bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
On the convergence of the transfinite‐element method
Authors: Weiß B. , Bíró O. , Caldera P. , Hollaus K. , Paoli G. , Preis K. , Stockreiter C. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe convergence of the transfinite‐element (TFE) method for high frequency methods is analyzed in this paper. Two different potential formulations will be compared in the frequency and time domain.Design/methodology/approachThe A*‐and A,v‐formulation for time domain and frequency domain transfinite elements are described. The convergence properties of the methods are investigated and demonstrated on a simple test problem.FindingsIt is shown that the convergence of the frequency domain method depends also on the discretization of areas where the field values do not change very much. A numerical example shows that for the calculation of the whole frequency range, the time domain approach is much more faster than the frequency domain method.Research limitations/implicationsFurther, work should also cover additional formulations like, e.g. the T,Φ‐formulation.Practical implicationsPros and cons of different formulations and methods for solving high frequency problems for printed circuit boards or microwave structures are investigated.Originality/valueThe originality of the paper is the comparison, the discussion and the explanations of the convergence of the TFE method for wave propagation.
Analysis of plasmon oscillations in metallic nanoparticles
Authors: Miano Giovanni , Villone Fabio , Zamboni Walter 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo study optical resonances in metallic nanoparticles.Design/methodology/approachThe metallic nanoparticle is modeled as a dielectric body dispersive in frequency with assigned dielectric constant. The electric field is expressed as function of the charge distribution through an integral formulation. By imposing the boundary conditions on the nanoparticle surface, the equations for the induced charge in the nanoparticle is obtained. The numerical solution of such equations allows to treat arbitrary geometries and to estimate the effects of deviations from ideality on the resonance values.FindingsPlasmon resonances in metallic nanoparticles can be safely studied with an electro‐quasistatic approximation. The resonance frequencies depend greatly on the details of the geometry of the nanoparticles.Research limitations/implicationsThe free‐space wavelength is supposed to be much greater than the largest characteristic dimension of the nanoparticles. Consequently, a electro‐quasistatic model is used to evaluate the distribution of the charges induced in the metallic nanoparticle.Originality/valueTwo methods are presented for the evaluation of the resonance frequencies starting from the numerical solution for a given geometry.
Design and synthesis of wide tuning range variable comb drive MEMS capacitors
Authors: Wan Weijie , Lowther David A. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo present a general synthesis method in the design of variable comb drive MEMS capacitors which can provide specified capacitance versus position profiles while give large tuning range.Design/methodology/approachBy carefully choosing design parameters and constraint conditions, the design process is implemented as the solution of a constraint optimization problem. An electric field analysis software based on the finite element method and an optimization software based on the evolutionary stochastic search are chosen to work together to implement the system.FindingsThe results verify that the shape of a variable MEMS capacitor has a great influence on the capacitance versus distance profile and demonstrates that a specific geometry of the MEMS capacitor can be found to match a desired capacitance‐distance profile.Research limitations/implicationsThe analytical expression for the capacitance formed between the fixed and the movable fingers is somewhat inaccurate. The results are not compared to measurement because no device has been fabricated.Practical implicationsA very successful numerical simulation example and guidance for MEMS designers to develop MEMS devices with variable electrode shapes.Originality/valueThis paper proposes a systematic way for the design of MEMS tunable capacitors with variable shape. The approach can be used to design MEMS devices with variable electrode shapes to satisfy specific requirements.
Hybrid genetic algorithms using quadratic local search operators
Authors: Wanner Elizabeth F. , Takahashi Ricardo H.C. , Guimarães Frederico G. , Ramírez Jaime A. , Lowther David A. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to present a new methodology for hybrid genetic algorithms (GA) in the solution of electromagnetic optimization problems.Design/methodology/approachThis methodology can be seen as a local search operator which uses local quadratic approximations for each objective and constraint function in the problem. In the local search phase, these approximations define an associated local search problem that is efficiently solved using a formulation based on linear matrix inequalities.FindingsThe paper illustrates the proposed methodology comparing the performance of the hybrid GA against the basic GA in two analytical problems and in the well‐known TEAM benchmark Problem 22. For the analytical problems, 30 independent runs for each algorithm were considered whereas for Problem 22, ten independent runs for each algorithm were taken.Research limitations/implicationsFor the analytical problems, the hybrid GA enhanced both the convergence speed, in terms of the number of function evaluations, and the accuracy of the final result. For Problem 22, the hybrid GA was able to reach a better solution, with a better value of the standard deviation with less CPU time.Practical implicationsThe paper could be useful both for device designers and researchers involved optimization in computational electromagnetics.Originality/valueThe hybrid GA proposed enhanced the convergence speed, in terms of the number of function evaluations, representing a faster and robust algorithm for practical optimization problems.
