Jianhua Ding, Jianhua Fang, Boshui Chen, Nan Zhang, Xingyu Fan and Zhe Zheng
This paper aims to understand the influences of tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate oleate and oleic acid tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate phosphate ester on biodegradability and…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to understand the influences of tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate oleate and oleic acid tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate phosphate ester on biodegradability and tribological performances of mineral lubricating oil.
Design/methodology/approach
Tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate oleate and oleic acid tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate phosphate ester were prepared and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The biodegradability and tribological properties of neat oil and its formulations were studied on a tester for fast evaluating biodegradability of lubricants and a four-ball tester, respectively. The worn surfaces were investigated by scanning electron microscope and X-ray photoelectron spectroscope.
Findings
Tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate oleate and oleic acid tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate phosphate ester both improved markedly the biodegradability, the anti-wear properties, friction-reducing properties and extreme pressure properties of base oil. The effect of oleic acid tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate phosphate ester was better than tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate oleate. The improvement of tribological performances was mainly ascribed to the formation of a complicated boundary lubrication film of tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate oleate and oleic acid tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate phosphate ester on the friction surfaces.
Originality/value
This paper has indicated that tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate oleate and oleic acid tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate phosphate ester effectively improve the biodegradability and tribological performances of mineral lubricating oil. Promoting biodegradation of mineral lubricant by additives is very significant for the development of petroleum-based biodegradable lubricants. These two additives not merely improve the tribological performances; more importantly, they improve the ecological performances.
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Ruihan Zhang, Bing Sun, Mingyao Liu and Jian Hou
This paper aims to analyze the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of regional total factor productivity (TFP) growth and explores how haze pollution and different levels of new-type…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to analyze the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of regional total factor productivity (TFP) growth and explores how haze pollution and different levels of new-type urbanization affect China’s economic growth.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper constructs an index for evaluating the TFP growth of China’s 31 provinces by integrating slack-based measures and the Global Malmquist (GM) productivity index. Meanwhile, the panel threshold estimation method is used to examine the complex relationships among haze pollution, new-type urbanization and TFP growth.
Findings
The results reflect conspicuous spatiotemporal heterogeneity in TFP growth in China. Interestingly, the influence of haze pollution on TFP growth is limited by the “critical mass” of new-type urbanization in China. When new-type urbanization does not cross the first threshold, haze pollution has a negative but non-significant effect on TFP growth. When new-type urbanization crosses the first threshold but not the second, haze pollution has a significant positive impact on TFP growth. When new-type urbanization crosses the second threshold, haze pollution significantly and positively affects TFP growth with the strongest positive effect.
Originality/value
This study innovates by combining haze pollution and TFP growth and proposing an integrated framework from the perspective of new-type urbanization, providing insight into how different degrees of new-type urbanization impact the mechanism between haze pollution and TFP growth. Using panel data in China and emphasizing green development, a sustainable economy and new-type urbanization, this study contributes to the current studies on haze pollution and economic development based on developed countries.
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Zhe Wang, Xisheng Li, Xiaojuan Zhang, Yanru Bai and Chengcai Zheng
How to model blind image deblurring that arises when a camera undergoes ego-motion while observing a static and close scene. In particular, this paper aims to detail how the…
Abstract
Purpose
How to model blind image deblurring that arises when a camera undergoes ego-motion while observing a static and close scene. In particular, this paper aims to detail how the blurry image can be restored under a sequence of the linear model of the point spread function (PSF) that are derived from the 6-degree of freedom (DOF) camera’s accurate path during the long exposure time.
Design/methodology/approach
There are two existing techniques, namely, an estimation of the PSF and a blind image deconvolution. Based on online and short-period inertial measurement unit (IMU) self-calibration, this motion path has discretized a sequence of the uniform speed of 3-DOF rectilinear motion, which unites with a 3-DOF rotational motion to form a discrete 6-DOF camera’s path. These PSFs are evaluated through the discrete path, then combine with a blurry image to restoration through deconvolution.
Findings
This paper describes to build a hardware attachment, which is composed of a consumer camera, an inexpensive IMU and a 3-DOF motion mechanism to the best of the knowledge, together with experimental results demonstrating its overall effectiveness.
Originality/value
First, the paper proposes that a high-precision 6-DOF motion platform periodically adjusts the speed of a three-axis rotational motion and a three-axis rectilinear motion in a short time to compensate the bias of the gyroscope and the accelerometer. Second, this paper establishes a model of 6-DOF motion and emphasizes on rotational motion, translational motion and scene depth motion. Third, this paper addresses a novel model of the discrete path that the motion during long exposure time is discretized at a uniform speed, then to estimate a sequence of PSFs.
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Zhe Wang, Xisheng Li, Xiaojuan Zhang, Yanru Bai and Chengcai Zheng
The purpose of this study is to use visual and inertial sensors to achieve real-time location. How to provide an accurate location has become a popular research topic in the field…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to use visual and inertial sensors to achieve real-time location. How to provide an accurate location has become a popular research topic in the field of indoor navigation. Although the complementarity of vision and inertia has been widely applied in indoor navigation, many problems remain, such as inertial sensor deviation calibration, unsynchronized visual and inertial data acquisition and large amount of stored data.
