bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Elastic tensor stiffness coefficients for SLS Nylon 12 under different degrees of densification as measured by ultrasonic technique
Authors: Amado‐Becker Antonio , Ramos‐Grez Jorge , José Yañez María , Vargas Yolanda , Gaete Luis 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present results of an investigation, where the elastic tensor based on the engineering constants of sinterized Nylon 12 is characterized and is modeled considering a transversely isotropic behavior as a function of apparent density (relative mass density).Design/methodology/approachThe ultrasound propagation velocity measurement through the material in specific directions by means of the pulse transmission method was used, relating the elastic tensor elements to the phase velocity magnitude through Christoffel's equation. In addition conventional uniaxial tensile tests were carried out to validate the used technique. Laser sintering of Nylon 12 powder (Duraform PA) has been performed at different laser energy densities, fabricating cube‐shaped coupons as well as dogbone flat coupons, using an SLS 125 former DTM machine.FindingsCorrelations for each one of the Young moduli, Shear constants and Poisson's ratios, presenting an exponential behavior as a function of the sintering degree, were generated. In addition, as the apparent density reaches a maximum value of 977 kg/m3 at an energy density of 0.032 J/mm2, the material behaves in an almost isotropic form, presenting average values for the Young modulus, Shear modulus and Poisson's ratio corresponding to 2,310 MPa, 803 MPa and 0.408, respectively.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited only to one type of material within the elastic range. Validation of the Young modulus measured along one direction only is performed using a tensile test machine, due to the difficulties in evaluating Poisson's ratios and Shear moduli using conventional tests.Practical implicationsThe results presented can be applied to virtual design and evaluating processes such as finite element analysis.Originality/valueThe paper incorporates detailed information regarding the complete elastic characteristics of Nylon 12, including additional measurements of the Shear moduli and Poisson's ratios not studied previously.
Stereolithography build time estimation based on volumetric calculations
Authors: Campbell Ian , Combrinck Jacques , de Beer Deon , Barnard Ludrick 
Published: October 2008

PurposeNot all the inventors and designers have access to computer‐aided design (CAD) software to transform their design or invention into a 3D solid model. Therefore, they cannot submit an STL file to a rapid prototyping (RP) service bureau for a quotation but perhaps only a 2D sketch or drawing. This paper proposes an alternative approach to build time estimation that will enable cost quotations to be issued before 3D CAD has been used.Design/methodology/approachThe study presents a method of calculating build time estimations within a target error limit of 10 per cent of the actual build time of a prototype. This is achieved by using basic volumetric shapes, such as cylinders and cones, added together to represent the model in the 2D sketch. By using this information the build time of the product is then calculated with the aid of models created in a mathematical solving software package.FindingsThe development of the build time estimator and its application to several build platforms are described together with an analysis of its performance in comparison with the benchmark software. The estimator was found to meet its target 10 per cent error limit in 80 per cent of the stereolithography builds that were analysed.Research limitations/implicationsThe estimator method was not able to handle multi‐component complex parts builds in a timely manner. There is a trade‐off between accuracy and processing time.Practical implicationsThe output from the estimator can be fed directly into cost quotations to be sent to RP bureau customers at a very early stage in the design process.Originality/valueUnlike all the other build estimators that were encountered, this method works directly from a 2D sketch or drawing rather than a 3D CAD file.
Fused deposition modelling of an auricle framework for microtia reconstruction based on CT images
Authors: Zeng Wen , Lin Feng , Shi Tingchun , Zhang Renji , Nian Yongyan , Ruan Jie , Zhou Tianrui 
Published: October 2008

PurposeIn plastic reconstruction surgeries, total auricular reconstruction for microtia is a real challenge. Presently, autogenous costal cartilage and MEDPOR are the chosen materials but none can satisfy the requirements of orthopaedic operation. The purpose of this paper is to examine how to fabricate an ear scaffold with a good shape.Design/methodology/approachA new approach to form the auricle framework is described. CT scan data of the patient's contralateral “good ear” are used to generate a 3D reconstruction model of the new ear. This model is then imported into rapid prototyping (RP) software to slice. The sliced data drive the fused deposition modeling (FDM) machine to build the ear framework layer by layer. Based on the actual shape of the computer model, FDM technology produces a real feel ear framework to match the size of the opposite good ear.FindingsAn artificial human ear was built using FDM technology based on CT images. The auricular framework with polyurethane was a porous structure with good flexibility and biocompatibility. After implanting into the mouse, a real life human ear appeared on the back of the mouse. The experiment indicated that this method provided an efficient way to macrotia reconstruction.Originality/valueThe freeform fabrication technique combined with CT image reconstruction could provide an efficient way to produce a porous structure and solve the framework carving problem in microtia reconstruction.
