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1 – 10 of over 1000
Article
Publication date: 18 October 2021

Nour El-Hoda Khalifeh, Rudy Youssef, Farah Fadel, Roy Khalil, Elie Shammas, Naseem Daher, Imad H. Elhajj, Thomas Irrenhauser, Michael N. Niedermeier and Christian Poss

The purpose of this paper is to detail the design and prototyping of a smart automation solution for de-strapping plastic bonding straps on shipping pallets, which are loaded with…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to detail the design and prototyping of a smart automation solution for de-strapping plastic bonding straps on shipping pallets, which are loaded with multiple containers secured by a top-cover as they move on a conveyor belt.

Design/methodology/approach

The adopted design methodology to have the system perform its function entails using the least number of sensors and actuators to arrive at an economic solution from a system design viewpoint. Two prototypes of the robotic structure are designed and built, one in a research laboratory and another in an industrial plant, to perform localized cutting and grabbing of the plastic straps, with the help of a custom-designed passive localizing structure. The proposed structure is engineered to locate the plastic straps using one degree of freedom (DOF) only. An additional strap removal mechanism is designed to collect the straps and prevent them from interfering with the conveyor.

Findings

The functionality of the system is validated by performing full-process tests on the developed prototypes in a laboratory setting and under real-life operating conditions at BMW Group facilities. Testing showed that the proposed localization system meets the specified requirements and can be generalized and adapted to other industrial processes with similar requirements.

Practical implications

The proposed automated system for de-strapping pallets can be deployed in assembly or manufacturing facilities that receive parts in standard shipping pallets that are used worldwide.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first mechanically smart system that is used for the automated removal of straps from shipping pallets used in assembly facilities. The two main novelties of the proposed design are the robustness of the strap localization without the need for computer vision and a large number of DOF, and the critical placement and choice of the cutting and gripping tools to minimize the number of needed actuators.

Article
Publication date: 1 October 1960

Aircraft arresting gear comprises a lifter strap normally connecting an actuator strap engageable by the forward part of a moving aircraft to an arresting cable through means…

Abstract

Aircraft arresting gear comprises a lifter strap normally connecting an actuator strap engageable by the forward part of a moving aircraft to an arresting cable through means releasable upon a predetermined pull on the lifter strap, the releasable means comprising two pieces of flexible material of unequal lengths, the longer attached at one end to the actuator strap and at its other end to a runway, and the shorter attached at one end to the actuator strap and releasably attached at its other end to the longer piece to form a loop around the cable. Two actuators straps 2, 3 are shown, though there may be any number, each piece of flexible material 6, 8 being attached to one actuator strap by a loop 5 and stitching 7. The actuator straps are stretched across the runway between stanchions (not shown) from which they are releasable by shearing pins. The piece 6 is attached to a grommet 12 on the runway, and is stitched at 15 and at 16 to itself, forming a loop 14, and the arresting cable 20 lies in a bight formed by a button fastener 18. The other piece 8 is stitched at 9 to the loop 14. In operation, a forward part of an aircraft engages the actuators straps 2, 3. The tension on the lifter strap raises the cable 20, and opens fastening 18. The stitching 9 is sheared, and the cable is flung upwardly through the gap so formed, to engage the aircraft. The actuator straps may be of nylon webbing or other woven synthetic or organic material.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 32 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Article
Publication date: 15 November 2013

Jeremy Doucet, Xiang Zhang and Philip Irving

This paper aims to present the implementation of a finite element (FE) model used to establish crack and delamination development in a Glare reinforced aluminium plate under…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present the implementation of a finite element (FE) model used to establish crack and delamination development in a Glare reinforced aluminium plate under fatigue loading. This model predicts the behaviour of bonded GLARE straps used as crack retarders for life extension of aircraft structures. In particular, it takes into account the interaction that exists between the substrate crack and the delamination crack at the interface with the reinforcement.

Design/methodology/approach

In this work, a 3D FE model with three-layer continuum shell elements has been developed to calculate changes in substrate stress intensity and in fatigue crack growth (FCG) rate produced by bonded strap reinforcement. Both circular and elliptical strap delamination geometries were incorporated into the model. Calculated stress intensity factors (SIFs) were used together with measured FCG data for substrate material to predict FCG rates for the strapped condition.

Findings

The model predicted a decrease in the SIF and a retardation of FCG rates. The SIF was predicted to vary through the thickness of the substrate due to the phenomenon of secondary bending and also the bridging effect caused by the presence of the strap. The influence of delamination shape and size on substrate crack stress intensity and delamination strain energy release rate has been calculated.