Investigation of low‐frequency behaviour of two surface integral full‐Maxwell formulations
Authors: Freschi Fabio , Repetto Maurizio , Gruosso Giambattista , Maffucci Antonio , Villone Fabio , Zamboni Walter 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo apply two different integral formulations of full‐Maxwell's equations to the numerical study of interconnects in a low‐frequency range and compare the results.Design/methodology/approachThe first approach consists of a surface formulation of the full‐Maxwell's equations in terms of potentials, giving rise to a surface electric field integral equation. The equation, given in a weak form, is solved by using a finite element technique. The solenoidal and non‐solenoidal components of the electric current density are separated using thenull‐pinv decompositionto avoid the low‐frequency breakdown. The second model is an extension of partial element equivalent circuit technique to unstructured meshes allowing the use of triangular meshes. Two systems of meshes tied by duality relations are defined on multiconductor systems. The key point in the definition of the equivalent network is to associate the pair primal edge/dual face to a circuit branch. Solution of the resulting electrical network is performed by a modified nodal analysis method and regularization of the outcoming matrix is accomplished by standard techniques based on the addition of suitable resistors.FindingsBoth the formulation have a regular behaviour at very low frequency. This is automatically achieved in the first approach by using the null‐pinv decomposition.Research limitations/implicationsSurface sources of fields.Originality/valueTwo different integral formulations of full‐Maxwell's equations for the numerical study of interconnects are compared in terms of low‐frequency behaviour.
Using market information in product development
Authors: Alsted Søndergaard Helle , Harmsen Hanne 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe need for better links to the market as well as improved internal sharing and use of market information has been stressed as central for market‐oriented product development. This paper aims to suggest a conceptual model for the identification of relevant market information (based on the understanding of consumers' vertical and horizontal decision structure) combined with considerations on effective internal use of the information.Design/methodology/approachThe suggested model is applied in case studies in an action research project, and experiences with the application are discussed.FindingsThe paper finds that by using a means‐end chain approach it is possible to collect market information which can comply with the requirements for market information regarding quality cues and purchase motives. Furthermore, the process requirements for the internal use of information in product development are also fulfilled since the development teams recognize the value of the information and actively use it in their product development decision making. However, the means‐end approach cannot (in its present form) reveal experienced quality since the approach includes no trying of the product concepts.Originality/valueThe proposed model gathers and simplifies the requirements for improved market‐oriented product development of fast‐moving consumer goods and can remind development teams of considering the situation before and after product experience as well as the different levels of abstraction in consumers' minds. At the same time they are reminded that this information should feed into the process of making decisions in product development.
Chinese cultural values and gift‐giving behavior
Authors: Qian Wang , Abdur Razzaque Mohammed , Ah Keng Kau 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report the results of a study undertaken to investigate the gift‐giving behavior of consumers in the People's Republic of China (PRC) during the Chinese New Year and the influence exerted by Chinese cultural values on such behavior.Design/methodology/approachUsing a survey among a large sample of people in the city of Tianjin, gift‐giving behavior was measured by the importance accorded to gift‐giving, the amount given, the effort spent on gift selection and brand orientation when selecting gifts. The cultural values examined were renqing (human obligations), guanxi (relationship), yuan (destiny or fate), reciprocity, family orientation and Mianzi (face). Factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data.FindingsResults indicated that Chinese cultural values as a whole as well as most of its components investigated in this research had positive effects on the various gift‐giving behaviors. The “face” component was, however, found to affect only the importance attached to gift‐giving, the amount given and the choice of brand.Research limitations/implicationsResearch results should be interpreted with caution as the study was limited to Tianjin – one of the several major cities in the PRC. Also the Chinese New Year may not be representative of other occasions when gifts are exchanged.Practical implicationsThe results of this investigation would benefit practitioners involved in the marketing of “gift items” in the PRC by providing them with a clear understanding of the general consumption patterns of the PRC urban consumers, insights into the various antecedents of gift‐giving and linking them with various aspects of Chinese cultural values. The research findings would also benefit researchers, academics and others interested in the PRC market by making them familiar with some of the salient aspects that characterize Chinese consumers.Originality/valueThis study develops a new model describing the relationships among values (Chinese cultural value and personal value), motivation for gift‐giving and gift‐giving behavior. It also develops new scales for measuring the constructs such as Chinese cultural values, motivation for gift‐giving and gift‐giving behavior.
