bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assembly Complexity Index (ACI): A Framework to Evaluate Assembly Process for Validating a Modular Robotic Design
Authors: Walia Kartikeya , Breedon Philip
Published: November 2024

The assembly of equipment necessitates varying degrees of expertise, with complexity often escalating alongside technological advancements. While automation has reduced the workload in manufacturing and assembly lines, repair and maintenance still require a significant user skillset. This research focused on developing a modular robotic system with straightforward assembly and disassembly, requiring minimal robotics expertise from end users. A modular robotic system offers benefits such as shorter repair times leading to reduced downtimes on a factory shop floor, options for task-agnostic reconfiguration and deployment, and potential reductions in initial investment costs.To validate this hypothesis, a study was conducted with twelve participants with differing expertise in tools, hardware, and construction. Direct evaluation of personal and workplace attributes such as workload, task complexity, prior expertise and learning is often indiscernible and non-comparable. Thus, it was essential to establish a tangible workflow to evaluate and monitor the design's effectiveness and any modifications' impact on assembly ease. The study employed the Task Complexity Index (TCI) and NASA Task Load Index (TLX) adapted to measure task complexity and user workload. Both TCI and TLX have been used independently in various studies and a correlation between the two was identified. Combining data on task complexity and workload provided a comprehensive evaluation of the assembly process.Results indicated a marked improvement in the Assembly Complexity Index (ACI) during the second phase of experiments due to participant learning and a lower time (p = 0.026) required for completion of a much more complicated task demanding a higher workload (p = 0.014). This research aims to establish a framework for identifying an Assembly Complexity Index (ACI) using these the subjective workload and complexity assessment tools. The study considered factors such as the number of components, operations, and tools required. In addition, it acknowledged that factors like the availability of resources, component size and weight, operation complexity, and tool availability also impact the overall assembly complexity.
Testing a Motion Matching Algorithm for Gaze-based HMI
Authors: Uechtritz Cosima , E F Witte Thomas , Rist Verena , Gfesser Torsten
Published: November 2024

This study explores gaze-based interaction, focusing on object selection, particularly in dynamic environments. Traditional methods like dwell-time selection have limitations, prompting investigation into novel approaches such as motion matching. A pilot study was conducted to compare a motion matching algorithm with dwell-time selection, indicating a tendency towards faster selection times with motion matching. Workload metrics showed very similar results between selection mechanisms, but a small bias towards reduced user frustration and enhanced satisfaction using motion matching. Challenges remain, including the Midas touch problem and technical constraints of eye tracking technology, highlighting the need for further research to refine algorithms and address limitations. Despite challenges, motion matching represents progress towards making gaze-based interaction more accessible for widespread use.
Development of a Dynamic Visual Acuity Training Software Based on Baseball Situations to Improve Users' Dynamic Visual Ability
Authors: Hsiu Hung Yu , Chen Bo-wei
Published: November 2024

Dynamic visual acuity (DVA) is crucial for successful baseball batting, as it enables players to quickly assess the ball’s trajectory and adjust their swing timing in a short period of time. This study involved interviews with 19 baseball coaches and players from four collegiate teams, as well as questionnaire distribution and a literature review, revealed that visual training is underutilized in baseball from youth to professional levels. Existing training products often lack customization to individual abilities and struggle to translate training effect to on-field performance. Recent advances in virtual reality (VR) have been applied to baseball training, but issues such as motion sickness remain. To address these gaps, this study developed a dynamic vision training software with three modes: (1) Simulation Mode, (2) Track Blocking Mode, and (3) Texture Contrast Mode. The software adjusts difficulty based on an 80% accuracy threshold and focuses on training players to recognize fine details, such as the seams on a fast-moving ball. To evaluate the software's effectiveness, 18 non-athletic participants were recruited and divided among the three training modes. Each group underwent a pre-test, completed eight training sessions, and finished with a post-test. Results showed an overall improvement in personal ability rating, with statistical significance in the Simulation and Track Blocking Modes, but not in the Texture Contrast Mode, possibly due to eye fatigue in one participant. The study demonstrates that this software allows teams to flexibly schedule training and enhances real-world performance more effectively than other visual training tools.
The Impact of Digital Device Configuration on Elementary Students' Experience of Writing Traditional Chinese Characters: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kao Tzu-hsin , Chang Johan
Published: November 2024

