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Article
Publication date: 26 July 2021

Liang Zhang, Liang Jing, Liheng Ye and Xing Gao

This paper aims to investigate the problem of attitude control for a horizontal takeoff and horizontal landing reusable launch vehicle.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the problem of attitude control for a horizontal takeoff and horizontal landing reusable launch vehicle.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a predefined-time attitude tracking controller is presented for a horizontal takeoff and horizontal landing reusable launch vehicle (HTHLRLV). Firstly, the attitude tracking error dynamics model of the HTHLRLV is developed. Subsequently, a novel sliding mode surface is designed with predefined-time stability. Furthermore, by using the proposed sliding mode surface, a predefined-time controller is derived. To compensate the external disturbances or model uncertainties, a fixed-time disturbance observer is developed, and its convergence time can be defined as a prior control parameter. Finally, the stability of the proposed sliding mode surface and the controller can be proved by the Lyapunov theory.

Findings

In contrast to other fixed-time methods, this controller only requires three control parameters, and the convergence time can be predefined instead of being estimated. The simulation results also demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller.

Originality/value

A novel predefined-time attitude tracking controller is developed based on the predefined-time sliding mode surface (SMS) and fixed-time disturbance observer (FxTDO). The convergence time of the system can be selected as a prior control parameter for SMS and FxTDO.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 93 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 March 2024

Jing Liang, Ming Li and Xuanya Shao

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of online reviews on answer adoption in virtual Q&A communities, with an eye toward extending knowledge exchange and community…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of online reviews on answer adoption in virtual Q&A communities, with an eye toward extending knowledge exchange and community management.

Design/methodology/approach

Online reviews contain rich cognitive and emotional information about community members regarding the provided answers. As feedback information on answers, it is crucial to explore how online reviews affect answer adoption. Based on signaling theory, a research model reflecting the influence of online reviews on answer adoption is established and empirically examined by using secondary data with 69,597 Q&A data and user data collected from Zhihu. Meanwhile, the moderating effects of the informational and emotional consistency of reviews and answers are examined.

Findings

The negative binomial regression results show that both answer-related signals (informational support and emotional support) and answerers-related signals (answerers’ reputations and expertise) positively impact answer adoption. The informational consistency of reviews and answers negatively moderates the relationships among information support, emotional support and answer adoption but positively moderates the effect of answerers’ expertise on answer adoption. Furthermore, the emotional consistency of reviews and answers positively moderates the effect of information support and answerers’ reputations on answer adoption.

Originality/value

Although previous studies have investigated the impacts of answer content, answer source credibility and personal characteristics of knowledge seekers on answer adoption in virtual Q&A communities, few have examined the impact of online reviews on answer adoption. This study explores the impacts of informational and emotional feedback in online reviews on answer adoption from a signaling theory perspective. The results not only provide unique ideas for community managers to optimize community design and operation but also inspire community users to provide or utilize knowledge, thereby reducing knowledge search costs and improving knowledge exchange efficiency.

Article
Publication date: 19 January 2024

Ming Li and Jing Liang

Knowledge adoption is the key to effective knowledge exchange in virtual question-and-answer (Q&A) communities. Although previous studies have examined the effects of knowledge…

Abstract

Purpose

Knowledge adoption is the key to effective knowledge exchange in virtual question-and-answer (Q&A) communities. Although previous studies have examined the effects of knowledge content, knowledge source credibility and the personal characteristics of knowledge seekers on knowledge adoption in virtual Q&A communities from a static perspective, the impact of answer deviation on knowledge adoption has rarely been explored from a context-based perspective. The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of two-way deviation on knowledge adoption in virtual Q&A communities, with the aim of expanding the understanding of knowledge exchange and community management.