Foreign firms' financial and economic risk in China
Authors: Ling Florence , Loon Lim Hwee 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe aim of this research is to investigate how foreign firms manage financial and economic risks when operating in China's construction industry. The specific purposes of the paper are to: identify the types of financial and economic risks foreign firms face and the frequency and severity of these risks; examine how foreign firms manage these risks; and recommend a risk management framework that can be adopted by foreign firms to mitigate financial and economic risks in China.Design/methodology/approachThe data collection instrument was a questionnaire which had open‐ended questions. The data collection method was face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews with 22 experts from Singapore who have experience in China's construction industry.FindingsNine economic and financial risks affecting foreign firms that operate in China's construction industry are found. Of these, the risks that occur frequently and are severe are: labour and material price fluctuation; and contractors/subcontractors' default. Eighteen contractual and general measures were found to be useful in mitigating these risks.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings may not be readily generalized because interviews were conducted with 22 China experts, all of whom are from Singapore.Practical implicationsForeign firms could use the findings to help them decide on the most appropriate measures to adopt, to overcome financial and economic risks that they face when operating in China's construction industry.Originality/valueThe research proposed a framework for foreign firms to use in managing financial and economic risks in China. It recommends different measures to mitigate different types of risks.
Factors associated with transfer of training in workplace e‐learning
Authors: Park Ji‐Hye , Wentling Tim 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of factors associated with e‐learning, particularly computer attitudes and usability, on transfer of training in workplace e‐learning courses.Design/methodology/approachThis study relied on quantitative data obtained from four online survey questionnaires. The sample of this study was 47 learners who took either one soft‐skill e‐learning course or one hard‐skill e‐learning course in a selected company and their supervisors.FindingsThe results demonstrated that learners' computer attitudes impact their perception of the usability of the e‐learning courses, and that this perception influences the degree of their transfer of training. The results imply that when learners come to an e‐learning class with positive attitudes toward computers, they feel the e‐learning course system to be more satisfactory and efficient, and accordingly they can better transfer what they have learned to job performance.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample of this study is limited. Further research studies with various learners should be conducted. Additionally, the measure of transfer merely relied on their perception of it. Further studies should give more attention to the multifaceted measures of the actual transfer. Finally, further research should be conducted to examine other general factors pertaining to the transfer of training in e‐learning settings in addition to computer attitudes and usability.Originality/valueThe study expands the knowledge base regarding transfer of training by focusing on e‐learning, which is rapidly growing and receiving great attention in the workplace, and thus contributes to the establishment of a more comprehensive model of transfer of training.
Benchmarking construction technology transfer in Thailand
Authors: Stewart Rodney A. , Waroonkun Tanut 
Published: June 2007

PurposeIn an attempt to better diagnose the health of international construction technology transfer (TT) ventures and ultimately improve rates of TT, this paper promotes benchmarking as a tool for measuring baseline and future performance across a wide range of TT perspectives.Design/methodology/approachUtilizing the results from a questionnaire survey of 162 construction industry professionals from Thailand, a TT performance measurement framework, consisting of eight diverse perspectives was formulated through exploratory factor analysis.FindingsThe developed framework included eight perspectives which represent the enablers and outcomes of the TT process, namely: technology characteristics; government influence; relationship building; transferor characteristics; transferee characteristics; economic advancement; knowledge advancement; and project performance. This framework was utilized to provide a baseline benchmark index of TT performance in Thailand. A benchmark score of 70 per cent was determined, implying that up to 2005, construction TT ventures in Thailand have been operating moderately to highly effectively/successfully. Moreover, the TT performance of individual transferor nationalities operating in Thailand was compared. The study provides some evidence that Japanese construction firms are not only the leading exporter of construction services to Thailand but also perform slightly higher across TT performance perspectives influenced by the transferor.Research limitations/implicationsQuestionnaire items which attempted to explain the impact of cultural differences between the transferor and transferee were statistically problematic and subsequently removed from the conceptual framework. Cultural factors undoubtedly play a part in the international TT process on construction projects.Practical implicationsThe developed TT benchmarking method could be used by international funding agencies, governments of developing and newly industrialized countries and construction firms to more effectively evaluate the TT process and the outcomes it derives for the host construction sector.Originality/valueThe paper provides a robust method for benchmarking the TT process and its derived outcomes in a construction context.
