bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An on‐vehicle loading measurement system with capacitance and acceleration transducers
Authors: Yang Sanxu , Yin Baozhong , Yang Wuqiang 
Published: September 2007

PurposeIn some developing countries, vehicles are often over‐loaded, which causes road accidents and damage to road surfaces. Currently, large measuring facilities are used to measure the vehicle‐loading on highways. A major limitation is that they can measure vehicle‐loading at fixed locations only. This paper seeks to present an on‐vehicle loading measurement system with capacitance and acceleration transducers.Design/methodology/approachA description and analysis of the system are presented.FindingsThe capacitance transducers sense the variation in distance between electrodes, using the on‐vehicle leaf springs as weighing elastomers. The acceleration transducers deal with the influence of acceleration to vehicle‐loading measurement. The major advantage of this system over the existing systems is that both static and dynamic loading can be measured.Practical implicationsThis system is simple and easy to install.Originality/valueThe paper shows that with this system both a driver and an inspector can check vehicle‐loading at any time and any location through radio communication, thus identifying over‐loaded vehicles on highways.
The ring fluxgate: a very modern 80‐year old
Authors: Shelton Chris 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to explain the operating principles of fluxgate magnetometers.Design/methodology/approachThe approach is to describe the uses of ring fluxgate magnetometers and their operating principles.FindingsThe operating principles of fluxgate magnetometers are poorly understood and their applications potential seriously undervalued. An increasing number of everyday applications relying on sensing and fluxgates, in conjunction with modern analogue and micro‐controller electronics, represent unique value in implementing a variety of low‐cost, precise and absolute sensing elements. As magnetometers they are small, robust, reliable, low‐cost and can resolve flux densities to nano Teslas. This can be exploited to make a variety of sensors which are precise, inherently non‐contact and, for rotary sensing, have full 360° operation.Originality/valueThe paper illustrates how fluxgate magnetometers can form the basis for a variety of robust, reliable, non‐contact industrial sensors.
Numerical simulation of temperature history during the picture tube panel‐forming process
Authors: Zhou Huamin , Cui Shubiao , Li Dequn 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to develop an integrated cooling simulation for the temperature history of the panel during the forming process.Design/methodology/approachA local one‐dimensional transient analysis in the thickness direction is adopted for the panel part, which employs finite‐difference method. And a three‐dimensional, boundary element method is used for the numerical implementation of the heat transfer analysis in the mold region, which is considered as three‐dimensional conduction. The Renormalization‐Group turbulence model is applied for the jet impinging cooling. The part and mold analyses are coupled so as to match the temperature and heat flux on the glass‐mold interface.FindingsThe paper provides mathematical model and numerical strategy adapted to the problem, with experimental verification that shows a good agreement.Practical implicationsCooling design in the forming operation of picture tube panel is of great importance because it significantly affects the part quality associated with residual stresses and productivity. The developed simulation package is a tool in the optimization of processing parameters and in‐mold cooling system structure design.Originality/valueThis paper presents a realistic, integrated, and coupled numerical model for analyzing the panel cooling process that retains important aspects of the problem. The paper could be very valuable to the researchers in this field as a benchmark for their analyses.
An efficient graph theoretical method for plate bending finite element analysis via force method
Authors: Kaveh A. , Koohestani K. 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to present an efficient algorithm for the formation of null basis for finite element model discretized as rectangular bending elements. The bases obtained by this algorithm correspond to highly sparse and narrowly banded flexibility matrices and such bases can be considered as an efficient tool for optimal analysis of structures.Design/methodology/approachIn the present method, two graphs are associated with finite element mesh consisting of an “interface graph” and an “associate digraph”. The underlying subgraphs of the self‐equilibrating systems (SESs) (null vectors) are obtained by graph theoretical approaches forming a null basis. Application of unit loads (moments) at the end of the generator of each subgraph results in the corresponding null vector.FindingsIn the present hybrid method, graph theory is used for the formation of null vectors as far as it is possible and then algebraic method is utilized to find the complementary part of the null basis.Originality/valueThis hybrid approach makes the use of pure force method in the finite element analysis feasible. Here, a simplified version of the algorithm is also presented where the SESs for weighted graphs are obtained using an analytical approach. Thus, the formation of null bases is achieved using the least amount of algebraic operations, resulting in substantial saving in computational time and storage.
