bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Origin of Heterogeneous Diffusion in Glassy Poly(alkyl methacrylates)
Authors: Syutkin Vladimir M. , Vyazovkin Vladimir L. , Bol'shakov Boris V. , Grebenkin Sergey
Published: July 2019

The diffusion of small molecules through amorphous polymers proceeds by the thermally activated jumps whose rate changes from one region to another due to polymer heterogeneity. Little is known at present about the origin of diffusion heterogeneity. The oxidation of triplet nitrene and quenching of phenanthrene phosphorescence have been used to study the movement of molecular oxygen on a nanometer length scale in glassy poly(ethyl methacrylate) and poly(n‐butyl methacrylate) far below the glass transition temperature. It has been found that, as temperature increases, the jump rates in all regions increase by the same factor. This finding points to the equality of the activation energies of oxygen jumps in different regions of the polymers. We conclude that the correlated elastic displacements of polymer chains inside regions about several nanometers in size provide molecules jumps. Due to the large size of these regions, the activation energy of jump does not depend on local polymer structure. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 1097–1104
Exploring New Ways to Solve Old Problems; the Hunt for Alternative Stability Tests
Authors: Tunnell Ruth , Tod Dave
Published: July 2019

The 80 °C self‐heat test (formally known as the silvered vessel test) is one of the methods the UK uses to assess if nitrate ester based solid rocket propellants are sufficiently stable for service use. However, it uses a large mass of propellant – of the order of 70 g – and so there have always been safety concerns with regards to this technique. Further to this, it is not an internationally recognised test. There has been a desire to find a replacement for the 80 °C self‐heat test since at least the 1980s. One of the key advantages of the method is that it uses a significant mass of material and so is more representative of stabiliser depletion reactions in a solid rocket motor compared with smaller scale ageing tests. It is also considered a reliable method as it will accurately show if a nitrate ester based propellant is sufficiently stable for service use or not. This research, using three nitrate ester based propellants, has shown that the technique which is colloquially named “extreme heat flow calorimetry” offers an alternative to the 80 °C self‐heat test. Further, this method appears to be a new way of assessing the stability of nitrate ester based propellants and it has also been shown to be able to detect changes upon ageing for a particular propellant.
Transcriptional regulatory module analysis reveals that bridge proteins reconcile multiple signals in extracellular electron transfer pathways
Authors: Ding Dewu , Shu Chuanjun , Sun Xiao
Published: July 2019

Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 shows remarkable respiratory versatility with a large variety of extracellular electron acceptors (termed extracellular electron transfer, EET). To utilize the various electron acceptors, the bacterium must employ complex regulatory mechanisms to elicit the relevant EET pathways. To investigate the relevant mechanisms, we integrated EET genes and related transcriptional factors (TFs) into transcriptional regulatory modules (TRMs) and showed that many bridge proteins in these modules were signal proteins, which generally contained one or more signal processing domains (eg, GGDEF, EAL, PAS, etc.). Since Shewanella has to respond to diverse environmental conditions despite encoding few EET‐relevant TFs, the overabundant signal proteins involved in the TRMs can help decipher the mechanism by which these microbes elicit a wide range of condition‐specific responses. By combining proteomic data and protein bioinformatic analysis, we demonstrated that diverse signal proteins reconciled the different EET pathways, and we discussed the functional roles of signal proteins involved in the well‐known MtrCAB pathway. Additionally, we showed that the signal proteins SO_2145 and SO_1417 played central roles in triggering EET pathways in anaerobic environments. Taken together, our results suggest that signal proteins have a profound impact on the transcriptional regulation of EET genes and thus have potential applications in microbial fuel cells.
An efficient double exponentially weighted moving average Benjamini‐Hochberg control chart to control false discovery rate
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad Shujaat , Azam Muhammad , Aslam Muhammad
Published: July 2019

A control chart based on double exponentially weighted moving average and Benjamini‐Hochberg multiple testing procedure is proposed that controls the false discovery rate (FDR). The proposed control chart is based on probabilities (or P values) to accept or reject the null hypothesis of the underlying process is in control. To make a decision, instead of using only the current probability, previous “m” probabilities are considered. The performance of the control chart is evaluated in terms of average run length (ARL) using Monte Carlo simulations. Procedure for estimation of parameters used in the control chart is also discussed. The proposed control chart is compared with previous control charts and found to be more efficient in controlling the false discovery rate.
Correlation between the Carbon Nanotube Growth Rate and Byproducts in Antenna‐Type Remote Plasma Chemical Vapor Deposition Observed by Vacuum Ultraviolet Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Inaba Masafumi , Ochiai Takumi , Ohara Kazuyoshi , Kato Ryogo , Maki Tasuku , Ohashi Toshiyuki , Kawarada Hiroshi
Published: July 2019