The rapid development of digital devices and online learning platforms has increased the flexibility of education. However, younger elementary school students still struggle to learn Traditional Chinese in the digital environment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of various digital equipment configurations on Chinese traditional writing on screens. Because of the numerous differences in device settings and setups, preliminary studies are necessary to eliminate ineffective parameters, thereby reducing experimental costs and minimizing the strain on children.In this study, 32 adult participants were recruited through experimental, observational, and interview methods. The variables were eight equipment configurations, visual line smoothness, smoothness of forearm movements, overall comfort, and the number of visual switches. The results revealed that the “horizontal dual-screen configuration” provided the most comfort overall, while the “vertical dual-screen configuration” had the least visual switches. These quantitative findings are further supported by the interview data, indicating that orienting the devices in the same direction may create a smoother viewing experience. However, left-right layouts with irregular screen angles can cause issues such as discontinuous vision and insufficient viewing distances.
Reflections and Insights on Haptics’ Influence on Human Factors Within Virtual Environments
Authors: Buonocore Sara , Massa Francesca , Guadagno Lisa , Di Gironimo Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

The present work discusses the influence of different haptic feedbacks and devices on two selected Human Factors (Motion Sickness and Technology Acceptance) that are strongly relevant for User Experience analysis in Virtual Environments. With this work, we aim to stimulate: (i) practitioners to consider human factors in the selection of the right type of haptic feedback and device; (ii) researchers for future in-depth studies by highlighting some grey areas of current literature about haptics and their influence on Human Factors.
FULL PAPER ONLY: Virtual Reality and Extended Reality for training of operators
Authors: Ferraro Alessandra , Freda Daniela , Pirozzi Marco , Palermo Eduardo , Di Donato Luciano
Published: November 2024

Training on field for operators of confined or suspected polluted environments is very challenging for guaranteeing safety of attendees and adapting the scenarios to many different environments and risks. In this context Inail realized in collaboration with universities, through a call for bid “SIDE - Development of an exoskeleton for simulated dynamics and haptic interface”, a bi-articular robotic system for the upper limb that can be interfaced with virtual or augmented reality systems. This robotic system can physically reproduce "virtual" stresses of force/contact interaction of the upper limb in a controlled virtual environment, simulating human/environment interactions. In this way, the simulation provides real-life experience: the use of tactile sensation offers the perception of physical effort in a confined space under normal operating conditions and in emergency situations. This simulation helps workers to experiment, facilitating accurate learning of relevant knowledge, skills, and emotions. The solution allows operator to wear visors, the wearable robot (think of a backpack to which a haptic robotic limb is connected) and find yourself in a confined space in virtual reality. Patent application no. 102023000023538 has been filed for this system. The scenario reproduced in virtual reality is a hostile environment - for example, a confined and/or suspected pollution environment - in which the worker had to perform a task in a place very hard to reach and/or with a quantity of oxygen - available limited or with a bad air quality. Thanks to the pre-acquired skills in the motor task carried out in VR, it is possible to obtain a fundamental difference in terms of safety. In this paper we will describe the solution focusing on the characteristics of interaction between the reality and the VR scenario.
Orange-Sweet Scent Reduces Stress Associated with Numerical Tasks: A Physiological and Psychological Evaluation
Authors: Yamada Ayaka , Noma Asako , Sakamoto Takashi , Kato Toshikazu
Published: November 2024

This paper evaluates the stress reduction effects of orange-sweet aroma at the perception threshold. The number of patients suffering from stress-related disorders is increasing, making it a significant social issue as stress can prevent individuals from working and interfere with their daily lives. However, completely eliminating stress from daily life is not feasible. Therefore, this research aims to identify a method for reducing stress within this social context, even when stress is present. Given the varying influence of scents on individuals, this study examines the stress-reducing effects of orange sweet essential oil aroma at the perception threshold. A sample of 20 university students (10 males and 10 females; average age 22 years) participates in the study. The experiment is conducted under two conditions: with and without the scent. The stress task, designed to eliminate the influence of computational ability, involves simple numerical computations performed under both conditions. To evaluate the effects of the aroma on stress reduction, multiple physiological and psychological indices are utilized. Physiological indices include electrodermal activity (EDA) and salivary amylase levels. Psychological indices include the short version of the Profile of Mood States 2 (POMS2), a Japanese questionnaire for work-related fatigue feelings called Jikakusho-shirabe, and a Likert scale questionnaire assessing scent preference and intensity. Electrodermal activity (EDA) significantly increased during the stress task compared to the rest condition. Additionally, the discomfort factor in the Jikakusho-shirabe increased after the task compared to before the task, but only in the absence of aroma. These results indicate that the stress task created in this study effectively induces arousal. Furthermore, the findings suggest that discomfort can potentially be reduced by the presence of orange-sweet scent at the perception threshold. However, the presence of aroma resulted in a significant difference only in the discomfort factor. In future experiments, we will focus on behavioral indices, such as poor performance, which cannot be determined solely by physiological or psychological indices.
Investigating the Impact of Vertical Floor Vibration on Cognitive Performance
Authors: Pavic Aleksandar , Mohammed Ahmed , Walker Ian , Margnelli Alessandro , Pelekis Iason
Published: November 2024