Application hybrid grey dynamic model to forecasting compensatory control
Authors: Li Guo‐Dong , Yamaguchi Daisuke , Nagai Masatake 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to increase the manufacturing accuracy and quality of product by improving the prediction accuracy of forecasting compensatory control (FCC).Design/methodology/approachThe dynamic analysis model, which combines grey dynamic model with time series autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model is proposed. In addition, the Markov chain from stochastic process theory is applied to improve the prediction accuracy.FindingsThe proposed model is more accurate than ARIMA model and grey dynamic model.Originality/valueThe paper provides a viewpoint on FCC by using the combined methodology, which takes advantage of high predictable power of grey dynamic model and at the same time takes advantage of the prediction powers of ARIMA model and Markov chain.
An improved multifractal method for pavement cracks extraction
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhang Zhi‐feng , Huang Yu‐jun , Zhao Ying‐lu , Xiao Liang , He An‐zhi 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to provide an improved multifractal method to extract the pavement cracks in the complicated background. Furthermore, the pavement surface images with or without crack can also be distinguished by this method.Design/methodology/approachThe framework of analyzing the image singularity is based on the sub‐pixel multifractal measure (SPMM). Performing the SPMM can give the sub‐pixel local distribution of the image gradient and a more precise singularity exponent distribution in the image. Meantime, using the singularity exponents and the most singular manifold (MSM), the image can be decomposed into a series of sets with different statistical and physical properties automatically and easily. One can extract the cracks according to the MSM.FindingsThe example shows that the physical and geometrical properties of the pavement images can be obtained by analyzing the distribution of singularity exponents and the greatest singularity exponent. The simulation results show that the SPMM has higher quality factor in the image edge detection. And the MSM detected this way reflects the most important information of the image.Originality/valuePerforming the SPMM can give a more precise singularity exponent distribution in the image.
Optimum cut‐off grade policy for open pit mining operations through net present value algorithm considering metal price and cost escalation
Authors: Asad M.W.A. 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThis paper sets out to propose a new cut‐off optimization algorithm for effective decision making at the open pit mine planning stage.Design/methodology/approachThe determination of optimum cut‐off grade to maximize the net present value of an open pit mining operation is influenced by the economic parameters including metal price and operating costs, the capacities of mine, mill, and refining stages, and grade distribution of the mineral deposit. The market plays a vital role in changing the economic parameters; therefore, they may escalate during mine life. The effect of these changes could be enormous on optimum cut‐off grade policy. The main motive is to introduce economic parameters escalation into the established theory of optimum cut‐off grades and study the impact of these changes on overall economics of the operation. Therefore, a cut‐off grade optimization algorithm is developed, which considers dynamic metal price and cost escalation during mine life.FindingsA copper deposit case study shows that, keeping the metal price escalation at a minimum, the impact of mining and milling costs escalation is relatively higher than refining and administrative costs. Hence, a high‐escalation rate in mining and milling costs may change an economic operation into an uneconomic scenario.Research limitations/implicationsManagement of stockpiles as a policy may be introduced in the algorithm for improvement in economy through maximum utilization of mineral resources.Originality/valueThe algorithm due to its flexibility allows analysis of various options in the least possible time, which makes it valuable to mine planners in decision making for major mining investments.
Strategic sourcing in the Hong Kong toy industry
Authors: Ching‐Tung Chan Tony , Chin Kwai‐Sang , Lam Ping‐Kit 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to identify the core values and key success factors in strategic sourcing; and to examine the importance of strategic sourcing and the key success factors in the Hong Kong toy industry. In addition, the relationship between the implementation of the key factors and sourcing performance in the Hong Kong toy industry are investigated.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical research is based on a questionnaire survey that collected data from 205 Hong Kong toy companies. The survey investigated the degree of importance of key success strategic sourcing factors and the extent of implementation of the key factors in the companies. Furthermore, the sourcing performance of the companies was measured to investigate its relationship with the implementation of the key factors.FindingsThe research identifies five core values and 14 key success factors in strategic sourcing through literature reviews. The survey findings indicate that the identified key success factors are important and positively related to the sourcing performance. Moreover, the results show that the implementation of strategic sourcing in the Hong Kong toy industry is lagging behind the degree of importance of strategic sourcing.Research limitations/implicationsSince there is a gap between the implementation and importance of strategic sourcing, there is room for the Hong Kong toy industry to improve sourcing performance by addressing the 14 key success factors.Originality/valueThe paper identifies the key success strategic sourcing factors to improve sourcing performance in the Hong Kong toy industry.
