bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Impact On‐The‐Job Training
Authors: Wayne Smith H. , Morrison John W.
Published: February 2008

It would come as no revelation to announce that on‐the‐job training (OJT) is one of the simplest and most cost effective ways of training employees. The statement that its use does not require extensive budgets, sophisticated training staffs, or trainee time away from the workplace likewise would not be front page news.
Measuring the Quality of Management Training Courses
Authors: Bettes David
Published: February 2008

The Coverdale Organisation offers training and consultancy in individual, team and organisation development. An important part of our work is public courses where participants from many different organisations are encouraged to explore ways of creating an effective team and to develop their skills in establishing aims, working methodically and learning from experience. Because of the emphasis on learning from experience, course staff modify the detailed programme to suit the needs of the participants: the general aims of the course remain the same, but the details vary from course to course. Each course is an unique interaction between course staff and participants. This makes it difficult for changing staff groups to communicate more than a flavour of any single course to their colleagues. There is also amongst all staff members the wish to excel, to produce “high quality” courses, but the definition of this is subjective and not commonly agreed. So we have a situation with these characteristics:
Innovators, Entrepreneurs and Intrapreneurs: Food for Thought
Authors: Maxon Jim
Published: February 2008

Innovation Teams (“I” Teams) In mid‐1985 managers at Hewlett‐Packard's Queensferry Microwave Operation (QMO), near Edinburgh, reviewed the development of QMO during 1984 and 1985 and projected the objectives and strategies for 1986–1988.
Psycho‐educational Design of the Aircrew Team Management Programme
Authors: Margerison Charles , McCann Dick , Davies Rod
Published: February 2008

In mid‐1984, the authors were commissioned to assist in the design of a programme to improve flight crew functioning in Trans Australia Airlines — a major Australian domestic carrier with over 600 active aircrew flying Fokkers, Jetstreams, DC‐9s, Boeing 727s and 737s and the Airbus A‐300. Research and consultation with the airline identified factors such as teamwork, resource management, and communication skills as critical to effective crew performance. Breakdowns in these same three areas are regularly cited as contributing factors in the 65–80 per cent of aviation accidents or incidents attributable to the human factor.
Mentoring
Authors: Clutterbuck David
Published: February 2008

David Clutterbuck's book on Mentoring is the most helpful material available on this important subject. It is succinct enough not to lend itself easily to a shortened version in article form. The following note was used to introduce the subject at the World Congress on Management Development in June 1986 and is reproduced here to stimulate further interest.
A New Look at a Multinational's Training Needs
Authors: Glynn Jones T.
Published: February 2008

The title of this paper is a simple statement of intention now in progress. It is a very practical look at a subject, training needs, which should be part of every company's thinking about its business. For BP, as a multinational, it is a subject which has become more complex. The ideas, the thinking, the conclusions may be echoes of your own approach or may stimulate you to respond so that we may share our experiences and thus receive direct benefit.
Undoing Men's Gender Conditioning — A Key Issue for Men as Leaders
Authors: Simmons Michael
Published: February 2008

Men occupy the great majority of key leadership positions in the world; in national government, in local government, in business, in trades unions and in local organisations. Although women have made very considerable advances, men are still chosen in the greatest number for leadership; for example, in business, men still comprise 77 per cent of all managers and 98 per cent of top managers.
Building Teams and Managing Change in a Local Government Authority
Authors: Smith Bryan , Theaker Bill
Published: February 2008

The Social Services Department of Waltham Forest is of an average size among the London boroughs with a workforce of 1,450 and a budget (in 1985) of about £20 million. In the autumn of 1983 the department was unexpectedly faced with sudden and fundamental changes to the senior management team. The Director who had formed and led the department since its inception in 1971 with a highly personalised and positively directive style, was retired on health grounds following a protracted illness and almost simultaneously one of the Assistant Directors elected for early retirement.
Open and Distance Learning for Managers: Finding Your Way
Authors: Snell Robin , Binsted Don
Published: February 2008

The choices facing a management developer in using open and distance learning are described. The three identifiable types of programme are materials based for solo learners, learning‐group based for two or more learners, and materials and learning‐group based, depending on both materials and learner interaction. The options are explored, and guidance given on how to evaluate them for the organisation's particular needs.
Continuous Development — A Participative Event for 250 People
Authors: Barrington Harry
Published: February 2008

The theme of performance improvement linked through a participative learning process is discussed, and illustrated by a session on Continuous Development in which the process was used. The CD approach stresses self‐development and the integration of learning with work.
The Self‐assessment Route to Small Business Training
Authors: Gee Catherine
Published: February 2008

A new guide produced by the Manpower Services Commission — “Business Success Through People” — is reviewed. The need for “training” is discussed, and the likely reactions of the small businessman to the self‐assessment kit. It is judged a useful tool for the entrepreneur who has not as yet been able to systematise vague ideas into concrete proposals and thence into action.
A Marketing Training Workshop for Industrial Trainers: Programme Planning and Evaluation
Authors: Sims Ronald R.
Published: February 2008