As construction materials and techniques improve, yielding stronger but lighter building floor structures, and architectural drive continues towards open plan, slender, and transparent designs, modern building floor structures – although strong and robust – increasingly feature considerably reduced mass, stiffness, and damping. This means that the so-called floor vibration serviceability design considerations replace structural strength considerations when determining the size and shape of modern floors in buildings.Every vibration serviceability problem can be rationalized into vibration source, path, and receiver. In the case of building floors, the vibration receiver is most frequently human occupants of the floor. Of the three parts of the vibration serviceability problem, the human receiver of vertical floor vibrations is by far the least researched and understood. Strong evidence is emerging that the current set of building design standards proposing limits for vertical floor vibration are unreliable and not fit for purpose.This paper describes the first-ever attempt to determine the effects of vertical floor vibration on the cognitive performance of the office floor users. A brand new and worldwide unique research facility VSimulator (based at the University of Exeter, UK) was used for the first time in the context of floor vibration serviceability.The paper describes the testing protocol employed for and the pilot data gathered from the Visual Search and Stroop cognitive tests carried out in a US$7m+ research facility. The pilot data gathered from the first group of 12 test subjects indicate that increasing the VSimulator floor vibration has a considerable effect on the scores from the two cognitive tests. The affected scores indicate a potential reduction in the cognitive performance of the test subjects with the increasing level of floor vibration.More test subjects are scheduled to take part in these tests during 2024 and the results could form the basis of the new generation of floor vibration serviceability standards. These will be based on objectively measured cognitive performance rather than subjectively assessed levels of floor vibration with ambiguous descriptors such as "annoying" or "low probability of adverse comment".
Analysis of Pre-Flight and Monitoring Tasks Using Cognitive Performance Modeling
Authors: Nadri Chihab , Liu Yunmei , Zahabi Maryam , Kaber David , Ruiz Jaime , Middleton Michael , McKendrick Ryan
Published: November 2024

Pilot cognitive workload and errors significantly contribute to aviation incidents. Evaluations of piloting tasks in both simulators and real-world settings, along with computational models of cognitive task performance can help to identify cognitively challenging tasks early in the system design process and enhance user interface designs. This study applied cognitive performance modeling (CPM) to assess pilot task demands in pre-flight and monitoring using a UH-60V Black Hawk helicopter flight simulator. The objective was to propose potential flight checklist and subtask interface redesigns to reduce pilot working memory load and improve operational effectiveness. Initial analysis involved reviewing pilot instructions and logs for pre-flight checks, monitoring activities, and emergency responses. Actions, such as button presses, task errors and the duration between tasks were recorded. A Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA) was applied to identify sub-task interdependencies. CPMs were developed using Cogulator and a variation on the GOMS language detailing cognitive, perceptual, and motor processes. Models focused on task sequences and cognitive process durations, revealing task time estimates, working memory load, and cognitive workload. Demanding subtasks were identified based on longer durations and/or higher workloads. Cogulator model outcomes for workload assessment were compared with pilot opinions on task difficulty for model validation. Recommendations for cockpit interface enhancements were formulated with the aim of streamlining sub-task operation sequences, reducing cognitive load, and improving pre-flight and monitoring efficiency. Key suggestions included redesigning checklists, providing auto-text completion options for data entry tasks, and implementing temporary shutdowns of displays (irrelevant to the primary flight task) under emergency conditions. The study methodology was validated through expert interviews and findings inform the design of current and future piloting procedures, potentially contributing to improved aviation safety and efficiency.
Basic psychological needs related to information ergonomics and loneliness
Authors: Oksa Reetta , Laine Mia , White Edward , Okkonen Jussi
Published: November 2024

Remote working, particularly online teaching, in academia has significantly increased during and after COVID-19 pandemic. Simultaneously, loneliness at work has risen. Working in remote environments therefore requires employees to develop new types of working habits and psychological resilience. This study examines how basic psychological needs satisfaction related to online teaching has affected academics experiences of perceived usefulness of technology in their work, technostress and their sense of loneliness. The study is based on a survey dataset (n=201) collected of two Ghanaian universities during October 2023 to January 2024. The distributions of the item means were compared across the quantiles of autonomy, competence and relatedness. The results enhance the understanding to what level academics experience loneliness in collectivistic country like Ghana, and how basic psychological needs satisfaction in online teaching, perceived usefulness of technology and technostress interact in that relationship also from academic role perspective. The results provide useful information for academic working and curriculum planning as well as points for wellbeing at work considerations.
Development of Intelligent Nighttime Brace with Smart Padding to Treat Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Emma Lei Qiwen , Chen Zhaolong , Chee Kenneth Cheung Man , Tong Kai-yu , Cheung Mei-chun , Lun Yick Kit , Yung Tse Chi , Yip Joanne
Published: November 2024

