective new method for the robot to generate grinding trajectory of unknown model parts.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 48 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

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Article
Publication date: 24 August 2020

YuBo Sun, Juliang Xiao, Haitao Liu, Tian Huang and Guodong Wang

The purpose of this paper is to accurately obtain the deformation of a hybrid robot and rapidly enable real-time compensation in friction stir welding (FSW). In this paper, a…

328

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to accurately obtain the deformation of a hybrid robot and rapidly enable real-time compensation in friction stir welding (FSW). In this paper, a prediction algorithm based on the back-propagation neural network (BPNN) optimized by the adaptive genetic algorithm (GA) is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

Via the algorithm, the deformations of a five-degree-of-freedom (5-DOF) hybrid robot TriMule800 at a limited number of positions are taken as the training set. The current position of the robot and the axial force it is subjected to are used as the input; the deformation of the robot is taken as the output to construct a BPNN; and an adaptive GA is adopted to optimize the weights and thresholds of the BPNN.

Findings

This algorithm can quickly predict the deformation of a robot at any point in the workspace. In this study, a force-deformation experiment bench is built, and the experiment proves that the correspondence between the simulated and actual deformations is as high as 98%; therefore, the simulation data can be used as the actual deformation. Finally, 40 sets of data are taken as examples for the prediction, the errors of predicted and simulated deformations are calculated and the accuracy of the prediction algorithm is verified.

Practical implications

The entire algorithm is verified by the laboratory-developed 5-DOF hybrid robot, and it can be applied to other hybrid robots as well.

Originality/value

Robots have been widely used in FSW. Traditional series robots cannot bear the large axial force during welding, and the deformation of the robot will affect the machining quality. In some research studies, hybrid robots have been used in FSW. However, the deformation of a hybrid robot in thick-plate welding applications cannot be ignored. Presently, there is no research on the deformation of hybrid robots in FSW, let alone the analysis and prediction of their deformation. This research provides a feasible methodology for analysing the deformation and compensation of hybrid robots in FSW. This makes it possible to calculate the deformation of the hybrid robot in FSW without external sensors.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 47 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

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Article
Publication date: 22 February 2024

Zhaoyang Sun, Haiyang Zhou, Tianchen Yang, Kun Wang and Yubo Hou

The shape of a product plays a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior. Despite the voluminous research on factors influencing consumers’ shape preferences, there remains a…

556

Abstract

Purpose

The shape of a product plays a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior. Despite the voluminous research on factors influencing consumers’ shape preferences, there remains a limited understanding of how the busy mindset, a mentality increasingly emphasized by marketing campaigns, works. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the relationship between a busy mindset and the preference for angular-shaped versus circular-shaped products and brand logos.

Design/methodology/approach

This research consists of seven experimental studies using various shape stimuli, distinct manipulations of busy mindset, different assessments of shape preference and samples drawn from multiple countries.

Findings

The findings reveal that a busy mindset leads to a preference for angular shapes over circular ones by amplifying the need for uniqueness. In addition, these effects are attenuated when products are scarce.

Originality/value

This research represents one of the pioneering efforts to study the role of a busy mindset on consumers’ aesthetic preferences. Beyond yielding insights for practitioners into visual marketing, this research contributes to the theories on the busy mindset and shape preference.

Details

Journal of Product & Brand Management, vol. 33 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1061-0421

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Article
Publication date: 14 May 2018

Jiming Hu, Ruhua Huang and Yubo Wang

The purpose of this paper is to visualize the collaboration network among regions in library science (LS) in China. Using various methods and tools of social network analysis and…

607

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to visualize the collaboration network among regions in library science (LS) in China. Using various methods and tools of social network analysis and geographical visualization, results were obtained, showing the structure and patterns of research collaborations in topological and geographical views, as well as the geographical distributions of contribution.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample includes all studies published in the top journal in library science in China from 2006 to 2015. First, co-occurrence data representing collaborations among regions was extracted from author affiliations. Second, the topological network of collaboration was generated by applying social network analysis tools and descriptive statistics, network indicators of the collaboration network and research communities were calculated. Third, the topological network was projected into a geographical map with corresponding coordinates and distances using geographical tools. Finally, the topological network maps and the geographical maps were produced for visualization.