Trainers in industry are increasingly concerned about marketing their programmes in times of decreasing budgets. The author devised a one day training workshop, using a marketing approach to develop, implement and evaluate the training programme. Attitudes and behaviours related to marketing were measured before and after the marketing training workshop to use in developing future programmes.
The Nominal Group Technique in Management Training
Authors: Taffinder Paul A. , Viedge Conrad
Published: February 2008

The Nominal Group Technique is a structured brainstorming method for exploring problems and identifying solutions. The technique is described in detail, the scope being broadened by its application to the management training situation. Its advantages over brainstorming and buzz sessions are considerable. Its use represents an interactive process, forming a nexus between the training material and the individual manager's experience.
Self‐development for Women Managers in the Retail Industry
Authors: Spero Marlene
Published: February 2008

A programme of self‐development for women managers was introduced by a major retail multiple aware of low morale among its few women executives. None of the selected group understood the concept of “development” and were taken aback by the commitment and input expected of them. Their progression from resistance and dependency to learning to take responsibility is described, and the more positive attitude they develop proves helpful in tackling difficulties in the work situation.
Training Needs Analysis and Time Management
Authors: Boak George , Stephenson Mac
Published: February 2008

The use of time management analyses can be a more effective way of establishing training needs than traditional analytical questions. Blockages to development can be revealed and a base provided for the training programme to tackle them.
A MANAGEMENT EXERCISE FOR TRAINERS IN NIGERIA
Authors: Akin‐Ogundeji Oladele
Published: February 2008

A two‐day workshop for trainers in Nigeria, designed to enable trainers to influence managers about training by clarifying the formers' own perceptions, is reviewed. These perceptions were focused on trainers' feelings about the powerful managers and on their understanding of the role of trainers on organisational problems.
MODELLING WORK THROUGH A NEW THINKING PROFILE
Authors: Rhodes Jerry , Thame Sue
Published: February 2008

Just as a carpenter has different manual tools for different tasks so a manager needs different thinking tools for differential tasks. Research originally with Philips Electronics established connections between tasks and thinking processes. The thinking processes are defined in 25 Thunks, in Form divided into three colours of Thinking. Individuals habitually have strong orientations to one style of thinking — coloured Blue, Red or Green. These diagnoses can then be used to help individuals expand their style of thinking.
TRAINING FOR TRAVEL MANAGEMENT
Authors: Gray Susanne
Published: February 2008

The change from a British Airways training department into a subsidiary company offering training to the travel agent industry is reported. The conversion enabled the development of material more specifically geared to the needs of travel agents. The Academy provides technical customer service, management and business training.
THE FIRST FORTY MINUTES
Authors: Burbidge Roger
Published: February 2008

In the design of technical training courses, there has been a considerable shift from “chalk‐and‐talk” to more participative methods, principally discovery learning, syndicate exercises and project work. Courses are more learner centred, less trainer dependent, and trainees learn more from each other. Central to the success of such methods is the establishment of a high level of rapport within the group at an early stage of the course. Some ideas on the design of opening sessions and views on the implications for training practitioners are offered.
A NEW STYLE IN BURTON: LEARNING
Authors: Keal Peter
Published: February 2008

The use of the Honey/Mumford Learning Styles Questionnaire in Burton Retail is reviewed. Although basically intended to improve individual learning abilities, the LSQ also helps managers to work on other aspects of their attitudes and behaviour.
“WORKING TOGETHER: DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE RELATIONSHIPS”
Authors: Holton Viki
Published: February 2008

The content of a conference attended by 300 delegates is reviewed. A main focus was on how to develop women's full potential as managers. Another major theme was cross‐cultural differences, with some specific research from Swedish, Japanese, American and Asian managers discussed. A further emphasis was on the differences in female and male managerial styles, and differing priorities in work and family issues.
SOCIODRAMA AND MANAGEMENT TRAINING
Authors: Wiener Ron
Published: February 2008

Sociodrama is a form of learning from action. Participants gain knowledge of themselves and their work situations, with the focus placed on group problems rather than individual problems. While the process is similar to role plays, there is greater opportunity to expose a wider range of role attributes.
OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP
Authors: Brennan Rosie
Published: February 2008

Oppressive society and sexism in organisations constantly draws our attention to the differences between men and women, but, in practice, the differences are far wider within each gender than between them. The nature of this oppression is reviewed, and solutions are identified in terms of positive thinking, challenging assumptions and paying, specific attention to achievements rather than mistakes.
SKILLS SHORTAGES AND ADULT INDUSTRIAL TRAINING: THE CONTRIBUTION OF OPEN LEARNING
Authors: Roberts A. , Cooke Mark
Published: February 2008

