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.
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Chengguo Liu, Junyang Li, Zeyu Li and Xiutao Chen
The study aims to equip robots with the ability to precisely maintain interaction forces, which is crucial for tasks such as polishing in highly dynamic environments with unknown…
Abstract
Purpose
The study aims to equip robots with the ability to precisely maintain interaction forces, which is crucial for tasks such as polishing in highly dynamic environments with unknown and varying stiffness and geometry, including those found in airplane wings or thin, soft materials. The purpose of this study is to develop a novel adaptive force-tracking admittance control scheme aimed at achieving a faster response rate with higher tracking accuracy for robot force control.
Design/methodology/approach
In the proposed method, the traditional admittance model is improved by introducing a pre-proportional-derivative controller to accelerate parameter convergence. Subsequently, the authors design an adaptive law based on fuzzy logic systems (FLS) to compensate for uncertainties in the unknown environment. Stability conditions are established for the proposed method through Lyapunov analysis, which ensures the force tracking accuracy and the stability of the coupled system consisting of the robot and the interaction environment. Furthermore, the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control algorithm are demonstrated by simulation and experiment.
Findings
A variety of unstructured simulations and experimental scenarios are designed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in force control. The outcomes demonstrate that this control strategy excels in providing fast response, precise tracking accuracy and robust performance.
Practical implications
In real-world applications spanning industrial, service and medical fields where accurate force control by robots is essential, the proposed method stands out as both practical and straightforward, delivering consistently satisfactory performance across various scenarios.
Originality/value
This research introduces a novel adaptive force-tracking admittance controller based on FLS and validated through both simulations and experiments. The proposed controller demonstrates exceptional performance in force control within environments characterized by unknown and varying.
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Wan Liu, Zeyu Li, Li Chen, Dexin Zhang and Xiaowei Shao
This paper aims to innovatively propose to improve the efficiency of satellite observation and avoid the waste of satellite resources, a genetic algorithm with entropy operator…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to innovatively propose to improve the efficiency of satellite observation and avoid the waste of satellite resources, a genetic algorithm with entropy operator (GAE) of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites’ task planning algorithm.
Design/methodology/approach
The GAE abbreviated as GAE introduces the entropy value of each orbit task into the fitness calculation of the genetic algorithm, which makes the orbit with higher entropy value more likely to be selected and participate in the remaining process of the genetic algorithm.
Findings
The simulation result shows that in a condition of the same calculate ability, 85% of the orbital revisit time is unchanged or decreased and 30% is significantly reduced by using the GAE compared with traditional task planning genetic algorithm, which indicates that the GAE can improve the efficiency of satellites’ task planning.
Originality/value
The GAE is an optimization of the traditional genetic algorithm. It combines entropy in thermodynamics with task planning problems. The algorithm considers the whole lifecycle of task planning and gets the desired results. It can greatly improve the efficiency of task planning in observation satellites and shorten the entire task execution time. Then, using the GAE to complete SAR satellites’ task planning is of great significance in reducing satellite operating costs and emergency rescue, which brings certain economic and social benefits.
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Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to forecast the future development of UIC technology according to the changes of IPC in different time periods. The findings also provide a theoretical basis for the UIC policymakers of energy-saving environmental protection industry.
Design/methodology/approach
The present study will take energy-saving technology as an example, through using a two-mode network analysis method to build the four-stage IPC code UIC innovation-technology network, researching UIC innovation network applicant heterogeneity, UIC technology network and technology relevance.
Findings
Through the establishment of UIC innovation-technology two-mode network, namely, applicant node CN and IPC node TN, this paper analyzes the important applicants, focal technologies, correlation of focal technologies and the development trends of energy saving technology in the future by using the related theories and methods of two-mode network.
Originality/value
At present, only about 11% of energy-saving enterprises in China have R&D activities. The government needs to implement top-level design, improve industrial policies, strengthen investment in technology R&D and build a platform for technological innovation in energy-saving industries to support the R&D of common and key technologies in energy-saving industries.
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Zeyu Xing, Tachia Chin, Jing Huang, Mirko Perano and Valerio Temperini
The ongoing paradigm shift in the energy sector holds paramount implications for the realization of the sustainable development goals, encompassing critical domains such as…
Abstract
Purpose
The ongoing paradigm shift in the energy sector holds paramount implications for the realization of the sustainable development goals, encompassing critical domains such as resource optimization, environmental stewardship and workforce opportunities. Concurrently, this transformative trajectory within the power sector possesses a dual-edged nature; it may ameliorate certain challenges while accentuating others. In light of the burgeoning research stream on open innovation, this study aims to examine the intricate dynamics of knowledge-based industry-university-research networking, with an overarching objective to elucidate and calibrate the equilibrium of ambidextrous innovation within power systems.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors scrutinize the role of different innovation organizations in three innovation models: ambidextrous, exploitative and exploratory, and use a multiobjective decision analysis method-entropy weight TOPSIS. The research was conducted within the sphere of the power industry, and the authors mined data from the widely used PatSnap database.
