bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
BMW lifts robot total to 500 at Plant Oxford
Authors: Mortimer John 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe paper aims to describe how BMW in the UK has increased the number of industrial robots at Plant Oxford in the UK; this plant is part of a production “triangle” that brings together three of its four manufacturing plants in the UK to produce the latest version of the Mini passenger car – the Mini Clubman.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes the major production line techniques that are used in the manufacture of the body‐in‐white (BIW) structure as well as the functions of painting and final assembly of the vehicle. The BIW techniques include spot‐welding and ultrasonic weld inspection for parts assembly.FindingsOver the space of the last three or four years, the management of BMW Group has increased significantly the stature of its UK manufacturing units with the aim of increasing the diversity of models produced, while at the same time achieving greater utilization of its existing capacity, and improving productivity.Research limitations/implicationsThe BMW Group continually assesses all of the functions involved in the manufacture of a motor vehicle, and in this context is working both with its own plants and with suppliers of equipment and components to enhance production and quality processes. This includes all of the processes of joining steel and other materials using spot welding and adhesives. There is also much to be gained from the interchange of information between the various plants in the group world‐wide with a view to implementing continuous improvement. The benefits achieved from one process in one particular plant are quickly communicated to other facilities, again with the object of improving quality and productivity. A typical example here is the paint shop.Practical implicationsIt is likely that, arising out of greater plant integration and utilization, the management of BMW Group will be able to further increase the capacity of its Mini production units to be in a position to move to the next stage of expansion, namely to reach a target of 300,000 units a year.Originality/valueBMW continues to rationalise its UK plants in Oxford, Swindon and Hams Hall, further integrating these production facilities with those of major component suppliers to produce a finished vehicle. There is a heavy concentration of KUKA robots within the BIW and sub‐assembly manufacturing facilities.
A model for function block communication and diagnostic messaging with EtherNet/IP
Authors: Piggin Richard , Hajarnavis Vivek 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to propose a model for the provision of EtherNet/IP device‐specific function blocks by discrete industry device vendors and to outline how multi‐vendor network environments can benefit from the use of function block programming to encapsulate code for configuring communication, diagnostics and visualisation tools.Design/methodology/approachThe approach makes use of function blocks to facilitate simpler use of the EtherNet/IP protocol. The EtherNet/IP messaging mechanisms are described, along with the methodology for configuring communication for both time‐critical and non‐time‐critical messaging, including device‐specific status and diagnostic data. The same approach is utilised for communication to visualisation systems.FindingsValidation of the model was found to make data transfer between controller and device easier and faster, owing to a reduction in the number of operations a programmer was required to implement. Implementation time was found to be just 6.25 per cent of that needed to achieve the same functionality without the use of function blocks.Practical implicationsThe use of function blocks to describe EtherNet/IP communication was tested with a commercial product in an application environment, and subsequently adopted by multiple vendors. A reduction in technical support was noted owing to the use of identical interfaces for multiple device instances. With complete device functionality described and readily available to the end‐user, greater device functionality is utilised and more often may otherwise not have been implemented for time, cost, or complexity reasons.Originality/valueIn the discrete industry, it is uncommon for device vendors to provide device‐specific function blocks describing network communication interfaces and functionality, since they reside in the controller, not the device. This research presents a novel method that provides a consistent, yet flexible approach for the configuration of EtherNet/IP communication for differing devices from multiple vendors within a controller.
An investigation into programmable logic controller software design techniques in the automotive industry
Authors: Hajarnavis Vivek , Young Ken 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to describe the results of an investigation into the techniques used to design factory control systems in the body‐in‐white section of car‐manufacturing plants in Germany, the UK and the USA.Design/methodology/approachResearch was conducted through a set of semi‐structured interviews with the individuals responsible for planning control system architectures in a number of companies world‐wide.FindingsThe challenges faced by the users of industrial control systems, such as the need to conduct changes quickly, accurately and without errors, are identified. Each organisation participating in this study was seen to use a company‐specific standard to bring commonality to systems and to improve the ease of developing, maintaining and modifying their control systems. Similar software structures were seen to be in use in many of the companies participating in this survey, though in some cases differing attitudes to the use of the same tools were observed.Practical implicationsThis work captures, documents and reviews industrial practice in a structured manner, providing an insight into the factors affecting the selection of control system technology by industrial users, and serves as a starting‐point for researchers wishing to investigate the relative importance to industrial practitioners.Originality/valueExisting work on industrial programming practice is extended by detailing specific software structures used in manufacturing operations in the car industry.