Skills shortages in manufacturing industry, especially in the area of information technology (IT), are reviewed in the light of clear evidence indicating the UK's increasing shortfall. Open learning may provide an effective response, particularly through Open Tech, the Open College and the Open University.
TRAINING: JOINT ACTION BY MANAGEMENT AND UNIONS
Authors: Willis Norman
Published: February 2008

The desirability of shared action on training by employers and trade unions, through a legislated right to training, training plans, training audits and organisationally based training committees, is discussed and recommended by the General Secretary of the TUC to help smooth Britain's path into the 1990s when the EEC's “internal market” will come into being and the school‐leavers‘ market will drop by a quarter.
DEVELOPING CUSTOMER CARE TRAINING PROGRAMMES
Authors: Clutterbuck David
Published: February 2008

The real nature of customer care is defined as being more than making customers smile. The five main requirements are: understanding the customers, methods of measuring service quality, involving employees at all levels, devolving decision taking on customer care and communication.
The Current Status and Impact of Industrial Robot Technology in USA
Authors: Johnson K.G. , Hanify D.W.
Published: February 2008

In the United States, first generation robots are doing die casting, forging, upsetting, plastic molding, machine loading, spot welding, assembly, glass tube handling, paint spraying, conveyor loading, handling explosives and radio active materials, and many other jobs which as can be seen, cover many fields and fabricating industries. Figs 7–14 illustrate first generation robots in action on some of the jobs just mentioned.
Spray Painting Robots
Authors: Haugan K.M.
Published: February 2008

The increasing demand for industrial automation has finally reached the paint shops throughout the mechanical industry. The operations performed in most paint shops are stressing, i.e. monotonous ever‐repeating movements day in and day out, as conditions also can be unhealthy because the operators breathe intoxicated air. Although surface treatments call for highly skilled spraygun operators, these qualified men cannot be offered a first class environment because of the specific paint shop situation. The spray painter, therefore, does not always feel happy with his job. He notices that other work shops in the factory grow better and better with regard to equipment and working conditions, while his shop stays with the old system. He is, therefore, constantly looking for a better place, which can be dramatic to his factory because skilled spray gun operators are hard to replace, or because the training‐in of new men is a costly matter, it takes time, and quality as well as capacity may be suffering during that time.
Industrial Robots in Production Systems
Authors: Ryott J.P.
Published: February 2008

Since the beginning of January 1971 when the first Electrolux MHU industrial robot was installed for the production of motor housings for electric motors MHUs have been applied in many different types of production areas and industries in fourteen countries.
Computerized Control of a Continuous Path Robot
Authors: Richiardi C.
Published: February 2008

A method to provide control of continuous type robots by means of a process minicomputer was developed and patented by FIAT‐SPE in 1974. The minicomputer acts as a robot controller using data stored in its magnetic core memory to reconstruct previously learned trajectories. It is possible to maintain within strict limits the memory size, thanks to an original processing method which limits the stored data to the “significant points” along each path. A prototype of the above system was developed during 1974 and operated in connection with a commercial 5‐axis manipulator. An engineered system is being developed and the first unit is scheduled for operative testing in early 1976. The system is capable of controlling several robots in time‐sharing. The reproduction speed of the original cycle can be continuously varied over a wide range and also controlled by the feeding rate of the parts to be processed.
An Industrial Robot with Mini Computer Control
Authors: Zambuto D.A. , Chaney J.E.
Published: February 2008

A minicomputer has been employed to monitor and control an advanced industrial robot during transfers of colour TV picture tubes between two asynchronous conveyors. The robot system described herein extracts a face up picture tube, from the index conveyor, inverts it, tracks a continually moving monorail carrier, and deposits the tube face down on this carrier. Since an optical tracking technique is employed, no physical contact is required between the robot and the monorail carrier. An interactive programming language, A Language For Automation (ALFA), allows the user to program the robot and adapt it to other industrial transfer tasks.
Assembly by robots
Authors: Salmon M.
Published: February 2008

Assembly by robot has been a challenging goal for research and industry from the very beginning of industrial robot development.
On measuring errors in a placement task
Authors: McCallion H. , Duc Truong Pham
Published: February 2008

Geometrical transformations are used to specify the spatial relationship between two cubes. The analysis can be applied to the description of the error in a robot placement task in three‐dimensional space, or to the relative location between two arbitrary rigid bodies in such a space.
Optimized production techniques and new products by industrial handling
Authors: Guttropf W.
Published: February 2008

The definition of Industrial Handling which was established years ago is still valid:
Second generation robots of Leningrad Polytechnical Institute
Authors: Jurevich E.I.
Published: February 2008

The first sensing robots of the Leningrad Polytechnical Institute were designed in 1968. The next to be devised was an integral two‐hands robot, with ASVT.M‐6000 and Minsk‐32 computers serving as a hardware basis for the robot control systems. This robot permitted to experimentally master the means of industrial robots sensitizing (namely, sensing grips, distance measuring co‐ordinates, TV‐sight supervisor control system) as well as to develop the appropriate software. There were also designed industrial sensing robots with adaptive control for assembly work, hot stamping and so on.
Structured hardware and software for robots
Authors: Middleton J.
Published: February 2008

