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Article
Publication date: 26 March 2024

Nan Yao, Tao Guo and Lei Zhang

This study aims to reveal how chief executive officer (CEO) transformational leadership affects business model innovation (BMI) by exploring the serial mediating role of top…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to reveal how chief executive officer (CEO) transformational leadership affects business model innovation (BMI) by exploring the serial mediating role of top management team (TMT) collective energy and behavioral integration and the moderating role of TMT-CEO value congruence.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of 520 TMT members from 127 enterprises in North China was collected through a two-wave questionnaire survey. Hierarchical regression and bootstrapping were used to test the hypothetical relationships proposed in this study.

Findings

The results indicate that TMT collective energy and behavioral integration play a serial mediation role between CEO transformational leadership and BMI. TMT-CEO value congruence positively moderates the relationship between CEO transformational leadership and TMT collective energy as well as the serial mediation effect.

Practical implications

The results suggest that CEOs can stimulate TMT collective energy by demonstrating transformational leadership behaviors, thereby promoting TMT behavioral integration and ultimately achieving BMI. In addition, to enhance the effectiveness of CEO transformational leadership, enterprises should take measures to ensure that TMT members hold values that are consistent with those of CEOs.

Originality/value

Based on social cognitive theory, the mediating mechanism and boundary conditions of CEO transformational leadership that affect BMI are revealed by this study, thus opening the “black box” of the relationship between the two. It also supplements research on the role of TMT among the antecedents of BMI.

Details

Journal of Managerial Psychology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0268-3946

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 March 2024

Nan Feng, Lei Zhang, Xin Liu and Jing Xie

With the development of digitalization and interconnection, there is a growing need for enterprise customers to ensure the compatibility of the third-party components they are…

Abstract

Purpose

With the development of digitalization and interconnection, there is a growing need for enterprise customers to ensure the compatibility of the third-party components they are using in the manufacturing process, thus raising the integration requirements for the Industrial Internet platform and its third-party developers. Therefore, our study investigates the optimal integration decision of the Industrial Internet platform while considering its access price, the integration cost, and the net utility derived by enterprise customers from the third-party components.

Design/methodology/approach

We model a two-sided Industrial Internet platform that connects customers on the demand side to the developers on the supply side. We then explore the integration decision of the Industrial Internet platform and its important factors by solving the optimal profit function.

Findings

First, despite the high integration cost of third-party developers, the platform still chooses to integrate when enterprise customers derive high utility from the third-party components. Second, due to the compatibility effect, charging the enterprise customers a higher price may reduce the platform profits when these customers derive low utility from the third-party components. Third, the platform profits will increase along with the integration cost of third-party developers when it is low in the case where enterprise customers derive low utility from third-party components.

Originality/value

Our findings offer insightful takeaways for the Industrial Internet platform when making integration decisions.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 November 2023

Yifan Pan, Lei Zhang, Dong Mei, Gangqiang Tang, Yujun Ji, Kangning Tan and Yanjie Wang

This study aims to present a type of metamorphic mechanism-based quadruped crawling robot. The trunk design of the robot has a metamorphic mechanism, which endows it with…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to present a type of metamorphic mechanism-based quadruped crawling robot. The trunk design of the robot has a metamorphic mechanism, which endows it with excellent crawling capability and adaptability in challenging environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The robot consists of a metamorphic trunk and four series-connected three-joint legs. First, the walking and steering strategy is planned through the stability and mechanics analysis. Then, the walking and steering performance is examined using virtual prototype technology, as well as the efficacy of the walking and turning strategy.

Findings

The metamorphic quadruped crawling robot has wider application due to its variable trunk configuration and excellent leg motion space. The robot can move in two modes (constant trunk and trunk configuration transformation, respectively, while walking and rotating), which exhibits outstanding stability and adaptability in the examination and verification of prototypes.

Originality/value

The design can enhance the capacity of the quadruped crawling robot to move across a complex environment. The virtual prototype technology verifies that the proposed walking and steering strategy has good maneuverability and stability, which considerably expands the application opportunity in the fields of complicated scene identification and investigation.

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: 29 January 2024

Meigui Yin, Lei Zhang and Longxiang Huang

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of surface salt spray duration on the fretting wear and electrochemical corrosion behaviors of Inconel 690 alloy.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of surface salt spray duration on the fretting wear and electrochemical corrosion behaviors of Inconel 690 alloy.

Design/methodology/approach

A high-temperature steam generator was applied to salt spray test samples, a fretting wear rig was used to realize the damage behavior tests, an electrochemical workstation was applied to analysis the changes of each sample’s corrosion dynamic response before and after fretting wear.

Findings

The thickness of the oxide film that formed on sample surface was increased with the salt spray duration, and somewhat it could act as lubrication during the fretting wear process; however, the corrosive chloride would accelerate the fretting mechanical damage behavior.