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional spinal deformity affecting children aged 10 to 16, with up to 4 in 100 adolescents potentially having this condition. AIS is characterized by asymmetrical shoulders, bulging ribs, or a tilted torso, though patients typically do not experience pain or neurological issues. Treatment varies based on the severity of the spinal curvature and bone maturity, ranging from observation and bracing to surgery and Schroth exercises. Full-day brace wear (18 hours/day) is often recommended but challenging for adolescents, leading to low compliance rates and associated psychological stress for both patients and parents (Vicente., et al, 2021).To address these issues, nighttime braces have been developed to reduce wear time to a minimum of 8 hours per night by overcorrecting the major scoliotic curve during sleep. However, existing nighttime braces, such as the Charleston brace, can cause compensatory curves and permanent overcorrected spinal curvatures, as well as skin issues like rashes and redness (Yrjönen., et al, 2006).This study aims to improve nighttime brace design and material selection to enhance patient compliance and treatment outcomes. The design process will integrate clinical studies, material science, garment design and wearable technologies. The primary function of the proposed brace is to control spinal deformity during sleep.Key features of the new brace include the careful selection of sweat-wicking and breathable textiles to ensure comfort. The brace will incorporate a smart padding system that automatically adjusts corrective forces and positions. Preliminary clinical trials will be conducted with a diverse group of subjects to refine and optimize the intelligent brace. These trials aim to ensure the brace's effectiveness across various cases. The intelligent brace is designed to enhance patient compliance and treatment efficiency while reducing the risk of skin problems through automatic adjustments and a comfortable wearing experience, ultimately improving overall patient outcomes.ReferencesVicente, L. G., Barrios, M. J., González-Santos, J., Santamaría-Peláez, M., Soto-Cámara, R., Mielgo-Ayuso, J., Fernández-Lázaro D. & González-Bernal, J. J. (2021). The ISJ 3D brace, a providence brace evolution, as a surgery prevention method in idiopathic scoliosis. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 10(17), 3915. Yrjönen, T., Ylikoski, M., Schlenzka, D., Kinnunen, R., & Poussa, M. (2006). Effectiveness of the Providence nighttime bracing in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a comparative study of 36 female patients. European Spine Journal, 15(7), 1139-1143.
Comparison of Race Walking and Power Walking at Varying Paces by Expressing Movement in the Frequency Domain
Authors: Inoue Tomoki , Shibata Kyoko
Published: November 2024

Many people use walking as a form of exercise to maintain or improve their health. Main gait types of walking are normal walking, power Walking and race walking. Although race walking has a potential to contribute significantly to healthcare due to its high exercise load, it is difficult for athletes to judge gait themselves due to the nature of the competition, in which the gait is judged visually by a judge. Therefore, this study focuses on race walking and elucidates mechanism of race walking in order to examine whether race walking can be used for healthcare. Previously, this research group has considered walking as a periodic motion and proposed a method to quantitatively represent normal walking by analyzing the frequency components of vertical acceleration that occur in body parts during walking. By applying this method to race walking, it is considered that frequency components can be used as a quantitative indicator of characteristics in race walking, and can help to evaluate and improve their own movement. On the other hand, power Walking, which is a walking movement with a stronger exercise load than normal walking, is more similar to race walking than normal walking. So, we believe that the characteristics of race walking can be further clarified by comparing the characteristics of power Walking with those of race walking. Therefore, the purpose of this report is to clarify the characteristics of walking movement in race walking based on the frequency components of vertical accelerations occurring at body parts in race walking and power Walking. In this report, pace is used as one of parameters to represent the movement, and changes in the characteristics of movement when pace is varied are focused on.
Methodological and mental distance to the dissemination of vertical test fight between girls and boys
Authors: Kruszewski Michal , Niedomagala Wojciech , Klimczak Jaroslaw , Litwiniuk Artur
Published: November 2024