Design/methodology/approach
First, this study demonstrates that the vanishing point (VP) evaluation function improves the precision of extraction, and the nearest ground corner point (NGCP) of the adjacent frame is estimated by pre-integrating the inertial sensor. The Sequential Similarity Detection Algorithm (SSDA) and Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) algorithms are adopted to accurately match the adjacent NGCP in the estimated region of interest. Second, the model of visual pose is established by using the parameters of the camera itself, VP and NGCP. The model of inertial pose is established by pre-integrating. Third, location is calculated by fusing the model of vision and inertia.
Findings
In this paper, a novel method is proposed to fuse visual and inertial sensor to locate indoor environment. The authors describe the building of an embedded hardware platform to the best of their knowledge and compare the result with a mature method and POSAV310.
Originality/value
This paper proposes a VP evaluation function that is used to extract the most advantages in the intersection of a plurality of parallel lines. To improve the extraction speed of adjacent frame, the authors first proposed fusing the NGCP of the current frame and the calibrated pre-integration to estimate the NGCP of the next frame. The visual pose model was established using extinction VP and NGCP, calibration of inertial sensor. This theory offers the linear processing equation of gyroscope and accelerometer by the model of visual and inertial pose.
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Rui Yan, Yuye Wang, Pengjun Luo, Yangbo Li and Xiaochun Lu
The limited strength of polylactic acid (PLA) hinders its extensive engineering applications. This paper aims to enhance its strength and realize diverse applications.
Abstract
Purpose
The limited strength of polylactic acid (PLA) hinders its extensive engineering applications. This paper aims to enhance its strength and realize diverse applications.
Design/methodology/approach
Here, the continuous fiber reinforced PLA composites are fabricated by a customized fused filament fabrication three-dimensional printer. Uniaxial tensile and three-point flexural tests have been conducted to analyze the reinforcement effect of the proposed composites. To unveil the adhering mechanism of optic fiber (OF) and PLA, post failure analysis including the micro imaging and morphology have been performed. The underlying mechanism is that the axial tensile strength of the OF and the interfacial adhesion between PLA and OF compete to enhance the mechanical properties of the composite.
Findings
It is found that 10%–20% enhancement of strength, ductility and toughness due to the incorporation of the continuous OF.
Originality/value
The continuous OFs are put into PLA first time to improve the strength. The fabrication method and process reported here are potentially applied in such engineering applications as aerospace, defense, auto, medicine, etc.
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Zhe Li, Hongpeng Zheng, Li Liu, Fandi Meng, Yu Cui and Fuhui Wang
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of urea–formaldehyde (UF) nanoparticles on the barrier property and delamination resistance for epoxy coating in a 3.5% NaCl…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of urea–formaldehyde (UF) nanoparticles on the barrier property and delamination resistance for epoxy coating in a 3.5% NaCl aqueous solution.
Design/methodology/approach
The UF resin was synthesized via sol–gel method, and UF/epoxy composite coating was prepared through ball-milling process; the microstructure and chemical composition of UF resin were observed using the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy; the bonding strength of coating/metal interface was investigated through adhesion test; the mechanical properties of the coatings were studied by tensile tests; and the barrier and corrosion resistance properties were verified using salt spray test, cathodic delamination test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements.
Findings
The experimental results indicated that the UF resin presented uniformly dispersed nanoparticles in the epoxy matrix and enhanced the bonding strength of coating/metal interface and then improved the delamination resistance for composite coating, which resulted in the enhancement of the barrier property and corrosion resistance for UF/epoxy composite coating.
Originality/value
In this paper, an easily prepared blending compounding coating with excellent corrosion resistance property was synthesized via sol–gel method and ball-milling process. The effects of UF nanoparticles on the barrier property and delamination resistance were investigated in detail.
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Shi-qing Wu, Bin Shen, Yun-zhe Tang, Jia-hai Wang and Da-teng Zheng
The purpose of this paper is to study a method to optimize the arrangement of the devices on a smart assembly workbench, which help to reduce fatigue and improve efficiency for…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to study a method to optimize the arrangement of the devices on a smart assembly workbench, which help to reduce fatigue and improve efficiency for the worker.
Design/methodology/approach
The optimization priority is studied based on the users’ decisions, a mathematical model of the layout optimization is established from ergonomic perspective and an improved algorithm is adopted to solve the built the mathematical model.
Findings
Ergonomic software Jack is chosen to simulate the four layout schemes obtained. Through comparative analysis of the simulation results, it is proven that the optimal solution can be obtained using the improved algorithm.
Originality/value
The mathematical model built on observation comfort, operation comfort and device accessibility, as well as the improved algorithm in this paper, has some reference values for the layout design of smart assembly workbench.
