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Cloud Manufacturing (CM) is the manufacturing version of Cloud Computing and aims to increase flexibility in the provision of manufacturing services. On-demand manufacturing services can be requested by users to the cloud and this enables the concept of Manufacturing-as-a-Service (MaaS). Given the considerable number of prototypes and proofs of concept addressed in literature, this work seeks real CM platforms to study them from a business perspective, in order to discover what MaaS concretely means today and how these platforms are operating.

Since the number of real applications of this paradigm is very limited (if the authors exclude prototypes), the research approach is qualitative. The paper presents a multiple-case analysis of 6 different platforms operating in the manufacturing field today. It is based on empirical data and inductively researches differences among them (e.g. stakeholders, operational flows, capabilities offered and scalability level).

MaaS has come true in some contexts, and today it is following two different deployment models: open or closed to the provider side. The open architecture is inspired by a truly open platform which allows any company to be part of the pool of service providers, while the closed architecture is limited to a single service provider of the manufacturing services, as it happens in most cloud computing services.

The research shoots a picture of what MaaS offers today in term of capabilities, what are the deployment models and finally suggests a framework to assess different levels of development of MaaS platforms.

This study aims to present the numerical analysis of exergy transfer and irreversibility through the discrete filling of high-porosity aluminum metal foams inside the horizontal pipe.

In this study, the heater is embedded on the pipe’s circumference and is assigned with known heat input. To enhance the heat transfer, metal foam of 10 pores per inch with porosity 0.95 is filled into the pipe. In filling, two kinds of arrangements are made, in the first arrangement, the metal foam is filled adjacent to the inner wall of the pipe [Model (1)–(3)], and in the second arrangement, the foam is located at the center of the pipe [Models (4)–(6)]. So, six different models are examined in this research for a fluid velocity ranging from 0.7 to7 m/s under turbulent flow conditions. Darcy Extended Forchheimer is combined with local thermal non-equilibrium models for forecasting the flow and heat transfer features via metal foams.

The numerical methodology implemented in this study is confirmed by comparing the outcomes with the experimental outcomes accessible in the literature and found a fairly good agreement between them. The application of the second law of thermodynamics via metal foams is the novelty of current investigation. The evaluation of thermodynamic performance includes the parameters such as mean exergy-based Nusselt number (Nu_e), rate of irreversibility, irreversibility distribution ratio (I_DR), merit function (MF) and non-dimensional exergy destruction (I^*). In all the phases, Models (1)–(3) exhibit better performance than Models (4)–(6).

The present study helps to enhance the heat transfer performance with the introduction of metal foams and reveals the importance of available energy (exergy) in the system which helps in arriving at optimum design criteria for the thermal system.

The uniqueness of this study is to analyze the impact of discrete metal foam filling on exergy and irreversibility in a pipe under turbulent flow conditions.

A new backward punch shape was designed and used in the hydroforming process of double-layer Y-shaped tubes to achieve uniform wall thickness. This study focuses on the implementation and effectiveness of this novel punch shape.

A numerical simulation and experimental validation of the hydroforming process of double-layer Y-shaped tubes under various backward punch, replenishment ratios (left and right feed ratios) and internal pressure loading paths was performed using finite elements. During the hydroforming process, an analysis was made on the distribution of stress, strain and wall thickness in both the inner and outer layers of the Y-shaped conduit.

The novel backward punch parallel to the main tube has been found to improve the distribution of wall thickness in Y-shaped tubes. By controlling the feeding ratio and modifying the loading path of the internal pressure, it is possible to obtain the optimal forming part of the double-layer Y-shaped tube. The comparison between the simulation and experimental results of the double-layer Y-shaped tube formed under the optimal path indicates that the error is within 5% and the distribution of wall thickness is consistent.

A novel backward punch technique is employed to control the hydroforming process in a Y-shaped tube. A study on hydroforming of double-layer Y-shaped tubes with asymmetric features and challenging forming conditions is being suggested.

The purpose of this paper is to compile a comprehensive status report on pipes/piping networks across different industrial sectors, along with specifications of materials and sizes, and showcase welding avenues. It further extends to highlight the promising friction stir welding as a single solid-state pipe welding procedure. This paper will enable all piping, welding and friction stir welding stakeholders to identify scope for their engagement in a single window.

The paper is a review paper, and it is mainly structured around sections on materials, sizes and standards for pipes in different sectors and the current welding practice for joining pipe and pipe connections; on the process and principle of friction stir welding (FSW) for pipes; identification of main welding process parameters for the FSW of pipes; effects of process parameters; and a well-carved-out concluding summary.

A well-carved-out concluding summary of extracts from thoroughly studied research is presented in a structured way in which the avenues for the engagement of FSW are identified.