The aim of this work is empirical evidence of the need to respect specific methodological standards in the study of the phenomenon of diagnosing mental and motor predispositions to counter physical aggression. The key criterion for ‘situational actionability’ is testing fights in a vertical posture (TFVP) efficiency. Of the 59 TFVP participants aged 7 to 13 years, there were 37 boys and 22 girls. The innovative comparison of motor potentials according to the same criteria, i.e. age- and gender-adjusted for the winner of the GPC (groups of people combats), provides important empirical evidence that the chances of girls' effective self-defence against physical aggression by their peers, boys, dominating them with motor potential and/or body weight, are real.
The relationship between the cognitive and behavioral potential of young adults resistant to motor modifications and the effects of learning safe falling techniques
Authors: Gąsienica - Walczak Bartłomiej , Kalina Artur
Published: November 2024

The discovery of the phenomenon of resistance to motor modifications targeted at increasing personal safety during an unintentional fall raises questions about the relationship between the cognitive-behavioral potential of adults with such properties and the effects of learning how to safely collide with the ground due to loss of balance. The aim of these pilot studies is to resolve the question whether multi-month safe falling courses are a sufficient incentive for adults who are resistant to this type of modifications not only to eliminate the errors of colliding with the ground with distal parts of the body (it is about diagnosing the phenomenon of susceptibility to the body injuries during the fall - symbolic abbreviation: SFI) ), but also fully professionally mastered safe falling techniques.Among the 14 students of physiotherapy and physical education who had suffered at least one body injury in the past and at the same time committed the errors of colliding with the ground with four parts of the body during three tasks of the susceptibility test to the body injuries during the fall (SFIindex from 100% to 78.57%). still 9 of the physiotherapy students made mistakes, even though they participated in two safe fall courses - first for people with visual impairments, then for people with limb amputations. Two of them (22.22%) eliminated 100% of errors compared to the results preceding the training (SFIindex 0 points). The rest reduced errors by 92.31% to 76.92%. In this fraction (n = 7), three students still made mistakes with their legs and hands, and four only with their hands. None of the students performed the 'test for safe fall' (TSF) flawlessly - results from 95% to 85%). The results of the degree of error reduction by the fraction of 7 students are highly positively correlated (r = 0.802, p<0.05, and with a one-tailed test p<0.025) with the TSF results. The degree of error reduction by this fraction is highly negatively correlated (r = −0.769, p<0.05) with the comprehensive health effects of fall (CHEF). The relationships of these indicators are not as clear with the results of the body balance disturbation tolerance skills test (before the courses r = 0.363, after the courses r = 0.430).Conclusion: correlations of the degree of reduction of the SFI phenomenon in the course of teaching safe falling techniques to people who are resistant (in the cognitive and behavioral sense) to motor modifications with the indicators used to assess adaptation effects allow the following hypothesis to be put forward: complete resistance to motor modifications may turn out to be the simplest predictor of cognitive and cognitive potential. human behavioral health, and such knowledge would be provided by widespread research for the purpose of selective prevention and treatment of the effects of SFI, starting from early school age.
A hybrid Regression method for Predicting Housing Prices
Authors: Baral Gaurab , Zhou Junxiu
Published: November 2024

Accurate house price prediction is crucial for accommodating the diverse needs of stakeholders in the home-buying process. House prices can be affected by various factors, such as location, construction date, exterior, etc. This work proposes a hybrid regression method that leverages the strengths of different regression techniques to improve prediction accuracy. Specifically, this work looks at conventional linear regression and other machine learning techniques such as support vector regression (SVR), and XGBoost regression. Then we compare these models with our proposed hybrid regression model that leverages ridge regression and lasso regression to capture hidden relationships between house properties and sale prices to reveal the different predictive power of these models. In addition, this work also highlights feature engineering to address potential issues in the data and improve prediction performance. The dataset used in this study is obtained from the Kaggle Competition “House Prices: Advanced Regression Techniques.” Different model results are submitted to Kaggle, and the scores are illustrated in the paper.
Sustainable Business Model Design for Generative AI
Authors: Zhai Cuiping , Hu Xin
Published: November 2024

As the future commercial development direction of digital art, AI painting provides designers with creative auxiliary functions. At the same time, it also raises a series of issues in the operation of business models, such as: How to make the generative AI industry sustainable in the domestic market? Business model? How does generative AI take root in Chinese society? What sustainability-oriented generative AI operations can be applied in bottom-up business models in the market?This study analyzes how the concept of sustainability is scientifically applied in the generative AI business model in the Chinese market. First, it conducts user research from the perspective of professional users in the creative design field who use generative AI the most. Divide users into three categories based on their usage behavior and needs: senior users, general users, design art students and other potential users. Conduct in-depth interviews, questionnaire surveys, and live interactive data collection for these three categories of users respectively, and process them through analysis From the above data, we can derive the corresponding needs of different users. Then the business model canvas proposed by Ostwald & Pinel (2009) was used as the theoretical basis of the research, and a customer (user)-centered semantic replacement of various elements related to the entire business model was constructed. , and automatically screened out influential variables through a stepwise regression model, and improved the design of the business model based on this business model structure. In this way, the demand analysis of three types of people for generative AI and the relationship model between user factors and business impact of generative AI were constructed. Based on the O2O development model, we integrate the existing resources of generative AI and drive continuous iteration and innovation at all levels such as product design, service model and user experience according to customer (user) needs, thus promoting the development of generative AI in China. Sustainable development, this research has certain reference value for the future development of AI industry business models in China in other fields.
Feasibility and properties of cement boards with waste tyre textile fibre for non-structural applications
Authors: Kolade Anuoluwapo , Aina Ismael , Dahunsi Bamidele , Ikotun Bolanle , Oyejobi Damilola
Published: November 2024

