bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Automated fixture design for a rapid machining process
Authors: Boonsuk Wutthigrai , Frank Matthew C. 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a methodology for the automated design of a fixturing system for a rapid machining process.Design/methodology/approachThe method proposed is the use of sacrificial fixturing, similar to the support structures in existing rapid prototyping (RP) processes. During the machining process, sacrificial supports emerge incrementally and, at the end of the process, are the only entities connecting the part to the remaining stock material.FindingsThe support design methods have been shown to be extremely flexible in securing a variety of complex parts with relatively tight part tolerances using a rapid machining process.Research limitations/implicationsThe automated design of support structures is currently relegated to use in a CNC rapid prototyping process that uses a fourth axis for rotary setups.Practical implicationsThe methods used here make rapid machining feasible, as it solves the daunting problem of automated fixturing.Originality/valueThe paper proposes an innovative solution for an automatic fixturing system in subtractive RP.
Degree of particle melt in Nylon‐12 selective laser‐sintered parts
Authors: Zarringhalam Hadi , Majewski Candice , Hopkinson Neil 
Published: March 2009

PurposeSelective laser‐sintered (SLS) parts are known to include un‐melted regions, where insufficient energy has been input into the powder to fully melt all particles. Previous research has shown the presence of two distinct peaks on a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and the purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that these peaks relate to the melted and un‐melted regions of the part.Design/methodology/approachSLS specimens were produced under different build parameters, in order to vary the amount of energy input, and DSC traces produced for each. DSC results were also compared with optical microscopy images to confirm the findings.FindingsDSC analysis of SLS Nylon‐12 parts has shown the presence of two distinct melt peaks. It has been shown that these correspond to the melted and un‐melted regions of the part, and that the amount of energy input in the SLS process affects the degree of melting. It has also been identified, via correlation between DSC charts and optical microscopy images, that the un‐melted, or particle core, peak provides the most adequate indication of the proportion of melting. In order to avoid confusion with the commonly used term “degree of sintering”, which provides only a qualitative description, the new term “degree of particle melt (DPM)” has been defined in order to describe the quantitative variations in the completeness of sintering.Research limitations/implicationsFurther work will correlate the DPM, as measured by the core peak height, with the mechanical properties of the parts produced.Practical implicationsResults have shown that it is possible to identify the level of melting in SLS parts via the use of a DSC chart. Owing to the small size of specimen required for DSC, and the relatively automated DSC procedure, this has the potential for use as quality control in SLS.Originality/valueThis is believed to be the first time that DSC has been used to indicate the DPM within SLS parts.
Fabricating titanium denture base plate by laser rapid forming
Authors: Gao Bo , Wu Jiang , Zhao Xianghui , Tan Hua 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to improve the efficiency and the quality of metal dental prostheses, reporting on the first patient‐fitted titanium (Ti) complete denture base plate fabricated by integrating the technologies of computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) and laser rapid forming (LRF).Design/methodology/approachTo make a complete Ti denture base plate, the traditional lost‐wax‐casting technique is commonly used in dentistry. In order to simplify this labor‐intensive process, a new method combined with LRF was invented. Initially, a maxillary edentulous plaster cast was converted to point cloud data by laser scanning system. Subsequently, point cloud data were reconstructed into a 3D solid digital cast, which is stored in standard triangulation language format. Thereafter the 3D denture base was sliced electronically into a sequence of layers defining the regions of the component and, based on it, the complete Ti denture base plate was built layer‐by‐layer using a laser additive manufacturing technology.FindingsAfter CAD/CAM/LRF process, the Ti denture base plate was designed and successfully fabricated layer‐by‐layer. After the traditional dental finishing techniques, the complete Ti denture base plate was made and assessed by clinician and patient. The clinical evaluation on quality of fit was judged to be acceptable.Originality/valueThe CAD/CAM/LRF system is a potential candidate to replace the traditional lost‐wax‐casting technique and provides a new platform for the design and manufacturing of custom‐made Ti denture plates and other restorations especially for implant substructure and framework of partial removal of denture.