The design and implementation of microprocessor‐based hardware and software modules developed to control a range of workhandling equipment are described.
Now it's time for rate‐fixing for robots
Authors: Nof S.Y. , Lechtman H.
Published: February 2008

MTM and other time measurement systems have been applied to human operators for many years. Now it is the time for robots to come under similar scrutiny. RTM uses different analysis methods to give predictions of cycle times within −2% to +3% for optimising selection and operating methods of robots.
DAY OF THE TRIPOD
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: February 2008

The operators said it wouldn't last three months. But, one year later, the robot installed by Swiss company Sandherr Packaging is as fast and efficient as it was in the beginning.
ESAB SEES THE SEAMS
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: February 2008

One of the features of this year's Automan exhibition was a new robot weld guidance system from ESAB called LaserTrak which has already been used by sister company ABB in applications in Scandinavia and the USA.
TRENDS IN ROBOTIC LASER APPLICATIONS
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: February 2008

The Laser 91 exhibition in Munich last June demonstrated that YAG laser and robot combinations are fast becoming an accepted production tool. 3D cutting, drilling and marking are the most common applications though welding is also of interest.
GMFANUC SPOT WELDS DOORS AND DASHES
Authors: Wilson Mike
Published: February 2008

GMFanuc has recently completed the installation of two robotic spot welding cells at IBC Vehicles Ltd. Although the use of robots for spot welding applications is well proven technology these installations are unusual in respect of the system design.
ROBOTS AID BOILER PRODUCTION
Authors: Lehmann R.
Published: February 2008

A robot welding line for heating boilers, working to a cycle time of less than five minutes, has been developed by Cloos for a German manufacturer.
ROBOTS AND SOFTWARE AT WELDEX '91
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: February 2008

Despite the poor state of manufacturing business, the WELDEX '91 Exhibition last September was the largest yet staged in this four‐yearly series, with 26 per cent more exhibitors occupying 7 per cent more space at the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre than in 1987. There were 402 exhibitors on 243 stands, and overseas exhibitors represented no fewer than 17 countries.
THE FUTURE OF ROBOTICS RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS
Authors: Pellerin Cheryl
Published: February 2008

More than 100 engineers and researchers from industry and from government and academic laboratories met in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in September at the Fourth World Conference on Robotics Research, sponsored by Robotics International of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers.
SIMULATION SLASHES WELD LINE DESIGN TIME
Authors: Yocum Michael G.
Published: February 2008

Most of the business of Koltanbar Engineering is designing large automated welding lines producing body assemblies. In the past, designing a welding station for one of these lines was an extremely time‐consuming process requiring complicated sectional drawings at each welding point, which were stacked up to determine the gun configuration; intricate stick drawings of the robot's motion, and very tricky cycle time studies.
BBC Sets Daleks to Work
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: February 2008

Since 13 April 1993 BBC Television News has been produced with the help of remotely controlled mobile cameras. Except for certain programmes there are no camera operators on the studio floor — in fact there is scarcely anybody on the studio floor apart from presenters. Jack Hollingum went to see the BBC's robotized studios at Television Centre and spoke to Colin Clode, manager of television operations for news and current affairs, and Mike Hawkesworth, operational development manager.
Pushing Back the Barriers of Welding Technology
Authors: Sholl Phil
Published: February 2008

Ricardo Hitec Ltd is pioneering the development of sensor‐controlled robotic systems suitable for use in a variety of environments including hazardous areas typical of the oil exploration, nuclear, and process industries, or industrial applications where physical limitations prevent operator access.
Lamberton: The Phoenix Returns to the Furnace
Authors: Loudon Marshall , Hollingum Jack
Published: February 2008

In September 1992, Lamberton Robotics became “The Lamberton Robotics Division of James Howden & Company”, the Renfrewshire‐based engineering company, and now enjoys the support of Howden Group engineering strength and worldwide operations.
Howden Tunnel‐boring Machine
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: February 2008

For this review of heavy duty robots Jack Hollingum went to Scotland to see a tunnel‐boring machine just completed by James Howden, and met Dr Owen Davies, Technical Manager, who considered the opportunities for automation and robotics in such machines.
Practical Implications of Programmable Manipulators
Authors: Birnie J.V.
Published: February 2008

During the last few years Hawker Siddeley Dynamics Engineering have supplied many Versatran programmable manipulators with the image of the Versatran being primarily that of an industrial robot. It is intended in this paper to demonstrate how practical experience gained by Hawker Siddeley Dynamic Engineering indicates that there are very good reasons for supplying alternatives to a standard robot, for the 500P system of which most people will be familiar, Fig. 1a has in some cases too much capability and in other cases is inadequate. The market therefore has been rather limited for such a robot.
Three Million Hours of Robot Field Experience
Authors: Engelberger J.F.
Published: February 2008