This research underscores the potential of waste tyre textile fibre (WTTF) to contribute to sustainable building practices by reducing environmental impact through waste recycling and improving material performance in specific construction applications. It assessed the feasibility of manufacturing cement boards by incorporating WTTF for non-structural purposes like partition walls, wall sidings, and ceiling panels and eaves. The physical and mechanical characteristics of the cement boards were investigated to identify the most effective WTTF content for optimal performance and to compare the findings with commercial cement boards (control specimens). The cement boards were manufactured by partially replacing cement with 5%, 7.5%, and 10% WTTF by weight. Testing involved three specimens per mix for density, water absorption, and thickness swelling and twelve specimens per mix for flexural strength for 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of natural curing. The results indicated that average densities decreased with increasing WTTF content, and water absorption in-creased with higher WTTF content, reaching minimum density and maximum water absorption at 10% WTTF substitution, which are higher than the average density and water absorption of the control specimens. Thick-ness swelling was 0% for the control specimens but rose with increased WTTF content in the mixes. Flexural strength improved with higher WTTF content and longer curing time, demonstrating significant strength improvements. The optimum cement board mix had 5% WTTF, which showed the highest density (1952 kg/m³), lowest water absorption (28.26%), and minimal thickness swelling (3.35%). As a result, WTTF is compatible with cement paste and holds potential for non-structural construction applications when used to substitute a portion of the cement in cement boards at a 5% ratio. However, these boards are unsuitable for areas with continuous water exposure because of their high water absorption and thickness swelling.
Enhancing the Structural Properties of Mortar with Treated Rubber Crumb
Authors: Kilani Abiodun , Ikotun Bolanle , Abdulwahab Rasheed
Published: November 2024

The applications of mortar in infrastructural developments cannot be overemphasized owing to its significances which are evident in the formation of composite structures. More importantly, mortar is one of the best construction materials required for the construction of building blocks, filling the gaps between blocks. It is a universally acceptable construction material because of its good structural and compatibility properties such as good flexibility and transformative capacity, and good binding property. As a flexible construction material, mortar is used as binder in masonry and walling units. The applications of mortar for construction purposes have highly contributed to the development of the built environment. However, ,mortar may deteriorate by deforming into powdery after used for construction, and turning into crumbling material. Thus, this research investigates on enhancing the fresh and hardened properties of mortar using rubber crumb treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The strength properties of the rubber – mortar produced were evaluated through the physical and chemical properties of rubber; the consistency, workability, setting times of rubber - cement paste; compressive and flexural strengths of rubber – cement - mortar. The chemical composition and physical characterization of rubber crumb were evaluated by determining its fineness modulus, water absorption, bulk density, ash content, metal content and fibre content according to SANS 3001-AG1 and SANS 3001-AG20. Also, the workability, consistency and setting times, compressive and flexural strengths of mortar were determined according to ASTM C 1437, SANS 50196-3 and SANS 50196-1. The results of the experiment show that, the rubber treated with NaOH has good physical and chemical properties for enhancement of mortar’s fresh and hardened properties. The rubber – cement paste’s workability increases with increase in the percentage of rubber included. Also, the consistency of the mortar paste increased by 0.5 – 2.0% with increase in the value of rubber included. In addition, the application of rubber in mortar reduced its initial setting time while its final setting increases with increase in rubber content. The addition of 1.5% of rubber crumb increased the compressive strength of mortar by 3.32%, 9.13%, and 0.21% at 7, 14 and 28 days of curing respectively. Also, 1.5% rubber crumb increased the flexural strength of mortar by 5.94% at 28 days. In conclusion, the incorporation of 1.5% rubber crumb in mortar enhanced its mechanical properties.
Towards Holistic Work System Design: Concept for a Method to Analyze, Represent and Evaluate Industrial Sociotechnical Work Systems
Authors: Hall Roland , Schumacher Simon , Bauernhansl Thomas
Published: November 2024