Originality/value

This research aims at developing modelling techniques that could be used when studying larger reinforced structures found in aircraft.

Details

International Journal of Structural Integrity, vol. 4 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-9864

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 June 2010

Chi‐Shun Liao and Cheng‐Wen Lee

The purpose of this paper is to discuss how brassiere manufacturers develop new designs for bra products, suitable for individual consumers, through consumer codesign.

1305

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss how brassiere manufacturers develop new designs for bra products, suitable for individual consumers, through consumer codesign.

Design/methodology/approach

New product design that relies on conjoint analysis algorithms can depict multidimensional attribute profiles, such that consumers' choice behavior reflects their preferences and overall judgment of the profiles. This statistical technique provides a means to codesign and customize bra products and thereby enhance the overall bra design process.

Findings

Bra products codesign suggests goals such as attractive appearance, shoulder strap style, vivid/mild color, elegance/sexy lace, comfort/practicality, fabric, lining, comfort/attractive appearance, neckline design, comfort/excellent function cut, sewn cups, and generous quantities. The most preferred combination of attributes for all respondents is a cotton/cotton blend fabric, seamless bra that offers a detachable shoulder strap, lavender color, a two‐strap style, lace details, and a low‐cut plunge neckline. The paper illustrates consumers' bra awareness attributes, codesign approach, and individual optimum individualized bra designs.

Practical implications

The results provide a useful source of information for product managers, who should consider the use of codesign to design the best products for individual consumers and decrease the risk of design failure, as well as promote consumer loyalty and satisfaction toward the product.

Originality/value

The paper provides a unique method to understand the new product codesign structure and make bra product design decisions that integrate optimum individualized design.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 22 no. 2/3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 December 2020

Nicola Brown, Jenny Burbage and Joanna Wakefield-Scurr

Previous research suggests that many active females are not engaging in sports bra use, despite the positive health benefits. The aim of this study was to establish and compare…

Abstract

Purpose

Previous research suggests that many active females are not engaging in sports bra use, despite the positive health benefits. The aim of this study was to establish and compare sports bra use, preferences and bra fit issues for exercising females in some of the largest and most diverse global underwear markets (the US, the UK and China).

Design/methodology/approach

A survey covering activity levels, sports bra use and preferences, bra issues and demographics was administered via Qualtrics and completed by 3,147 physically active females (aged ≥ 18 years) from the US (n = 1,060), UK (n = 1,050) and China (n = 1,037).

Findings

In general, participants were 25–29 years, 121 to 140 pounds, 34B bra size and pre-menopausal. “I cannot find the right sports bra” was the most frequent breast barrier to exercise (25.4%). Three-quarters of women wore a sports bra during exercise, with significantly higher use in China (83.9%), compared to the UK (67.2%). A third of all participants reported sports bra shoulder straps “digging into the skin”. Sports bra preferences were: compression sports bras with a racer back, wide straps and thick straps in the US and the UK; thin straps in China and adjustable straps and underband, no wire and maximum breast coverage in the US and the UK, including nipple concealment and with padded/moulded cups.

Originality/value

Information provided on differences in sports bra use, preferences and bra issues across three major global markets could be utilised by brands and manufacturers to optimise bra marketing and fit education initiatives and inform future sports bra design and distribution strategies.

Details

Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management: An International Journal, vol. 25 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1361-2026

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 August 1937

Aircraft structures and in particular thick wing structures comprise ribs 2 of zigzag formation, Fig. 2, assembled in such manner as to form upper and lower reticulated frames…

Abstract

Aircraft structures and in particular thick wing structures comprise ribs 2 of zigzag formation, Fig. 2, assembled in such manner as to form upper and lower reticulated frames which are spaced apart by posts 4 and are directly secured to the outer covering or skin 1 of the wing or other structure. Longitudinal booms 3 are also secured to the outer covering and to the ribs at the points of inter‐attachment thereof, Fig. 6. Ribs 2 are of channel section shaped at the bends to form flats 2a and to form recesses to allow passage of the booms 3. Adjacent ribs are attached to each other and to the booms at each junction by straps 5, Fig. 5, bent to the shape of the rib angle at 5a, and to that of the underside of the boom at 5b. Parts 5a of opposed straps are introduced between flats 2a of the ribs, the strap extending under the rib channel and then upwardly to connect with the boom, Fig. 6. Tubular posts 4 are secured to flats 5a, Fig. 5, of straps 5 by flanges 6, Fig. 2; the joints may be stiffened by additional gussets such as 7.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 9 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Article
Publication date: 1 February 1968