Unimate Industrial Robots have accumulated over 3,000,000 hours of operation on the job in a broad range of factory installations. After touching on the kinds of work experience, the paper attempts to look at the lessons learned from the point of view of a manufacturer weighing various means for increasing productivity. Can industrial robot history convince potential users that robots really work, that they work reliably, and that they endure on the job? Given that much, do robots offer an attractive cost/benefit outlook?
Pitching Workpieces to Minimize the Cycle Time of Industrial Robots
Authors: Birk J.R. , Franklin D.E.
Published: February 2008

Pitching workpieces can significantly reduce the cycle time of industrial robots and extend their workspace. A control method for pitching workpieces by cylindrical coordinate type robots is developed and can be readily implemented by a computer program technique which calculates the minimum time that a robot must hold a workpiece before it is pitched to a target. For a given target location, the robot programmer supplies data to the program about the initial position of the arm and the robot's vertical, extension and rotational velocities. The outputs are the release position coordinates and the release velocity components associated with the minimum handling time. This information is used to set the controls on an industrial robot. If the workpiece receptacle location is adjustable, vertical heights of horizontal target planes are entered as input. Plots are then generated of minimum handling times for each selected target plane. This information and a knowledge of workpiece constraints helps a robot programmer select a workpiece receptacle location with the shortest possible minimum handling time.
Flexible Automation by Industrial Robots with CNC
Authors: Abt H.D.
Published: February 2008

In medium and small scale series production the aim of the automatic charging of the machines is affected by frequent tool changing. Conventional charging and interlink systems do not offer the sufficient changeability to achieve a profitable and productive application. For this purpose, Industrial Robots do offer a lot more possibilities. The high purchase costs, however, here too, do very often not permit an economic use. The aim of the development outlined in this paper was therefore to charge several machines on which different pieces being deposited in different stores are machined, by means of a centrally located robot. The sequence programme for this robot being extensive and the times for machining the pieces being varying a fixed charging order cannot be realized. As the robot control must select certain subprogrammes based on defined criteria a computer has been incorporated as the core of the control. In virtue of this technique the defined decisions can be taken and the tool changing can take place individually without disturbing the operation of the remaining machines.
Integrated Machining Systems with Workpiece Handling
Authors: Barash M.M.
Published: February 2008

The evolvement of batch manufacturing systems from groups of linked, tape operated NC machine tools to computer controlled integrated systems is described. In the span of a few years, computerized integrated systems have appeared in most major industrial countries and are being built at increasing rate. One of the major problems is the efficient automation of workpiece handling. Here solutions include conveyor systems similar to those existing in transfer lines, industrial robots, circulating tow cars and shuttle transporters. Although a “robot” appears to be the best in principle, existing industrial robots are still limited in their capabilities. However, new developments in robots, some already evident, indicate possibilities at least for parts which are below approximately 100kgf weight. Heavier parts must be fixtured and palletized, and several such systems are described.
Design of a three fingered robot gripper
Authors: Van Der Loos H.F.M.
Published: February 2008

Using an industrial assembly robot to manipulate objects of significantly differing shapes is practically impossible without a universal prehension organ. Robot grippers of great simplicity and dependability are too specific to one particular geometry, whereas existing, complicated grippers, though more universal in nature, are, with only several exceptions, not designed for use in industrial surroundings, being products of prosthetics research or Artificial Intelligence programs Required gripping modes for multiple‐prehension grippers and resulting design constraints are discussed. A computerized optimisation technique for determining applicability of straight‐line‐producing four‐bar linkages is explained. A multiple‐prehension, three‐fingered gripper is proposed that, while being relatively robust, allows reliable gripping of many forms commonly found in light assembly operations.
A time and motion method for industrial robots
Authors: Rogers P.F.
Published: February 2008

As competition grows in the robot field and as more sophisticated applications emerge, it has become necessary to accurately predict robot cycle time. Especially in the area of robot assembly applications, it is necessary to estimate times to balance multi‐arm systems and to economically compare robot assembly systems to alternate methods. Using the Unimate 6000 robot system as a model and manual time methods as a guide, a robot time and motion method is developed. Three time estimating methods are discussed starting with a simple, approximate one and finishing with a detailed, accurate one. All three methods can be adapted for use with applications other than assembly and will be further evaluated in the future with other robot systems.
Robotized transfer system at a CPT plant
Authors: Lammi M. , Kurenniemi E.
Published: February 2008