For sp2 or sp3 carbon material growth, it is important to investigate the precursors or intermediates just before growth. In this study, the density of ethylene (C2H4) outside the plasma discharge space and just before reaching the carbon nanotube (CNT) growth region is investigated by vacuum ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy for plasma discharge in an antenna‐type remote plasma chemical vapor deposition with a CH4/H2 system, with which the growth of very long (≈0.5 cm) CNT forests is achieved. Single‐wall CNT forests have the potential for application as electrodes in battery cells, vertical wiring for high current applications, and thermal interface materials. It is observed that the plasma discharge decomposes the CH4 source gas and forms C2Hx
species, which reversibly reform to C2H4 in the plasma‐off state. In addition, the density of the formed C2H4 has a strong correlation to the CNT growth rate. Therefore, the C2H4 density is a good indicator of the density of C2Hx
species for CNT growth in the CH4/H2 plasma system.
Glutathione Induced Transformation of Partially Hollow Gold–Silver Nanocages for Cancer Diagnosis and Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Qin Zhaojian , Du Tianyu , Zheng Youkun , Luo Peng , Zhang Jialei , Xie Mengyang , Zhang Ying , Du Ying , Yin Lihong , Cui Daxiang , Lu Qiangbing , Lu Minghui , Wang Xuemei , Jiang Hui
Published: July 2019

Gold–silver nanocages (GSNCs) are widely used in cancer imaging and therapy due to excellent biocompatibility, internal hollow structures, and tunable optical properties. However, their possible responses toward the tumor microenvironment are still not well understood. In this study, it is demonstrated that a kind of relatively small sized (35 nm) and partially hollow GSNCs (absorbance centered at 532 nm) can enhance the intrinsic photoacoustic imaging performances for blood vessels around tumor sites. More importantly, the high concentration of glutathione around the tumor cells' microenvironment may induce the aggregation, disintegration, and agglomeration of these GSNCs sequentially, allowing significant shifts in the absorbance spectrum of GSNCs to the near‐infrared (NIR) region. This enhanced absorbance in the NIR region entails the significant photothermal therapy (PTT) effect. In vivo experiments, including photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) for cancer diagnosis and PTT in tumor model mice, also show coincident consequences. Taken together, the slightly hollow GSNCs may assist PAM‐based tumor diagnosis and induce a tumor targeted PTT effect. This work paves a new avenue for the development of an alternative tumor diagnostic and therapeutic strategy.
Implementation and evaluation of motion detection module based on hall sensors for the geared motor of automatic gate
Authors: Woo Seong Tak
Published: July 2019

The use of geared motor modules, installed in automatic doors to optimize the stability, efficiency, and manufacturing costs related to automatic door opening and closing, has been attracting scientific attention. Generally, signal processing and the sensor circuit board inserted in the geared motor have been widely used in optical systems. However, the optical system is disadvantageous in that it is susceptible to external shock, humidity, and dust. In this article, a magnetic impulse ring‐based motion detection circuit board simpler in structure than the existing optical systems, having excellent durability against external environments, and can be miniaturized is proposed. Experimental results show that the proposed module based on Hall sensor has RPM (revolution per minute) detection characteristics more than 6 dB better than conventional optical module. Also, the proposed module has about 14 dB excellent power consumption than existing optical modules, thus its applicability is confirmed. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Serological and molecular identification of Reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) in chickens in Sudan
Authors: Alfaki Shima H. , Hussien Mohammed O. , Elsheikh Fadwa M. , Taha Khalid M. , Elbrissi Atif H. , El Hussein Abdel Rahim M.
Published: July 2019

Background

Reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) is a gammaretrovirus that belongs to the family of Retroviridae. The infection can result in immunosuppression, runting syndrome, high mortality, acute reticular cell neoplasia or T‐ and/ or B‐cell lymphoma, in a variety of domestic and wild birds. The disease is widespread around the world. No related data have been reported in Sudan about the disease. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of REV antibodies and DNA in local and commercial breeds of chickens older than 20 weeks from June 2014 to February, 2017.

Methods

A total of 460 sera samples and 150 (50 liver and 100 spleen) tissue samples were collected from local and commercial breeds of chickens older than 20 weeks and screened for anti‐REV antibodies in four states of Sudan using a commercial REV antibody ELISA test kit (IDEXX). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to detect REV DNA in tissue samples in Khartoum State.

Results

The results revealed that the overall seroprevalence of REV was 74.6% among local and commercial chicken breeds, but in commercial it was 79.5% (190/239) and 69.2% in local breeds (153/221). One hundred and fifty tissue samples of chickens (50 liver, 100 spleen) were tested using PCR for detection of REV using primer sets of the conserved region in envelope glycoprotein (env) gene with a band length of 850 bp. Five out of 50 (10%) liver samples were RE provirus DNA positive detected by PCR, whereas 15 out of 100 (15%) spleen samples were PCR positive. Univariate analysis revealed there was a difference (p ≤ 0.05) between locality and breed of chickens and seropositivity to REV.