THAT is the title of a survey by the National Joint Advisory Council which has just been issued by the Ministry of Labour. Properly assimilated by both sides of industry it could…

Abstract

THAT is the title of a survey by the National Joint Advisory Council which has just been issued by the Ministry of Labour. Properly assimilated by both sides of industry it could become an important document for a country continually under pressure to increase productivity. In his Foreword the Minister of Labour says that the number of manual workers engaged on a shift system has increased by more than half in the last ten years and expects the trend to continue.

Details

Work Study, vol. 17 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0043-8022

Article
Publication date: 16 March 2012

Yawei Wang, Weihu Zhou, Xiaoquan Han, Zhongyu Wang and Jinbin Ding

The purpose of this paper is to describe a strap‐down image stable strategy for multi‐load optoelectronic imaging platform hung below a tethered aerostat.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a strap‐down image stable strategy for multi‐load optoelectronic imaging platform hung below a tethered aerostat.

Design/methodology/approach

Four two dimension pods, each with a visible light camera, are fixed on the optoelectronic platform. A POS (Position and Orientation System) is used to acquire the attitude rate data of optoelectronic platform, while the data can be coupled to the pods' servo systems through corresponding coordinate rotation, then the motors of pods will adjust the line of sight to the opposite way to keep the stabilization of image exported by visible light camcorders. Simultaneously, two rate gyros are installed at the inner frame of each pod, which are used as a backup to avoid the failure of POS.

Findings

Using one attitude and position measurement system can realize the stabilization of multi optoelectronic pods, which is same as or even better than the ratio gyro stabilization.

Research limitations/implications

As the tethered aerostat is a flexible body, it is affected a lot by the wind speed and wind direction at the low height (<1,000 m), which leads to the motors of pods always adjust the line of sight to the mechanical limiting of pods.

Practical implications

Strap‐down stabilization technology has been successfully used in the tethered aerostat monitoring platform to surveillance Shanghai World EXPO site. Long time experiments verify the feasible and effective of the multi‐load stabilization technology. The impact on the image by the adjustment of servos is less than 10 percent of the whole view of sight.

Originality/value

The paper introduces a strap‐down stabilization technology for multi‐load tethered aerostat platform, which is more suitable to be applied in the platform of relatively minor attitude change, like the airborne multi‐load platform and multi‐load UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) platform.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 84 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 1973

This emergency generating system was first fitted on the 01 and 02 pre‐production Concordes and will be installed on the production aircraft. Initial design work commenced in 1967…

Abstract

This emergency generating system was first fitted on the 01 and 02 pre‐production Concordes and will be installed on the production aircraft. Initial design work commenced in 1967 and a fully developed and type‐tested unit went into production in 1971.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 45 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Article
Publication date: 28 March 2022

Adriana Gorea, Amy Dorie and Martha L. Hall

This study aims to investigate if engineered compression variations using moisture-responsive knitted fabric design can improve breast support in seamless knitted sports bras.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate if engineered compression variations using moisture-responsive knitted fabric design can improve breast support in seamless knitted sports bras.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental approach was used to integrate a novel moisture-responsive fabric panel into a seamless knitted bra, and the resulting compression variability in dry versus wet conditions were compared with those of a control bra. Air permeability and elongation testing of between breasts fabric panels was conducted in dry and wet conditions, followed by three-dimensional body scanning of eight human participants wearing the two bras in similar conditions. Questionnaires were used to evaluate perceived comfort and breast support of both bras in both conditions.

Findings

Air permeability test results showed that the novel panel had the highest variance between dry and wet conditions, confirming its moisture-responsive design, and increased its elongation coefficient in both wale and course directions in wet condition. There were significant main effects of bra type and body location on breast compression measurements. Breast circumferences in the novel bra were significantly larger than in the control bra condition. The significant two-way interaction between bra type and moisture condition showed that the control bra lost compressive power in wet condition, whereas the novel bra became more compressive when wet. Changes in compression were confirmed by participants’ perception of tighter straps and drier breast comfort.

Originality/value

These findings add to the limited scientific knowledge of moisture adaptive bra design using engineered knitted fabrics via advanced manufacturing technologies, with possible applications beyond sports bras, such as bras for breast surgery recovering patients.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. 28 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

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