During the first half on 1978 Rosenlew delivered and installed 44 industrial robots to the new colour picture tube (C.P.T.) plant of Valco Oy at Imatra, Finland. Together with an extensive conveyor system the robots form a highly automated and integrated transfer system. Although most of the robots are structurally and dimensionally different they are built from a few basic standard modules. The flexibility of the modular robot system and early participation in the plant layout design resulted in simple and economical solutions. In addition to the robots, Rosenlew supplied other production equipment and, in particular, succeeded in solving the problem of automatically assembling the front panel and the shadow mask together using an indeterministic search principle.
Recognition of angular orientation of objects with the help of optical sensors
Authors: Martini P. , Nehr G.
Published: February 2008

When using photodiode arrays for optical recognition, the information of a picture is represented in a fixed orthogonal grid. This grid corresponds to the matrix arrangement of the individual photodiodes. In a square matrix of n × n points, the information in the picture can be presented as a sequence of light intensity values according to equation 1:
Government activities supporting the development of industrial robots in the Federal Republic of Germany
Authors: Brodner P. , Schacks P.
Published: February 2008

This paper reports on the support activities for the development and application of industrial robots in the frame of the research programmes “Humanization of Working Life” and “Manufacturing Technology”, including some organizational aspects of these activities.
Introduction of visual equipment to inspection
Authors: Onda H. , Ohashi Y.
Published: February 2008

The authors propose to introduce industrial visual equipment to automate visual inspection systems. In addition to a conventional TV camera system, the recent development of solid‐state image‐sensor is expected to be fruitful. This paper describes up to date visual equipment and its usage and discusses some of the problems.
New robot designs give increased production
Authors: Hartley John
Published: February 2008

A lack of natural resources is forcing Japan to increase its use of advanced technological processes in manufacturing. Robots are the flagship in this drive and the robot manufacturers are responding by increasing their production levels.
Robots are easy… it's everything else that's hard
Authors: Cosineau David T.
Published: February 2008

The robot is proving itself to be a reliable and effective automation tool and users are finding them relatively easy to install. But the main problems surround the peripherals and the integration into the production system. This process can be eased by thoroughly studying potential applications as GE have proved.
Loading a lathe with the aid of a robot
Authors: Kwang‐chuan Tsao , Hsing‐dao Cheng , Hsiao‐tsu Chang
Published: February 2008

Loading a variety of large shafts into a lathe has been identified as an arduous task suitable for a robot in the People's Republic of China. A simply controlled robot has been developed for this task.
A production experiment in cellular manufacture
Authors: Phillips R.C.
Published: February 2008

A machining cell consisting of a gear shaper, an NC lathe, gauging stations and feed conveyors has been linked by an industrial robot for producing a guided missile body section. Particular care had to be taken to accurately position and locate the part into the two machine tools.
Test method and software for robot qualification
Authors: Ranky Paul G.
Published: February 2008

The results and description of the TESTROBOT program are presented. This is a module of The FMS Software Library developed by the author.
Using CAD in the real world
Authors: Horner Martyn
Published: February 2008

Computer‐aided design is being used for robotics at Thorn‐EMI.
Trallfa adopts flexible approach towards automated coating
Authors: Kjosavik Dag , Apeland Bjorn M.
Published: February 2008

Flexibility and integration are features of the new Trallfa automotive coating system known as TRACS.
Automatix provides the seal of success for Austin Rover
Authors: Loughlin Clive
Published: February 2008

Austin Rover's seam sealant cell from Automatix is being hailed as one of the most successful around.
Sensor and tool development for robotic deburring
Authors: Boley D.
Published: February 2008

At the IPA work has been carried out into improving the quality and programming of robotic deburring using integrated sensors.
Robot and logic controller in glass‐fibre applications
Authors: Calandro Marco
Published: February 2008

The ‘cut‐spray’ stage in glass‐reinforced plastic processing has been automated by using the robot as a peripheral of a PLC.
Ford adds to its robot family
Authors: Klinker Wolfgang
Published: February 2008

100 robots have been installed at Ford's Cologne plant for manufacturing the new Fiesta car body. An investment of DM130 million in automation aims to improve productivity and quality.
Medical robotics — why, what and when
Authors: Finlay Patrick A.
Published: February 2008

We have the technology: a DTI‐sponsored initiative is exploring health‐care applications for robots.
Five‐axis laser robots for materials processing
Authors: Böhme Dietrich
Published: February 2008

Though there is a large potential market for laser robots for sheet‐metal cutting, there are still functional problems to be overcome.
Getting to grips with order picking
Authors: Baumeister Klaus
Published: February 2008

Researchers at IPA have designed an order‐picking robot with an intelligent multi‐part gripper
Guiding the user to continuous‐path control
Authors: Rossol Lothar , Stoddard Kenneth A.
Published: February 2008

Continuous‐path motion means moving a robot arm from A to B to C without stopping. Some of the concepts for generating such motions in present‐day robots are presented here, and in a following article. The emphasis is on day‐to‐day operation, path teaching, and recovery from anomalies like emergency stop, rather than on mathematical detail. This article discusses how simple single‐segment motions are performed.
Robot assembly of pliable hoses
Authors: Schweizer Dr‐Ing. M. , Weisener T. , Herkommer T.F.
Published: February 2008