Definition and execution of a generic assembly programming paradigm
Authors: Maaß Jochen , Molkenstruck Sven , Thomas Ulrike , Hesselbach Jürgen , Wahl Friedrich 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to introduce a generic robot‐programming paradigm for assembly tasks that overcomes the strong coupling between the motion commands and underlying algorithms of programming languages currently on the market. Therefore, it allows an improved method of assembly task programming.Design/methodology/approachA manipulation primitive (MP) is defined which decouples the programming concept from the algorithms. These primitives can be integrated into existing programming languages and are supported by an intuitive graph‐based language which is introduced in this paper. An open reference architecture to support those primitive‐based programming languages has been designed.FindingsIt is possible to describe complex assembly tasks such as manipulation on conveyors or sensor‐integrated compliant motion without abandoning the generality of the programming paradigm. Execution on a reference control system has proven to be successful for several manipulation tasks on different machines.Originality/valueA complete definition of the MP and a graphical language based on this primitive is given, accompanied by extensive detail information on crucial aspects of the control architecture such as modular trajectory generation, generic interfaces, and real‐time task scheduling.
High‐speed TFT LCD defect‐detection system with genetic algorithm
Authors: Lin Chern‐Sheng , Liao Yo‐Chang , Lay Yun‐Long , Lee Kun‐Chen , Yeh Mau‐Shiun 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to develop an automatic optical inspection system for thin film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD).Design/methodology/approachA new algorithm that accounts for the closing, opening, etching, dilating, and genetic method is used. It helps to calculate the location and rotation angle for transistor patterns precisely and quickly. The system can adjust inspection platform parameters according to viewed performance. The parameter adaptation occurs in parallel with running the genetic algorithm and imaging processing methods. The proposed method is compared with the algorithms that use artificial parameter sets.FindingsThis system ensures high quality in an LCD production line. This multipurpose image‐based measurement method uses unsophisticated and economical equipment, and it also detects defects in the micro‐fabrication process.Originality/valueThe experiment's results show that the proposed method offers advantages over other competing methods.
The “new” policy partnership
Authors: Gatta Mary , McCabe Kevin P. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce this special issue on “the ‘new’ policy partnership”.Design/methodology/approachThe paper highlights the significance of policy‐academic partnerships and outlines the papers included in this issue.FindingsIt is important to form and maintain partnerships and collaborations with new nontraditional stakeholders. One place where this is evident is in academia.Originality/valueThe special issue includes original articles that address innovative ways in which researchers and policy makers can collaborate to move policy agendas forward.
Voices from the past, lessons for the future
Authors: Zimmerman Julie N. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeAs academic fields increasingly turn to social action and seek partnerships with groups beyond the academy, so too are we looking for guidance. Rural sociology developed out of applying research to social action and within this field was a unique unit. The purpose of this paper is to present a history of the Division of Farm Population and Rural Life, which was part of the US Department of Agriculture from 1919 to 1953 was a pioneer in applying sociological knowledge to policy and action.Design/methodology/approachThis article looks back to the history of this unit to examine the lessons to be learned.FindingsPlacing these lessons within the context of contemporary issues underscores the continuing relevance of this historical experience.Originality/valueThe issues surrounding engaging external partners are both particularistic and universal. However, without an historical sense of the challenges, each time we encounter them, the challenges feel new and somehow unique. This article looks back to history to examine lessons that can be learned. Placing these lessons within the context of contemporary issues underscores relevance of the historical experience from events and people that occurred several generations of professionals ago.