Design and analysis of digital materials for physical 3D voxel printing
Authors: Hiller Jonathan , Lipson Hod 
Published: March 2009

PurposeVirtual voxels (3D pixels) have traditionally been used as a graphical data structure for representing 3D geometry. The purpose of this paper is to study the use of pre‐existing physical voxels as a material building‐block for layered manufacturing and present the theoretical underpinnings for a fundamentally new massively parallel additive fabrication process in which 3D matter is digital. The paper also seeks to explore the unique possibilities enabled by this paradigm.Design/methodology/approachDigital RP is a process whereby a physical 3D object is made of many digital units (voxels) arranged selectively in a 3D lattice, as opposed to analog (continuous) material commonly used in conventional rapid prototyping. The paper draws from fundamentals of 3D space‐filling shapes, large‐scale numerical simulation, and a survey of modern technology to reach conclusions on the feasibility of a fabricator for digital matter.FindingsDesign criteria and appropriate 3D voxel geometries are presented that self‐align and are suitable for rapid parallel assembly and economical manufacturing. Theory and numerical simulation predict dimensional accuracy to scale favorably as the number of voxels increases. Current technology will enable rapid parallel assembly of billions of microscale voxels.Research limitations/implicationsMany novel voxel functions could be realized in the electromechanical and microfluidic domains, enabling inexpensive prototyping of complex 3D integrated systems. The paper demonstrates the feasibility of a 3D digital fabricator, but an instantiation is out of scope and left to future work.Practical implicationsDigital manufacturing offers the possibility of desktop fabrication of perfectly repeatable, precise, multi‐material objects with microscale accuracy.Originality/valueThe paper constitutes a comprehensive review of physical voxel‐based manufacturing and presents the groundwork for an emerging new field of additive manufacturing.
EDM performance of electroformed Cu‐ZrB2 shell electrodes
Authors: Zhang Min , Guo Dongming , Jin Zhuji 
Published: March 2009

PurposeCu‐ZrB2 shell electrodes were fabricated by composite electroforming to improve the spark‐resistance of the electrical discharge machining (EDM) electrodes made by rapid tooling.Design/methodology/approachCu‐ZrB2 shell electrodes were fabricated using composite electroforming, separating and backing. EDM performance evaluation of the Cu‐ZrB2 shell electrodes is performed using tool steel as the cathode workpiece and the Cu‐ZrB2 composite as the anode tool. The effects of ZrB2 content on the electrode and workpiece removal rate, wear ratio of the electrode to workpiece, and surface quality of workpiece and electrode were studied.FindingsCompared with the conventional electroformed copper tools, Cu‐ZrB2 shell electrodes yield higher workpiece removal rate and lower tool wear ratio. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron microprobe analysis reveal that, due to the large difference between the melting point of ZrB2 and copper, the heat generated by the sparks is conducted mainly through the copper matrix, reducing the erosion of ZrB2 particles. The refractory ZrB2 particles then act as barriers to the flowing and outburst of melted copper and enhance the resistance to erosion of the electrodes.Originality/valueThe use of Cu‐ZrB2 shell electrodes improves the anti‐erosion properties of the EDM electrodes made by rapid tooling, especially in finish machining conditions. Such electrodes will not only reduce the failure of the EDM electrodes but also improve the machining precision due to the less dimension loss of the electrodes during machining.
Item sampling in service quality assessment surveys to improve response rates and reduce respondent burden
Authors: Thompson Bruce , Kyrillidou Martha , Cook Colleen 
Published: March 2009

PurposeSurvey researchers sometimes develop large pools of items about which they seek participants' views. As a general proposition, library participants cannot reasonably be expected to respond to 100+ items on a given service quality assessment protocol. This paper seeks to describe the use of matrix sampling to reduce that burden on the participant.Design/methodology/approachMatrix sampling is a survey method that can be used to collect data on all survey items without requiring every participant to react to every survey question. Here the features of data are investigated from one such survey, the LibQUAL+® Lite protocol, and the participation rates, completion times, and result comparisons across the two administration protocols – the traditional LibQUAL+® protocol and the LibQUAL+® Lite protocol – at each of the four institutions are explored.FindingsGreater completion rates were realized with the LibQUAL+® Lite protocol.Originality/valueThe data from the Lite protocol might be the most accurate representation of the views of all the library users in a given community.