The implications of the research are far-reaching. The FSW is currently expanding very fast in the welding of flat surfaces and has evolved into a vast number of variants because of its advantages and versatility. The application of FSW is coming up late but catching up fast, and as a late starter, the outcomes of such a review paper may support stake holders to expand the application of this process from pipe welding to pipe manufacturing, cladding and other high-end applications. Because the process is inherently inclined towards automation, its throughput rate is high and it does not need any consumables, the ultimate benefit can be passed on to the industry in terms of financial gains.

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the only review exclusively for the friction stir welding of pipes with a well-organized piping specification detailed about industrial sectors. The current pipe welding practice in each sector has been presented, and the avenues for engaging FSW have been highlighted. The FSW pipe process parameters are characteristically distinguished from the conventional FSW, and the effects of the process parameters have been presented. The summary is concise yet comprehensive and organized in a structured manner.

The purpose of this article covers the design and manufacture of porous materials that can be used in different engineering applications by additive manufacturing.

The most important design parameters of the porous materials are the cell structure and wall thickness. These two design criteria are difficult to control in porous materials produced by conventional production methods. In the study, two different wall thicknesses and four different pore diameters of the porous structure were determined as design parameters.

A compression test was applied to the produced samples. Also, the densities of the produced samples were compared. As a result of the study, changes in mechanical properties were observed according to the cell wall thickness and pore size.

The originality of the study is that, unlike traditional porous structure production, the pore structure and cell wall thicknesses can be produced in desired dimensions. In addition, a closed pore structure was tried to be produced in the study. Studies in the literature generally have a tube-type pore structure.

Designing new aircraft that are state-of-the-art and beyond always requires the development of new technologies. This paper aims to present lessons learned while designing, building and testing new UAVs in the configuration of the flying wing. The UAV contains a number of aerodynamic devices that are not obvious solutions and use the latest manufacturing technology achievements, such as 3D printing.

The design solutions were applied on an airworthy aircraft and checked during test flights. The process was first conducted on the smaller UAV, and based on the test outcomes, improvements were made and then applied on the larger version of the UAV, where they were verified.

A number of practical findings were identified. For example, the use of 3D printing technology for manufacturing integrated pressure ports, investigation of the adverse yaw effect on the flying wing configuration and the effectiveness of winglet rudders in producing yawing moment.

All designed devices were tested in practice on the flying aircraft. It allowed for improved aircraft performance and handling characteristics. Several of the technologies used improved the speed and quality of aerodynamic device design and manufacturing, which also influences the reliability of the aircraft.

The paper presents how 3D printing technology can be utilized for manufacturing of aerodynamic devices. Specially developed techniques for control surface design, which can affect adverse yaw problem and aircraft handling characteristics, were described.

The export competitiveness has only calculated on only two aspects either comparatively advantageous or comparatively disadvantageous products for India or China. There is not any thorough study that has been undertaken for Indian manufacturing sector at a segregated level along with that of China. So, in the light of these shortcomings, the purpose of this study is to analyse the dynamics of export competitiveness of indian manufacturing sector vis-à-vis its emerging counterpart, china in the global market.

A modified revealed comparative advantage index has been used in two different phases of 2001–08 and 2010–18 to find the dynamic pattern of manufacturing exports of India and China in the world market.

The study revealed that India has shown a positive response in increasing its competitive positioned products from low-technology to medium-technology products during the study period. There has been a decline in the competitive positioned products of China and simultaneously China’s threatened product lines have shown an immense increment over the years. Moreover, Indian exports are concentrated to few low-technology and resource-intensive products, that share more than 50% of total exported value for its manufacturing in the global market, whereas, China is much diversified and the exported value is more scattered over its manufactured items.

The study does not include the factors that impacted the export competitiveness of the sample economies and thus adds a limitation to this study.

As there is very limited research on dynamics of export competitiveness of Indian manufacturing exports at harmonised system 6-digit level with China, this study fulfils the gap.

Efficient thermal management of central processing unit (CPU) cooling systems is vital in the context of advancing information technology and the demand for enhanced data processing speeds. This study aims to explore the thermal performance of a CPU cooling setup using a cylindrical porous metal foam heat sink.

Nanofluid flow through the metal foam is simulated using the Darcy–Brinkman–Forschheimer equation, accounting for magnetic field effects. The temperature distribution is modeled through the local thermal equilibrium equation, considering viscous dissipation. The problem’s governing partial differential equations are solved using the similarity method. The CPU’s hot surface serves as a solid wall, with nanofluid entering the heat sink as an impinging jet. Verification of the numerical results involves comparison with existing research, demonstrating strong agreement across numerical, analytical and experimental findings. Ansys Fluent® software is used to assess temperature, velocity and streamlines, yielding satisfactory results from an engineering standpoint.