Findings

The levels of contribution are very unbalanced between regions, and overall research collaboration is low. Beijing, Hubei and several other areas are central and significant regions in China; other regions are mostly connected with central ones through direct collaborations. Research collaborations in LS research in China are mostly distributed in the east and south of China, being centralized in the “Beijing–Hubei–Shanghai” triangle zone, as well as within the triangle’s extending zones. Finally, there are three distinct research communities that connect closely within themselves and loosely between them. The Beijing community is relatively centralized in geography, while other communities are scattered.

Originality/value

This study applied various methods and tools of social network analysis and geographical mapping analysis to reveal the collaboration structure and patterns among regions in LS research in China. Visualized maps in topological and geographical views help shed new light on research efforts.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 36 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

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Article
Publication date: 26 May 2023

Yubo Guo, Yangyang Su, Chuan Chen and Igor Martek

The Public–Private Partnership (PPP) modality plays an important role in the procurement of global infrastructure projects. Regarding PPP's complex transaction structure, pricing…

204

Abstract

Purpose

The Public–Private Partnership (PPP) modality plays an important role in the procurement of global infrastructure projects. Regarding PPP's complex transaction structure, pricing of a PPP project is critical to both parties where the government pursues a high value for money (VFM) and the investor strives to maximize its financial gains. Despite the straightforward win–win principle, a formidable compromise is often the case to end up with a fairly acceptable price, subject to many determinants such as the risk profile, expected return, technological innovation and capacities of both parties. Among them, this study chooses to examine the “managing flexibility” (MF) capacity of investors in pricing of a PPP project, in light of the widely recognized importance of a real-option perspective toward the long term, complex and uncertain PPP arrangement. This study addresses two major questions: (1) how is MF in PPP projects to be valued and (2) how are PPP projects to be priced when considering a project's MF value.

Design/methodology/approach

A binomial tree model is used to evaluate the MF value in PPP projects. Based on the developed MF pricing model, net present value (NPV) and adjusted VFM value are then calculated. Finally, a multi-objective decision-making method (MODM) was adopted to determine the optimal level of returns based on invested capital (ROIC), return on operation maintenance (ROOM) and concession period.

Findings

The applicability and functionality of the proposed model is investigated using a real project case. For a given return, extended NPV and adjusted VFM value were calculated and analyzed using sensitivity analysis. Factor influence is shown by the model to be dependent on factor impact on cash flow. Subsequently, a multi-objective decision-making (MODM) model was adopted to determine the optimal level of returns, where the solution approximates the real-world bidding price. Results confirm that the pricing model provides a reliable and practical PPP proposal pricing tool.

Originality/value

This study proposes an integrated framework for valuing MF in PPP projects and thus more accurately determine optimal pricing of PPP projects than revealed in extant research. The model offers a practical tool to aid in the valuation of PPP projects.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 11
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 4 April 2024

Yubo Guo, Jinchan Liu, Chuan Chen, Xiaowei Luo and Igor Martek

Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) are crucial to the procurement of global infrastructure projects. Moreover, a price mode based on a cluster of core concessionary items is key…

149

Abstract

Purpose

Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) are crucial to the procurement of global infrastructure projects. Moreover, a price mode based on a cluster of core concessionary items is key to the delivery of value-for-money and successful project outcomes. However, existing research has yet to fully identify PPP concessionary items, nor yet described the range of practical price modes. This study provides taxonomy of core concessionary items impacting PPP projects, systematically classifies price modes, and assesses the applicability and risk impacts of those price modes on PPP projects.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a comparative case study method in analyzing core concessionary items and alternative price modes. China is taken as the context, as it is one of the world’s largest PPP markets. In ensuring research validity and reliability, diverse data sources are utilized, with a graphic content analysis tool developed to capture the structure of price modes.

