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Article
Publication date: 12 October 2022

Thomas Danel, Zoubeir Lafhaj, Anand Puppala, Samer BuHamdan, Sophie Lienard and Philippe Richard

The crane plays an essential role in modern construction sites as it supports numerous operations and activities on-site. Additionally, the crane produces a big amount of data…

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Abstract

Purpose

The crane plays an essential role in modern construction sites as it supports numerous operations and activities on-site. Additionally, the crane produces a big amount of data that, if analyzed, could significantly affect productivity, progress monitoring and decision-making in construction projects. This paper aims to show the usability of crane data in tracking the progress of activities on-site.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a pattern-based recognition method to detect concrete pouring activities on any concrete-based construction sites. A case study is presented to assess the methodology with a real-life example.

Findings

The analysis of the data helped build a theoretical pattern for concrete pouring activities and detect the different phases and progress of these activities. Accordingly, the data become useable to track progress and identify problems in concrete pouring activities.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents an example for construction practitioners and researcher about a practical and easy way to analyze the big data that comes from cranes and how it is used in tracking projects' progress. The current study focuses only on concrete pouring activities; future studies can include other types of activities and can utilize the data with other building methods to improve construction productivity.

Practical implications

The proposed approach is supposed to be simultaneously efficient in terms of concrete pouring detection as well as cost-effective. Construction practitioners could track concrete activities using an already-embedded monitoring device.

Originality/value

While several studies in the literature targeted the optimization of crane operations and of mitigating hazards through automation and sensing, the opportunity of using cranes as progress trackers is yet to be fully exploited.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 September 2022

Neeraj Yadav, Neda Sadeghi and Julian Kang

Tactile communication that relies on the human sense of touch replicated using vibration motors is increasingly being explored for seamless communication on construction jobsite…

Abstract

Purpose

Tactile communication that relies on the human sense of touch replicated using vibration motors is increasingly being explored for seamless communication on construction jobsite. However, the technological efficacy cannot secure the users’ acceptability of the tactile communication devices. This study aims to assess the factors affecting the wearability of such a portable tactile device based on the responses from practicing professionals.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation adapted a three-step phenomenological interviewing approach to seek feedback from construction personnel in Texas, the USA, regarding the viability of wearable tactile communication. The interviewees expressed various opinions about the on-body placement upon exposure to a portable tactile feedback prototype developed for this study, which was used to derive inferences regarding the factors affecting its on-field acceptability.

Findings

All the participants of the round-table study (11 out of 11) considered tactile feedback as a viable mode of communication on construction jobsite. Seven professionals supported the integration of a tactile device with the hard hat, whereas the rest preferred tactile eyeglasses. Weatherability, rechargeability, traceability, safety and social receptivity were identified as the major factors affecting the on-body placement of the wearable tactile communication device.

Originality/value

This paper presents a roadmap to gain construction industry opinion on the factors that can affect the on-body placement of a wearable tactile communication device. The five aforementioned factors impacting tactile communication acceptability were used to evaluate 10 potential on-body placements. The findings have implications for research and development of wearable tactile devices and the subsequent acceptability of such a device on the jobsite.

Article
Publication date: 11 January 2024

Roberto Giosa

This study aims to investigate how institutional and organisational factors affect case management of patients with mental disorders by GPs in Italy and Spain. The paper…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how institutional and organisational factors affect case management of patients with mental disorders by GPs in Italy and Spain. The paper highlights the importance of improving the effectiveness of primary care to ensure easy access to mental health services, which is crucial in responding to the increasing incidence of mental disorders and preventing negative outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

This article details a qualitative research study that examines the management of patients with mental disorders by general practitioners (GPs) in Italy and Spain, using cross-national comparison and in-depth interviews with GPs as research methods.

Findings

The study revealed that Italian self-employed GPs have more scheduling autonomy than Spanish Health Centre GPs. Both face high work pressure and resource scarcity, highlighting the need for targeted training. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a rise in phone consultations.

Originality/value

This study provides novel insights into mental health management by examining the case management of patients with mental disorders by GPs in Italy and Spain, with a focus on the impact of institutional and organisational factors. The cross-national comparison and in-depth interviews enhance the originality of the study, offering a nuanced understanding of the constraints faced by GPs in their work context. Furthermore, the comparison of the similar primary care frameworks of Italy and Spain may offer insight into their evolution.

Details

International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, vol. 44 no. 3/4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-333X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 May 2022

Da’ad Ahmad Albalawneh and M.A. Mohamed

Using a real-time road network combined with historical traffic data for Al-Salt city, the paper aims to propose a new federated genetic algorithm (GA)-based optimization…

Abstract

Purpose

Using a real-time road network combined with historical traffic data for Al-Salt city, the paper aims to propose a new federated genetic algorithm (GA)-based optimization technique to solve the dynamic vehicle routing problem. Using a GA solver, the estimated routing time for 300 chromosomes (routes) was the shortest and most efficient over 30 generations.