A technique has been developed at IPA Stuttgart which allows automated assembly of elastomer and thermoplastic hoses. The development work includes both experimental and theoretical investigations.
ON THE UNDERSTANDING OF MEANINGS OF SUBJECTIVITY IN SOCIAL SCIENCES
Authors: Nato Takatsugu
Published: February 2008

Introduction Science and Technology vs. Holistic Wisdom There have been attempts to get rid of monism in the outlook on the world (die Weltanschauung) which includes human wisdom, in concert with decentralization and diversification in the power structure of politics and economy. It is certain that at least people in Western civilized nations have been enjoying a material life richer than before, thanks to the wisdom of “Cartesianism” and the subsequent experimental knowledge and technology. However, in the midst of a deadly impasse which is accompanied by the fear of nuclear warfare, environmental disruption, increase in entropy, racial prejudices, increasing disparity in wealth, alienation of human beings and so on, the Utopian idea that “technological innovations equal the progress of mankind” must now be thoroughly criticized. Science, which forms the very basis of technology is knowledge, not wisdom. So it is of vital importance to review such an idea thoroughly in the light of “holistic wisdom”, bearing in mind this aspect of modern civilization which was built on the basis of science and technology as tools. What is the most important with a tool is how to use it. The value of a tool is determined by how a man with established identity will use it.
UNIONISM AND THE JUDEO‐CHRISTIAN SOCIAL GOSPEL
Authors: Davies J. Kenneth
Published: February 2008

Warren S. Stone, President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, when asked, at the height of the anti‐union open shop movement of the 1920s, what labor thought of the churches, said “…labour does not think very much of Iabor.”
THE HERMENEUTICS OF EDUCATIONAL CHOICE
Authors: Strain Michael
Published: February 2008

Part 1: Rival Theories Compared Economics is, in the Robbinsian definition, the science of choice. Economic models of choice are metaphors, encapsulating in abstract figures (lexical or mathematical), the elements of a unique relationship between ends and means. In the view of Austrian economists, this relationship is essentially fictional: It is constructed by the chooser in the moment of choice and embodies his momentary valuation of a particular course of action, seemingly feasible, seemingly the one thing necessary for the enjoyment of some imagined rewards, and seeming to require the surrender of resources deemed in that moment to be at the chooser's disposal. Choice is a subjective affair. It is also, in a sense which may be unique and proper to each actor, an affair fraught with novelty, originality, and the inescapable drive to realise the best of what is apparently possible. Choosers maximise differently and in their own way.
POLITICAL ECONOMY OF EDUCATION AND JOB ATTAINMENT
Authors: Handa Madan
Published: February 2008

Introduction The objective of this paper is twofold: to discuss some methodological issues on the study of school‐job nexus and to provide a review of Marxism and Education and the existing state of the art of Political Economy of Education.
A PROCESS MANAGEMENT MODEL OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Authors: Kohls John
Published: February 2008

Review of Literature Social responsibility is a fairly old concept which took on new life in the 1960s. Corporate critics who questioned corporate performance, and even the legitimacy of corporate business, called for and got increased government control of business. Social responsibility became the “self‐control” alternative as criticism of business continued to grow. In general, social responsibility means that a private corporation has responsibilities to society that go beyond the production of goods and services at a profit (Davis, 1960; Starling, 1984). Many definitions go beyond this one and require more specific activities from corporations. Acceptance of social responsibility as an appropriate description of the business‐society relationship implies that the corporation's broader constituency includes not only stockholders but also other societal groups such as customers, employees, suppliers, and neighbouring communities.
KANTIAN PERSPECTIVES AND ETHICAL ALTERNATIVE IN SOCIAL CONTRACT THEORY
Authors: Alam Choudhury Masudul
Published: February 2008

The main purpose of this paper is first to discern the overwhelming influence of Kantian thought in the development of mainstream political economic doctrines. In this we will show that the Kantian philosophical influence has introduced an abiding element of duality in all matters of the western liberal theory of social contract and political economy. The nature of Kantian moral philosophy will be shown to have left the study of political economy by and large ethically neutral by treating the role of morals, ethics and values exogenously to the economic system. We will then introduce some substantive elements of an alternative approach to the treatment of ethics and values in the socio‐economic system. We will show that in the alternative approach to the study of social contract theory and political economy the ethical considerations appear as endogenous elements and strongly negate the Kantian principle of duality and individualistic rationalism.
LAW AND SOCIAL THEORY IN THE TWENTY‐FIRST CENTURY
Authors: Solomon Lewis D.
Published: February 2008

The future beckons… a new millennium…
NORMATIVE AND POSITIVE KNOWLEDGE IN POLITICAL ECONOMY: NEW ANSWERS TO OLD QUESTIONS?
Authors: Nienhaus Volker
Published: February 2008