Conclusions

The prevalence of the disease was high in Sudan and more studies are needed to evaluate the epidemiology and pathogenesis of the virus.
Tree box performance in exfiltrating stormwater runoff
Authors: Ahmed Farzana , Borst Michael
Published: July 2019

This study determines the exfiltration rates in six tree boxes with embedded sensors and analyzes their hydrologic performance for 2 years to quantify the effect of different parameters (i.e., water depth, temperature, and age) on the exfiltration rate. Each tree box is 1.5 m wide, 1.5 m long, and 1.8 m deep. A 46‐cm‐diameter shaft was drilled at the bottom of each tree box to reach the underlying permeable soil layer. The water level inside the shaft rose up to 500 cm. Exfiltration rate increased with water level and exfiltration rate in second year decreased significantly by 27%–37% compared with first year. Overall, in the second year, the decrease in geometric mean exfiltration rate was largest for moderate depths of the standing water inside the shaft, ranging between 100 and 130 cm from the bottom of the shaft. The exfiltration rate of the tree boxes was significantly larger for warmer season and significantly smaller for cooler season. The infiltration rate of the underlying soil is a controlling factor of the performance of tree box.

Practitioner points

The study determines the exfiltration rates in six tree boxes and analyzes their performance over time.

Exfiltration rate in second year decreased significantly by 27%–37% compared to first year.

The exfiltration rate of the tree boxes was larger for warmer rain events and smaller for cooler rain events.

Tree boxes with lower permeable underlying soil developed higher water level in the shaft.
Interpretable deep learning for two-prong jet classification with jet spectra
Authors: Chakraborty Amit , Lim Sung Hak , Nojiri Mihoko M.
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Classification of jets with deep learning has gained significant attention in recent times. However, the performance of deep neural networks is often achieved at the cost of interpretability. Here we propose an interpretable network trained on the jet spectrum S
2(R) which is a two-point correlation function of the jet constituents. The spectrum can be derived from a functional Taylor series of an arbitrary jet classifier function of energy flows. An interpretable network can be obtained by truncating the series. The intermediate feature of the network is an infrared and collinear safe C-correlator which allows us to estimate the importance of an S
2(R) deposit at an angular scale R in the classification. The performance of the architecture is comparable to that of a convolutional neural network (CNN) trained on jet images, although the number of inputs and complexity of the architecture is significantly simpler than the CNN classifier. We consider two examples: one is the classification of two-prong jets which differ in color charge of the mother particle, and the other is a comparison between and generated jets.
$$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 supersymmetry deformations, electromagnetic duality and Dirac-Born-Infeld actions
Authors: Antoniadis Ignatios , Jiang Hongliang , Lacombe Osmin
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We study the general deformation of

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 supersymmetry transformations of a vector multiplet that forms a (constant) triplet under the SU(2) R-symmetry corresponding to the magnetic dual of the triplet of the Fayet-Iliopoulos (FI) parameters. We show that in the presence of both triplets, the induced scalar potential of a vector multiplet with generic prepotential has always a minimum that realises partial breaking of

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 →

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 supersymmetry. We then consider the impact of the deformation in the Dirac-Born-Infeld (DBI) action where one supersymmetry is non-linearly realised, described by a nilpotent constraint on the deformed

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 chiral-chiral superfield. We show that the generic magnetic deformation induces an ordinary FI D-term along the linear supersymmetry via the theta-angle. Moreover, we argue that the resulting action differs on-shell from the standard one (DBI+FI) by fermionic contributions.
Circuit complexity of knot states in Chern-Simons theory
Authors: Camilo Giancarlo , Melnikov Dmitry , Novaes Fábio , Prudenziati Andrea
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We compute an upper bound on the circuit complexity of quantum states in 3d Chern-Simons theory corresponding to certain classes of knots. Specifically, we deal with states in the torus Hilbert space of Chern-Simons that are the knot complements on the 3-sphere of arbitrary torus knots. These can be constructed from the unknot state by using the Hilbert space representation of the S and T modular transformations of the torus as fundamental gates. The upper bound is saturated in the semiclassical limit of Chern-Simons theory. The results are then generalized for a family of multi-component links that are obtained by “Hopf-linking” different torus knots. We also use the braid word presentation of knots to discuss states on the punctured sphere Hilbert space associated with 2-bridge knots and links. The calculations present interesting number theoretic features related with continued fraction representations of rational numbers. In particular, we show that the minimization procedure defining the complexity naturally leads to regular continued fractions, allowing a geometric interpretation of the results in the Farey tesselation of the upper-half plane. Finally, we relate our discussion to the framework of path integral optimization by generalizing the original argument to non-trivial topologies.
Evaluating changes to Ralstonia pickettii in high-purity water to guide selection of potential calibration materials for online water bioburden analyzers
Authors: Benkstein Kurt D , Da Silva Sandra M , Lin Nancy J , Ripple Dean C
Published: July 2019