Findings
Results show that the breadth of knowledge search and the strength of an organization’s direct relationships are crucial for ambidextrous innovation, with research institutions having the highest impact. In contrast, for exploitative innovation, depth of knowledge search, the number of R&D patents and the number of innovative products are paramount, with universities playing the most significant role. For exploratory innovation, the depth of knowledge search and the quality of two-mode network relations are vital, with research institutions yielding the best effect. Regional analysis reveals Beijing as the primary hub for ambidextrous and exploratory innovation organizations, while Jiangsu leads for exploitative innovation.
Practical implications
The study offers valuable implications to cope with the dynamic state of ambidextrous innovation performance of the entire power system. In light of the findings, the dynamic state of ambidextrous innovation performance within the power system can be adeptly managed. By emphasizing a balance between exploratory and exploitative strategies, stakeholders are better positioned to respond to evolving challenges and opportunities. Thus, the study offers pivotal guidance to ensure sustained adaptability and growth in the power sector’s innovation landscape.
Originality/value
The primary originality is to extend and refine the theoretical understanding of ambidextrous innovation within power systems. By integrating several theoretical frameworks, including social network theory, knowledge-based theory and resource-based theory, the authors enrich the theoretical landscape of power system ambidextrous innovation. Also, this inclusive examination of two-mode network structures, including the interplay between knowledge and cooperation networks, unveils the intricate interdependencies between these networks and the ambidextrous innovation of power systems. This approach significantly widens the theoretical parameters of innovation network research.
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Yuanxin Zhang, Liujun Xu, Xiaolong Xue, Zeyu Wang and Miroslaw Skibniewski
With the uptake of prefabricated construction (PC) facing serious obstacles in China, networked innovation can break the technical constraints while also containing the risks in…
Abstract
Purpose
With the uptake of prefabricated construction (PC) facing serious obstacles in China, networked innovation can break the technical constraints while also containing the risks in individual innovation. However, the construction community has paid little attention to PC innovation, especially networked innovation. This study aims to gain deep insights into what impacts the formation and dynamics of a prefabricated construction innovation network (PCIN). With the uptake of PC facing serious obstacles in China, networked innovation can break the technical constraints while also containing the risks in individual innovation.
Design/methodology/approach
The research design follows a sequential mixed methodology of qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. It first conceptualizes the PCIN based on the quadruple helix model and formulates a corresponding system dynamics model based on causality analysis. After validating the PCIN model using empirical data, simulations are carried out using Vensim PLE software. Finally, this study identifies key factors that promote the formation of PCIN in China through sensitivity analysis.
Findings
The results show that PC predicts a continuous increase in practice as of 2030. The tested drivers all positively influence the formation of the PCIN, with market demand and risk sharing having the greatest influence, followed by competitive pressure, profit government support, scientific and technological advancement and collaborative innovation strategy.
Originality/value
The study makes three major contributions. First, it provides a novel angle for a deeper understanding of the PC innovation. Second, it proposes a new approach for probing the formation and dynamics of the PCIN. Finally, it offers a theoretical reference for promoting the formation of innovation networks and the development of PC.
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Bo Lv, Yue Deng, Wei Meng, Zeyu Wang and Tingting Tang
The 21st century has brought the business model earth-shaking changes, especially since the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic at the end of 2019. Now, the epidemic…
Abstract
Purpose
The 21st century has brought the business model earth-shaking changes, especially since the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic at the end of 2019. Now, the epidemic normalization is slowing down China's rapid development. However, technological development, like artificial intelligence (AI), is unstoppable and is transforming China's economic growth modes from factor-driven to innovation-driven systems. Therefore, it is necessary to study further the new changes in labor entrepreneurship and innovation business models and their mechanism of action on economic growth.
Design/methodology/approach
This work studies how innovative human capital (IHC) uses AI and other scientific and technological (S&T) innovation technologies to promote China's innovation-driven economic growth model transformation from the labor entrepreneurship and innovation perspective.
Findings
The research shows that the entrepreneurial innovation ability of IHC can increase marginal return and output multiplier effect. It changes the traditional business model and promotes China's economic growth and innovation development. At the same time, this work analyzes China's inter-provincial panel data through the panel smooth transition regression (PSTR) model. It concludes that there is a nonlinear relationship between IHC and the output of innovative achievements. The main body presents three stages of nonlinear changes: first rising, then slightly declining, and rising so far.
Originality/value
The finding provides a direction for solving the problem of slow economic growth and accelerating the transformation of economic growth mode under epidemic normalization.
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Xianjin Zha, Zeyu Lu and Yalan Yan
For undergraduate and graduate students in universities, social media are playing an important role in their study/research because a large amount of academic information has been…
Abstract
Purpose
For undergraduate and graduate students in universities, social media are playing an important role in their study/research because a large amount of academic information has been accumulated on social media. Indeed, social media are complementing university libraries. Given that intelligent recommender systems have been widely implemented on social media, this paper aims to examine the adoption mechanism of intelligently recommended information by university students in their study/research.