Measuring service quality of a public university library in Bangladesh using SERVQUAL
Authors: Zabed Ahmed S.M. , Hossain Shoeb Zahid 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe main aim of this paper is to report on an examination of the service quality of Dhaka University Library (DUL), a premier public university library in Bangladesh, from its users' viewpoint.Design/methodology/approachA survey was conducted among faculty, graduate and undergraduate students of DUL using a modified version of SERVQUAL. The gap differences between users' expected and perceived services were calculated. The concept of zone of tolerance was applied to see which items of service quality equal, exceed or fall short of user perception. The study analysed the desired service expectations of the users. Finally, the dimensions of service quality were determined through exploratory factor analysis.FindingsThe results of the study showed that DUL services are lagging far behind what is expected by its users. The result of the zone of tolerance showed that most of the items of service quality are not within the range of tolerance. A number of users' desired expectations for service quality are identified. The results obtained through exploratory factor analysis suggest that university library service quality consists of four dimensions – i.e. affect of service (organisational), collection and access, library as a place, and affect of service (personal) – which are different from SERVQUAL's original dimensions.Originality/valueThis is the first time an effort has been made to measure the service quality of a university library in Bangladesh. It is hoped that this study will trigger more research on assessing service quality in various university libraries in Bangladesh.
Libraries, telecentres and cybercafés
Authors: Gomez Ricardo , Ambikar Rucha , Coward Chris 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to offer early insight into ongoing research comparing public access venues such as libraries, cybercafés and telecentres in 25 countries around the world.Design/methodology/approachThe authors studied information needs and uses of information and communication technologies (ICT) in these public access venues, with a particular focus on underserved populations.FindingsUnderstanding trends, differences and similarities across venues and across countries offers an emerging map that will help researchers and policymakers conduct future research and make better decisions to strengthen public access to information through ICT.Originality/valueThe research was done in partnership with local research teams in 25 countries around the world, and studied public libraries, telecentres and cybercafés side by side, while most studies in the past have looked at them independently of one another.
Nurses' shop stewards and their collaboration with management
Authors: Hjalager Anne‐Mette , Lassen Morten , Bild Tage 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThis study investigates the collaboration between Danish nurses' shop stewards and workplace management. The aim of the study is to track changes in workplace climate after a major structural reform of the health sector.Design/methodology/approachThe data source for the study is a comprehensive survey among union representatives in the health and care sectors.FindingsGenerally, and not surprisingly, shops stewards maintain closer relations and a higher degree of loyalty to the nearest managers rather than management at higher levels in the hierarchy. It can also be demonstrated that more experienced shop stewards, those who have been employed in this position and in the workplace for the longest terms have more affirmative relations to management than less experienced shop stewards with shorter tenure. Those shop stewards who spend much time on the entitled duties are rewarded with positive collaboration with management. Hard times at the workplace and dissatisfied colleagues, who do not support their union representative, often result in less rewarding relations with management. Quite unexpectedly, the intensity of relations with management is not significantly related to structural or other changes that the workplace has experienced over the past two years. Changes are therefore accepted as inevitable and regular occurrences in the health sector.Research limitations/implicationsThe response rate is very high in the survey. Further qualitative research may reveal details about the background and implications.Practical implicationsThe study suggests that many shop stewards may suffer from a competence gap in terms of more advanced new public management strategies and tools. This gap has not yet been successfully filled by the services and training activities offered by the Danish Nurses Union.Originality/valueResults from the study are being taken on board in the union's strategies. The evidence is also helpful for the managers in the health sector, as they are seeking to develop a constructive the collaboration with the unions.
The views of physicians and politicians concerning age‐related prioritisation in healthcare
Authors: Werntoft Elisabet , Edberg Anna‐Karin 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe aim of this study is to describe the view of age‐related prioritisation in health care among physicians and healthcare politicians and to compare their views regarding gender and age.Design/methodology/approachSwedish physicians (n=390) and politicians (n=310), mean age 52 years, answered an electronic questionnaire concerning age‐related priority setting in healthcare. The questionnaire had fixed response alternatives with possibility of adding comments.FindingsA majority of the participants thought that age should not influence prioritisation, although more physicians than politicians thought that younger patients should be prioritised. There were also significant differences concerning their views on lifestyle‐related diseases and on who should make decisions concerning both vertical and horizontal prioritisation. The comments indicated that the politicians referred to ethical principles as a basis for their standpoints while the physicians often referred to the importance of biological rather than chronological age.Research limitations/implicationsWeb‐based surveys as a method has its limitations as biased samples and biased returns could cause major problems, such as limited control over the drop‐outs. The sample in this study was, however, judged to be representative.Practical implicationsThe results indicate that supplementary guiding principles concerning prioritisation in healthcare are needed in order to facilitate decision‐making concerning resource allocation on a local level.Originality/valueThis paper adds important knowledge about decision makers' views on age‐related priorities in healthcare, thus contributing to scientific base for prioritisation in healthcare and the ongoing debate in society.