A study of photomask correction method in area‐forming rapid prototyping system
Authors: Chiu Shih‐Hsuan , Pong Sheng‐Hong , Wu Dien‐Chi , Lin Chien‐Hung 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a novel photomask auto‐correction method for the area‐forming rapid prototyping (RP) system.Design/methodology/approachA digital light processing (DLP) projector was used in this research as a light source to generate the photomask image. A set of optical lenses were mounted in front of the DLP to rescale the photomask image. The rescaled photomask image was collected into a computer via a camera. By using the technique of image processing, the actual size of the photomask was then calculated. The designed size of the photomask image was eventually achieved by adjusting the relative locations of the lenses.FindingsIt was found that this proposed photomask auto‐correction method can produce a more accurate dimension of the photomask image and perform with higher efficiency than the manual calibration processes.Originality/valueThe paper is believed to be the first work to use the image‐processing technique to calibrate the photomask of an area‐forming RP system, as well as to employ a method of adjusting the relative position between the lenses to rescale the photomask image size.
Fabrication of a biodegradable drug delivery system with controlled release made of PLGA/5‐FU/hydroxyapatite
Authors: Chu Won‐Shik , Jeong Suk‐Young , Kim Sung‐Geun , Ha Won‐Shik , Chi Sang‐Chul , Ahn Sung‐Hoon 
Published: October 2008

PurposeRapid prototyping (RP) technology has been widely applied in biomedical research. The purpose of this paper is to describe how a scaffold composite drug delivery system (DDS) was fabricated using a nano composite deposition system (NCDS).Design/methodology/approachA biocompatible and biodegradable thermoplastic polymer (poly(DL‐lactide‐co‐glycolide acid)) was used as the matrix, and a mixture of anti‐cancer drug (5‐fluorouracil) and bio‐ceramic (hydroxyapatite – HA) was added to the polymer to form a bio‐composite material for the DDS. An in vitro drug release test showed that the release rate of the drug composite could be controlled by the amount of HA for 50 days.FindingsFaster release was observed for the DDS with higher weight percent of HA. The relationship between release rate and the amount of HA showed a bi‐linear manner, and bi‐linear drug release models were developed based on the experimental results.Originality/valueCylindrical scaffolds were fabricated with polymer/drug/additive using an NCDS. A series of in vitro drug release tests was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the additive, HA. Drug release models were developed based on the experimental results.
Heat treatment of Ti‐6Al‐7Nb components produced by selective laser melting
Authors: Sercombe Tim , Jones Noel , Day Rob , Kop Alan 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a preliminary investigation into the heat treatment of Ti‐6Al‐7Nb components that had been produced via selective laser melting (SLM).Design/methodology/approachBars of Ti‐6Al‐7Nb were produced using SLM by MCP‐HEK Tooling GmbH in Lubeck, Germany. These bars were then subjected to a range of heat treatments and the resultant microstructure evaluated with respect to its likely effect on fatigue.FindingsIt was found that the as received material consisted of an α′ martensitic structure in a metastable β matrix. Evidence of the layer‐wise thermal history was present, as were large (up to ∼500 μm) pores. Solution treatment at 955°C (below the β transus) did not completely disrupt this layered structure and is therefore not recommended. When solution treatment was performed at 1,055°C (above the β transus) a homogeneous structure was produced, with a morphology that depended on the post‐solution treatment cooling rate. It was concluded that the most promising heat treatment consisted of a moderate cooling rate after solution treatment at 1,055°C.Research limitations/implicationsThe study had only limited material and therefore it was not possible to perform any mechanical property testing.Practical implicationsThe paper presents the initial findings of a project which is aimed at optimising the mechanical properties of Ti‐6Al‐7Nb components produced using SLM.Originality/valueCurrently, little is known about the heat treatment and subsequent mechanical properties of this Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy when produced using rapid manufacturing techniques. Such lack of knowledge limits the potential applications, especially in the biomedical field where the consequences of implant failure are high. The paper presents the first step in developing this understanding.