Originality/value

In a salt steam spray condition, the fretting tribo-corrosion behaviors of Inconel 690 alloy surface was studied.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 71 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 January 2024

Zhicai Du, Qiang He, Hengcheng Wan, Lei Zhang, Zehua Xu, Yuan Xu and Guotao Li

This paper aims to improve the tribological properties of lithium complex greases using nanoparticles to investigate the tribological behavior of single additives (nano-TiO2 or…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to improve the tribological properties of lithium complex greases using nanoparticles to investigate the tribological behavior of single additives (nano-TiO2 or nano-CeO2) and composite additives (nano-TiO2–CeO2) in lithium complex greases and to analyze the mechanism of their influence using a variety of characterization tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The morphology and microstructure of the nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and an X-ray diffractometer. The tribological properties of different nanoparticles, as well as compounded nanoparticles as greases, were evaluated. Average friction coefficients and wear diameters were analyzed. Scanning electron microscopy and three-dimensional topography were used to analyze the surface topography of worn steel balls. The elements present on the worn steel balls’ surface were analyzed using energy-dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

Findings

The results showed that the coefficient of friction (COF) of grease with all three nanoparticles added was low. The grease-containing composite nanoparticles exhibited a lower COF and superior anti-wear properties. The sample displayed its optimal tribological performance when the ratio of TiO2 to CeO2 was 6:4, resulting in a 30.5% reduction in the COF and a 29.2% decrease in wear spot diameter compared to the original grease. Additionally, the roughness of the worn spot surface and the maximum depth of the wear mark were significantly reduced.

Originality/value

The main innovation of this study is the first mixing of nano-TiO2 and nano-CeO2 with different sizes and properties as compound lithium grease additives to significantly enhance the anti-wear and friction reduction properties of this grease. The results of friction experiments with a single additive are used as a basis to explore the synergistic lubrication mechanism of the compounded nanoparticles. This innovative approach provides a new reference and direction for future research and development of grease additives.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-09-2023-0291/

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 76 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 January 2024

Tong-Tong Lin, Ming-Zhi Yang, Lei Zhang, Tian-Tian Wang, Yu Tao and Sha Zhong

The aerodynamic differences between the head car (HC) and tail car (TC) of a high-speed maglev train are significant, resulting in control difficulties and safety challenges in…

Abstract

Purpose

The aerodynamic differences between the head car (HC) and tail car (TC) of a high-speed maglev train are significant, resulting in control difficulties and safety challenges in operation. The arch structure has a significant effect on the improvement of the aerodynamic lift of the HC and TC of the maglev train. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of a streamlined arch structure on the aerodynamic performance of a 600 km/h maglev train.

Design/methodology/approach

Three typical streamlined arch structures for maglev trains are selected, i.e. single-arch, double-arch and triple-arch maglev trains. The vortex structure, pressure of train surface, boundary layer, slipstream and aerodynamic forces of the maglev trains with different arch structures are compared by adopting improved delayed detached eddy simulation numerical calculation method. The effects of the arch structures on the aerodynamic performance of the maglev train are analyzed.

Findings

The dynamic topological structure of the wake flow shows that a change in arch structure can reduce the vortex size in the wake region; the vortex size with double-arch and triple-arch maglev trains is reduced by 15.9% and 23%, respectively, compared with a single-arch maglev train. The peak slipstream decreases with an increase in arch structures; double-arch and triple-arch maglev trains reduce it by 8.89% and 16.67%, respectively, compared with a single-arch maglev train. The aerodynamic force indicates that arch structures improve the lift imbalance between the HC and TC of a maglev train; double-arch and triple-arch maglev trains improve it by 22.4% and 36.8%, respectively, compared to a single-arch maglev train.

Originality/value

This study compares the effects of a streamlined arch structure on a maglev train and its surrounding flow field. The results of the study provide data support for the design and safe operation of high-speed maglev trains.

Details

International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0961-5539

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 August 2023

Lei Zhang, James Lockhart and Wayne Macpherson

Research studies on offshoring and reshoring have predominantly focused on the home company, widely ignoring the offshored company in the host country. The host company's…

Abstract

Purpose

Research studies on offshoring and reshoring have predominantly focused on the home company, widely ignoring the offshored company in the host country. The host company's influence and contribution have been unseen. This research explores how the host company responds to the home company's location decisions to maintain the dyadic relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory case study in China was conducted to examine the host company's response to reshoring. The case company has two Japanese parent companies that acted for the emergence of reshoring drivers. Primary and secondary data were collected and analysed through thematic analysis. The host company's response strategies to the home company's relocation decisions were identified and explored.

Findings

The findings reveal that four strategies, identified here as being cost control, market expansion, knowledge seeking and relationship bonding, were implemented by the host company. The importance of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and knowledge transfer is also emphasised within these strategies.