Comparison of neural network and binary logistic regression methods in conceptual design of tall steel buildings
Authors: Al Nageim Hassan , Nagar Ravindra , Lisboa Paulo J.G. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo investigate the feasibility of using artificial neural networks for conceptual design of bracings systems for tall steel buildings.Design/methodology/approachDatabase of 234 design examples has been developed using commercially available detailed design software. These examples represent building up to 20 storeys. Feed forward back‐propagation neural network is trained on these examples. The results obtained from the artificial neural network are evaluated by re‐substitution, hold‐out and ten‐fold cross‐validation techniques.FindingsResults indicate that artificial neural network would give a performance of 97.91 percent (ten‐fold cross‐validation). The performance of this system is benchmarked by developing a binary logistic regression model from the same data. Performance of the two models has been compared using McNemar's test and receiver operation characteristics curves. Artificial neural network shows a better performance. The difference is found to be statically significant.Research limitations/implicationsThe developed model is applicable only to steel building up to 20 storeys. The feasibility of using artificial neural networks for conceptual design of bracings systems for tall steel buildings more than 20 storeys has not been investigated.Practical implicationsImplementation of the broad methodology outlined for the use of neural networks can be accomplished by conducting short training courses. This will provide personnel with flexibility in addressing buildings‐specifics bracing conditions and limitations.Originality/valueIn tall building design a lot of progress has been made in the development of software tools for numerical intensive tasks of analysis, design and optimization, however, professional software tools are not available to help the designer to choose an optimum building configuration at the conceptual design stage. The presented research provides a methodology to investigate the feasibility of using artificial neural networks for conceptual design of bracings systems for tall buildings. It is found that this approach for the selection of bracings in tall buildings is a better and cost effective option compared with database generated on the basis of expert opinion. It also correctly classifies and recommends the type of trussed bracing system.
ICT implementation and evolution
Authors: Wong Chee H. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss the interview findings of five large construction firms who pioneered their intranet and extranet (IE) uptake to generate a co‐operative virtual workplace and business environment with internal and external project teams. The main objective was to investigate IE implementation and evolution among the selected construction firms in order to showcase their successful ICT uptake experience in practice.Design/methodology/approachThe research was conducted using case study approach using five UK construction companies, i.e. architect, developer, project management and cost consultant, and contractors. All interviewees held significant roles for IE implementation and/or development in their respective organisations. The interviews were recorded and transcript. The transcripts were analysed and sent to the companies for comments.FindingsThe findings show that the motivation among surveyed construction organisations for taking up an advanced IE was predominantly influenced by three main factors: the need for better business communications and knowledge dissemination; increased global competitiveness; and enthusiasm to be at the forefront of technology developments.Originality/valueThe study demonstrates real‐life ICT uptake experiences and feedback to highlight how the full benefits of ICT investment can be achieved and aligned to business needs and objectives. In addition, the findings provide a valuable business case study for construction professionals, information technology managers, and businesses when considering an ICT investment in IE as part of their overall business strategy.
Supply chain transactional barriers to design cost management
Authors: Ross Andrew , Goulding Jack 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a better understanding of the factors that can influence the availability of cost information to support design and production decision making at the early stages of project team formation.Design/methodology/approachAn investigation of the current practice of the exchange of financial information between supply chain organisations in the UK construction industry that was undertaken using a portal survey with 710 estimators. The survey sought data on the extent and maturity of the relationships that existed between contractors and their supply chain, and the effect this had on the gathering of subcontract price information.FindingsThe data analysis established that a significant difference existed in the approaches adopted by respondent organisations to the collection of subcontract price data for three different procurement approaches, and that main contracting organisations were developing closer relationships with their supply chain.Practical implicationsThe paper concludes by suggesting that the use of supply chain price information for pre‐contract negotiation and post‐contract governance can influence the propensity of the supply chain to provide “richer” information on the costs assumptions made within their estimates to improve the empirical basis for future decision making.Originality/valueThe paper takes an original approach to the construction estimating process by considering supply chain price information available to the estimator.