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Article
Publication date: 26 April 2024

Yansen Wu, Dongsheng Wen, Anmin Zhao, Haobo Liu and Ke Li

This study aims to study the thermal identification issue by harvesting both solar energy and atmospheric thermal updraft for a solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (SUAV) and…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to study the thermal identification issue by harvesting both solar energy and atmospheric thermal updraft for a solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (SUAV) and its electric energy performance under continuous soaring conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop a specific dynamic model for SUAVs in both soaring and cruise modes. The support vector machine regression (SVMR) is adopted to estimate the thermal position, and it is combined with feedback control to implement the SUAV soaring in the updraft. Then, the optimal path model is built based on the graph theory considering the existence of several thermals distributed in the environment. The procedure is proposed to estimate the electricity cost of SUAV during flight as well as soaring, and making use of dynamic programming to maximize electric energy.

Findings

The simulation results present the integrated control method could allow SUAV to soar with the updraft. In addition, the proposed approach allows the SUAV to fly to the destination using distributed thermals while reducing the electric energy use.

Originality/value

Two simplified dynamic models are constructed for simulation considering there are different flight mode. Besides, the data-driven-based SVMR method is proposed to support SUAV soaring. Furthermore, instead of using length, the energy cost coefficient in optimization problem is set as electric power, which is more suitable for SUAV because its advantage is to transfer the three-dimensional path planning problem into the two-dimensional.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 March 2024

Amar Benkhaled, Amina Benkhedda, Braham Benaouda Zouaoui and Soheyb Ribouh

Reducing aircraft fuel consumption has become a paramount research area, focusing on optimizing operational parameters like speed and altitude during the cruise phase. However…

Abstract

Purpose

Reducing aircraft fuel consumption has become a paramount research area, focusing on optimizing operational parameters like speed and altitude during the cruise phase. However, the existing methods for fuel reduction often rely on complex experimental calculations and data extraction from embedded systems, making practical implementation challenging. To address this, this study aims to devise a simple and accessible approach using available information.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a novel analytic method to estimate and optimize fuel consumption for aircraft equipped with jet engines is proposed, with a particular emphasis on speed and altitude parameters. The dynamic variations in weight caused by fuel consumption during flight are also accounted for. The derived fuel consumption equation was rigorously validated by applying it to the Boeing 737–700 and comparing the results against the fuel consumption reference tables provided in the Boeing manual. Remarkably, the equation yielded closely aligned outcomes across various altitudes studied. In the second part of this paper, a pioneering approach is introduced by leveraging the particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO). This novel application of PSO allows us to explore the equation’s potential in finding the optimal altitude and speed for an actual flight from Algiers to Brussels.

Findings

The results demonstrate that using the main findings of this study, including the innovative equation and the application of PSO, significantly simplifies and expedites the process of determining the ideal parameters, showcasing the practical applicability of the approach.

Research limitations/implications

The suggested methodology stands out for its simplicity and practicality, particularly when compared to alternative approaches, owing to the ready availability of data for utilization. Nevertheless, its applicability is limited in scenarios where zero wind effects are a prevailing factor.

Originality/value

The research opens up new possibilities for fuel-efficient aviation, with a particular focus on the development of a unique fuel consumption equation and the pioneering use of the PSO algorithm for optimizing flight parameters. This study’s accessible approach can pave the way for more environmentally conscious and economical flight operations.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 96 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Expert briefing
Publication date: 25 April 2024

Despite not possessing a functioning conventional navy of its own, Ukraine has deployed innovative tactics to strike Russia’s Black Sea Fleet with considerable success. Officials…

Article
Publication date: 15 January 2024

Nayla Khan, Diletta Acuti, Linda Lemarie and Giampaolo Viglia

The intention of consumers to behave sustainably is not a reliable predictor of sustainable hospitality choices. This intention-behaviour gap represents one of the biggest…

Abstract

Purpose

The intention of consumers to behave sustainably is not a reliable predictor of sustainable hospitality choices. This intention-behaviour gap represents one of the biggest challenges for marketers and environment-friendly businesses. To address this issue, this study aims to draw upon the intention-behaviour gap. The authors revise the sustainable hospitality literature to identify the limitations, to evaluate the extent to which the intention-behaviour gap is embedded in the hospitality literature and to provide practical guidance on how to move research forward in the sustainable hospitality field.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted a five-step process to review and analyse 71 scientific papers published in 14 Hospitality Journals. The authors developed a descriptive overview of the literature showing the publications in this field over the years, the sustainability practices implemented by companies and consumers and the setting of the studies. Finally, the authors conducted a critical analysis of research in sustainable hospitality adopting the intention-behaviour gap lens.

Findings

Leveraging the descriptive overview and critical analysis, the authors offer four directions for future research to address the existing literature limitations. The authors encourage scholars to expand the scope of the research setting, investigate diverse sustainability practices, integrate existing knowledge on the intention-behaviour gap into sustainable hospitality research and combine traditional research methods with emerging technologies.