3D restitution, restoration and prototyping of a medieval damaged skull
Authors: Fantini Massimiliano , de Crescenzio Francesca , Persiani Franco , Benazzi Stefano , Gruppioni Giorgio 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the method of virtually and physically reconstructing the missing part of a badly damaged medieval skull by means of reverse engineering, computer‐aided design (CAD) and rapid prototyping (RP) techniques.Design/methodology/approachLaser scanning data were used to create the 3D model of the damaged skull. Starting from this digital model, a virtual reconstruction of the missing part of the skull, based on the ideal symmetry with respect to the mid‐sagittal plane, was achieved in a CAD environment. Finally, the custom‐designed model was directly fabricated by means of the RP process.FindingsThe result shows that the designed missing part of the skull fits very well with the existing skeletal remains. The final physical assembly of the prototyped element on the damaged skull was tested, restoring it to its whole original shape.Research limitations/implicationsThe entire process was time‐consuming and may be applied just to the most representative skeletal remains.Practical implicationsThe method allows accurate fabrication of the missing part of the skull to be joined with the original skeletal remains. The advantage of using this technique is that the joining operation can be carried out without any need of supplementary connecting material, such as glue or plaster, to fix together the two parts.Originality/valueThe reversible and non‐invasive method improves the restoration process, reduces the risk of damage to the skeletal structure and allows reversion to the original repair as it was before.
Transnational family networks and ethnic minority business development
Authors: Bagwell Susan 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to understand the role played by transnational family networks in ethnic minority business development.Design/methodology/approachThe Vietnamese nail‐care sector is taken as a case study. The research involved interviews with ten owner‐managers and four key informants involved in this industry in London. The analysis draws on concepts of “strong” and “weak” network ties and “mixed embeddedness” to explain why the Vietnamese continue to enter such a competitive sector.FindingsThe results highlight the importance of transnational family networks within all aspects of the business and suggest that these links can sometimes provide a fertile source of new business ideas, but can equally limit innovation. The presence of innovative and well‐educated members within the entrepreneurs' “strong‐tie” network appeared to encourage more successful business development and diversification.Research limitations/implicationsThe research challenges the traditional “strong/weak” ties thesis and suggests that, while it has some general value, in the context of groups from more collectivist societies and with family links overseas, it is necessary to take account of the human and social capital resources of the extended family rather than just those of the individual entrepreneur.Practical implicationsTo maximise the potential of these links it suggests that business advisers need to undertake a comprehensive audit of entrepreneurs' networks and assist them in assessing how their family ties can best contribute to the development of the business.Originality/valueThe paper focuses on a new community (the Vietnamese), and a new sector of study (transnational family networks), both of which have received little attention in the entrepreneurship literature.
Cause's attributes influencing consumer's purchasing intention: empirical evidence from China
Authors: Hou Jundong , Du Lanying , Li Jianfeng 
Published: October 2008

PurposeOne purpose of this paper is to examine several factors that potentially influence a consumer's purchasing decision to participate in cause‐related marketing (CRM) program in the Chinese context. The other is to empirically test the hypothesized relationship between cause's attributes and purchase intention in such environment.Design/methodology/approachThis paper develops a measure for exploring the cause's attributes influencing consumer's purchasing intention. Two groups of valid samples, respectively, with 178 and 376 respondents are collected through questionnaire survey. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) are employed to extract and test the key influential attributes on the basis of data of two samples respectively, and structural equation model is used to define the structure of influencing attributes and to measure the degree of impact for each attribute on the consumer's purchasing intention.FindingsThe results show that the degree of cause's participation for consumer, fit between the brand and the cause, cause importance, congruence between the firm's product and the cause, cause proximity play an important role in consumers’ attitudes toward the product and firm and their intentions to purchase the advertised product and participate in the CRM campaign, which suggests an opportunity for nonprofits to compete for these vital resources by nurturing and leveraging the antecedent factors and an opportunity for firms to select a cause partner.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample is a convenience sample that is the main limitations of this research. The EFA and CFA is difficult to generalize to a larger audience, and there was a lack of experimental control for the questionnaire investigation, so the quality of questionnaire can not be ensured.Practical implicationsThis research should help firms determine the best partners for strategic social alliances, and provide an advice on how to make them maximum participation, also should help current and potential consumers ascribe personality traits to nonprofit organizations and differentiate between nonprofits on the basis of the cause's attributes. At the same time, this paper provides several interesting areas for future research that will further aid marketing managers to develop a more effective CRM campaign to fit with goals of corporate, which adds some valuable insights or new ideas to develop essential theory.Originality/valueThis paper offers interesting insight into the development of CRM campaigns, and explores the five variables: the degree of cause's participation for consumer; fit between the brand and the cause; cause importance; congruence between the firm's product and the cause; cause proximity also should influence consumer's purchasing attitude, intention and decision behavior in the Chinese context.