Online water bioburden analyzers (OWBAs) can provide real-time feedback on viable bacteria in high-purity water (HPW) systems for pharmaceutical manufacturers. To calibrate and validate OWBAs, which detect bacteria using scattered light and bacterial autofluorescence, standards are needed that mimic the characteristics of bacteria in HPW. To guide selection of potential standards, e.g., fluorescent microspheres, a relevant bacterial contaminant, Ralstonia  pickettii, was characterized for size, count, viability, and autofluorescence after exposure for 24 h to HPW or a nutrient environment. The cells exposed to HPW showed smaller sizes, with lower counts and autofluorescence intensities, but similar spectral features. The cell characteristics are discussed in comparison with a set of fluorescent microspheres, considering factors relevant to OWBAs. These studies suggest that fluorescent microspheres should be relatively small (< 1 µm diameter) and dim, while covering a broad emission range from ≈ (420 to 600) nm to best mimic the representative R. pickettii.
“Let us discuss math”; Effects of shift‐problem lessons on mathematical discussions and level raising in early algebra
Authors: Calor Sharon M. , Dekker Rijkje , van Drie Jannet P. , Zijlstra Bonne J. H. , Volman Monique L. L.
Published: July 2019

We investigated whether early algebra lessons that explicitly aimed to elicit mathematical discussions (shift-problem lessons) invoke more and qualitatively better mathematical discussions and raise students’ mathematical levels more than conventional lessons in a small group setting. A quasi-experimental study (pre- and post-test, control group) was conducted in 6 seventh-grade classes (N = 160). An analysis of the interaction processes of five student groups showed that more mathematical discussions occurred in the shift-problem condition. The quality of the mathematical discussions in the shift-problem condition was better compared to that in the conventional textbook condition, but there is still more room for improvement. A qualitative illustration of two typical mathematical discussions in the shift-problem condition are provided. Although students’ mathematical levels were raised a fair amount in both conditions, no differences between conditions were found. We concluded that shift-problem lessons are powerful for eliciting mathematical discussions in seventh-grade shift-problem early algebra lessons.
Development of a scale to measure intrapersonal factors influencing speaking up in the operating room
Authors: Toy Serkan , Guris Rodrigo J. Daly , Duarte Shirley S , Dwivedi Priyanka
Published: July 2019

Introduction This paper reports on the development of a scale to measure intrapersonal factors (IPF) that may influence speaking up behaviour in the operating room.

Methods Participants were postgraduate year 2, 3, and 4 anaesthesiology residents and practising faculty anaesthesiologists at a large quaternary care academic hospital. Based on a literature review, the authors constructed the initial scale. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to identify the underlying factor structure for the scale. A set of one-way ANOVAs and multiple ordinal regressions were carried out to provide additional validity evidence for the new scale.

Results Exploratory factor analysis indicated a three-factor solution accounting for 73% of the variance. The self-efficacy subscale included four items (Cronbach’s α = 0.86), and the social outcome expectations (Cronbach’s α = 0.86) and assertive attitude (Cronbach’s α = 0.67) subscales contained three items each. The effect of training level was significantly associated with self-efficacy (p < 0.001) and assertive attitude subscale scores (p < 0.001). Multiple ordinal regressions indicated that IPF predicted participants’ likelihood of speaking up in various hypothetical scenarios.

Discussion Our analyses provided initial evidence for the validity and reliability of a 10-item IPF scale. This instrument needs to be validated in other cohorts.
Efficient Path Planning Method of USV for Intelligent Target Search
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Fan , Liu Zengyuan , Li Yunsong
Published: July 2019

In order to accomplish a target search task safely and efficiently and make full use of prior information and real-time information, a path planning method of unmanned surface vehicle (USV) for intelligent target search is proposed. The overall strategy is divided into three parts: global path planning based on prior information, local path planning based on real-time information, and improved A* obstacle avoidance algorithm. Before the start of the task, the global path planning is carried out based on prior information such as the initial position of USV, the predicted position of the target and range of search area. After the start of the task, if USV finds suspicious targets, in order to further approach these suspicious targets, it will enter different local path planning modes according to the characteristics of these targets. During task execution, if obstacles are encountered, an improved A* obstacle avoidance algorithm is adopted. The simulation results show that the proposed method can improve the efficiency of target recognition and reduce the turning cost of USV when encountering obstacles. So, for USV intelligent target search, the proposed path planning method can save resources and improve search efficiency.
Pediatric Neurology Workforce in Canada: A 5-Year Update
Authors: Strasser Lauren E. , Orr Serena L. , McMillan Hugh J. , Doja Asif , Callen David J. A.
Published: July 2019

Background:

In 2013, a task force was developed to discuss the future of the Canadian pediatric neurology workforce. The consensus was that there was no indication to reduce the number of training positions, but that the issue required continued surveillance. The current study provides a 5-year update on Canadian pediatric neurology workforce data.