Practical implications

This study exposes the theoretical challenge of applying conventional behaviour theories to sustainable hospitality, prompting a call for framework re-evaluation. It offers practical insights, empowering researchers, marketers and policymakers to navigate and mitigate the intention-behaviour gap in sustainable hospitality.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper is underscored by its distinctive focus on the unique intention-behaviour gap within sustainable hospitality, coupled with a compelling call to re-evaluate traditional behavioural frameworks. It provides a roadmap for future research in sustainable hospitality, benefiting researchers, policymakers and marketers in promoting sustainable initiatives.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 36 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 May 2024

Shujing Li, Xiaojuan Huang, Zhiheng He, Yongxiang Liu, Hui Qu and Jing Wu

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a double-stator switched reluctance machine (DS-SRM) for electric vehicles (EVs) and to propose multi-mode operations for this machine.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a double-stator switched reluctance machine (DS-SRM) for electric vehicles (EVs) and to propose multi-mode operations for this machine.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of flux linkage distributions and torque characteristics using finite element method (FEM). Building a dynamic simulation model based on electromagnetic characteristics, mathematical equations and mechanical motion equations of the DS-SRM drive system. The paper proposes multi-mode operations (inner-stator excitation mode, outer-stator excitation mode and double-stator excitation mode) based on motor working regions. It also conducts simulation and experimental results to verify the effectiveness of the proposed multi-mode operations strategies and control schemes.

Findings

There is almost no electromagnetic coupling between the inner and outer stators due to the specially designed rotor structure and optimized windings polarity configuration. Analysis of flux linkage distributions and torque characteristics verified the independence of inner and outer stators. Proposal of multi-mode operations and corresponding control rules achieved the smooth switching between different modes.

Originality/value

The paper introduced the DS-SRM for EVs and proposed multi-mode operations, along with control rules, to optimize its performance. The specially designed rotor structure, optimized winding polarity configuration, and the proposed multi-mode operations contribute to the originality of the research.

Details

COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0332-1649

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 March 2024

Tugrul Oktay and Yüksel Eraslan

The purpose of this paper is to improve autonomous flight performance of a fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) via simultaneous morphing wingtip and control system design…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve autonomous flight performance of a fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) via simultaneous morphing wingtip and control system design conducted with optimization, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and machine learning approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

The main wing of the UAV is redesigned with morphing wingtips capable of dihedral angle alteration by means of folding. Aircraft dynamic model is derived as equations depending only on wingtip dihedral angle via Nonlinear Least Squares regression machine learning algorithm. Data for the regression analyses are obtained by numerical (i.e. CFD) and analytical approaches. Simultaneous perturbation stochastic approximation (SPSA) is incorporated into the design process to determine the optimal wingtip dihedral angle and proportional-integral-derivative (PID) coefficients of the control system that maximizes autonomous flight performance. The performance is defined in terms of trajectory tracking quality parameters of rise time, settling time and overshoot. Obtained optimal design parameters are applied in flight simulations to test both longitudinal and lateral reference trajectory tracking.

Findings

Longitudinal and lateral autonomous flight performances of the UAV are improved by redesigning the main wing with morphing wingtips and simultaneous estimation of PID coefficients and wingtip dihedral angle with SPSA optimization.

Originality/value

This paper originally discusses the simultaneous design of innovative morphing wingtip and UAV flight control system for autonomous flight performance improvement. The proposed simultaneous design idea is conducted with the SPSA optimization and a machine learning algorithm as a novel approach.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 96 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 April 2024

Evette Smith Johnson and Nanibala Immanuel Paul

The purpose of this qualitative, single-case study was to explore the development of Jamaica’s maritime education and training (MET) curriculum within the local education context…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this qualitative, single-case study was to explore the development of Jamaica’s maritime education and training (MET) curriculum within the local education context. In this research, the story of the development and sustainability of the local MET curriculum in its 40-year journey from 1980 to present (post 2020), as communicated by various maritime stakeholders and archival documents, is chronicled.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a qualitative orientation and was an embedded single-case study in its design. The entire local MET institution community and those legislatively and operationally allied to its sustained viability constituted the general population of this study. Non-probability sampling techniques were used to arrive at a maximum variation sample. Three sources of data were used in this study: individual interviews, focus group discussions and documents.

Findings

The Jamaican (local) MET curriculum was the brainchild of local perspicacity that was empowered by international benevolence. It was developed to satisfy market demands that existed at the time of its inception. These market requirements of the maritime industry are what impacted the development of the local MET curriculum over four decades. Several other factors led to the sustained viability of the local MET curriculum. These included the ability of the local MET curriculum to meet direct market needs and maintain its fitness for purpose.

Research limitations/implications

It is the view of the researcher that the findings of this study were limited by the fact that the voices of current students and employers from the four decades of the curriculum's existence are not represented in this initial study. The perspectives from these two sources would have broadened the description presented in this study.

Practical implications

This research has shown that specialized higher education (HE) institutions are better served in their business when they maintain a symbiotic relationship with the industry for which they are producing graduates.