When designing industrial work systems, Industrial Engineering encounters many established and emerging challenges and objectives. These include, for example, the consideration of ergonomic aspects, the implementation of lean production principles and harnessing the technological potential of digital transformation. This initial situation reveals the relevance of a contemporary, holistic approach for the analysis, representation and evaluation of industrial work systems that considers enduring challenges and objectives while also addressing upcoming ones. To meet this need, the authors outline a concept for a substantial method structured around five key components.Component I encompasses an approach for modeling industrial work systems. Component II defines a comprehensive target system for industrial sociotechnical work systems. This target system ensures that the evaluation criteria considered in the method are derived in a target-oriented manner and not arbitrarily included in the analysis. While components I and II establish the theoretical foundation of the method, components III to V address operational data collection, data representation, as well as data analysis for the work system. Regarding data collection, component III comprises a maturity model that adopts the structure of component I and reflects the evaluation criteria pointed out in component II. component IV shows how the collected data based on component III can be used for the digital representation of the work system using the concept of the Asset Administration Shell (AAS). Component V includes a target-specific evaluation of the work system, including a derivation of recommendations for work system design. Although the paper focuses on explaining the concept of the method and the process followed to develop the method, it also outlines a prototypical implementation of the method.
AutoGen-based AI assistant for improving the interactions between BIM and project teams for design coordination
Authors: Dong Yaxian , Zhan Zijun , Hu Yuqing , M Doe Daniel , Han Zhu
Published: November 2024

In the construction industry, building information modeling (BIM) has been widely utilized in design coordination. However, this process is time-consuming to query the required element information and still requires the support of the BIM coordinator. Meanwhile, during diverse participants’ discussions, it is challenging to record knowledge and experiences residing in their minds and timely respond to them in the BIM model. GPT-based Large Language Models (LLMs) enable providing automatic solutions but lack accuracy and consistency, specifically for the construction domain. To bridge these gaps, we propose to develop an AI BIM coordinator by integrating basic construction knowledge and skillset into the current AutoGen model. It aims to alleviate high-skill requirements and specific functions of traditional BIM development while enhancing the interdisciplinary interpretability and performance of AI models. Specifically, we first identify the frequent and common interactions between BIM and project teams during the design coordination meetings. Correspondingly, we build the skillset that includes basic functions regarding building element semantic, geometric, and topological information. With this skillset, our designed workflow can interpret 3D BIM space and answer specific questions from users through flexible revisions and extensions. Beyond the text responses that describe relations among elements, the BIM tool can be automatically invoked to execute this task and the model can be directly built in the 3D environment for stakeholders’ discussions in the design coordination meetings. If failed, our designed checker agent will regenerate the code until execution is succeeded. As users continually communicate with the AI BIM coordinator and provide feedback, the assistant can collect and annotate these data for fine-tuning the current model to make it more adaptive to specific construction tasks. For validation, a prototype system is developed with building design coordination meeting data. The results demonstrate that our designed workflow has better performance in execution succeeded rate (84.62%) and accuracy (76.92%) despite consuming more time (1 min 12 secs – 3 mins 1 sec) than general agent workflow.
Investigating the Use of Chatbots as an Educational Tool
Authors: Cachola Krystal , L. Vu Kim-Phuong
Published: November 2024

With the rise of online asynchronous learning and low levels of instructor presence, students have become self-regulated learners who must monitor their performance and adapt their learning strategies as necessary. Previous studies have shown that chatbots are a promising alternative to traditional study tools such as flashcards. This study examined the effects of a chatbot’s embodiment (Humanoid, Animated) and conversational style (Formal, Informal) on learning performance and behavioral engagement. Participants were asked to watch a lecture video and interact with a chatbot to review the material. After studying with the chatbot, participants completed a quiz that was evenly split according to difficulty (easy versus hard questions), as well as study type (questions that were and were not studied with the chatbot). Participants’ ratings of usability, usefulness, ease of use, and affective engagement were obtained. Results showed that participants performed better on easy questions than hard questions. Additionally, participants performed better on studied questions than non-studied questions. However, for the informal conversational style, participants scored higher on hard questions than easy questions amongst studied questions. Embodiment and conversational style had no impact on behavioral engagement. Overall, participants rated the chatbot above average in terms of its usability, usefulness, ease of use, and affective engagement. We conclude that chatbots are an effective study tool, but they may be better suited for learning easy, surface-level knowledge. Additionally, an informal conversational style may be preferred since it matches the linguistic features used by human tutors. Limitations and future directions for research are discussed.
Advanced Chunking and Search Methods for Improved Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) System Performance in E-Learning
Authors: Danter Daniel , Mühle Heidrun , Stöckl Andreas
Published: November 2024

