bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of shear modulus by different seismic wave-based techniques
Authors: Santos Jaime  , Santos João  , Ferreira Cristiana  , Pereira Cláudio  , Gomes Correia António
Published: February 2025

Using combined setup of bender elements and accelerometers, tests were conducted on Coimbra sand specimens in order to measure and interpret seismic wave velocities to assess initial shear modulus. For these tests both time and frequency domain analyses were performed. Resonant column tests were also performed on the same sand to validate the results obtained with the bender elements and accelerometers setup. As is well known, in the last decades the development of new laboratory techniques to assess soil stiffness through the use of seismic wave-based techniques, has received significant attention due to its simplicity and versatility of the equipment setup. One of these techniques is the bender elements test which have been one of the most widely used, although some limitations concerning its usage. In this context, the combined use of bender elements with other seismic wave-based testing techniques, such as accelerometers or the resonant column, is quite important to compare and validate the testing techniques. Given its miniature size, the installation of accelerometers on the side of the sample is considered feasible without significant disturbance on the other measuring techniques. The resonant column is a widely used and accurate testing technique due to its reliability and repeatability. Finally, the results of this combined tests allow a critical discussion on the advantages and limitations of the use of bender elements and accelerometers, in contrast with the resonant-column for the assessment of the shear modulus in sand.
An Alternative Shear Strength Test for Saturated Fine-Grained Soils: Preliminary Results
Authors: Kayabali Kamil  , Yilmaz Nihan Pinar  , Mollamahmutoglu Murat
Published: February 2025

A proper definition of the effective shear strength parameters is a major concern for long-term evaluation of loads on fine-grained soils. The most common technique to measure such entities is the conventional triaxial shear (3X) test. Numerous researchers outlined the limitations, uncertainties and operator effects pertinent to this test. Furthermore, the consolidated 3X tests take extremely long time to complete. Recently introduced in soil mechanics, the reverse extrusion (RX) test was shown to be capable of measuring the undrained shear strength of fine-grained soils with a reasonable degree of success. The hypothesis of our investigation is that the RX test should also be able to provide drained (or effective) strength parameters if it is facilitated to measure the pore-water pressure (PWP). A new instrument was developed for this purpose. Three remolded soil samples were tested using both the conventional 3X and RX tests. A comparison between the effective internal frictional angles from 3X-CU tests and the effective extrusion pressures from the RX test test reveals a remarkably good match. The investigation is in progress to increase the number of remolded soil samples and to extend the research to include natural soil samples.
Towards the measurement of fabric in granular materials with x-ray tomography
Authors: Wiebicke Max  , Andò Edward  , Viggiani Gioacchino  , Herle Ivo
Published: February 2025

Recent developments in experimental geomechanics have enabled the characterization of grain-scale measurements with x-ray computed tomography (CT) and thus paved the way for the micromechanical characterization of granular materials. However, the images coming from x-ray CT are limited with respect to their resolution if a representative specimen is to be investigated [1]. When trying to extract the fabric of such images the accuracy of the methods is crucial. This study investigates the accuracy of some standard and advanced approaches to determine different fabric entities with synthetic as well as real images.
Studying collapse behaviour of sandy silt under generalised stress conditions
Authors: Cárdenas Octavio E.  , Weber Rodrigo C.  , Romero Enrique  , Lloret Antonio  , Suriol Josep
Published: February 2025

This paper presents preliminary results on the collapse response of an artificially prepared sand-silt mixture in a hollow cylinder apparatus. The wetting stage is performed under constant mean and deviatoric stresses but at different intermediate principal stresses (controlled through the principal stress parameter b=(σ2−σ3)/(σ1−σ3)). Properties of the mixture are first described to complement its hydro-mechanical information. The preliminary results seem to indicate that collapse is larger when the intermediate stress coincides with the minor one, i.e. under conventional axi-symmetric triaxial state.
Study on Viscous Property of Sedimentary Soft Rock in Drained Triaxial and Unconfined Compression Tests
Authors: Miyashita Yukika  , Koseki Junichi  , Namikawa Kenji  , Matsumoto Masashi
Published: February 2025

To study the characteristics of creep deformation in sedimentary soft rock under the construction of tunnels, rate-dependency characteristics due to the viscous property of the sedimentary soft rock was investigated. As the results of the series of drained triaxial compression tests and the unconfined compression test, it was found that the type of viscous property in the pre-peak region was Isotach. Creep failure due to the Isotach viscosity was observed during sustained loading in one of the triaxial tests. The type of viscous property was changed from Isotach to TESRA when the deviator stress was decreased to residual stress state.
Granular temperature measurements of uniform granular flows
Authors: Gollin Devis  , Bowman Elisabeth T.  , Shepley Paul
Published: February 2025

