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1 – 10 of over 4000
Article
Publication date: 23 March 2021

Hagen Wäsche, Richard Beecroft, Helena Trenks, Andreas Seebacher and Oliver Parodi

The aim of this paper is to present a research approach that can contribute to a sustainable development of urban spaces for sports and physical activity, comprising theoretical…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to present a research approach that can contribute to a sustainable development of urban spaces for sports and physical activity, comprising theoretical reflections and directions for applied research.

Design/methodology/approach

This research builds on an urban real-world lab in a city district. It is based on principles of transdisciplinary research and intense processes of participation.

Findings

Five projects with regard to sport and physical activity development were implemented. The projects resulted in exchange and learning of citizens and other stakeholders as well as transformations of the social and built environment.

Research limitations/implications

Instead of top-down research and planning this approach enables bottom-up processes in which affected citizens and stakeholders can contribute to sport and physical activity development.

Practical implications

The approach can help to integrate sport and physical activity development and transformative processes of sustainable development in urban areas.

Social implications

Through participation and involvement, citizens can be empowered and social capital can be generated.

Originality/value

Urban real-world labs are a new approach for sport and physical activity development. This approach opens up the possibility to include sport and physical activity development in processes of city development. Hence, urban real-world labs are able to address an integrated urban and sport development process and can be used for city marketing purposes.

Details

International Journal of Sports Marketing and Sponsorship, vol. 22 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1464-6668

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 1988

PAUL THOMPSON

The psychological literature on subjective probability estimation is reviewed to determine the feasibility of designing probabilistic information retrieval systems using such…

Abstract

The psychological literature on subjective probability estimation is reviewed to determine the feasibility of designing probabilistic information retrieval systems using such estimates. Their use has been considered by some writers, but psychological issues have not been addressed. Research pertinent to probabilistic information retrieval is examined and implications for probabilistic information retrieval are drawn. It is shown that accurate human probability estimation is possible, both in the laboratory and in real world tasks, e.g., in meteorological forecasting; but that it is also a task subject to systematic bias, or inaccuracy. Proposed techniques for debiasing are considered. The highly task‐dependent nature of such estimates is also discussed; two implications are that results from laboratory studies may have limited relevance to real world tasks and that empirical studies specific to the context of information retrieval need to be made. Human probability estimation appears to be a difficult task, but one which can be done well with proper training and use of debiasing techniques. It is premature to say how useful such estimates would be in probabilistic information retrieval, but their use should not yet be ruled out.

Details

Journal of Documentation, vol. 44 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0022-0418

Article
Publication date: 17 February 2012

Mads Hvilshøj, Simon Bøgh, Oluf Skov Nielsen and Ole Madsen

The purpose of this paper is to present experience from a real‐world demonstration of autonomous industrial mobile manipulation (AIMM) based on the mobile manipulator “Little…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present experience from a real‐world demonstration of autonomous industrial mobile manipulation (AIMM) based on the mobile manipulator “Little Helper” performing multiple part feeding at the pump manufacturer Grundfos A/S.

Design/methodology/approach

The necessary AIMM technologies exist at a mature level – the reason that no mobile manipulators have yet been implemented in industrial environments, is that research in the right applications have not been carried out. The paper proposes a pragmatic approach consisting of: a commercial‐off‐the‐shelf (COTS) mobile manipulator system design (“Little Helper”), a suitable and comprehensive industrial application (multiple part feeding), and a general implementation concept for industrial environments (the “Bartender Concept”).

Findings

Results from the three days of real‐world demonstration show that “Little Helper” is capable of successfully servicing four part feeders in three production cells using command signals from an Open Process Control (OPC) server. Furthermore, the paper presents future research and development suggestions for AIMM, which contributes to near‐term industrial maturation and implementation.

Originality/value

The paper presents a full‐scale demonstration of a state‐of‐the‐art COTS autonomous mobile manipulator system with particular focus on industrial utilization and application.

Details

Assembly Automation, vol. 32 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-5154

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 March 2012

Mads Hvilshøj, Simon Bøgh, Oluf Skov Nielsen and Ole Madsen

The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the interdisciplinary research field, autonomous industrial mobile manipulation (AIMM), with an emphasis on physical…

2024

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the interdisciplinary research field, autonomous industrial mobile manipulation (AIMM), with an emphasis on physical implementations and applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Following an introduction to AIMM, this paper investigates the missing links and gaps between the research and developments efforts and the real‐world application requirements, in order to bring the AIMM technology from laboratories to manufacturing environments. The investigation is based on 12 general application requirements for robotics: sustainability, configuration, adaptation, autonomy, positioning, manipulation and grasping, robot‐robot interaction, human‐robot interaction, process quality, dependability, and physical properties.