Design/methodology/approach

The same question and the same answerer often yield multiple answers. Knowledge seekers usually read multiple answers to make adoption decisions. The impact of deviations among answers on knowledge seekers' knowledge adoption is critical. From a context-based perspective, a research model of the impact of the deviation of horizontal and vertical answers on knowledge adoption is established based on the heuristic-systematic model (HSM) and empirically examined with 88,287 Q&A data points and answerer data collected from Zhihu. Additionally, the moderation effects of static factors such as answerer reputation and answer length are examined.

Findings

The negative binomial regression results show that the content and emotion deviation of horizontal answers negatively affect knowledge seekers' knowledge adoption. The content deviation of vertical answers is negatively associated with knowledge adoption, while the emotion deviation of vertical answers is positively related to knowledge adoption. Moreover, answerer reputation positively moderates the negative effect of the emotion deviation of horizontal answers on knowledge adoption. Answer length weakens the negative correlation between the content deviation of horizontal and vertical answers and knowledge adoption.

Originality/value

This study extends previous research on knowledge adoption from a static perspective to a context-based perspective. Moreover, information deviation is expanded from a one-way variable to a two-way variable. The combined effects of static and contextual factors on knowledge adoption are further uncovered. This study can not only help knowledge seekers identify the best answers but also help virtual Q&A community managers optimize community design and operation to reduce the cost of knowledge search and improve the efficiency of knowledge exchange.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 August 2015

Lixia Yin, Shunxing Liang and Liyun Zheng

Effects of major factors, such as alloy composition, crystal structure and grain size, on mechanical properties of TiZr based alloys are investigated and summarized in this work…

Abstract

Effects of major factors, such as alloy composition, crystal structure and grain size, on mechanical properties of TiZr based alloys are investigated and summarized in this work. The microhardness of TC4 alloy obviously increases 15.3% and 17.6% after 30 wt.% and 47 wt.% Zr additions, respectively. Nanoindentation results show that the average nanoindentation hardness of α phase in annealed 30 Zr is approximately 18% higher than that of retained β phase. Tensile test results show that variation in strength of basketweave microstructural 30 Zr alloy with original β grain size from 100 to 203 μm is less than 2%.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 12 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 October 2015

Xu Qiao, Shunxing Liang, Lixia Yin and Dandan Li

The Zr-40Ti-4.5Al-4.2V (ZT40) alloy is one of new developed Zirconium alloys with high mechanical properties and great potential for application. The investigation about effects…

Abstract

The Zr-40Ti-4.5Al-4.2V (ZT40) alloy is one of new developed Zirconium alloys with high mechanical properties and great potential for application. The investigation about effects of plastic deformation on microstructure and mechanical properties can promote practical applications of the new high performance ZrTi based alloys. The microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of the ZT40 alloy suffered hot rolling with thickness reduction from 30% to 60% at 775 °C are investigated in this work. Results show that the phase constitution changes from (α + β) to (β + fcc) while the original specimen underwent hot rolling and subsequent water quenching. The β phase in hot rolled specimen adopts preferred orientation form (200) and (211) planes to only (200) plane while the rolling reduction increases from 30% to 60%. Furthermore, no obvious preferred orientation can be detected in specimen with reductions of 60%. Micrographs analysis shows that the dynamic recrystallization occurs in hot rolled specimens. Volume fraction of the DRX grains is approximately 8% in 30% reduction specimen and increases with the increasing of rolling reduction. Nearly full recrystallization is observed in the specimen with reductions of 60%. Hardness test shows that the HV of hot rolled specimen decreases from 384 HV to 329 HV as the increasing of reduction from 30% to 60%. The mechanisms of microstructural evolution and variation of hardness are also discussed. The finding should contribute to understand microstructural evolution, to adjust mechanical properties and to promote practical applications of Zirconium alloys.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 12 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 May 2024

İsmail Cengiz Yılmaz and Hamdi Tekin

Migration is on the rise due to globalization and human mobility. This has led to increased impacts that have affected many industries, including the construction industry. A…