The investigation described here consists of a study aimed at validating a reliable and straightforward method to estimate granular temperature. Experiments on dry granular flows of sand and spherical beads were performed on a simple inclined chute geometry. Flow properties at the sidewall were obtained from images recorded at high frame rate using particle image velocimetry. Direct measurements of granular temperature were estimated by means of statistical analysis. Low values of granular temperature were measured indicating that a collisional state was not fully achieved. Hence, we deemed the flows to fall into the dense flow regime. In spite of this, the dynamics of the flow exhibited a highly inhomogeneous behaviour evidenced by our results, which showed the variable nature of velocity fields and granular temperature observed.
Discrete element investigation of rate effects on the asymptotic behaviour of granular materials
Authors: Mašín David  , Jerman Jan
Published: February 2025

The effect of loading rate on the asymptotic behaviour of a granular material with permanent particles is investigated using discrete element method. The asymptotic states could uniquely be represented in terms of dimensionless inertial number I. For low inertial numbers (I lower than 0.01 to 0.001), the asymptotic stress ratio is independent of I (and thus of loading rate and of mean stress). This agrees with observation on soils, showing critical state friction angle independent of mean stress. For low inertial numbers, the critical state line as well as the isotropic normal compression line have similar slope in the plane of void ratio vs. mean stress to the isotropic rebound line. This agrees with conclusions of other scientists, who suggest that particle crushing needs to be involved to represent more realistically the volumetric asymptotic response of granular material.
Simulation of traffic loading on an embankment by the finite element method with different soil models
Authors: Camacho-Tauta Javier  , Molina Fausto  , Reyes-Ortiz Oscar
Published: February 2025

Large road embankments when vertical loaded, behave under oedometric conditions. However, the measurement of the soil stiffness by triaxial tests usually is done by imposing a deviatoric stress on a specimen previously consolidated under isotropic conditions. Then, an elastic model is used to estimate the vertical deformations due to traffic loadings. Moreover, a static model is not sufficient to simulate the real condition of the traffic loading. The difference between simple assumptions and more realistic conditions could result in a misestimating of the strains produced by traffic. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the effect of the dynamic traffic loading on a road embankment using the finite element method with different constitutive soil models. A triaxial cell equipped by local transducers, capable of manage different stress paths, was used to measure the soil stiffness and strength properties of a granular material under isotropic conditions. In addition, the dynamic properties of the soil were obtained by cyclic triaxial test with axial and radial measurements by mean of local transducers and resonant-column tests. A 2D Dynamic Finite Element Model in PLAXIS®was created to estimate the cumulative deformations produced by a repetitive moving load on a road segment. Mohr-Coulomb, Hardening Soil and Hardening Soil with Small Strain Stiffness constitutive models were used to evaluate the dynamic behaviour of a road embankment.
Characterization of Consolidation Stress-strain-time Histories on Pre-failure Behavior of Natural Clayey Geomaterials
Authors: Mukabi John N.
Published: February 2025

Moderate to strong vibrations and ground motions, environmental factors and human activities may cause progressive and/or abrupt changes in the recent consolidation stress-strain-time history transforming it to a “new current state”. It is therefore important to evaluate such changes in order to capture a more realistic picture of the field behavior for purposes of determining the relevant and most appropriate design parameters.
Stiffness Anisotropy Characteristics of Natural Fined-Grained Seabed Sediments
Authors: Martínez Delvin Abdiel  , Nishimura Satoshi
Published: February 2025

The anisotropy characteristics of natural fined-grained soils' small-strain stiffness were experimentally studied and interpreted with an effective-stress cross-anisotropic elasticity model. Use of highly precise local instrumentation allowed determining all the five parameters necessary for describing the cross-anisotropic behavior of soil at small-strain levels. Similar techniques and interpretations have so far been applied to uniform sands and clays, but the investigated gradation ranges were fairly limited. In this research, natural samples of Holocene and Pleistocene seabed sediments with a wide range of fines content were tested to study their anisotropic stiffness parameters at small-strain levels. The inherent anisotropy characteristics were further discussed by looking at two more commonly quoted inter-modulus ratios, Ghh/Gvhand Eh′/Ev′. They were found to range 0.9-1.3 and 0.6-1.4, respectively. These ranges are closer to those reported for reconstituted sands than those for clays. There is a possibility that larger particles are more dominant in determining the stiffness anisotropy patterns in non-uniform intermediate soils.
Advanced laboratory investigation of axial cyclic loading in silica sands
Authors: Tsuha Cristina de H.C.  , Jardine Richard J.  , Yang Zhongxuan  , Silva Matias  , Rimoy Siya
Published: February 2025