Process capability in services
Authors: Puga‐Leal Rogério , Lopes Pereira Zulema 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to develop an index for assessing service capability when the customer considers satisfactory a certain range of service performance, the so‐called zone of tolerance.Design/methodology/approachLiterature on service research and statistical process control (SPC) was used to develop a conceptual approach that is later worked out for implementation. Some of the quality function deployment principles are used in the approach to articulate customer perceptions and expectations with parameters of service performance.FindingsIt is demonstrated that traditional capability indices do not cope properly with service performance characterized by a zone of tolerance and that the new capability index, proposed by the authors, is more than adequate to deal with the specific features of services.Research limitations/implicationsIt was assumed that performance levels within the zone of tolerance are not perceived as different by customers and that service performance could be considered as normally distributed. Further research is clearly needed, not only to test the assumptions in different service environments, but also to assess the robustness of the proposed index when the assumptions are violated.Practical implicationsImprovement efforts of the organizations can be better allocated if the relation between customer expectations and service performance is understood and characterized.Originality/valueA new approach to understand the relationship between customer expectations and perceptions and service performance is launched. The approach led to the development of a service capability index and might constitute a contribution to all researchers and practitioners that intend to spread SPC principles within the service sector.
Using QFD for e‐business planning and analysis in a micro‐sized enterprise
Authors: Clegg Ben , Tan Boon 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show how QFD can be used as part of a structured planning and analysis framework for micro‐sized enterprises to build‐up their e‐business capabilities.Design/methodology/approachThis case study has been produced using a new framework which integrates the balanced scorecard, value chain and quality function deployment techniques into an integrated framework known as the E‐Business Planning and Analysis Framework (E‐PAF). It has been produced using an action research approach.FindingsA new framework with a supporting case study is provided. This case study has demonstrated that the framework can be applied successfully to micro‐sized enterprises (those with less than ten employees) to successfully plan new strategic and technical developments. This will enhance the online service that the company is able to provide.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper presents a single case study. The technical recommendations are currently being implemented.Originality/valueSuch analytical techniques are most commonly associated with large organisations, and are not specifically associated with e‐business planning. This paper provides a new framework that will be of general applicability to other similarly sized enterprises that are looking to improve e‐business capabilities.
Relationship quality antecedents: the Malaysian retail banking perspective
Authors: Oly Ndubisi Nelson 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to examine the impact of relationship marketing (RM) underpinnings namely, trust, commitment, communication and conflict handling on the quality of firm‐customer relationship as well as the levels of contribution of these underpinnings.Design/methodology/approachThe model of relationship quality based on literature was developed and tested empirically among customers of retail banks in Malaysia. A structured questionnaire was used in the study. Sample selection was based on a systematic random sampling technique. Factor and multivariate analyses techniques were used to process the data.FindingsThe findings of the study support most of the hypothesized relationships. There is a significant positive relationship between trust, commitment and conflict handling on relationship quality. The independent variables contribute differentially to relationship quality.Research limitations/implicationsThe relationship marketing underpinnings can predict relationship quality well. Banks can build and maintain quality customer relationship through trust, commitment and conflict resolution. The outcome of the study can help banks in developing effective strategies for enhancing the quality of firm‐customer relationships and in designing and delivering banking service strategies, tactics, and training programmes that would enable bank employees and managers to function effectively as relationship builders, nurturers, managers, and custodians in service settings.Originality/valueIt has been suggested that in order to keep customers loyal, firms should constantly improve overall relationship quality. However, little is understood about the key antecedents of relationship quality and the actual contributions of each of these antecedents from a relationship marketing viewpoint. By comparing the levels of contributions of the RM underpinnings, banks are now able to decide on the level of attention and effort to be assigned to each, based on their importance.