Abstract

Purpose

Migration is on the rise due to globalization and human mobility. This has led to increased impacts that have affected many industries, including the construction industry. A large number of migrants are employed in the construction sector, and employers are challenged to make sure all employees are properly integrated to meet the demands needed for construction projects. This article addresses key differences between migrant and native workers to help hiring departments in the construction industry analyse workers' attitudes based on cultural and motivational factors to have the workforce they need to succeed.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used both quantitative and qualitative surveys. A two-part questionnaire, designed through a comprehensive literature review, was carried out to identify key differences between native and migrant workers. The data were obtained and then analysed using different statistical approaches, including factor analysis protocol, factor structure model, reliability analysis, relative importance index and nonparametric test analysis. A semi-structured interview was then conducted to discuss all the findings.

Findings

The study indicated that migrant workers, compared to natives, tend to give more importance to their working environment, particularly accommodation, work safety and relations with teammates. Also, migrants typically take a socialistic approach instead of an individual approach while at work and reveal an extensive range of behaviours based on a sense of belonging. It might be more important for migrants to have a place in society, to have a settled life and to be integrated into an established order than to improve their rights and benefits. On the other hand, the study argued that native workers tend to prioritize their benefits at work, such as regular payments for overtime and insurance premiums. Their behaviours might carry a more neutral and individual attitude as well as specific cultural traces.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to a sample of participants in the Turkish construction sector. Further research based on more cultural models and motivational factors with a larger group of respondents from different countries could offer better results. The results of the study might not apply to a broad context due to many other factors that affect worker behaviours, such as geography, cultural structures and working conditions. Despite these drawbacks, the present paper may help employers and other stakeholders understand the best way to incorporate migrants into the construction industry.

Originality/value

This research is very important for the construction industry in various countries that are currently employing thousands of migrants. Being able to address the key differences between migrants and native workers based on cultural and motivational factors might help with engagement and create a level of harmony in the field for greater productivity.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 April 2021

Ying Zhao, Wei Chen, Mehrdad Arashpour, Zhuzhang Yang, Chengxin Shao and Chao Li

Prefabricated construction is often hindered by scheduling delays. This paper aims to propose a schedule delay prediction model system, which can provide the key information for…

Abstract

Purpose

Prefabricated construction is often hindered by scheduling delays. This paper aims to propose a schedule delay prediction model system, which can provide the key information for controlling the delay effects of risk-related factors on scheduling in prefabricated construction.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper combines SD (System Dynamics) and BP (Back Propagation) neural network to predict risk related delays. The SD-based prediction model focuses on dynamically presenting the interrelated impacts of risk events and activities along with workflow. While BP neural network model is proposed to evaluate the delay effect for a single risk event disrupting a single job, which is the necessary input parameter of SD-based model.

Findings

The established model system is validated through a structural test, an extreme condition test, a sensitivity test, and an error test, and shows an excellent performance on aspect of reliability and accuracy. Furthermore, 5 scenarios of case application during 3 different projects located in separate cities prove the prediction model system can be applied in a wide range.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to academic research on combination of SD and BP neural network at the operational level prediction, and a practical prediction tool supporting managers to take decision-making in a timely manner against delays.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 29 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 September 2023

Chao Zhang, Jianxin Fu and Yu Wang

The interaction between rock mass structural planes and dynamic stress levels is important to determine the stability of rock mass structures in underground geotechnical…

Abstract

Purpose

The interaction between rock mass structural planes and dynamic stress levels is important to determine the stability of rock mass structures in underground geotechnical engineering. In this work, the authors aim to focus on the degradation effects of fracture geometric parameters and unloading stress paths on rock mechanical properties.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-dimensional Particle Flow Code (PFC3D) was used for a systematic numerical simulation of the strength failure and cracking behavior of granite specimens containing prefabricated cracks under conventional triaxial compression and triaxial unilateral unloading. The authors demonstrated the unique mechanical response of prefabricated fractured rock under two conditions. The crack initiation, propagation, and coalescence process of pre-fissured specimens were analyzed in detail.