This paper describes the global behaviour of and local stress conditions applying to highly instrumented cyclic laboratory model displacement pile tests conducted in a calibration chamber on medium dense Fontainebleau NE34 sand. The instrumentation provided measurements of the contact stresses on the jacked pile shaft and the local vertical, radial and circumferential stresses in the surrounding soil mass, in tests involving a range of cyclic load amplitudes. The patterns of effective stress developing on and around the pile shaft are described. The data obtained are interpreted by reference to cyclic soil element tests conducted on the same soil, as described in the parallel investigation by Aghakouchak et al (2015), reported in the same symposium. The calibration chamber experiments offer a comprehensive understanding of the cyclic degradation processes, and provide key information for improving the design of piled foundations under cyclic loading.
Consolidation of Shales and Porosity-Permeability Relationship
Authors: Favero Valentina  , Ferrari Alessio  , Laloui Lyesse
Published: February 2025

The involvement of shales in many energy-related fields in the last decades has led to the need to deeply study their mechanical and hydraulic behaviour. Engineering applications such as the extraction of gas shale and shales oil, the sequestration of CO2and the nuclear waste geological storage, require particular attention to the analysis of the volumetric behaviour, porosity change and permeability-porosity relationship of the involved material as these aspects are fundamental for the performance of the shale formation as reservoir rock or cap rock. In this paper, an advanced oedometric cell is introduced in order to investigate the transition from the over- to the normally consolidated state of shales; in addition an analytical method is presented in order to analyse the one-dimensional consolidation process of high-rigidity shales. As high stresses are involved, the compressibility of the solid particles plays a role in the volumetric behaviour of the material. Therefore, the poroelastic response of shales has to be taken into account to correctly describe the volumetric behaviour and porosity change of the shales. The permeability of the involved material is computed by the analysis of the consolidation process and its dependency on the porosity is investigated in the paper. Selected test results are presented for a shale from the northern region of Switzerland.
Soil Behavior under Unsaturated and Long term Vertical Cyclic Loading
Authors: Kafle Binod  , Wuttke Frank
Published: February 2025

The deformation of the unsaturated granular material under the action of long term cyclic loading can be interpreted by unique intrinsic soil properties. The various changes on the soil properties by the application of the cyclic loading creates a unique response to the applied external forces. As the existence of unsaturated soil is predominant, over the saturated or dry soil, the study on the cyclic response of footing over unsaturated soil is an imminent need to understand the response of the structure and to evaluate its performance in the long term.
Pore pressure generation in clays soils normally consolidated under undrained cyclic load process
Authors: Chaves-Agudelo Julián  , Hernández-Rodríguez Félix
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a novel approach to study the dynamic behaviour of a reconstituted kaolinitic clay considering experimental results of static and cyclic triaxial evaluated in the context of the Critical State Soil Mechanics (CSSM) and the Cam-clay model. In order to define the mechanism of pore pressure generation under cyclic loading and under which conditions induce a state of failure by cyclic softening.
Les Sources de Rayonnements Ionisants et leurs Utilisations
Authors: Erradi Lhoussine
Published: February 2025

This article describes sources of ionizing radiation and gives some reasons for the variations in radiation exposure received. It also presents the multiple uses of radiation sources in different socio-economic sectors and the basic principles of radiation protection.
Data parallel patterns in Erlang/OpenCL
Authors: Albanese Ugo  , Danelutto Marco
Published: February 2025

We introduce a library supporting execution of data parallel kernels on GPUs from Erlang. The library provides calls with the same semantics of the map and fold functions of the lists Erlang library, where the functions to be computed on the input list(s) are actually provided as OpenCL C kernels. The map and reduce (fold) higher order functions are provided in such a way that subsequent calls may leave temporary data (partial results) on the GPU memory while computing complex, possibly composed data parallel patterns. In addition, data transfers to and from the GPU, from and to the Erlang subsystem, are overlapped with Erlang to C and C to Erlang marshaling, such that the cost of the overall type conversion is minimized. We assess the performances of the data parallel library via simple synthetic benchmarks and real application kernels showing substantial speedups with respect to pure Erlang implementation of the same synthetic benchmarks/application kernels.
Bio-Inspired Massively-Parallel Computation
Authors: Furber Steve
Published: February 2025

The SpiNNaker (Spiking Neural Network Architecture) project will soon deliver a machine incorporating a million ARM processor cores for real-time modeling of large-scale spiking neural networks. Although the scale of the machine is in the realms of high-performance computing, the technology used to build the machine comes very much from the mobile embedded world, using small integer cores and Network-on-Chip communications both on and between chips. The full machine will use a total of 10 square meters of active silicon area with 57,600 routers using predominantly multicast algorithms to convey real-time spike information through a lightweight asynchronous packet-switched fabric. This paper presents the philosophy behind the machine, and the future prospects for systems with increased cognitive capabilities based on an increasing understanding of how biological brains process information.
Exploiting the Space Filling Curve Ordering of Particles in the Neighbour Search of Gadget3
Authors: Ragagnin Antonio  , Tchipev Nikola  , Bader Michael  , Dolag Klaus  , Hammer Nicolay
Published: February 2025