Methods:

Names, practice types, number of weekly outpatient clinics, and dates of certification of all physicians currently practicing pediatric neurology in Canada were obtained. International data were used to compute comparisons between countries. National data sets were used to provide information about the number of residency positions available and the number of Canadian graduates per year. Models for future projections were developed based on published projected population data and trends from the past decade.

Results:

The number of pediatric neurologists practicing in Canada has increased 165% since 1994. During this period, wait times have not significantly shortened. There are regional discrepancies in access to child neurologists. The Canadian pediatric neurology workforce available to see outpatient consultations is proportionally less than that of USA. After accounting for retirements and emigrations, the number of child neurologists being added to the workforce each year is 4.9. This will result in an expected 10-year increase in Canadian pediatric neurologists from 151 to 200.

Conclusions:

Despite an increase in the number of Canadian child neurologists over the last two decades, we do not predict that there will be problems with underemployment over the next decade.
Automated Exploration of Design Solution Space Applying the Generative Design Approach
Authors: Li Haibing , Lachmayer Roland
Published: July 2019

Design is a complex problem-solving activity that transforms design restrictions and requirements into a set of constraints and explores the feasible solutions to satisfy those constraints. However, design solutions generated by traditional modeling approaches are hardly to deal with such constraints, particularly for the exploration of the possible design solution space to enhance the quality of the design outputs and confront the evolving design requirements. In this regard, the Generative Design Approach (GDA) is considered as an efficient method to explore a large design solution space by transforming the design problem into a configuration problem. Fundamentally, GDA explores and stores all the necessary knowledge through a design skeleton and a set of design elements. Thus, design solution space is easily explored by configuring variable design elements via iterative design processes. Further, the output model is not only a design solution but also a design concept that designers could manipulate to explore unconsidered design configurations. Finally, a crank creation as a running example confirmed that GDA provides concrete aids to enhance the diversity of design solutions.
Integrated and Customer-Oriented Material and Process Selection by Sensory Multi-Criteria Decision-Making
Authors: Schneberger Jan-Henrik , Kaspar Jerome , Vielhaber Michael
Published: July 2019

Today, product success more than ever depends on the satisfaction of consumer needs. Besides, manufacturers need to shorten development cycles and accelerate product release in order to stay competitive. This is achieved by applying customer-oriented methods allowing for fast and reliable acting. During the early phase of product development, requirements acquisition is crucial for later success of products, since specifications are most influenceable at this point. Referring to the decisive concept generation phase, material and production definition is difficult due to the highly complex interrelations between material properties, production process capabilities, and resulting product characteristics. Especially in the context of lightweight design, concurrent material and processing technology selection must be considered due to its various possible interfaces.

Thus, this contribution outlines an integrated approach towards an enhanced material and process related, customer-oriented requirements acquisition during the early phase upstream of product detailing. Here, conventional multi-criteria decision-making and tactile recognition are employed in an agile transformation model.
Investigating the Influence of the Decoy Effect in Pairwise Comparison in Terms of Idea Selection in the Product Development Process
Authors: Tanaiutchawoot Narucha , Bursac Nikola , Rapp Simon , Albers Albert
Published: July 2019

Many activities in the new product development requires the decision making to find the final solution from multiple alternatives and make an evaluation. Even methods to support decision maker are available, the decision can go to the wrong direction because of heuristics. “Decoy effect” is a heuristic that appears in a comparison when 2 of 3 alternatives are similar but different in quality. The alternative that is similar but better in quality is possibly selected. The paper aims to understand the decoy effect by investigating it in the pairwise comparison that is a powerful technique for comparing alternatives. In an experiment, 3 ideas for the next generation of apple peeler are compared in pairs with different sequences. An impact of the decoy alternative on the comparison between other two alternatives, is investigated. Results show low impact of the decoy effect in the pairwise comparison, but this effect induces a high chance of selecting the decoy alternative when comparing the results from this study and the previous study by proposing 3 alternatives in the same sequence. Applying pairwise comparison to avoid decoy effect is thus an idea that will be further investigated.
On Vehicle Evaluation and Design Using Data Envelopment Analysis with Hierarchical Concepts
Authors: Parque Victor , Honobe Kazuhiro , Miura Satoshi , Miyashita Tomoyuki
Published: July 2019

In recent years, product complexity in terms of function and structure has been driven by technological development in complementary components. Designing unbiased product evaluation metrics being to grasp the complex relationships of product features, and able to capitalize on market needs has become a challenge in industrial practice.