Our study evaluates different search methodologies—Hybrid Search and Semantic Search—within a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) framework specifically for E-Learning. The primary objective is to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of using Large Language Models (LLMs), such as GPT-4, by employing advanced Prompt Engineering Techniques in E-Learning environments. Efficient search and chunking methods are critical for optimizing the quality of answers provided by these systems.To achieve this, we utilized the RAGas testing framework, focusing on performance parameters including Answer Correctness, Context Recall, Context Precision, Faithfulness, and Answer Relevancy. In our implementation, documents were divided into text chunks and indexed in a database using both vector and keyword indexing. This allowed for searches by vectors for similar records and keyword searches for exact matches. These records were then incorporated into prompts as context to improve LLM responses. The AI model used for generating embeddings, such as OpenAI's text-embedding-ada-002, plays a crucial role in this process by creating high-dimensional representations that capture deep semantic meanings.Current retrieval methods, like keyword and similarity-based searches, often fall short due to limitations in chunk quality, which directly impacts the accuracy of the RAG system. This study aims to improve the retriever component and, consequently, the overall accuracy of the RAG system by comparing three different chunking methods and two search approaches. We conducted tests using 57 questions across multiple files under various configurations.This research examines different search methods, including Hybrid Search, which integrates traditional keyword search with semantic search in order to provide more accurate and contextually relevant results. In comparison, Semantic Search utilizes deep learning models to comprehend the context and meaning of search queries and documents, thereby providing more precise information retrieval. The analysis also compared different chunking methods, such as Recursive Chunking, which divides text into hierarchical sections that are further subdivided until the desired granularity is reached. BERT Chunking utilizes the BERT model to segment text, taking semantic meaning into account to ensure coherent chunks. Token Chunking segments text based on individual tokens, offering fine-grained control over segmentation.Our results, evaluated using the RAGas testing framework, highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each search method and chunking technique. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing RAG Systems for E-Learning through advanced Prompt Engineering Techniques, aiming to improve knowledge transfer regarding efficiency and accuracy.
Analysis of student perceptions of the use of business process modelling in improving organisational operations
Authors: Oleś-filiks Małgorzata
Published: November 2024

The main objective of the article is to identify and compare students' awareness of the possibilities of using business process modelling to improve organizational operations. The survey was conducted at the beginning of 2023 in the first and final year of studies at the University of Warsaw, which at the same time allowed to compare the impact of the implementation of the study program on increasing awareness of these possibilities. In addition, the results of the survey were compared with an analysis of the core curriculum. The research was conducted using the CAWI method. The questionnaire prepared for this purpose was first reviewed by experts in the field of business process modeling and then made available on the University of Warsaw servers for students to complete. The research showed that the interest in business process modeling among students entering the University of Warsaw is not very high and that emerging innovations in this field are not known. From the point of view of the University of Warsaw, it is important to note that more than 90% of the students received basic information about Business Process Modeling at the University, so they will be able to use BPM systems in their professional work. The most significant and encouraging information is that almost half of the students graduating from the University of Warsaw use business process modeling systems in their professional work. The conducted study had its limitations - it was conducted in 2023 in only two university faculties (the Faculty of Management and the Faculty of Journalism, Information and Bibliology). It is recommended to increase the number of subjects in the area of business process management in university curricula, which will allow a deeper understanding and a modern approach to the interpretation of economic phenomena. On the basis of the research it was proved that despite the average knowledge of students about computer-based modeling of business processes, they consider it essential for the improvement of business operations.
Investigation of the contemporary value of dialects and proposals for their utilization – Possibility of maintaining cultural identity and regional promotion –
Authors: Gai Sato , Kang Namgyu
Published: November 2024

Japan has a wealth of dialects, each a unique reflection of its local culture and individuality. Recent advancements in information technology have accelerated the spread of these dialects, leading to their use across different regions. This study aims to analyze contemporary dialect usage and propose an event concept that promotes regional identity and serves as a beacon of hope for preserving these linguistic treasures. A questionnaire was conducted with approximately 100 people aged 20-60, and AI text mining analyzed the responses. The results showed that dialects remain vital in communication, especially in close relationships. Native region dialects were commonly used in daily conversations with family and friends, while dialects from other regions spread through media, serving as communication accessories. These findings underscore the importance of dialects in enriching communication diversity and preserving regional culture. Based on the results, an event focusing on dialects and regional promotion will be proposed and evaluated. This event, we believe, will not only enhance appreciation and understanding of these linguistic treasures but also pave the way for their preservation and continued use in our rapidly changing world.