Gadget3 is nowadays one of the most frequently used high performing parallel codes for cosmological hydrodynamical simulations. Recent analyses have shown that the Neighbour Search process of Gadget3 is one of the most time-consuming parts. Thus, a considerable speedup can be expected from improvements of the underlying algorithms.
Non-destructive Evaluation of Milled Surfaces of a Hard Bearing Steel by the Barkhausen Noise Technique
Authors: Stupakov Alexandr  , Neslušan Miroslav  , Uchimoto Tetsuya  , Takagi Toshiyuki
Published: February 2025

A bearing steel of a 62 HRC hardness was milled using the cutting tools with different flank wears. The low-frequency measurements of the magnetic Barkhausen noise were performed under a controllable waveform of the surface magnetic field measured by the Hall sensors. The high-frequency measurements with a smaller magnetization depth were performed by a commercial Rollscan device. The measurements were conducted in two perpendicular magnetization directions: along the feeding and the rotation directions of the cutting shaft. Suitable magnetic parameters for detection of the induced surface damage were proposed.
Identifying the Orientation of Carbon Fibers in Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Plastic by Eddy Current Testing with a Differential Probe
Authors: Urayama Ryoichi  , Kosukegawa Hiroyuki  , Uchimoto Tetsuya  , Takagi Toshiyuki
Published: February 2025

Carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is a structural material with excellent mechanical properties. However, CFRP is a brittle material, so defects must be detected early. Moreover, it is important to precisely detect any misalignments of carbon fibers in the CFRP to maintain its reliable mechanical properties. In this study, we used eddy current testing with a mutual induction-differential probe to detect various orientations of carbon fibers in CFRP specimens. We could identify the fiber orientations in three types of CFRPs—unidirectional, cross, and quasi-isotropic orientations—with stable signals.
Pipe-Thickness Measurement Technology Using EMAT and Fiber Optic Sensors
Authors: Sasaki Keiichi  , Cho Hiroaki  , Asakura Daisuke
Published: February 2025

In the piping system in power plants, the pipe elbows and lower reaches of orifices are prone to damage from flow-accelerated corrosion and erosion. Conventionally, an ultrasonic meter is used to measure the thickness of the main pipes and detect corrosion loss. However, this involves the time and cost of shutting down the plant to dismantle and reassemble the heat-insulating jackets of the pipes. Therefore, we developed a new measurement technology that combines the use of electromagnetic acoustic transducers (EMATs) and fiber optic sensors. The sensor device can be placed between the pipe and the heat insulator, allowing online measurement and monitoring of pipe thickness. This report describes the detection of liquid droplet impingement (LDI) erosion on the inner surface of pipes using the EMAT and fiber optic sensor method.
Nondestructive assessment of arterial pulse wave contour features using electromechanical analogy
Authors: Borik Stefan  , Cap Ivo  , Capova Klara
Published: February 2025

The article deals with the nondestructive assessment of arterial system using electromechanical analogy. There are investigated pulse wave contour features such as Oliva – Roztocil index (ORI) and second derivative of pulse wave contour. These indices are confronted with different arterial stenosis degrees. It is shown that they can be useful for classification and quantification of arterial defects.
Fatigue Damage Evaluation Of Copper-Alloy By Using Eddy Current Technique
Authors: Shiwa Mitsuharu  , He Donfeng  , Hayakawa Masao  , Hori Shusuke
Published: February 2025

ECT technique was applied to evaluate the fatigue damage progression of Cu-Cr-Zr alloy during low-cycle fatigue testing at room temperature. Subtracted ECT-Y signal from the applied strain signal was indicated low-cycle fatigue damage such as work-hardening, micro-crack generation and macro-crack propagation. The damage propagation of the low-cycle fatigue testing in Cu-alloy could be depended on work-hardening inside of the specimen and micro-crack nucleation on the surface.
Information and Hybrid Warfare: Intelligence Challenges, Intelligent Response
Authors: Mitu Daniela-Elena
Published: February 2025

The primary purpose of this paper is to identify both differences, and convergences between psychological, information, and hybrid warfare. Secondly, I will highlight the role of information within the hybrid warfare, analyzing the example provided by the conflict in Ukraine. There would be presented different components of this issue, with a focus on the information flow, traditional and social media campaigns. Finally, I will assess possible solutions that intelligence organizations could provide to these information challenges in order to counter hybrid warfare. In terms of methodology, I use the general principles of comparative and content analysis
The Effects of Composite Microstructure on Normalized Maximum Principal Stress Under Transverse Tension and Shear of a Unidirectional Carbon Fibre Reinforced Composite
Authors: Cai Rui  , Christensen Jesper
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates the effects of the microstructure of a composite material (including fibre volume fraction, fibre distribution and bonding quality between fibre and matrix) on normalized maximum principal stress under transverse tension and shear of a unidirectional carbon fibre reinforced composite. The normalized maximum principal stress is defined as the stress ratio of maximum principal stress to the load applied. A Finite Element (FE) model using a concept unit cell with different composite characteristics subjected to transverse tension and shear has been developed to enable an understanding of microscopic damage mechanisms and failure behavior for carbon/epoxy composites. This information, which has been verified against physical test results, is vital to instruct the composite manufacturing process and part design criteria.
Factors Influencing Structural Properties of Low Silicon Bainite Cast Irons
Authors: Khidasheli Nugzar  , Beradze Gocha  , Bakradze Nana  , Dumbadze Teimuraz  , Batako Andre D.L.
Published: February 2025