1. Reason as the Source of KnowledgeFor medieval men, the existence of a personal and acting God was beyond any doubt. They were convinced that God intervenes into and interferes with the course of the world. The acting of God was a main factor for the explanation of natural phenomena. But with the passing of time, the understanding of nature improved and more and more phenomena could be explained by appeal to reason only and without recourse to actions of God. It became the general opinion that natural phenomena are subject to invariable natural laws. This clear departure from the God‐related understanding of nature happened when modern philosophy emerged in the 17th and 18th century. This modern philosophy saw nature as a mechanic construction. One of the leading philosophers of that period, Rene Descartes, argued that the laws of mechanics are the laws of nature. Descartes, the founder of rationalistic philosophy, was no atheist, but when he referred to God, it was only to become sure that what is clear (and rational) is also true.
ECONOMIC COOPERATION AMONG OIC COUNTRIES, ASPIRATIONS AND REALITIES
Authors: Zeinelabdin A.R.
Published: February 2008

Before I embark on the economic cooperation experience among the Islamic countries, members of the Organisation of Islamic Conference, I would like to dwell briefly on the history of OIC and its organisational set‐up.
Predictions, Prophecies and Economics: The Ontological Foundation of the Discipline of Economics
Authors: Pluta Leonard
Published: February 2008

Introduction Economics has been defined and re‐defined several times in the past, and even within the dominant scientific orientation of the discipline, there are currently a number of alternative definitions. One of the definitions, which has been gaining increasing popularity in recent years is “economics as the science of choices.” This definition focuses on the fundamental objective of the discipline as currently formulated, namely, the optimum allocation of resources through appropriate choices, or in other words, the development of economic engineering based on science. We will use the concept of choices as the convenient point of entry into the exploration of the nature of economic reality, or its ontology.
AN ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE ON SOCIOECONOMIC BEHAVIOUR AND DISCOURSE
Authors: El‐Sheikh Salah
Published: February 2008

I. Introduction It is no secret that Islamic countries have entered a new epoch in which serious questions regarding the nature of their economic institutions have taken on renewed urgency. During the past few years, elan debates have taken place, both nationally and internationally, among specialists in economic sciences, specialists in traditional Islamic disciplines, and intellectual exponents of various Islamic political movements. Inherently complex, the discourse, which appears in academic and semi‐ academic publications as well as the popular press, is made distinctly more complex as it often takes place in an extremely volatile environment, which has been shaped by severe economic crises, political turmoil, and social unrest.
WEALTH, VIRTUE AND ECONOMIC THEORY: A FEW OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Pluta Leonard
Published: February 2008

Introduction The connection between wealth and virtue or between economics and ethics has been severed. Pure or positive economics is believed to be objective and scientific, based on facts alone, while normative or ethical reasoning is believed to be less reliable and non scientific because it is subjective, value‐laden and prone to prejudice and personal preferences.
HUMANOMICS: A MODEL FOR THIRD WORLD DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Solomon Lewis D.
Published: February 2008

I. IntroductionFor over forty years, a model for Third World development has gained widespread acceptance. Three key premises underpin the traditional development model: (1) the identification of “development” with the maximization of the rate of national economic growth; (2) the quest to achieve Western living standards and levels of industrialization which require the transfer of labor from the agricultural to the industrial sector as well as increased consumerism; and (3) the integration into the interdependence of Third World nations in the global economy and the global marketplace. Increasing the demand for a Third World nation's exports (in other words, export‐led growth) is viewed as leading to the maximization of a nation's Gross National Product (GNP).
Teaching Moral Values in the Global Village: Is There An Escape From Biased History?
Authors: Mehmet Ozay
Published: February 2008

I. Introduction We live in a world of cultural diversity, a mosaic of cultures. Cultural diversity can be an enriching asset, enhancing tolerance and mutual respect among different peoples; or it can be a source of bitter inter‐ethnic conflict. In this paper the focus of attention is on the second, i.e. inter‐ethnic conflict resulting from ethnocentricity. The overall purpose of the paper is to explore ethnocentricity in inter‐ethnic conflict as a basis for teaching human rights courses in education.
ECONOMIC SCIENCE'S BONDAGE TO THE MATERIAL PROGRESS VISION
Authors: Wisman Jon D.
Published: February 2008

In the history of economic thought, a number of heterodox economic thinkers have focused upon the manner in which economic doctrines are built upon an essentially unexamined vision of social reality. Karl Marx referred to this vision as an ideology generated in the interest of the ruling class. Thorstein Veblen saw it as a complex of preconceptions reflecting prevailing beliefs. Joseph Schumpeter saw these visions as providing the “raw material for the analytic effort” of economists. [Schumpeter, 1954:42] In all three instances the vision was understood as a complex of assumptions concerning social reality that economists accept uncritically, if not unconsciously, and upon which the science of economics is constructed.