The effects of burnout and supervisory social support on the relationship between work‐family conflict and intention to leave
Authors: Rani Thanacoody P. , Bartram Timothy , Casimir Gian 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to examine the effects of burnout and supervisory social support on the relationship between work‐family conflict, and intention to leave of cancer workers in an Australian health care setting.Design/methodology/approachData collected from a public hospital of 114 cancer workers were used to test a model of the consequences of work‐family conflict. The strength of the indirect effects of work‐family conflict on intention to leave via burnout will depend on supervisor support was tested by conducting a moderated mediation analysis.FindingsPath analytic tests of moderated mediation supported the hypothesis that burnout mediates the relationship between work‐family conflict (i.e. work‐in‐family conflict and family‐in‐work) and intention to leave the organisation and that the mediation framework is stronger in the presence of higher social supervisory support. Implications are drawn for theory, research and practice.Originality/valueThis study applies the innovative statistical technique of moderated mediation analysis to demonstrate that burnout mediates the relationship between work‐family conflict and intention to leave the organisation and that the mediation framework is stronger in the presence of lower social supervisory support. In the context of the continued shortage of many clinician groups theses results shed further light on the appropriate course of action for hospital management.
Managerial orientation and career success of physicians in hospitals
Authors: Vera Antonio , Hucke Desdemona 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThis article aims to investigate the impact of managerial orientation on the career success of physicians employed in hospitals.Design/methodology/approachThe authors collected data between August and October 2006 using a written questionnaire that was sent to all 278 physicians employed in two German hospitals. The data was analyzed using a multinomial logistic regression.FindingsThe data indicate that a pronounced managerial orientation has indeed a positive impact on the career success of physicians in hospitals. But the results vary with respect to the different dimensions of managerial orientation.Practical implicationsSome aspects of managerial orientation are more compatible with physicians' professional values and, consequently, more relevant for career success than others. The acquisition and improvement of management skills seems to be a crucial factor.Originality/valueThe impact of managerial orientation on the career success of physicians has been unclear so far. Physicians are trained and socialized according to professional values and norms that are considered to be the antithesis of a managerial orientation. Furthermore, the typical career paths of professionals are different from careers of other occupational groups. However, this paper shows that physicians employed in hospitals need a certain degree of managerial orientation to have a successful and satisfying professional career.
Pharmacy career deciding: making choice a “good fit”
Authors: Caroline Willis Sarah , Shann Phillip , Hassell Karen 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to explore factors influencing career deciding amongst pharmacy students and graduates in the UK.Design/methodology/approachGroup interviews were used to devise a topic guide for five subsequent focus groups with pharmacy students and graduates. Focus groups were tape‐recorded, recordings transcribed, and transcripts analysed. Key themes and interlinking factors relating to pharmacy career deciding were identified in the transcripts, following a constructivist approach.FindingsParticipants' described making a “good fit” between themselves, their experiences, social networks etc. and pharmacy. Central to a coherent career deciding narrative were: having a job on graduation; and the instrumental advantage of studying a vocational course.Research limitations/implicationsFocusing on career deciding of UK pharmacy students and graduates may limit the study's generalisability to other countries. However, our findings are relevant to those interested in understanding students' motivations for healthcare careers, since our results suggest that making a “good fit” describes a general process of matching between a healthcare career and personal experience.Practical implicationsAs we have found that pharmacy career deciding was not, usually, a planned activity, career advisors and those involved in higher education recruitment should take into account the roles played by personal preferences and values in choosing a degree course.Originality/valueA qualitative study like this can illustrate how career deciding occurs and provide insight into the process from a student's perspective. This can help inform guidance processes, selection to healthcare professions courses within the higher education sector, and stimulate debate amongst those involved with recruitment of healthcare workers about desirable motivators for healthcare careers.