Low silicon bainite cast irons are most advanced and promising structural materials. Due to their high technological plasticity these alloys can be used for parts production by casting and hot plastic deformation. This results in a structure refinement, reduced wastage, pores elimination and increased productivity. Therefore, these materials withstand range of external technological processes (thermal-mechanical treatment, isothermal heat treatment) aimed at forming in cast irons new structural properties, which increase their performance (strength, fracture resistance, wear resistance under dry and abrasive friction) This work studied processes of austenite formation and austenite decomposition in low silicon-aluminium cast irons. Temperature-time dependence on the formation of bainite and martensite structures in these alloys was identified. Active influence of aluminium on the phase composition of cast irons after heat treatment was defined. Based on data obtained, a preliminary plastic deformation of these alloys extends the process control of structural modification during subsequent isothermal heat treatment.
A Novel Adaptation of the T-Peel Bimetal Bond Test Based on the Thin Film Bonding Theory Using Cold Roll Bonded AlSn/Steel Bimetal Laminates
Authors: Da Silva Laurie  , El-Sharif Mahmoud  , Chisholm Colin  , Laidlaw Stuart
Published: February 2025

The cold roll bonding (CRB) of aluminium/tin alloys to steel is a key industrial manufacturing process used to generate bimetallic composites for engine components. Joining steel and AlSn alloys in the solid state allows for the superior tribological wear and strength characteristics required in automotive bearings. The bond strength of these bimetal composites is crucial, as delamination of fundamental engine components can have detrimental, and often catastrophic, consequences. To evaluate bond strength it is vital that the bimetal manufacturing industry identify a suitable bond test. Researchers in CRB often use the shear (ASTM-D3165-07) or T-peel (ASTM-D1876) test to evaluate bimetals. However, the machining of shear test specimens becomes increasingly difficult with thin laminates and the T-Peel test is designed to evaluate adhesive bonding and not solid state metallic welds. This work offers a novel adaptation of the T-peel test allowing for more accurate evaluation of bond strength, based on the thin film bonding theory.
An Application of Autoregressive Hidden Markov Models for Identifying Machine Operations
Authors: Pantazis Dimitrios  , Rodriguez Adrian Ayastuy  , Conway Paul P.  , West Andrew A.
Published: February 2025

Due to increasing energy costs there is a need for accurate management and planning of shop floor machine processes. This would entail identifying the different operation modes of production machines. The goal for industry is to provide energy monitors for all machines in factories. In addition, where they have been deployed, analysis is limited to aggregating data for subsequent processing later. In this paper, an Autoregressive Hidden Markov Model (ARHMM)-based algorithm is introduced, which can determine the operation mode of the machine in real-time and find direct application in intrusive load monitoring cases. Compared with other load monitoring techniques, such as transient analysis, no prior knowledge of the system to be monitored is required.
Deployment of Assisted Living Technology Using Intelligent Body Sensors Platform for Elderly People Health Monitoring
Authors: Elsaadi Riyad  , Shafik Mahmoud
Published: February 2025

Many of the Ambient Assisted Living Technologies (AALT) available to the end-users as off- shelf products have no common inter-operational protocol (Language). Each product has its own communication protocols, different interfaces and interoperation which limits their solution efficiency for long term health condition monitoring systems. This paper presents assisted living technology (ALT) solution for elderly people based on wireless sensors networking technology. The system includes biofeedback monitoring body sensors, such as: blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature. Each sensor has been integrated with the necessary real time embedded protocol and system to work in ad-hoc bases. The data will be send wirelessly and shared though cloud network. The collected data will be processed and relevant algorithms will be deployed to take certain actions when any changes occur or health warnings arise. These will be treated with high confidentiality to ensure end-users integrity and dignity have been maintained. The proposed solution system will provide the flexibility to analyse most of the health conditions based on near real time monitoring technology. It will also enable the population of elderly to manage their daily life activities within multiple environments i.e. from their comfort home, care centers and hospitals.
Motivation and Learning in Manufacturing Industries
Authors: Mat Shafizal  , Case Keith  , Mohamaddan Shahrol  , Goh Yee Mey
Published: February 2025