Relationship between the personal values and shopping orientation of Chinese consumers
Authors: Tai Susan H.C. 
Published: October 2008

PurposeAs the market of Greater China is becoming increasingly important for multinationals, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between the personal values and shopping orientation of working adults in Shanghai, Taipei, and Hong Kong.Design/methodology/approachThe total sample of 454 included adult working Chinese from Shanghai, Taipei, and Hong Kong. Factor analysis was performed to identify separately the shopping orientations and dimensions of the personal values of the subjects. ANOVA analysis was then used to examine the differences among the subjects in terms of their shopping orientation and personal values. Lastly, correlation analysis was used to examine the relationships between dimensions of personal values and shopping orientations.FindingsAs expected, the results showed that Chinese consumers in Greater China shared similar personal values, but differences were found in their shopping orientation. Significant relationships were found between dimensions of personal values and the eight shopping orientations. Among the dimensions of personal values, self‐actualization played a major role in six of the eight shopping orientations, with shopping gender roles and economic shopping being the exceptions. Personalized shopping, advertised specials, and shopping for self‐satisfaction were found to be the three major shopping orientations that were closely related to personal values. Shopping gender roles and economic shopping were found to be unrelated to any personal values as they reflect individual short‐term goals rather than long‐term values.Research limitations/implicationsThe Shanghai data were collected using judgment sampling as there are regulations that restrict the distribution of questionnaires in public streets in mainland China, whereas the Taipei and Hong Kong data were collected using random sampling. Different collection methods in the sampling process may have led to a problem regarding the representativeness of the sample.Practical implicationsAmong the dimensions of personal values, self‐actualization played a major role in shopping orientation. The self‐actualization needs of consumers could be achieved through smart shopping and bargain hunting, but also through personalized shopping and shopping satisfaction. Because consumer shopping satisfaction is generally not high in Greater China, improvements could be made to enhance shopping satisfaction by providing a shopping environment that enables consumers to demonstrate their intellectual thinking and that meets their self‐actualization needs. Personalized shopping is also important for Chinese consumers who prefer closer personal relationships with salespersons.Originality/valueVarious studies have focused on the classification of the shopping orientations of consumers from different perspectives, but few studies have investigated the influence of personal values on shopping orientation, especially in the Greater China market.
Malaysian grocery shoppers’ behavioural response to stock‐outs
Authors: Miranda Mario J. , Jegasothy K. 
Published: October 2008

PurposeA better understanding of the response of shoppers in developing countries to inevitable product stock‐outs would help logisticians to put structures in place to reduce the disruption. The purpose of this paper is to examine the differences in orientations that characterize shoppers’ responses to stock‐outs in retailing environments by comparing an emerging economy, Malaysia, with a developed economy, Australia.Design/methodology/approachRandomly selected adult grocery shoppers across Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia were surveyed to examine shoppers’ behavioural response to a most recent stock‐out of their preferred dairy item. This study followed the methodology and reporting framework adopted in an Australian study.FindingsWhen responding to stock‐outs of their preferred grocery items, shopping lists serve as instruments that give archetypical Malaysian shoppers, unlike their Australian counterparts, a framework to adjust their budgets and seek alternatives within the store itself rather than venture to another store. Most Malaysian shoppers’ reactions to an out‐of‐stock situation, just as their Australian counterparts, appear to be underpinned by their household size. If their preferred item is not available, the frugal and observant among Malaysian shoppers, however, are not inclined as much as their Australian counterparts, to buy more of their alternative choice, even if these substitute items are discounted.Research limitations/implicationsInsight into Malaysian shoppers’ behavioural response to inadequate shelf life of perishable products, considering that they might feel impelled to act as per their shopping lists, would give members of the supply chain confidence to adopt inventory management policies that make a judicious balance between avoiding stock‐outs and ensuring stock availability with acceptable shelf life.Practical implicationsMalaysian frugal and observant shoppers when responding to stock‐outs of their preferred items might allow the opportunity to let a bargain pass on alternative brands or variants, because these shoppers, guided by their shopping lists, are possibly hamstrung, by budgetary constraints in not being able to make heavier purchase outlays and by likely storage constraints in their living accommodation. Retailers in Malaysia have a greater challenge than Australian retailers to dispose of stocks of grocery products that are fast approaching their expiry dates through discounting, because Malaysian shoppers may resist buying more than their immediate need.Originality/valueMalaysian shoppers, inclined to carry memory scripts to assist them in their shopping efforts, are conditioned to stay within their planned budgets and when confronted with a stock‐out of their preferred item, are likely to resist buying anymore than what they had planned to buy.