Connecting fractured lives to a fragmented system: Chicago housing for health partnership
Authors: George Christine , Nargang Chernega Jennifer , Stawiski Sarah , Figert Anne , Valdivia Bendixen Arturo 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the nation's first hospital to housing for homeless individuals. The Chicago Housing for Health Partnership (CHHP), a Housing First and Harm Reduction model, creates a new comprehensive system of health care, housing and supportive services.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers conducted a year long process evaluation of the housing program using a multi‐method approach, which involved qualitative interviews, focus groups, document analysis and observations. The paper examined the CHHP system at three different levels (the administrative, service provision and the client levels).FindingsThe study allowed the organizational participants the ability to better understand their program by visually modeling the system for the first time and documenting its effectiveness. It also furthered the understanding of how and why the housing first model is best accompanied by a harm reduction approach. Finally, the paper was able to show how and why organizational system design is important in creating the most effective environment in which programs have a real impact.Originality/valueThe authors were able to help CHHP program leaders conduct strategic planning and to present their program as an effective model future funding agencies and to policy makers. CHHP has incorporated the recommendations into their permanent model. In addition, the CHHP leadership, in a network with other Housing First advocates, has disseminated the findings at national conferences and networking meetings. The authors' relationship with CHHP will continue with the design of a second stage research strategy in order to continue research on Harm Reduction Housing and policy advocacy.
Owning and implementing labour market research
Authors: Bennett Cinnamon 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the Gender, Employment and Local Labour Market (GELLM) Programme of Research (2003‐2006), which is delivered through a partnership of academics, policy‐makers, trade unions and practitioners at national and local levels of the UK, directed by Professor Sue Yeandle of Sheffield Hallam University. It discusses the contractual and task‐based relationships, which are set up among the partners and the ways in which the research process is designed and executed collaboratively. The GELLM partnership is maintained without complicated information technology or customised training, relying instead on the commitment of the individuals involved and a very clear and well managed face‐to‐face report‐back structure. The paper concludes by analysing the criteria that made this partnership work successfully and the types of impact it is able to achieve locally and nationally on gender equality policy‐making.Design/methodology/approachThe aims and objectives of the research programme included the production in partnership of gender‐disaggregated “Gender Profiles” of the labour market in 12 local authorities, awareness‐raising about gendered inequality in their local labour markets, and the exploration of specific issues in new, multi‐method local research studies whose focus is agreed with the project partners with a view to “gender mainstreaming” the research findings.FindingsThe GELLM research findings are not discussed as the focus is on the partnership arrangements.Originality/valueCriteria for the successful working of the partnership, and the challenges faced are discussed in the paper.
Interview: Jane Oates on collaborations between academia and government policy makers
Authors: Boyer Teresa M. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this interview is to gain insight from the career of policy‐maker and researcher, Jane Oates, on the collaborations between academia and government to effect social change.Design/methodology/approachThis article is based on an interview with Jane Oates conducted in May of 2007.FindingsBased on her experiences, she states that social change requires a three‐way partnership between academia, government, and the people they serve. She makes specific recommendations for the ways these groups can find a common language to reach their shared goals.Originality/valueThis account provides the unique perspective of a professional who has spent years in both academia and policy‐making.
The Joytoy Company
Authors: Patten Lynne 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to increase the student's knowledge of the value chain and its importance in managing costs.Design/methodology/approachThe approach takes the form of a teaching case with practical implications, which also includes teaching notes.FindingsIt is important to effectively manage a company's value chain. A clear understanding of the value chain, combined with effective management of all aspects of the value chain can often lead to a competitive advantage in today's business environment.Practical implicationsA company can improve decision making with a clear understanding of the value chain.Originality/valueThis case presents a practical and straightforward approach for instructors to explain the value chain concept and how important managing the value chain can be to the company's overall success.