Practical implications

This research identified active and practical strategies conducted by the host company to maintain a cooperative relationship with the home company(ies). Instead of encountering a passive response from the host company, the home company may consider working with the host to overcome difficulties caused by emerging reshoring drivers and create an outcome beneficial to both.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first research to study manufacturing reshoring from the perspective of the host company. It provides a new perspective to understanding this phenomenon.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 34 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 August 2023

Xin Zhou, Wenbin Zhou, Yang Zheng Zhang, Meng-Ran Li, Haijing Sun and Jie Sun

This paper aims to study the corrosion inhibition behavior of imidazopyridine and its three derivatives on brass.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study the corrosion inhibition behavior of imidazopyridine and its three derivatives on brass.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors performed weight loss experiments, electrochemical experiments including the polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectrum, corrosion morphology observation using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) and surface composition analysis via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to analyze the corrosion inhibition behavior of imidazopyridine and its three derivatives on brass by using quantum chemical calculation (Gaussian 09), molecular dynamics simulation (M-S) and Langmuir adsorption isotherm.

Findings

According to the results, imidazole-pyridine and its derivatives were found to be modest or moderately mixed corrosion inhibitors; moreover, they were spontaneously adsorbed on the metal surface in a single-layer, mixed adsorption mode.

Originality/value

The corrosion inhibition properties of pyrazolo-[1,2-a]pyridine and its derivatives on brass in sulfuric acid solution were analyzed through weight loss and electrochemical experiments. Moreover, SEM and AFM were simultaneously used to observe the corrosion appearance. Furthermore, XPS was used to analyze the surface. Then, Gaussian 09 and M-S were combined along with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm to investigate the corrosion inhibition mechanism of imidazole-[1,2-a]pyridine and its derivatives.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 70 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 February 2024

Lei Ma, Ben Zhang, Kaitong Liang, Yang Cheng and Chaonan Yi

The embedding of digital technology and the fuzzy organizational boundary have changed the operation of platform innovation ecosystem (PIE). Specifically, as an important energy…

Abstract

Purpose

The embedding of digital technology and the fuzzy organizational boundary have changed the operation of platform innovation ecosystem (PIE). Specifically, as an important energy of PIE, the internal logic of knowledge flow needs to be reconsidered in the context of digital age, which will be helpful to select the cultivation and governance strategy of PIE.

Design/methodology/approach

A dual case-analysis is applied to open the “black box” of knowledge flow in the PIE from the perspective of enabled by digital technology, by taking the intellectual property (IP) operation platform as cases.

Findings

The research findings are as follow: (1) The knowledge flow mechanism of PIE is mainly demonstrated through the processes of knowledge acquisition, knowledge integration and knowledge spillover. During this process, connectivity empowerment and scenario empowerment realize the digital empowerment of the platform. (2) Connectivity empowerment provides a channel of knowledge acquisition for the digital connection between participants in PIE. In the process of knowledge integration, scenario empowerment improves the opportunities for accurate matching and collaborative innovation between knowledge supplier and demander, and enhance the value of knowledge. The dual effect of connectivity empowerment and scenario empowerment has accelerated the knowledge spillover in PIE. Particularly, connectivity empowerment expands the range of knowledge spillover, and scenario empowerment affects the generativity of the platform, resulting in the enhancement of platform’s capability to embed and expand its value network. (3) Participants have been benefitted from the PIE enabled by digital technology through three key modules (knowledge acquisition, knowledge integration and knowledge spillover), as the result of knowledge flow.

Originality/value

This study focuses on the knowledge flow mechanism of PIE enabled by digital technology, which enriches the PIE theory, and has enlightenments for the cultivation of digital platform ecosystem.

Details

European Journal of Innovation Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1460-1060

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 February 2023

Daibing Wang and Shulin Liu

This paper considers a supply chain with a manufacturer (she) selling through an online retail platform (he) and studies the channel structure choices of two firms when investing…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper considers a supply chain with a manufacturer (she) selling through an online retail platform (he) and studies the channel structure choices of two firms when investing in advertising.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors assume that the platform provides the manufacturer with an agency and/or reselling channel; thus, there are three possible channel structures: agency channel, reselling channel and dual channel. By developing a game-theoretic model, the authors investigate the channel structure choices of two firms when advertising separately, simultaneously and cooperatively and analyze the optimal combination strategy of channel structure and advertising scheme for both firms.

Findings

When the advertising efforts of the two firms are independent of each other, the equilibrium results show that different advertising schemes lead to different channel choices. For the manufacturer, it is optimal to choose the dual channel structure and adopt the advertising scheme that both subsidizes platform advertising and advertises on her own. For the platform, this combination is also optimal at a high commission rate; otherwise, the advertising scheme in which both firms advertise simultaneously is optimal and he is better off switching from the dual channel structure to the reselling channel structure as interchannel substitution intensity increases. The above results still hold for complementary advertising efforts and asymmetric marginal advertising costs, while in the case of substitutable advertising efforts, one firm may ride on another firm's advertising efforts, leading to different strategic combinations.

Originality/value

This paper not only provides useful guidance for manufacturers and platforms in channel selection and advertising strategy, but also theoretically enriches the literature on manufacturer encroachment.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 123 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 1000