Design/methodology/approach

In transportation systems, the objective of route planning techniques has been revised from focusing on road directors to road users. As a result, the new transportation systems use advanced technologies to support drivers and provide them with the road information they need and the services they require to reduce traffic congestion and improve routing problems. In recent decades, numerous studies have been conducted on how to find an efficient and suitable route for vehicles, known as the vehicle routing problem (VRP). To identify the best route, VRP uses real-time information-acquired geographical information systems (GIS) tools.

Findings

This study aims to develop a route planning tool using ArcGIS network analyst to enhance both cost and service quality measures, taking into account several factors to determine the best route based on the users’ preferences.

Originality/value

Furthermore, developing a route planning tool using ArcGIS network analyst to enhance both cost and service quality measures, taking into account several factors to determine the best route based on the users’ preferences. An adaptive genetic algorithm (GA) is used to determine the optimal time route, taking into account factors that affect vehicle arrival times and cause delays. In addition, ArcGIS' Network Analyst tool is used to determine the best route based on the user's preferences using a real-time map.

Details

International Journal of Pervasive Computing and Communications, vol. 20 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1742-7371

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 October 2023

Shikha Yadav, Aman Borkar and Aditi Khanna

With the pressing need for environmental conservation, regulatory authorities are actively looking for measures to prevent global warming. In the proposed inventory model for…

Abstract

Purpose

With the pressing need for environmental conservation, regulatory authorities are actively looking for measures to prevent global warming. In the proposed inventory model for deteriorating items, demand is dependent on the selling price and green technology investment (or carbon reduction investment) for the green product (GP), as well as an investment in price-based preservation technology to slow down the pace of deterioration. Furthermore, emission reduction measures are put in place to reduce carbon emissions (CEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The current study executed a thorough literature review to determine how to improve supply chain management performance. Furthermore, assumptions are made to fill research gaps, and a mathematical model is created to address the problem mentioned above. To collect the data, the available inventory literature was reviewed. Additionally, numerical illustrations and sensitivity analyses are presented to emphasize the model's robustness.

Findings

The research indicates that it is more prudent to invest in preservation technology based on its selling price in order to control the rate of deterioration. In addition, the proposed model facilitates the management of deteriorated waste through salvage trading and emission reduction investment. The findings validate sustainable practices with a 20.86% increase in profit and a 21.4% decrease in CEs, thereby signifying environmental and economic benefits.

Originality/value

The proposed model enhances understanding of the impact of investments in price-based preservation technology and carbon reduction efforts on consumer perceptions of their intention to purchase GPs. Moreover, the study provides valuable insights by identifying important recommendations for policymakers regarding areas that require further investigation. This guideline can help identify both current and unexplored gaps, enabling researchers to direct future research efforts toward producing new products.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 35 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 May 2023

Ishita Seth, Kalpna Guleria and Surya Narayan Panda

The internet of vehicles (IoV) communication has recently become a popular research topic in the automotive industry. The growth in the automotive sector has resulted in…

28

Abstract

Purpose

The internet of vehicles (IoV) communication has recently become a popular research topic in the automotive industry. The growth in the automotive sector has resulted in significant standards and guidelines that have engaged various researchers and companies. In IoV, routing protocols play a significant role in enhancing communication safety for the transportation system. The high mobility of nodes in IoV and inconsistent network coverage in different areas make routing challenging. This paper aims to provide a lane-based advanced forwarding protocol for internet of vehicles (LAFP-IoV) for efficient data distribution in IoV. The proposed protocol’s main feature is that it can identify the destination zone by using position coordinates and broadcasting the packets toward the direction of destination. The novel suppression technique is used in the broadcast method to reduce the network routing overhead.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed protocol considers the interferences between different road segments, and a novel lane-based forwarding model is presented. The greedy forwarding notion, the broadcasting mechanism, and the suppression approach are used in this protocol to reduce the overhead generated by standard beacon forwarding procedures. The SUMO tool and NS-2 simulator are used for the vehicle's movement pattern and to simulate LAFP-IoV.

Findings

The simulation results show that the proposed LAFP-IoV protocol performs better than its peer protocols. It uses a greedy method for forwarding data packets and a carry-and-forward strategy to recover from the local maximum stage. This protocol's low latency and good PDR make it ideal for congested networks.

Originality/value

The proposed paper provides a unique lane-based forwarding for IoV. The proposed work achieves a higher delivery ratio than its peer protocols. The proposed protocol considers the lanes while forwarding the data packets applicable to the highly dense scenarios.

Article
Publication date: 12 April 2024

Khaled Abdou and Paramita Gupta

This study aims to investigate limited partners’ (LPs) influence on venture capital (VC) fund returns.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate limited partners’ (LPs) influence on venture capital (VC) fund returns.

Design/methodology/approach

We merge data from Preqin and SDC’s VentureXpert spanning from 1993 to 2014 and conduct multiple regression analysis to examine the influence of LPs on VC fund performance. Additionally, we conduct three distinct robustness tests to verify the credibility of our findings.