Findings

Eight PPP price modes are identified. These are: (1) UP (Unit Price) mode, (2) ALS (Annual Lump Sum) mode, (3) IRR (Internal Rate of Return) mode, (4) RP (Return for Investing Capital (RIC) - Profit Rate of O&M (PROM)) mode, (5) RFP (RIC - Financing Interest Rate (FR) - PROM) mode, (6) RFPL (RIC - FR - PROM - Lower Limit of User Charge (LLoUC)) mode, (7) RFL (RIC - FR - Lump Sum/Fixed Unit Price O&M Contract (LSOM/FUP)) mode, and (8) RFLL (RIC - FR - LSOM/FUP - LLoUC) mode. Other main findings are as follows: (1) Five risk allocation configurations can be achieved via these price modes. Yet while different price modes enable the allocation of specific risks, these do not always align with contracting parties’ original intentions. (2) IRR and RP modes may be less applicable in general because of their vulnerability in allocating critical risks and capacity for spurring opportunistic behavior.

Originality/value

By depicting the paths by which concessionary items in price modes affect cash flow, a systematic analysis of price modes was conducted exposing structural characteristics, along with risk allocation choice implications. The study is unique in: (1) Providing a systematic classification of PPP price modes used in PPP projects, (2) Presenting a comprehensive identification and streamlining of concessionary items in PPP practice, and (3) Analyzing the risk effects of different price modes. Together, these outcomes offer a hitherto unavailable perspective on PPP project risk management. The value of the study lies in the following: (1) Existing studies employ diverse concessionary items, but their applicability varies. This study offers an overarching framework facilitating decision-making in selecting appropriate PPP price modes and in determining concessionary items. (2) This study adds to the understanding of PPP price modes in significant ways that will aid local governments and potential sponsors in crafting and administrating more workable contract designs.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 1 October 2018

Qiuping Yang, Huizhi Li, Yubo Zhai, Xiaofeng Li and Peizhi Zhang

To prepare a new type of composite for selective laser sintering 3D printing, the surface of Al2O3 nanoparticles was modified by the coupling agent…

510

Abstract

Purpose

To prepare a new type of composite for selective laser sintering 3D printing, the surface of Al2O3 nanoparticles was modified by the coupling agent (3-methacryloxypropyl)-trimethoxy silane (KH570) before coated with thermoplastic epoxy resin (TER).

Design/methodology/approach

Laser diffraction confirmed that the size distribution of prepared powder materials in this study ranged between 20 to 80 µm. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the loading of organic matter was below 5 per cent. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that the silane coupling agent molecule bound strongly with the alumina. X-ray diffraction confirmed the prepared powder materials to be α-alumina. Through the angle of repose (AOR) test, the AOR = 18.435º was obtained, suggesting the high flowability of prepared powder materials. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation demonstrated that the shape of the prepared powder materials was sphere-like grains.

Findings

Molding properties of prepared powder materials were studied on the basis of particle size distribution, particle size, sphericity, crystal structure and the reaction mode of the TER. This prepared powder materials can be well applied to the production of epoxy resin-coated Al2O3 composite parts with high precision and good mechanical performance.

Originality/value

This composite can be well applied to the production of epoxy resin-coated Al2O3 composite parts with high precision and good mechanical performance.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 24 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 12 February 2024

Lei Ma, Ben Zhang, Kaitong Liang, Yang Cheng and Chaonan Yi

The embedding of digital technology and the fuzzy organizational boundary have changed the operation of platform innovation ecosystem (PIE). Specifically, as an important energy…

379

Abstract

Purpose

The embedding of digital technology and the fuzzy organizational boundary have changed the operation of platform innovation ecosystem (PIE). Specifically, as an important energy of PIE, the internal logic of knowledge flow needs to be reconsidered in the context of digital age, which will be helpful to select the cultivation and governance strategy of PIE.

Design/methodology/approach

A dual case-analysis is applied to open the “black box” of knowledge flow in the PIE from the perspective of enabled by digital technology, by taking the intellectual property (IP) operation platform as cases.