Findings

The authors show that the prefabricated cracks and unilateral unloading conditions not only deteriorate the mechanical strength but also have significant differences in failure modes. The degrading effect of cracks on model strength increases linearly with the decrease of the dip angle. Under the condition of true triaxial unilateral unloading, the deterioration effect of peak strength of rock is very significant, and unloading plays a role in promoting the instability failure of rock after peak, making the rock earlier instability failure. Associating with the particle vector diagram and crack coalescence process, the authors find that model failure mode under unilateral loading conditions is obviously distinct from that in triaxial loading. The peak strain in the unloading direction increases sharply, resulting in a new shear slip.

Originality/value

This study is expected to improve the understanding of the strength failure and cracking behavior of fractured rock under unilateral unloading.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 40 no. 9/10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 December 2021

Jiutong Luo, Pui-Sze Yeung and Hui Li

The longitudinal impact of media multitasking on the development of executive function has been understudied, as most of the existing studies are cross-sectional. This…

Abstract

Purpose

The longitudinal impact of media multitasking on the development of executive function has been understudied, as most of the existing studies are cross-sectional. This longitudinal study addresses this research gap and uses multiple measures, i.e. behavioral and self-reported, to explore the impact of media multitasking on the executive function of Chinese adolescents.

Design/methodology/approach

This study followed 99 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 14.41, SD = 1.10; 42 boys and 57 girls) for one year using both behavioral (2-back, Stroop Color and Number-letter tasks) and self-reported (questionnaire) measures. The adolescents were categorized as either heavy/high media multitaskers (HMMs; 19 boys and 29 girls) or light/low media multitaskers (LMMs; 23 boys and 28 girls). They were tested at baseline, 6 months later and 12 months later.

Findings

The results indicated that the accuracy scores for all cognitive tasks differed with age, but the switch-cost in the shifting task and the self-reported measures of executive function did not. And there were consistent differences between the HMMs and LMMs in the self-reported measures and 2-back accuracy. However, the interaction effect was found only in shifting ability, indicating a decline in the LMMs' self-reported problematic shifting behavior in daily life.

Originality/value

This study used behavioral and self-reported measures to confirm the longitudinal impact of media multitasking on executive function. The impact of media multitasking on executive function is more apparent in daily-life behavior than in cognitive task performance.

Details

Internet Research, vol. 32 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1066-2243

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 October 2019

Abdesselam Bougdira, Abdelaziz Ahaitouf and Ismail Akharraz

The purpose of this paper is to describe a proposed framework for traceability purpose. Hence, the framework provides a formal and structured way of viewing a traceability…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a proposed framework for traceability purpose. Hence, the framework provides a formal and structured way of viewing a traceability solution. This structure lays the required bases for a traceability system before starting development and deployment.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines several traceability publications, including systems and literature review. The study covers the traceability implementation phase. Therefore, this research approaches the traceability issue from three perspectives (description, engineering and executive one). The separation between aspects is essential when describing and comparing traceability systems. This distinction is also helpful when recommending solution improvements.

Findings

The framework identifies six traceability bases: aims, functions, specifications, data classification, processes and procedures. These can establish a basis for a general purpose tool that can enable users to develop an efficient traceability solution. Thus, the first ontology expresses the framework domain and ensures optimal use of it. The second one represents the bases that can serve as a knowledge base to manage the product data.

Research limitations/implications

The suggested framework tackles the implementation of traceability. Therefore, the design emphasizes the importance of technological concerns. Some studied cases could require more research angles (i.e. economic and legislative). Thus, framework enrichment is essential for further improvements.

Practical implications

The framework helps users to develop a general, interoperable and scalable traceability solution. These are important to promote the generalization of traceability systems.

Originality/value

The framework fulfills a requirement for establishing general traceability foundations. Therefore, the guide independently operates of the product or the industry specificity. Moreover, the bases aim to bridge the gap between solution engineering and traceability requirements.

Details

Journal of Modelling in Management, vol. 15 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5664

Keywords

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