A new loss function‐based method for evaluating manufacturing and environmental risks
Authors: Pan Jeh‐Nan 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to provide a new loss function‐based risk assessment method so the likelihood and consequence resulting from the failure of a manufacturing or environmental system can be evaluated simultaneously.Design/methodology/approachInstead of using risk matrices of the occurrence and consequence separately for evaluating manufacturing and environmental risks, an integrated approach by exploring the relationship between process capability indices: Cp, Cpk and Cpm, and three different loss functions: Taguchi's loss function; Inverted normal loss function (INLF); and Revised inverted normal loss function (RINLF) is proposed.FindingsThe new method of quantitative risk assessment linking the likelihood and expected loss of failure is illustrated by two numeric examples. The results suggest that the revised inverted normal loss function (RINLF) be used in assessing manufacturing and environmental risks.Practical implicationsIt gives decision‐makers a concrete tool to assess the likelihood and consequence of their processes. Linking the process capability indices and loss functions is particularly promising, as this provides a useful risk assessment tool for practitioners who want to reduce hazardous waste and manufacturing losses from their facilities.Originality/valueThe manufacturing and environmental risks are determined by paring the process capability indices and loss function. From the loss function‐based estimation, one can quantify the consequence of a manufacturing loss and get the severity rating in an objective way.
Holistic sense‐making: conflicting opinions, creative ideas, and collective intelligence
Authors: Chen Chaomei 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this work is to introduce a generic conceptual and methodological framework for the study of emergent social and intellectual patterns and trends in a diverse range of sense‐and decision‐making activities.Design/methodology/approachThe development of the framework is driven by three motivating challenges: capturing the collective intelligence of science, fostering scientific discoveries in science and e‐Science, and facilitating evidence‐based librarianship (EBL). The framework is built on concepts such as structural holes and intellectual turning points, methodologies and techniques for progressive knowledge domain visualization and differentiation of conflicting opinions, and information integration models to achieve coherent transitions between different conceptual scales.FindingsStructural holes and turning points are detected and validated with the domain of terrorism research as an example. Conflicting opinions are differentiated in the form of a decision tree of phrases with the greatest information gains. Fundamental issues concerning the reliability of common assumptions across multiple levels of granularity are identified. Knowledge diffusion is studied in terms of information integration between a geographic space and an intellectual space.Research limitations/implicationsThis study characterizes a holistic sense‐making approach with three exemplar themes. Future research is needed to develop theoretical foundations and corresponding techniques to sustain additional themes.Practical implicationsThe work contributes to the practice of improving our understanding of the collective intelligence in science.Originality/valueThe value of the work is the conceptual and methodological contributions to address various phenomena across micro‐ and macroscopic levels.
A tale of binary bricks and mortar: building a virtual library
Authors: Coenen Bert 
Published: September 2007

PurposeTo provide a technical and practical analysis of the interactive floor plan developed by and for the law library at the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium.Design/methodology/approachThe different steps in the development process are described, from original idea to conclusion.FindingsThough some steps in the process are described fairly technically and detailed, the paper is by no means a step‐by‐step guide to developing similar applications, it briefly touches the principles and concepts that make the application work.Originality/valueThis paper describes the conception and development of a new type of library application. A truly interactive floor plan, unlike traditional static floor plans found on most web sites, was developed to create an actual virtual library. The concepts and techniques described in this paper could prove useful for other libraries wanting to create a similar application.
Human perception and knowledge organization: visual imagery
Authors: Hajdu Barat Agnes 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the theory and practice of knowledge organization and its necessary connection to human perception, and shows a solution of the potential ones.Design/methodology/approachThe author attempts to survey the problem of concept‐building and extension, as well as the determination of semantics in different aspects. The purpose is to find criteria for the choice of the solution that best incorporates users into the design cycles of knowledge organization systems.FindingsIt is widely agreed that cognition provides the basis for concept‐building; however, at the next stage of processing there is a debate. Fundamentally, what is the connection between perception and the superior cognitive processes? The perceptual method does not separate these two but rather considers them united, with perception permeating cognition. By contrast, the linguistic method considers perception as an information‐receiving system. Separate from, and following, perception, the cognitive subsystems then perform information and data processing, leading to both knowledge organization and representation. We assume by that model that top‐level concepts emerge from knowledge organization and representation. This paper points obvious connection of visual imagery and the internet; perceptual access of knowledge organization and information retrieval. There are some practical and characteristic solutions for the visualization of information without demand of completeness.Research limitations/implicationsLibrarians need to identify those semantic characteristics which stimulate a similar conceptual image both in the mind of the librarian and in the mind of the user.Originality/valueFor a fresh perspective, an understanding of perception is required as well.