Findings

Our empirical analysis demonstrates that newbie LPs consistently exert a significant positive influence on VC fund returns.

Research limitations/implications

VC and LP data is self-reported, and there is no comprehensive dataset as some LPs prefer to maintain anonymity.

Originality/value

Extant literature on LPs’ contribution to VC fund performance is limited. The general assumption is that the role of LPs in VC fund performance is confined to funding. We introduce a new variable, LP track record, as a proxy for LP experience to examine if this variable influences VC performance.

Details

Managerial Finance, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0307-4358

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 January 2022

Femi Emmanuel Adeosun and Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke

In recent times, the construction industry is being influenced by technological innovations when delivering a better, more effective and efficient desired project, cyber-physical…

Abstract

Purpose

In recent times, the construction industry is being influenced by technological innovations when delivering a better, more effective and efficient desired project, cyber-physical systems (CPSs) offer a coupling of the physical and engineered systems by monitoring, coordinating, controlling and integrating their operations. This study aims to examine the level of awareness of professionals and usage of CPSs for construction projects in Nigerian construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The target population for this study was the professionals in the construction industry consisting Architects, Quantity Surveyors, Engineers and Builders. Data collection was through the use of a structured questionnaire administered to the target population. The data was analyzed by using statistical tools.

Findings

This study concluded that the construction professionals in the Nigerian construction industry are mostly aware about the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, global positioning system, microphone, speakers and camera as the most widely used CPSs in construction industry. HVAC systems was also found to be the mostly adopted technologies in the construction industry.

Originality/value

This study recommended that platforms that increase the awareness and encourage the usage of CPSs in construction industry should be encouraged by stakeholders concerned with management of construction projects. Such include electronic construction and adoption of blockchain technology.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 22 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 November 2023

Robert Bogue

The purpose of this paper is to provide details of recent developments in agricultural robots with an emphasis of those that address labour shortages and environmental issues.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide details of recent developments in agricultural robots with an emphasis of those that address labour shortages and environmental issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Following an introduction which highlights some of the challenges facing the agricultural industry, this discusses recent robotic agricultural vehicle developments and the enabling technologies. It then provides examples of terrestrial and airborne robots employed in precision agricultural practices. Finally, brief conclusions are drawn.

Findings

Traditional, labour-intensive and environmentally harmful agricultural practices are not sustainable in the long term, and if food supply is to meet future demand, radical changes will be required. Exploiting recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI), agricultural equipment manufacturers are developing robotic vehicles in response to labour shortages. Precision agricultural practices will mitigate many of the detrimental environmental impacts and can also reduce the reliance on manpower. Weeding robots which reduce or eliminate the use of herbicides have been commercialised by a growing number of companies and again exploit AI techniques. Drones equipped with imaging device are playing an increasingly important role by characterising agricultural and crop conditions, thereby allowing highly targeted agrochemical application.

Originality/value

This illustrates how the agricultural industry is adopting robotic technology in response to the need to increased productivity while mitigating the problems of shortages of labour and environmental degradation.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 51 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 April 2024

Shilong Zhang, Changyong Liu, Kailun Feng, Chunlai Xia, Yuyin Wang and Qinghe Wang

The swivel construction method is a specially designed process used to build bridges that cross rivers, valleys, railroads and other obstacles. To carry out this construction…

Abstract

Purpose

The swivel construction method is a specially designed process used to build bridges that cross rivers, valleys, railroads and other obstacles. To carry out this construction method safely, real-time monitoring of the bridge rotation process is required to ensure a smooth swivel operation without collisions. However, the traditional means of monitoring using Electronic Total Station tools cannot realize real-time monitoring, and monitoring using motion sensors or GPS is cumbersome to use.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes a monitoring method based on a series of computer vision (CV) technologies, which can monitor the rotation angle, velocity and inclination angle of the swivel construction in real-time. First, three proposed CV algorithms was developed in a laboratory environment. The experimental tests were carried out on a bridge scale model to select the outperformed algorithms for rotation, velocity and inclination monitor, respectively, as the final monitoring method in proposed method. Then, the selected method was implemented to monitor an actual bridge during its swivel construction to verify the applicability.

Findings

In the laboratory study, the monitoring data measured with the selected monitoring algorithms was compared with those measured by an Electronic Total Station and the errors in terms of rotation angle, velocity and inclination angle, were 0.040%, 0.040%, and −0.454%, respectively, thus validating the accuracy of the proposed method. In the pilot actual application, the method was shown to be feasible in a real construction application.

Originality/value

In a well-controlled laboratory the optimal algorithms for bridge swivel construction are identified and in an actual project the proposed method is verified. The proposed CV method is complementary to the use of Electronic Total Station tools, motion sensors, and GPS for safety monitoring of swivel construction of bridges. It also contributes to being a possible approach without data-driven model training. Its principal advantages are that it both provides real-time monitoring and is easy to deploy in real construction applications.

Details

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

Keywords

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