Findings

The research findings are as follow: (1) The knowledge flow mechanism of PIE is mainly demonstrated through the processes of knowledge acquisition, knowledge integration and knowledge spillover. During this process, connectivity empowerment and scenario empowerment realize the digital empowerment of the platform. (2) Connectivity empowerment provides a channel of knowledge acquisition for the digital connection between participants in PIE. In the process of knowledge integration, scenario empowerment improves the opportunities for accurate matching and collaborative innovation between knowledge supplier and demander, and enhance the value of knowledge. The dual effect of connectivity empowerment and scenario empowerment has accelerated the knowledge spillover in PIE. Particularly, connectivity empowerment expands the range of knowledge spillover, and scenario empowerment affects the generativity of the platform, resulting in the enhancement of platform’s capability to embed and expand its value network. (3) Participants have been benefitted from the PIE enabled by digital technology through three key modules (knowledge acquisition, knowledge integration and knowledge spillover), as the result of knowledge flow.

Originality/value

This study focuses on the knowledge flow mechanism of PIE enabled by digital technology, which enriches the PIE theory, and has enlightenments for the cultivation of digital platform ecosystem.

Details

European Journal of Innovation Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1460-1060

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Article
Publication date: 22 December 2023

Chang Lu, Yong Qi, Shibo Hao and Bo Yu

This study aims to explore the effect of collaboration networks (domestic and international collaboration networks) on the innovation performance of small and medium-sized…

557

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the effect of collaboration networks (domestic and international collaboration networks) on the innovation performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It also investigates the mediating role of business model innovation, the moderating role of entrepreneurial orientation and government institutional support between them.

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical regression analysis is adopted to test the hypotheses based on survey data provided by 223 manufacturing SMEs in China.

Findings

The results reveal that domestic and international collaboration networks positively affect SMEs' innovation performance. Business model innovation mediates domestic and international collaboration networks-SMEs’ innovation performance relationships. Entrepreneurial orientation positively moderates international collaboration networks–SMEs’ innovation performance relationship, and government institutional support positively moderates domestic and international collaboration networks–SMEs’ innovation performance relationships.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that managers of SMEs should invest in domestic and international collaboration networks and business model innovation to enhance SMEs' innovation performance. Moreover, entrepreneurial orientation and government institutional support should be valued when SMEs try to enhance their innovation performance by embedding in domestic and international collaboration networks.

Originality/value

This study broadens the authors' understanding of the relationship between collaboration networks and firms' innovation performance by classifying collaboration networks into domestic and international dimensions and investigating their direct impacts on SMEs' innovation performance. Besides, this study reveals how and when domestic and international collaboration networks influence the innovation performance of SMEs.

Details

Business Process Management Journal, vol. 30 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-7154

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Article
Publication date: 18 December 2024

Wenting Zhan, Wenmei Zhou, Jinchan Liu and Yubo Guo

Previous research has advanced in two-stage construction project productivity (CPP) evaluation by integrating site efficiency (SE) in the delivery and utilisation effectiveness…

21

Abstract

Purpose

Previous research has advanced in two-stage construction project productivity (CPP) evaluation by integrating site efficiency (SE) in the delivery and utilisation effectiveness (UE) in the post-delivery stages. The literature has separately addressed the factors affecting these three constructs. However, the interrelationships among them are rarely discussed together. This study aims to systematically identify the influencing factors of CPP, SE and UE and disentangle interrelationships among the three constructs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first reviews the literature about the two-stage project productivity evaluation framework for government construction projects. Then this paper proposes hypotheses regarding the relationships between the three constructs and identifies influencing factors associated with the constructs. Based on questionnaire survey from over 200 government construction project professionals in China, the structural equation modelling is adopted to validate the hypotheses.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights that CPP can be directly influenced by UE to a large extent but indirectly impacted by SE through its effects on UE. The findings indicate that CPP is not a simple sum of SE and UE, and consequently reveals the complex, non-linear and indirect relationships between SE and CPP.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should further extend the timeframe boundary to merge the pre-delivery stage (e.g. design and planning), findings of which may propose a more generalised understanding and reduce the bias resulting from pre-delivery activities.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to construction facility management literature by explaining the mediating role of UE on the relationship between SE and CPP. Therefore, this paper offers practitioners an integrated management logic in strategically combining project and facility management into government project management.

Details

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

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