Social implications

The treatment of HE as a service industry has gained traction globally. This would suggest that ‘product placement' in specialized HE is important to the growth, development and longevity of that course of study within the society in which it exists.

Originality/value

There is a dearth of national research on Jamaica's four-decades-old MET curriculum and the elements that lend to the sustained viability of same. This discussion of sustainability of the MET curriculum will benefit maritime educators and policymakers, who must continue to hone this curriculum so that it is fit for purpose. The study will also identify some of the elements of a sustainable, specialized HE curriculum. The elements identified herein can serve as exemplars and conceptual starting points for other contexts where the discussion of the sustainability of curriculum needs to be had.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 April 2024

Yiwei Zhang, Daochun Li, Zi Kan, Zhuoer Yao and Jinwu Xiang

This paper aims to propose a novel control scheme and offer a control parameter optimizer to achieve better automatic carrier landing. Carrier landing is a challenging work…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a novel control scheme and offer a control parameter optimizer to achieve better automatic carrier landing. Carrier landing is a challenging work because of the severe sea conditions, high demand for accuracy and non-linearity and maneuvering coupling of the aircraft. Consequently, the automatic carrier landing system raises the need for a control scheme that combines high robustness, rapidity and accuracy. In addition, to exploit the capability of the proposed control scheme and alleviate the difficulty of manual parameter tuning, a control parameter optimizer is constructed.

Design/methodology/approach

A novel reference model is constructed by considering the desired state and the actual state as constrained generalized relative motion, which works as a virtual terminal spring-damper system. An improved particle swarm optimization algorithm with dynamic boundary adjustment and Pareto set analysis is introduced to optimize the control parameters.

Findings

The control parameter optimizer makes it efficient and effective to obtain well-tuned control parameters. Furthermore, the proposed control scheme with the optimized parameters can achieve safe carrier landings under various severe sea conditions.

Originality/value

The proposed control scheme shows stronger robustness, accuracy and rapidity than sliding-mode control and Proportion-integration-differentiation (PID). Also, the small number and efficiency of control parameters make this paper realize the first simultaneous optimization of all control parameters in the field of flight control.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 96 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 31 January 2024

Sungkyung Kim and Argyro Elisavet Manoli

This study delves into the psychological processes underlying sport fans' post-purchase innovativeness behaviour. This exploratory research aims to establish a theoretical…

Abstract

Purpose

This study delves into the psychological processes underlying sport fans' post-purchase innovativeness behaviour. This exploratory research aims to establish a theoretical framework that elucidates the formation of sport fans' word-of-mouth (WOM) behaviours, particularly emphasising the structural relationship between motivated consumer innovativeness and satisfaction in using AR live-streaming services.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilising an online survey and convenience sampling, the study garnered a total of 243 usable responses from three online baseball fan communities in South Korea. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to assess the psychometric properties of the constructs. Subsequently, a structural equation model was used to probe the influence of motivated consumer innovativeness on WOM, with a particular focus on the mediating role of satisfaction.

Findings

Three dimensions of motivated sport fans innovativeness – functional, hedonic and cognitive – showed a positive association with WOM, partly mediated by satisfaction. In contrast, socially motivated sport fans innovativeness did not directly lead to WOM but influenced it solely through satisfaction. The full mediating role of satisfaction in the relationship between socially motivated fans innovativeness and WOM was found.

Originality/value

This research stands out as one of the scant studies exploring motivated sport fans innovativeness in the context of AR live sport streaming. The findings not only corroborate but also augment the extant literature by empirically confirming that three dimensions of motivated fans innovativeness, coupled with satisfaction, are pivotal antecedents to WOM intention.

Details

International Journal of Sports Marketing and Sponsorship, vol. 25 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1464-6668

Keywords

Content available
Article
Publication date: 5 September 2023

İlke Sezin Ayaz, Umur Bucak and Soner Esmer

The European Union's Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), which is already one of the EU's most impactful instruments for reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs), will soon include the…

194

Abstract

Purpose

The European Union's Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), which is already one of the EU's most impactful instruments for reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs), will soon include the maritime transport industry. Although ports are this industry's most environmental-friendly component, there are still some barriers to including ports in the system. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to identify these barriers and to reveal the barriers' interrelationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted by identifying barriers from a literature review before analyzing the barriers with the Fuzzy DEMATEL method. Finally, based on the Complex Adaptive System Approach, various solutions are proposed to overcome these barriers.

Findings

The identified barriers were grouped into cause-and-effect groups. Two barriers, namely long payback period and high investment costs, were evaluated as triggers of the model while the others were more sensitive to the model.

Research limitations/implications

This study only includes the perceptions of green certificated ports in Türkiye. The results revealed an expectation that elimination of financial concerns will alleviate other barriers to including ports in the system. The study's findings can guide port managers on the integration of the managers' processes into the system.

Originality/value

This study provides novel findings regarding the relationships between barriers hindering ports from involvement in the EU ETS.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 35 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

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