Problems of motivation and job satisfaction have continued to plague developing countries like Malaysia. The driving factors to motivate employees have frequently been studied, but no correlation between motivation and job satisfaction has been found. The study described here focuses on work motivation, satisfaction and performance together with their relationships with learning behaviours. The research consisted of an industrial study of 356 employees from manufacturing industries in Malaysia. Unskilled employees preferred group working on complex tasks whereas skilled employees preferred to work individually, in both cases increasing motivation, satisfaction and performance. Task complexity was found to be an important factor in job design and learning. Learning in groups was a significant factor in workplace learning for both unskilled and skilled employees. Knowledge of the relationships between motivation and learning is expected to be useful for employers and policy makers in organisations especially in manufacturing industries in Malaysia.
Ergonomic Risk Assessment – A Case Study of a Garment Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Hussain Amjad  , Javed Iqra  , Case Keith  , Ahmad Ashfaq  , Safdar Nadeem
Published: February 2025

Pakistan is the eighth largest exporter of textiles, and this sector contributes 8.7% to the country's GDP. The garment industry contribution to the total textile-based exports from the country is 47%. Skilled labour is available at relatively cheap rates. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are prevalent in this sector and this research is aimed at finding the levels of risk attached to working activities and to gain knowledge of the major causes of musculoskeletal disorders. The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method was used for this purpose. It was found that postures related to the wrist (0–15° or >15° flexion or extension with twist or deviation), lower arm (<60° or >100° flexion) and neck (extension and flexion with twist or side flexed) are the major causes of musculoskeletal disorders. These findings will help in the design of workplaces and working strategies to minimize risk and so increase satisfaction, productivity and overall well-being at the workplace.
The Impacts of Ageing on Manufacturing Sectors
Authors: Nagarajan Renuga  , Ramos Patrícia
Published: February 2025

The progress in medical science and the decline of altruistic behavior of couples introduced to the world the ageing problem. The existence of ageing is more experienced by developed countries. Researchers and policy makers are constantly trying to find ways to study the impacts of ageing since the issue is unprecedented in our history. However, the majority of the literature focus more on immediate mechanisms such as public expenditures and somehow neglected the influence of ageing on manufacturing sector. Thus, through panel data, we studied the influence of ageing on manufacturing sectors. The empirical study was carried out on six developed countries namely Japan, Germany, Italy, Greece, Finland and Portugal that have high ageing population. Our results suggest that the growth of the old age group over 65 years old will have significantly negative influence on percentage contribution of manufacturing to the GDP of these countries. Moreover, the results also demonstrate that a country with a higher proportion of old age group over working group will face fall in the manufacturing.
Evaluation of 3D Renewable Micro Power Station for Smart Grid Applications
Authors: Komlanvi Moglo  , Shafik Mahmoud  , Ashu Mfortaw Elvis
Published: February 2025

The paper presents the findings of the ongoing research to design and develop of 3 DIMENSIONAL (3D) sustainable renewable micro power station model for smart grid applications. The paper focuses on the design optimization and evaluation process of the station model. Linearization around various outputs and a set of control equilibrium techniques is discussed. This is aimed at obtaining a linear parameter variable model from a nonlinear system regulating the output of the 3D micro power station model. An investigation into the current state of the art of wind, hydro and solar energy conversion system has been carried out during this research. The initial simulation and practical results of this research with some experimental measurements of the efficiency and possible power level that can be delivered is also presented in this paper.
Design & Development of a Bicycle Cleat Adapter
Authors: Rehman Fayyaz  , Montalvo Santiago Díaz
Published: February 2025

Cycling commuters would benefit from a mechanism, which increases pedaling efficiency without the need for specific cycling shoes as currently available with clip-in pedals. The bond between cycling shoes and clip-in pedals results in a more efficient power transfer to the rear wheel and improved control over the bicycle. Due to the cleat bolted onto a rigid sole, cycling shoes are uncomfortable to walk in and are therefore not widely used by commuters due to their impracticality. A survey conducted during this project confirmed that this drawback stops many cycling commuters from using clip-in pedals and cycling shoes although they are aware of the efficiency gains. The project focuses on the design, prototyping and testing of a compact device that enables a better pedaling efficiency without the need for specific cycling shoes. The developed solution is an easy to use device consisting of a strapping system that secures a standard cycling cleat to the bottom of any regular shoe that can be removed once the user reaches their destination. The paper addresses appropriate material selection, detail design and structural considerations, prototype testing, user friendliness from feedback survey and commercial potential of the proposed newly designed adapter for normal shoes as an alternative to standard clip-in shoes for cycling commuters.
Identifying Sequence Maps or Locus to Represent the Genetic Structure or Genome Standard of Styling DNA in Automotive Design
Authors: Zainal Abidin Shahriman  , Othman Azlan  , Shamsuddin Zafruddin  , Samsudin Zaidi  , Hassan Halim  , Wan Mohamed Wan Asri
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses the need to identify the rule that can be used as a unified point of references to styling DNA in automotive design. Recently, there is no promising model or framework that can be used in design methodology for styling DNA. In reference to that, inquiry research activity was carried out among selected Malaysian public and styling designers in PROTON. Findings from the study indicated that the perception of designers positively correlate with preferences of Malaysian users. Furthermore, results showed that designers consistently tried to create a concept via sketches based on a specific area of the car. Consequently, the sequence maps or locus have been established in this research and the challenges revealed how it can be used as a starting point to build or create characters as embodied agents of character traits concerning brand and identity of a car design.
Design and Manufacturing of a Fire Protection Suit Through Reverse Engineering
Authors: Manarvi Irfan Anjum  , Rehman Haris
Published: February 2025