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The purpose of this paper is to unpack the black box of post-merger and acquisition (M&A) integration of reverse M&A by Chinese multinational enterprises (MNEs).
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to unpack the black box of post-merger and acquisition (M&A) integration of reverse M&A by Chinese multinational enterprises (MNEs).
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopts multiple cases of Chinese reverse M&A. Data are collected using the approaches of in-depth interviews, storytelling and narratives.
Findings
This research identifies various antecedents underlying Chinese post-M&A integration, such as asymmetries in resources, capabilities, vision and status between Chinese MNEs and acquired firms. The post-M&A integration process of Chinese reverse M&A consists of a top-down effortless integration initiated by Chinese MNEs with both benefits and problems, and a bottom-up reverse integration conducted by acquired firms.
Originality/value
By linking the pre-M&A phase and the post-M&A phase, this research builds a new model of post-M&A integration of Chinese reverse M&A from an indigenous Wu Wei paradigm. The new model counterpoises extant literature, shifting from the task and efficiency-focussed view to the people and harmony-focussed view.
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Zhe Sun, Liang Zhao, Hongji Wei, Xiaoming Wang and Rosanne Rosalie Riemersma
The study aims to examine the effects of guanxi and harmonious leadership on acquisition performance and the role of sociocultural integration as a mediating mechanism impacting…
Abstract
Purpose
The study aims to examine the effects of guanxi and harmonious leadership on acquisition performance and the role of sociocultural integration as a mediating mechanism impacting the above links, with a focus on Chinese cross-border acquisitions in The Netherlands.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected through survey questionnaire with 91 respondents who work in Dutch-acquired companies. Regression analysis was used for exploring the relationship.
Findings
The study finds that both guanxi and harmonious leadership are positive to acquisition performance, and sociocultural integration represents a significant mediating mechanism by which guanxi and harmonious leadership can result in improved acquisition performance.
Originality/value
This study contributes to culture research by emphasizing the clarification of specific Chinese cultural values and cultural practices in cross-border acquisitions and examining the role of guanxi and harmonious leadership in acquisition performance. Meanwhile, this study helps to unveil Chinese cross-border acquisitions in The Netherlands by examining the mediating force – sociocultural integration.
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The aim of this paper is to illustrate how scholars may adopt a multi‐method – not just multidisciplinary – approach on research on conflict management. Taking the Diaoyu Islands…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this paper is to illustrate how scholars may adopt a multi‐method – not just multidisciplinary – approach on research on conflict management. Taking the Diaoyu Islands as a case, the author draws on literature from management, political sciences, war, military studies, history, etymology and culture. In the process, the author deepens, enriches and expands the Thomas‐Kilman (T‐K) model for mapping out possible solutions in resolving conflicts: not just between people at workplaces but for between states as well. For instance, the author explains why the Diaoyu Islands conflict, if not amicably resolved may well lead to obliteration (integrated as part of the model) in resolving the conflict via a nuclear outbreak. Third World War may just be sparked off with Russia aligned with China against Japan and the USA.
Design/methodology/approach
Of all the issues in management, conflict management is the most culturally embedded. Through a multi‐method approach, the author illuminates the complexity of the Diaoyu Islands case. Literature from past empirical war studies are reviewed to suggest the geography of the islands (proximity, borderless, richness of resources) makes war highly probable. Past Chinese‐Japanese hatred (utilizing visual imagery), antagonism and guanxi are reviewed in exploring their impacts on outcomes (see model). Etymological research is attempted using English, Japanese and Chinese words, characters and pictograms that are related to concepts within the T‐K model. To better grasp how young Chinese feel towards the Diaoyu Islands and the Japanese, the author conducted some field research in Harbin, China. The continuing Chinese angst against Japanese is explained through war imagery: there remains in young Chinese an unquenchable thirst for exacting revenge on the Japanese. In a search to uncover ways of resolving the dispute, a further, extended study is undertaken on ancient Chinese pictograms: for example, whether a 5,000 years old Chinese concept of compromise zhe zhong (Graphic 1; oracular bones) or splitting into halves may be relevant. The role of time in conflict management is discussed in relation to the Diaoyu Islands.
Findings
By providing the WWII visual imagery as a backdrop to Chinese‐Japanese antagonism, the author explains to readers why the Diaoyu Islands is such a complex case to resolve. Also in his fieldwork, he highlights that the younger Chinese are as equally indignant about Japanese unethical grabbing, “thieving” behaviour. In their minds, such behaviour harks back to the blatant seizure of Manchuria and Japanese puppetry of Manchukuo. Through the Diaoyu Islands case, the T‐K model and theory of conflict management is broadened, enriched and enhanced. The paper illustrates how in conflicts that involve cultures are very different from the West, for instance very ancient civilizations like China and India, authors should take a multi‐method approach and explore the issues and search for solutions far more deeply.
Originality/value
Very few scholars seek to integrate the two streams of research in resolving conflict as illustrated through this paper: management and social sciences (e.g. political sciences, military and war studies). Conflict is about people and therefore integral use of multi‐methods needs to be used.