Findings

The concise yet comprehensive review provides both researchers (academia) and practitioners (industry) with a quick and gentle overview of AIMM. Furthermore, the paper identifies key open issues and promising research directions to realize real‐world integration and maturation of the AIMM technology.

Originality/value

This paper reviews the interdisciplinary research field, autonomous industrial mobile manipulation (AIMM).

Details

Industrial Robot: An International Journal, vol. 39 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 1982

Stuart E. Dreyfus

Possible limitations on the successful formal modeling of human expertise can only be identified if the evolving thought processes involved in acquiring expertise are understood…

Abstract

Possible limitations on the successful formal modeling of human expertise can only be identified if the evolving thought processes involved in acquiring expertise are understood. This paper presents a 5‐stage description of the human skill‐acquisition process, applies it to the skill of business management, and draws conclusions about potential uses and abuses of formal modeling.

Details

Office Technology and People, vol. 1 no. 2/3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0167-5710

Article
Publication date: 6 May 2017

Kung Wong Lau, Chi Wai Kan and Pui Yuen Lee

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the use of stereoscopic virtual technology in textile and fashion studies in particular to the area of chemical experiment. The development…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the use of stereoscopic virtual technology in textile and fashion studies in particular to the area of chemical experiment. The development of a designed virtual platform, called Stereoscopic Chemical Laboratory (SCL), is introduced.

Design/methodology/approach

To implement the suggested educational approaches of SCL, a set of teaching and learning materials with emphasis on the application methods was revised from the existing subjects. The architecture of SCL includes building of virtual objects with the Autodesk software Maya and designing of interactivity by using Unity, a game engine system. Prototype version of the SCL has been passed to selected academic colleagues and students for further evaluation and application feedback.

Findings

Textile students can conduct laboratory experiments associated with coloration and finishing of textile technologies in a stereoscopic 3D and multisensory laboratory, and hence enhance their learning experience. With the use of SCL, students can learn relevant experiment tools, experimental processes, procedures, and safety and health precautions.

Originality/value

There is very limited educational or training approach in applying stereoscopic virtual reality in teaching activities. In the area of textile experiment, the authors could say it is virtual and does not exist in current research domains.

Details

The International Journal of Information and Learning Technology, vol. 34 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-4880

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 21 February 2020

Patrick A. Müller, Thomas Bäumer, Jan Silberer and Stefan Zimmermann

Learning about sustainable development in dedicated curricula can be beneficial for students’ personal and professional development and societies alike. However, for various…

2000

Abstract

Purpose

Learning about sustainable development in dedicated curricula can be beneficial for students’ personal and professional development and societies alike. However, for various reasons the implementation of sustainable development modules in existing curricula can be difficult in many fields of study. This paper aims to propose an alternative route to give students the chance to learn about sustainable development without the need to change the structure of their study program.

Design/methodology/approach

The current paper elaborates on the idea that many fields of study have mandatory courses on empirical research methods and these courses can function as a platform to teach applied empirical research methods in combination with education on sustainable development. A three-phase model is proposed to implement sustainable development topics in existing curricula, taking students’ current methodological competency level into account.

Findings

The proposed model provides a chance to combine education on sustainability with thorough training in scientific research methods. Example projects and evaluation results from an existing social science curriculum and its integration into a real-world laboratory on sustainable energy use illustrate the different phases and their goals.

Originality/value

The model offers the opportunity to implement education on sustainability into existing curricula without the need for difficult structural changes. It extends students’ learning on sustainability without impairing their learning of research methods. A discussion of the model’s limitations and boundary conditions helps to understand its potential use cases and challenges.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 21 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 July 2018

Young Hoon Kim, Daniel L. Spears, Elecer E. Vargas-Ortega and Tae-Hee Kim

This paper aims to review the current joint master’s program between two international institutions in the USA and Costa Rica; to identify students’ perceptions and experiences…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the current joint master’s program between two international institutions in the USA and Costa Rica; to identify students’ perceptions and experiences with the sustainability house (SH); and to apply these experiences in an effort to improve the practical learning environment for future students.

Design/methodology/approach

In an effort to understand student outcomes provided by the SH, an in-depth literature review on practical learning environments and interview methods were applied. The following open-ended questions were asked in an effort to gather and consolidate student experiences with the SH. What are your experiences in/with SH? Please tell us briefly about your experiences. The language has been adjusted and interviewers answered questions and made clarifications if asked to. Master’s in international sustainable tourism (MIST) program students were selected for this study. Participants’ responses were recorded using the computer-assisted personal interviewing technique.