Investigating critical parameters such as Darcy number (10⁻⁴ ≤ Da_D ≤ 10⁻²), aspect ratio (0.5 ≤ H/D ≤ 1.5), Reynolds number (5 ≤ Re_D,bf ≤ 3500), Eckert number (0 ≤ EC_bf ≤ 0.1) , porosity (0.85 ≤ ε ≤ 0.95), Hartmann number (0 ≤ Ha_D,bf ≤ 300) and the volume fraction of nanofluid (0 ≤ φ ≤ 0.1) reveals their impact on fluid flow and heat sink performance. Notably, Nusselt number will reduce 45%, rise 19.2%, decrease 14.1%, and decrease 0.15% for Reynolds numbers of 600, with rising porosity from 0.85 to 0.95, Darcy numbers from 10⁻⁴ to 10⁻², Eckert numbers from 0 to 0.1, and Hartman numbers from 0 to 300.

Despite notable progress in studying thermal management in CPU cooling systems using porous media and nanofluids, there are still significant gaps in the existing literature. First, few studies have considered the Darcy–Brinkman–Forchheimer equation, which accounts for non-Darcy effects and the flow and geometric interactions between coolant and porous medium. The influence of viscous dissipation on heat transfer in this specific geometry has also been largely overlooked. Additionally, while nanofluids and impinging jets have demonstrated potential in enhancing thermal performance, their utilization within porous media remains underexplored. Furthermore, the unique thermal and structural characteristics of porous media, along with the incorporation of a magnetic field, have not been fully investigated in this particular configuration. Consequently, this study aims to address these literature gaps and introduce novel advancements in analytical modeling, non-Darcy flow, viscous dissipation, nanofluid utilization, impinging jets, porous media characteristics and the impact of a magnetic field. These contributions hold promising prospects for improving CPU cooling system thermal management and have broader implications across various applications in the field.

The protagonist of the case is Mr. Prasad Dhumal. Prasad is technically gifted and is considered a subject expert in his line. Prasad exhibits all entrepreneurial traits like high energy, positive and a never say die attitude, technical expertise, etc. In a short career span, Prasad has already been instrumental in opening at least 7 different ventures and is now planning the 8th one and hence the name of the case. None of the ventures have survived. This is a classic case of differences between entrepreneurial qualities and managerial qualities, required for the success of a small business.

The case is ideal for students of management. The focus areas are Career Management and Entrepreneurship. It also discusses the failure of a business unit from a societal and family perspective rather than simply a financial one. The case is also good to impress upon the audience the distinction between entrepreneurial skills and managerial skills. The focus that the protagonist shows in starting multiple ventures is also a good indicator of objective-driven and clear Career Management, but the lack of the identified skill set to run a business.

The case brings about the clear distinctions between entrepreneurial qualities and managerial qualities. Career Management has three objectives, expression of the self as a person through the activities one does (job/entrepreneurship) and personal fulfilment, to have an effective work-life balance so that the workplace does not become simply a chore and finally financial security which is also expressed as a reward for something one does or contributes. Even a well-defined career management plan may at times, not yield the desired results.

This is an attempt at a case-based approach highlighting how entrepreneurial zeal and drive may not result in a success of a business venture. Further, the case highlights the serious financial and social isolation that the protagonists faced due to his business failures. The basic learnings from the case are as follows: (1) Start-ups go through phase after establishment; (2) The skill set used to start a venture and sustain it are different and (3) The venture has to survive in a business environment on its merits.

It is a good source material for students of entrepreneurship to understand that sound entrepreneurial qualities may not ensure business success. Businesses may require a blend of managerial, strategic and entrepreneurial qualities to help them navigate through the business environment.

Although a lot has been written about entrepreneurship, the social implications of a business failure and the impact on the entrepreneurs, his family and his loved ones forms the crux of the case. Financial losses result in social isolation for the protagonist. The humiliation and isolation associated with a business loss and its serious impact on friends and family also is highlighted in the case.

The case is factual and describes the exact entrepreneurial journey of Prasad.

Sandwich structures with well-designed cellular cores exhibit superior shock resistance compared to monolithic structures of equal mass. This study aims to develop a comprehensive analytical model for predicting the dynamic response of cellular-core sandwich structures subjected to shock loading and investigate their application in protective design.

First, an analytical model of a clamped sandwich beam for over-span shock loading was developed. In this model, the incident shock-wave reflection was considered, the clamped face sheets were simplified using two single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) systems, the core was idealized using the rigid-perfectly-plastic-locking (RPPL) model in the thickness direction and simplified as an SDOF system in the span direction. The model was then evaluated using existing analytical models before being employed to design the sandwich-beam configurations for two typical engineering applications.

The model effectively predicted the dynamic response of sandwich panels, especially when the shock-loading pulse shape was considered. The optimal compressive cellular-core strength increased with increasing peak pressure and shock-loading impulse. Neglecting the core tensile strength could result in an overestimation of the optimal compressive cellular-core strength.

A new model was proposed and employed to optimally design clamped cellular-core sandwich-beam configurations subjected to shock loading.