This research was focused on design and manufacturing of a new fire protection suit through reverse engineering of an existing product as per customer's request. Products available in the market were unable to provide sufficient protection and hence could not be used for fire entry for long durations. Users were unable to perform their tasks due to various degrees of burns even for a short duration of exposure to fire. As a part of reverse engineering process; fabric of the current suit was identified as a critical part. Numerous materials were investigated and finally one material was selected through extensive experimental testing as per established fire safety standards. Its properties of temperature resistivity were compared with original fire suit material and were found much higher resistance. Internal lining were added to the suit which further decreased the temperature faced by a body even while exposed to direct fire for long durations.
An Intelligent Anti-Collision System for Electric Vehicles Applications
Authors: Ijeh Ikenna Chinazaekpere  , Shafik Mahmoud
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the initial outcomes of the ongoing research to develop an intelligent online fault monitoring and anti-collision system for electric vehicle industrial applications. This is aiming to utilise the latest development in sensors technology and multi-level of redundancy approach, to improve the safety of electric vehicle and minimize the risk of road collision. This paper is focused on the development of the anti-collision system. The system is a network of sensors utilising the near real time embedded system. Four operational conditions were considered and some activities have been taken to control the speed and steering control system of the vehicle at an imminent collision. Visual alerts using LEDs were developed to indicate vehicles or obstacles along the path of the host vehicle even at an opposite direction. The proposed system was tested indoor using off-shelf mini vehicle model and further field test have been planned to ensure the operability of the system in relevant applications. Research is still undertaken to develop the online fault detection, monitoring and online recovery tolerance system using multi-level of redundancy and a hot-standby dual control unit.
Societal Benefit Assessment: An Integrated Tool to Support Sustainable Toy Design and Manufacture
Authors: Shin Kei Lok Felix  , Colwill James
Published: February 2025

A framework and methodology for assessing the societal benefits of a product was developed based on the assertion that, in order to access future diminishing resources, manufacturers will need to demonstrate both the social and environmental benefits of their products. This paper follows on from this published research and presents an integrated tool to support the implementation of this framework and methodology within the toy industry during the design and development phase. A simulated case study is used to exemplify the application of this tool and to support the concluding discussions.
An Examination of Application Scale for Material Flow Assessment in Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Gould Oliver  , Colwill James
Published: February 2025

Evaluation of material flow in manufacturing systems can be used as a way of identifying and implementing options for improvements in material efficiency in the factory. We have previously developed a framework for material flow assessment in manufacturing systems (MFAM), which incorporates material flow information in both quantitative and qualitative terms as materials travel through a user-defined system. In this paper we examine the potential for application of the MFAM at various system scales, ranging from individual process scale, to manufacturing cell, factory, enterprise, and local or global supply chain scale divisions. Here we describe guidelines for setting the appropriate system boundary. In addition we highlight the potential material efficiency improvement options available in each case, in terms of the scope of improvements and the potential for integration within future strategic planning processes.
Investigation into the Design and Development of Knowledge-Based Innovation Processes in Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Singh Lakhvir  , Ziarati Reza  , Ziarati Martin  , Gatward Richard  , Chen Feng
Published: February 2025

Knowledge plays a vital role in the business success and sustainability. The researchers working in the area of knowledge-based systems have been focusing on the development of knowledge-based applications in automating complex design processes/problems in industrial environments. There are only a few efforts reported to support the re-use of knowledge used in the product development to support the innovation processes. This paper is presenting a knowledge model to support the innovation processes in manufacturing companies with the aim of making the innovation processes more effective and efficient. The paper starts with a review of existing literature on knowledge modelling methodologies followed by recent published work in the field. The proposed knowledge model is defined and key research elements are described. A business case study of an engineering company is discussed on how the proposed model can be applied in a system design process environment.
Injection Moulding – Properties Customisation by Varying Process Conditions
Authors: Meyer Tino  , Sherratt Paul  , Harland Andy  , Haworth Barry  , Holmes Chris  , Lucas Tim
Published: February 2025