Findings

The most important characteristic students recognized about the SH is that it “provided us a safe place to fail”. One student described SH as “[…] a safe space where students can gain experiences of learning new processes firsthand without external pressures (e.g., on-the-job training, eventuation, and financial analysis)”. The safety attribute of the SH environment is considered as a comfortable place to learn from other classmates or visitors (mostly volunteers and interns). It is a “real” hospitality and tourism business-learning center, which is a great benefit to the students not only because of its environment but also because of the diversity among student’s educational and professional backgrounds.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitations of this study need to be addressed. The number of interviews was very limited with one year data which could affect the generalizability of this study. In addition, it was not clearly explained to the student what rubrics and standardized metrics were used during interview process; after interview, students were asked to provide a better way to improve the research outcomes. For further studies, it is strongly recommended to provide the direction to make sure it applies to the conditions that are prevalent in the existing site to be examined.

Practical implications

Both strategies that link the SH to this MIST program have significant merit. Students implementing best practices in the courses have clearly identified the challenges of implementation, but all agree that there is tremendous value in the experiences they have received during their studies. Furthermore, using the SH as an engagement tool has motivated students to consciously interactive and collaborative in a more proactive manner.

Originality/value

This unique experience and operational competency at the SH provides participants with an in-depth understanding of the context and challenges of sustainability but needs to be detailed and promoted more in the future. The SH is facilitating a learning environment among not only students but also faculty and staff. The results clearly indicated that the SH has influenced sustainable behaviors by promoting interactive engagement.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 19 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 January 2015

Ole Madsen, Simon Bøgh, Casper Schou, Rasmus Skovgaard Andersen, Jens Skov Damgaard, Mikkel Rath Pedersen and Volker Krüger

The purpose of this study has been to evaluate the technology of autonomous mobile manipulation in a real world industrial manufacturing environment. The objective has been to…

1850

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study has been to evaluate the technology of autonomous mobile manipulation in a real world industrial manufacturing environment. The objective has been to obtain experience in the integration with existing equipment and determine key challenges in maturing the technology to a level of readiness suitable for industry. Despite much research within the topic of industrial mobile manipulation, the technology has not yet found its way to the industry. To mature the technology to a level of readiness suitable for industry real-world experience is crucial. This paper reports from such a real-world industrial experiment with two mobile manipulators.

Design/methodology/approach

In the experiment, autonomous industrial mobile manipulators are integrated into the actual manufacturing environment of the pump manufacturer Grundfos. The two robots together solve the task of producing rotors; a task constituted by several sub-tasks ranging from logistics to complex assembly. With a total duration of 10 days, the experiment includes workspace adaptation, safety regulations, rapid robot instruction and running production.

Findings

With a setup time of less than one day, it was possible to program both robots to perform the production scenario in collaboration. Despite the success, the experiment clearly demonstrated several topics in need of further research before the technology can be made available to the industry: robustness and cycle time, safety investigations and possibly standardization, and robot and workstation re-configurability.

Originality/value

Despite the attention of research around the world, the topic of industrial mobile manipulation has only seen a limited number of real-world integrations. This work reports from a comprehensive integration into a real-world running production and thus reports on the key challenges identified from this integration.

Details

Industrial Robot: An International Journal, vol. 42 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 October 2019

Kashish Gupta, Marian Körber, Abtin Djavadifar, Florian Krebs and Homayoun Najjaran

The paper aims to focus on a vision-based approach to advance the automated process of the manufacturing of an Airbus A350’s pressure bulkhead. The setup enables automated…

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to focus on a vision-based approach to advance the automated process of the manufacturing of an Airbus A350’s pressure bulkhead. The setup enables automated deformation and draping of a fiber textile on a form-variable end-effector.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method uses the information of infrared (IR) and color-based images in Red, Green and Blue (RGB) representative format, as well as depth measurements to identify the wrinkles and boundary edge of semi-finished dry fiber products on the double-curved surface of a flexible modular gripper used for laying the fabric. The technique implements a simple and practical image processing solution using a sequence of pixel-wise binary masks on an industrial scale setup; it bridges the gap between laboratory experiments and real-world execution, thereby demonstrating practical and applied research.

Findings

The efficacy of the technique is demonstrated via experiments in the presented work. The two objectives as follows boundary edge detection and wrinkle detection are accomplished in real time in an industrial setup.

Originality/value

During the draping process, tensions developed in the fibers of the textile cause wrinkles on the surface, which are highly detrimental to the production process, material quality and strength. The proposed method automates the identification and detection of the wrinkles and the textile on the gripper surface. The proposed work aids in alleviating the problems caused by these wrinkles and helps in quality control in the production process.

Details

Assembly Automation, vol. 40 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-5154

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 4000