Design/methodology/approach
Building upon the updated information system success model and herding theory, this study developed a research model to examine the determinants of recommended information adoption in mobile applications for social media. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed with partial least squares structural equation modelling.
Findings
The results suggest that herding belief is a valid second-order construct, comprising two first-order dimensions of imitating others and discounting their own information. Information quality, system quality and service quality directly impact satisfaction with the intelligent recommender system. Furthermore, satisfaction with the intelligent recommender system and herding belief directly impact recommended information adoption by university students in their study/research.
Originality/value
This study draws on the updated information system success model and incorporates herding belief as an extended component to investigate recommended information adoption, providing a new lens for understanding recommended information adoption by university students in their study/research.
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Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the tendency for firms, exhibiting an entrepreneurial spirit in their growth strategies, to engage in misconduct within the context of China's rapidly developing economy. The authors also examine how this relationship is influenced by governance mechanisms, specifically management shareholding and executive functional diversity. Furthermore, the authors explore the mediating roles of organizational complexity and performance pressure in linking entrepreneurial growth to firm misconduct. This research provides a novel perspective for understanding the impact of entrepreneurial growth on corporate ethical risks, and offers practical insights for maintaining ethical standards in firms during their pursuit of growth.
Design/methodology/approach
This study focuses on publicly traded, mature companies that exhibit an entrepreneurial inclination in their growth strategies, demonstrating entrepreneurial vigor through activities such as product innovation and market expansion. This exploration incorporates both theoretical and empirical approaches, scrutinizing A-share listed companies in China from 2008 to 2019. To validate the robustness of this study's findings, the authors have applied diverse methodologies such as propensity score matching, classification regression, and alternative indicator analysis.
Findings
This study found that the entrepreneurial growth-oriented strategy is positively related to firm misconduct. It also uncovers that governance mechanisms like management shareholding and executive functional diversity moderate this relationship. Moreover, organizational complexity and performance pressure partially mediate the relationship between an entrepreneurial growth strategy and firm misconduct.
Research limitations/implications
For instance, more detailed categorization of corporate misconduct, based on punishment severity, could be explored. Additional characteristics like age, education, gender, and team/board diversity could help further understand the relationship between entrepreneurial growth strategy and misconduct. By addressing these limitations and exploring further avenues for research, the authors can deepen the understanding of this relationship and provide valuable insights for firms seeking to mitigate potential risks.
Practical implications
First, for regulators, shareholders, creditors and investors, knowing and understanding the relationship between growth-oriented strategies and corporate violations is helpful for them to scientifically evaluate the potential risks that may exist in the company, and can also carry out differentiated supervision on the company based on different types of company-oriented strategies. Second, when designing the corporate governance mechanism, listed companies should fully consider the role of management shareholding. Finally, executives should treat cross-functional experience dialectically, especially in growth oriented strategic companies.
Social implications
This research provides a novel perspective for understanding the impact of entrepreneurial growth on corporate ethical risks, and offers practical insights for maintaining ethical standards in firms during their pursuit of growth.
Originality/value
This study stands out by examining the influence of entrepreneurial growth strategy on firm misconduct, thus enhancing previous studies that primarily centered on entrepreneurial start-ups. The authors offer a nuanced comprehension of the potential risks intrinsic to corporate entrepreneurship and highlight the crucial role of efficient governance structures in curbing corporate misbehavior while fostering entrepreneurial growth.
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Fanbo Meng, Xitong Guo, Zeyu Peng, Qiang Ye and Kee-Hung Lai
Mobile health (mHealth) services are considered an important means of relieving the problems of the aging population. The efficiency of mHealth services can be enhanced by…
Abstract
Purpose
Mobile health (mHealth) services are considered an important means of relieving the problems of the aging population. The efficiency of mHealth services can be enhanced by engaging more elderly users and guaranteeing their continued use. However, limited attention has been directed toward investigating elderly users' continuance intention regarding mHealth services. The purpose of this paper is to explain elderly users' continuance intention by investigating the contingent role of technology anxiety and health anxiety on affective trust and cognitive trust.
Design/methodology/approach
Survey data were collected from 232 elderly users to verify the research model and hypotheses based on structural equation modeling (SEM).
Findings
This study revealed that both affective and cognitive trust enhance elderly users' continuance intention regarding their use of mHealth services. Health anxiety strengthens the effect of cognitive trust but weakens the effect of affective trust with regard to continuance intention. Furthermore, technology anxiety strengthens the effect of affective trust but not the effect of cognitive trust with regard to continuance intention.
Originality/value
This study is one of the first to examine elderly users' continuance intention regarding mHealth services use from the perspective of affective and cognitive trust, thus enriching the extant literature on the use of mHealth services. Additionally, this study sheds light on the contingent effects of technology anxiety and health anxiety on affective and cognitive trust, which have been neglected by previous research.