The process of injection moulding (IM) is one of the most widely employed methods for manufacturing an extremely diverse range of polymeric parts of varying size and complexity. To match the final application requirements a base material is often modified by certain additives to enhance the material performance. However, the objective of the current research is to explore the effect of different process parameters on the toughness properties of IM polyamide (PA) materials with the aim of customizing the material to meet specific needs. Material suppliers provide their customers with discrete values regarding the mechanical properties, but they only suggest broad windows when specifying processing conditions like the melt temperature. Test samples produced within, as well as below and above the recommendations were produced and tested regarding their quasi-static tensile and instrumented impact behaviour, showing significant differences in performance.
Conceptual Understanding, Design and Management of Supply Chain in 21
Authors: Saad Sameh M.  , Ogunsanwo Adewale A.
Published: February 2025

Contemporary changes in customers' taste, demands, global competitive market and the need to promote business profitability necessitate the importance of conceptual understanding of supply chain management and design in the 21stcentury. This work provides an orderly extensive literature research and investigation of methods and principle of supply chain design, modeling and simulation to illustrate conceptual understanding of supply chain management in 21stcentury business and manufacturing operations. The paper also provides needed knowledge for practical supply chain management and design operation for effective and responsive supply chain management in 21stcentury to utilise synergy of integration and coordination across boundaries in supply chain networks to facilitate speed decision making, quality and customer satisfaction.
Responsiveness Optimisation in the Fractal Supply Network
Authors: Saad Sameh M.  , Bahadori Ramin
Published: February 2025

Responsiveness is one of the significant performance measures in today's market based on which organisations can measure their success in seizing markets opportunities within Fractal Supply Chain. This paper aims to present this fractal supply network and also proposes a new mathematical model through which replenishment; transportation, production and handling time can be optimised at different stages of the fractal supply network. Both the proposed Fractal Supply Network and the mathematical model are implemented and validated using Supply Chain GURU Software. Application of the proposed mathematical model has led to a reduction in the total replenishment time and enables practitioners to systematically decide upon the optimum replenishment time at different stage of the network.
Critical Success Factors for In-House Production, Partial Production or Outsourcing in Garment Industry
Authors: Libânio C.S.  , Amaral Fernando Gonçalves  , Migowski Sérgio Almeida
Published: February 2025

Garment industry has specific characteristics as it is close to the end consumer and many agents are involved in its production system. The latter factor, at the same time as it requires strong managerial control of the production process, enables speedy product development. Thus, this article aims to identify characteristics of the product development of design-oriented companies in the garment industry using a strategy of in-house production, partial production or outsourcing, and thus map out critical success factors. The method used was exploratory, following a qualitative approach and conducted through a literature survey and in depth interviews in seven design-oriented companies in the garment industry. We found four critical success factors for design-oriented companies: be able to manage design; be able to manage with flexibility and adaptability; competence to integrate coworkers; ability to monitor the local context.
Influencing Factors for Implementing Automation in Manufacturing Businesses – A Literature Review
Authors: Micheler Simon  , Goh Yee Mey  , Lohse Niels
Published: February 2025

The latest developments in Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) are expected to lead to a transformation of future production systems' capabilities and productivity. While increased human-robot collaboration as well as higher degrees of autonomous systems within a manufacturing context will be essential to achieve the next breakthrough in both agility as well as productivity, they will pose significant new challenges for how production systems are planned and engineered to maximise the potential and minimise the risks of this new technology for manufacturing businesses. Therefore, a main focus of this review was on determining the critical success factors for the implementation of RAS and on gaining a deeper understanding of the current research focus. The research results lead to a broader discussion of the implications arising from future automation and human-robot collaboration which highlights the current limitation of decision making criteria considered in the current literature. The results of the review have been quantitatively verified with the use of the text mining tool WordSmith Tool (v7.0).
Selecting Innovation Deployment Risk Response Strategies via Simulation Optimisation
Authors: Sunmola Funlade T.  , Javahernia Alireza
Published: February 2025

Manufacturing companies that fail to successfully deliver innovation do so primarily due to ineffectiveness of the pre-implementation phase of their innovation initiatives. In particular, the risks involved in the deployment of innovation initiatives must be appraised and the risks responded to appropriately. This paper presents an approach to optimal selection of innovation deployment risk strategies in manufacturing using a simulation optimisation methodology. The goals to attain are the maximisation of deployment readiness performance and minimization of the cost of implementing risk response strategy, subject principally to budget constraints. The approach is illustrated using an example of deploying process innovations in a simulated job shop. The example demonstrates the usefulness of the proposed method, allowing the job shop to select the most desirable risk response strategies for coping with innovation deployment risk events that will result in optimised deployment readiness performance and satisfactory manufacturing service level.