In this paper, we propose a hybrid framework in which evaluation models are generated by integrating Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM), Hierarchical Clustering and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). Whereas ISM constructs hierarchical digraphs (skeletons), Hierarchical Clustering reduces dimensionality of pairwise comparisons (correlations) of design variables, and suggests possible evaluation configurations, and DEA computes weights to provide optimal evaluation metrics. Our computational experiments using more than twenty thousand vehicles from 1982 to 2013 confirmed the feasibility and usefulness of DEA with hierarchical concepts to generate the optimal vehicle evaluation metric, and to suggest configurations for vehicle design layouts.
Perspectives on Innovation: The Role of Engineering Design
Authors: Isaksson Ola , Eckert Claudia , Borgue Olivia , Hallstedt Sophie I , Hein Andreas Makoto , Gericke Killian , Panarotto Massimo , Reich Yoram , Öhrwall Rönnbäck Anna B
Published: July 2019

The aim of the paper is to foster a discussion in the engineering design community about its understanding of the innovation phenomena and the unique contribution that comes from engineering design. The paper reports on the dialouge originating from a series of workshops with participants from different backgrounds in engineering design, systems engineering, industrial design psychology and business.

Definitions of innovation are revisited as used in business, management and engineering design contexts. The role of innovation is then discussed related to product development from (i) the management perspective, (ii) a systems architecture perspective and (iii) in relation to sustainable development as one driver of innovation.

It is argued that engineering design has a central role in how to realise the novelty aspect of innovation and often plays a critical role in maturing these into the valuable products, and there is a need to articulate the role of engineering design in innovation to better resonate with the business and management research.
Pugh Controlled Convergence and Social Choice Theory
Authors: Nicholson John Morgan , Collopy Paul
Published: July 2019

The Pugh Method of Controlled Convergence is evaluated based on social choice theory, both from an axiomatic basis, and by examining all possible cases of attribute ranks for a range of numbers of alternatives and numbers of attributes. The evaluation shows that, for a typical Pugh application, concept selection varies with the arbitrary choice of datum or is simply incorrect in about one-third of the cases. While there are merits to the iteration steps and creation of new alternatives within the Pugh method, a simpler and more expressive concept ranking procedure can give far superior results.
Reflection-in-Action When Designing Organizational Processes: Prototyping Workshops for Collective Reflection-in-Action
Authors: Wegener Frithjof Eberhard , Guerreiro Gonçalves Milene , Dankfort Zoë
Published: July 2019

In this paper on designing organizational processes, we combine insight on reflection-in-action with the role of reflection and experimenting from the organizational routine dynamics literature. Illustrated through a case at a strategy consultancy, we show how a prototyped workshop can elicit reflection-in- action when designing organizational processes. The artifacts used in the prototyped workshop made previous implicit assumptions about the work more explicit. This led to on the spot reflection-in-action of how to improve the prototype. This shows how collective reflection-action can be created by creating a space for reflection, that simultaneously allows for experimentation. Future research between design science and organizational science would thus be fruitful when studying the role of collective reflection- in-action when prototyping organizational processes.
The PSI Network Model for Studying Diverse Complex Design Scenarios
Authors: Reich Yoram , Subrahmanian Eswaran
Published: July 2019

Design pervades our world in variety and complexity that is difficult to grasp. Different disciplines and researchers take one or few perspectives to study, model, and try to understand design, why it fails and when it succeeds. However, without a comprehensive model, the value of such approaches is limited. We created a framework – the PSI (Problem, Social and Institutional Spaces) framework – that includes several models, ranging from simple to complex, networked, and hierarchical or recursive that can be used to model all design scenarios. In what follows, we demonstrate the network version of this framework, how it is used, and what insight it can present. The diversity of situations we present, mergers and acquisitions of companies, collaborations between industry and university, large multi- organizational projects, and a very complex project, as well as other cases we do not present here, confers the validity of utility and potential of the PSI framework.
The Role of Enabling Technologies in Transformative Innovation
Authors: Marion Tucker , Friar John
Published: July 2019