The role of technical skill in perceptions of managerial performance
Authors: Hysong Sylvia J. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to determine whether technical skill provides incremental value over managerial skill in managerial performance for first‐tier managers, and explore potential mediators of this relationship. Hypotheses: technical skill incrementally predicts managerial performance; referent and expert power mediate this relationship; and inspirational appeals and rational persuasion mediate the relationship between power and managerial performance.Design/methodology/approachA total of 107 first‐tier supervisors from local petrochemical and engineering companies completed an online survey about their professional background and managerial skills; subordinates rated supervisors' technical skill, power, and influence tactic habits. Managerial performance was measured as: production output, subordinate job satisfaction, and subordinate ratings.FindingsTechnical skill incrementally predicted subordinate perceptions of managerial performance over managerial skill. Referent power mediated the relationship between technical skill and both subordinate ratings and job satisfaction; expert power only mediated for job satisfaction. Rational persuasion mediated the relationship between expert power and subordinate ratings of managerial performance.Research limitations/implicationsClear measurement of multidimensional constructs such as managerial performance and technical skill is essential. Limitations include self‐selection bias and availability of objective technical skill measures. Future research should develop component‐based measures of these constructs.Practical implicationsTechnical skill is valuable to managers as a source of credibility and a means to identify with subordinates. Technical skill should not, therefore, be the most important criterion in selecting technical managers.Originality/valueThis study helps technical managers better leverage their technical skills in managerial contexts, and provides new research directions for component‐based performance measurement.
TQM implementation and change management in an unfavourable environment
Authors: Jones Jefferey P. , Seraphim Daniele 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe total quality management (TQM) concept was originally developed to increase the efficiency of occidental and Japanese organisations. As a consequence of its success there, it has spread world‐wide. Companies in many developing countries are attempting its implementation. However, the cultural environment in these countries may be significantly different from the prevalent one in the regions where TQM has flourished. This paper aims to examine the potential for successful TQM implementation in a “theoretically” unfavourable TQM environment, and what can be expected from such implementation if it is successful.Design/methodology/approachThis study is based on a case of a company with characteristics that are in conflict with what are accepted to be necessary for successful implementation of TQM. The development of TQM in the company is examined and successes and failures in the implementation process they implemented are evaluated. The degree of success in implementing TQM is assessed through the changes that resulted in both internal performance indicators and an independent external governmental evaluation of the company.FindingsIt is possible to implement TQM principles in an environment deficient in factors that are generally accepted as critical to its successful implementation. The identification of and reaction to cultural difficulties are central to a successful TQM implementation approach taken. Positive outcomes may exceed, in terms of speed and scale, what could be expected from the occidental/Japanese model for successful TQM implementation.Research limitations/implicationsAs the research is based on a specific case study, it does not provide a proof that all companies in unfavourable environments can benefit from TQM implementation.Originality/valueVery little research is currently available about TQM implementation in unfavourable environments, about how to deal with these specificities, and what benefits can realistically be expected if the implementation is successful.
Diversity and learning for innovation: dialogue for collaboration
Authors: Rose‐Anderssen Christen , Allen Peter M. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to develop an approach for improving linguistic skills to enhance work collaboration.Design/methodology/approachA framework has been developed using principles of complex systems thinking, cultural‐historical activity theory and theories of intercultural communication in an action research setting.FindingsOrganisational development and change are never a straightforward task, which the case clearly demonstrates. These are tension‐filled processes of continuously changing power relationships and distances between people. The development of shared sense making is an iterative learning process. Co‐developing shared communication strategies enhances dialogue and collaboration.Research limitations/implicationsA single and in practice unsuccessful case has been the basis of the research findings. Although saturation of data was therefore never reached, typical inhibiting factors were brought to the surface. Controversy and underlying inhibitions may not always be easy to detect in successful cases. The understanding from this unsuccessful case may therefore be helpful for further research.Practical implicationsCollaboration and change in the workplace are complex processes and are therefore difficult to implement. Collective approaches for developing communication strategies are highly dependent on including all affected actors.Originality/valueThe realisation of the complexity of organisational change processes is important. This creates an awareness of a need and responsibility for everyone affected to try and co‐develop the practices for change. It is the bringing together of the diverse experiences into learning processes through dialogue that facilitates these changes. There must be an appreciation that the outcome is still unpredictable in a process of change. Collective ownership of the changes is essential for success.