This study is an exploratory analysis of enabling technologies’ influence on the trajectory of industry development using a co-evolutionary model of technology development. When combined, enabling technologies can create new technology-market industry cycles, resulting in transformative innovation. The research approach of this empirical study is to use both primary and secondary data to create a history of the robotics industry and to explore the pre and post changes in the industry from the inclusion of enabling technologies over multiple generations. We propose a new model for understanding the theoretical and practical study of technology development through the lens of enabling technologies and their development and maturity cycles.
Usability Evaluation of Software Tools for Engineering Design
Authors: Hashemi Farzaneh Helena , Neuner Lorenz
Published: July 2019

Much of the work in design research focusses on the development of methods and tools to support engineering designers. Many of these tools are nowadays implemented in software. Due to the strongly growing use of computers and smart devices in the last two decades, the expectations of users increased dramatically. In particular users expect good usability, for example little effort for learning to apply the software. Therefore, the usability evaluation of design software tools is crucial. A software tool with bad usability will not be used in industrial practice. Recommendations for usability evaluation of software often stem from the field of Human Computer Interaction. The aim of this paper is to tailor these general approaches to the specific needs of engineering design. In addition, we propose a method to analyse the results of the evaluation and to derive suggestions for improving the design software tool. We apply the usability evaluation method on a use case - the KoMBi software tool for bio-inspired design. The case study provides additional insights with regards to problem, causes and improvement categories.
Design for Extremes: A Contour Method for Defining Requirements Based on Multivariate Extremes
Authors: Haselsteiner Andreas F. , Reisenhofer Rafael , Ohlendorf Jan-Hendrik , Thoben Klaus-Dieter
Published: July 2019

The design of various products is driven by requirements that describe extremes. In marine structural design, joint extremes of environmental variables like wave height and wind speed are used to define load cases. Similarly, in ergonomic design minimum and maximum values of anthropometric variables are considered to make sure a product is suitable for a wide range of users. Here, we present a method that supports designers to define requirements using joint extreme values: the requirements contour method. The method is based on structural engineering's environmental contour method and uses a dataset and statistical methods to specify a region in the variable space that must be considered in the design process. That region's enclosure is the requirements contour and holds the joint extremes. After formally describing the method, we give an illustrative example of its usage: we use it to define requirements for the design of an ergonomic handle for a power tool. The requirements contour method is a field-independent approach to design for extremes. In the tradition of design for X, we think that a design project can benefit from applying methods that focus on different 'X's.
Organisation Design Seen through Systematic Design
Authors: Cornelis Thomas , Dubois Patrice , Omhover Jean-François , Fercoq Alain
Published: July 2019

Organizations seeking to improve their performance, like Corporate Social Responsibility targets, face a key organisational design challenge. Designing the key components of the organization and their layout will have major impact on performances, and needs thus a robust design process. Organisation theory provides several models and methods to answer that need. Yet this design process has not been confronted to design methods literature, such as systematic design. The aim of this paper is to provide a synthesis of multiple theoretical elements coming from organization sciences, confronted with a classical engineering design model, to reveal similarities, differences and lacks of current literature on organization design. Our analysis of the available literature on organisation theory, organisation design and change management showed that this design process is close to systematic design, but we also highlighted several breaks in the design process, such as the lack of functional approach.
Scaling of Technical Systems Using an Object-Based Modelling Approach
Authors: Wolniak Philipp , Sauthoff Bastian , Lachmayer Roland , Mozgova Iryna
Published: July 2019

Companies that operate and manufacture products in the technical area are exposed to increasingly challenging market situations. The developed products should be individualized to the customers' needs while offering high quality at an acceptable price.

The temporal and especially economic claims are constantly growing, forcing the companies to develop a given product that matches the cost-side as well as the technical requirements in a short period of time. Following an initial development, it is often necessary to provide further product variants regarding a modified geometry or performance. A time and cost efficient way is the scaling of the initially developed product.

Existing scaling methods focus on uniform geometry changes, not taking into account influences from non-uniform requirement or geometry alterations. Therefore, this article proposes an approach on how to modell and assess the outcome of a scaled assembly, based on the connection of individual scalable components inside an object-based approach.
Looking for Inspiration: Understanding the Information Evaluation and Seeking Behavior of Novice Designers During Creative Idea Generation
Authors: Damen Nicole , Toh Christine
Published: July 2019

Information usage is a key aspect of creative cognition and has been shown to influence design outcomes. The goal of this study was to investigate the information seeking behavior of student designers while validating a previously developed “Typology of Design Information” framework. Participants were asked to use and evaluate pieces of information during the idea generation process. Results show a discrepancy between the information that participants naturally sought out and their perceived utility (helpfulness) of the information. However, individually significant relationships between perceived utility and behavior were found with features generated by participants, suggesting that even though participants' perception of the utility of information pieces and their actual behavior are not related, both constructs have an identifiable influence on design outcomes. This study advances the Typology of Design Information framework by empirically exploring the link between the types of information used by novice designers and the ideas generated, and it illustrates that participants employ complex cognitive behavior when engaging with design information to generate novel ideas.
The Product Developer in the Centre of Product Development: A Systematic Literature Review on Describing Factors
Authors: Albers Albert , Heimicke Jonas , Spadinger Markus , Degner Nadine , Duehr Katharina
Published: July 2019

In the uncertain process of product development, the developer is decisively responsible for product success. He operates in a complex environment that directly influences his synthesis and analysis activities. The context of the socio-technical system of product development has already been extensively researched and defined by a large number of factors. However, the developer is described as part of the context and not as the centre, which means that many of these factors have no interaction with the developer. For the design of methods and tools that support the developer in his activities in the development process, a summarizing understanding of the influences on and by the developer is necessary. In order to create a unified understanding of the developer at the centre of product development, a Systematic Literature Review was conducted. In this article, the procedure and findings are presented. The aim was to identify factors from the literature that significantly influence the interaction of the developer in his environment. As a result, these were documented in a model, which represents the basis for further, human-centred research in the context of product development.
A New Method of Human Response Testing to Enhance the Design Process
Authors: Kalantari Saleh
Published: July 2019

This paper presents a new method of human-response testing to enhance the success of designs. Rather than waiting until after a building is constructed to see how the design will affect human users, we developed a high-resolution virtual-reality platform to present design variations to the study participants. This technique allowed us to make very precise adjustments in design variables (e.g., the ceiling height, or the placement of windows) within the same overall structure, thereby obtaining more empirically rigorous comparisons than is possible in traditional post-occupancy studies of completed buildings. In addition, this approach allowed us to collect a variety of biometric data, such as EEG signals, heart rate, head motions, and other indicators of attention and stress, while the study participants interacted with the virtual environments. The overall outcome of this research method will be to improve the human quality of the built environment and to promote data-driven innovation in the design field.
Investigating the Impact of Spatial Augmented Reality on Communication between Design Session Participants - A Pilot Study
Authors: Giunta Lorenzo , Ben Guefrache Fatma , Dekoninck Elies , Gopsill James , O'Hare Jamie , Morosi Federico
Published: July 2019

SAR provides an unobtrusive implementation of AR and enables multiple stakeholders to observe and interact with an augmented physical model. This is synonymous with co-design activities and hence, there is a potential for SAR to have a significant impact in the way design teams may set-up and run their co-design activities in the future. Whilst there are a growing number of studies which apply SAR to design activities, few studies exist that examine a particular element of a design activity in a controlled manner. This paper will begin to fill this gap through the controlled study of SAR and its effects on the communication between participants of a co-design activity. To do so the paper compares a controlled design session, using more traditional methods of design representations (3D models on a screen), to sessions run using SAR. The sessions are then analysed to gather information on the gestures used by the participants as well as the overall efficiency of the participants at completing the set design task. The paper concludes that the data gathered tentatively supports a link between the use of SAR and improved communication between design session participants.
Knowledge Management for Problem Solving Using Semistructured Contradiction Matrix Based on Physical Quantity Description
Authors: Murakami Tamotsu
Published: July 2019

A Contradiction Matrix of TRIZ that classifies problems to solve as contradictions of features is an effective framework of knowledge management for problem solving. The features, however, may have a problem of completeness because they may not cover contradictions about all physical phenomena. In addition, rigidly structured Contradiction Matrix may have a problem of searchability because a relevant contradiction may not be properly searched if a recorder and a retriever describe it differently. To solve these problems, this paper proposes a semistructured contradiction matrix using not TRIZ features but physical quantities in SI unit. To enable not only exact match but also partial match in searching for relevant contradictions, dimensional similarity and qualitative value similarity of physical quantity and similarity between contradictions are defined. The proposed method is implemented as software in Python and contradictions are described in XML and stored in a semistructured matrix. From the result of similarity calculation between stored contradictions, possible effectiveness of the proposed method is confirmed.
Methodological Design: Effects of a Morphological Approach for Different Students and Professionals
Authors: Zeiler Wim
Published: July 2019

In connection with a design research project for professional in the Dutch building industry, an educational project was developed, the multidisciplinary master project Integral Design, to prepare our Master students better for their professional life. The concept of an earlier developed integral design workshop for professionals was implemented within the start-up workshop of our masters’ project integral design. The frame work of the approach is described as well as the positive effects on the collaboration between the design team members from different disciplines as result of the morphological approach of the Integral Design method. This method was also applied during workshops in different courses about design methodology As basically the same set-up for the workshop was used this allowed us to compare the results of the different students and analyse them. During the different workshop series the effects on the outcome of the conceptual phase of the design process has been investigated. The results of this analysis are presented in the paper and showed some remarkable similarities as well as some differences among the different student groups.