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Article
Publication date: 24 October 2023

WenFeng Qin, Yunsheng Xue, Hao Peng, Gang Li, Wang Chen, Xin Zhao, Jie Pang and Bin Zhou

The purpose of this study is to design a wearable medical device as a human care platform and to introduce the design details, key technologies and practical implementation…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to design a wearable medical device as a human care platform and to introduce the design details, key technologies and practical implementation methods of the system.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-channel data acquisition scheme based on PCI-E (rapid interconnection of peripheral components) was proposed. The flexible biosensor is integrated with the flexible data acquisition card with monitoring capability, and the embedded (device that can operate independently) chip STM32F103VET6 is used to realize the simultaneous processing of multi-channel human health parameters. The human health parameters were transferred to the upper computer LabVIEW by intelligent clothing through USB or wireless Bluetooth to complete the transmission and processing of clinical data, which facilitates the analysis of medical data.

Findings

The smart clothing provides a mobile medical cloud platform for wearable medical through cloud computing, which can continuously monitor the body's wrist movement, body temperature and perspiration for 24 h. The result shows that each channel is completely accurate to the top computer display, which can meet the expected requirements, and the wearable instant care system can be applied to healthcare.

Originality/value

The smart clothing in this study is based on the monitoring and diagnosis of textiles, and the electronic communication devices can cooperate and interact to form a wearable textile system that provides medical monitoring and prevention services to individuals in the fastest and most accurate way. Each channel of the system is precisely matched to the display screen of the host computer and meets the expected requirements. As a real-time human health protection platform technology, continuous monitoring of human vital signs can complete the application of human motion detection, medical health monitoring and human–computer interaction. Ultimately, such an intelligent garment will become an integral part of our everyday clothing.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 36 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 8 March 2024

Camila Alvarenga and Cicero Braga

In Brazil, over 4.7 million women enrolled in university in the year 2017. However, Brazilian women have been consistently overrepresented in humanities and care majors and…

Abstract

Purpose

In Brazil, over 4.7 million women enrolled in university in the year 2017. However, Brazilian women have been consistently overrepresented in humanities and care majors and underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Given that observed gender differences in math-intensive fields have lasting effects on gender inequality in the labor market, and that observed gender variations do not necessarily associate with differences in innate ability, in this paper we explore the paths of societal gender bias and gender differences in a Brazilian university.

Design/methodology/approach

We conduct a social experiment at a University in Southeastern Brazil, applying the gender-STEM Implicit Association Test.

Findings

We found that women in STEM are less likely to show gender-STEM implicit stereotypes, compared to women in humanities. The results indicate a negative correlation between implicit gender stereotyping and the choice of math-intensive majors by women.

Originality/value

The stereotype-congruent results are indicative of the gender bias in Brazilian society, and suggest that stereotypes created at early stages in life are directly related to future outcomes that reinforce gender disparities in Brazil, which can be observed in career choices.

Details

EconomiA, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1517-7580

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 July 2023

Quan Xie and Sidharth Muralidharan

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are gaining popularity as investments and personal indulgences, prompting brands to integrate them into marketing campaigns. Thus, understanding…

Abstract

Purpose

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are gaining popularity as investments and personal indulgences, prompting brands to integrate them into marketing campaigns. Thus, understanding consumer personality traits toward NFTs is essential for success. This study presents a model that explores how social comparison orientation (SCO) influences perceived exclusivity and financial benefits of NFT marketing, subsequently impacting experiential evaluations, willingness to purchase NFTs and brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted two experiments to test our model. Study 1 used a quasi-experiment with 1,053 participants and tested the model using partial least squares–based structural equation modeling. In Study 2, we aimed to investigate the causal influence of SCO on NFT marketing effectiveness. We employed a one-factor experiment (social comparison prime: high SCO vs. control) with 123 participants.

Findings

NFT users frequently engage in social comparisons and prefer branded NFTs that offer exclusivity (social value) and financial benefits (economic value). Social and financial superiority derived from NFTs enhances branded NFT experiences, leading to a stronger willingness to purchase NFTs and building brand loyalty. Perceived exclusivity, financial benefits and experiential evaluation mediate the effects of SCO on willingness to purchase NFTs and brand loyalty.

Originality/value

This study explores the effectiveness of NFT marketing through the lens of social comparison theory. In doing so, we examined the relationship between SCO and NFT marketing outcomes, revealed the causal influence of SCO on perceived exclusivity and perceived benefits in NFT marketing and shed light on the serial mediation of value- and experience-related constructs.

Article
Publication date: 24 November 2022

Youssef L. Nashed, Fouad Zahran, Mohamed Adel Youssef, Manal G. Mohamed and Azza M. Mazrouaa

The purpose of this study is to examine how well reinforced concrete structures can be shielded against concrete carbonation using anti-carbonation coatings based on synthetic…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how well reinforced concrete structures can be shielded against concrete carbonation using anti-carbonation coatings based on synthetic polymer.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying free radical polymerization, an acrylate terpolymer emulsion that a surfactant had stabilized was created. A thermogravimetric analysis, minimum film-forming temperature, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and particle size distribution are used to characterize the prepared eco-friendly water base acrylate terpolymer emulsion. Using three different percentages of the acrylate terpolymer emulsion produced, 35%, 45% and 55%, the anti-carbonation coating was formed. Tensile strength, tensile strain, elongation, crack-bridging ability, carbon dioxide permeability, chloride ion diffusion, average pull-off adhesion strength, water vapor transmission, gloss, wet scrub resistance, QUV/weathering and storage stability are the characteristics of the anti-carbonation coating.

Findings

The formulated acrylate terpolymer emulsion enhances anti-carbonation coating performance in CO2 permeability, Cl-diffusion, crack bridging, pull-off adhesion strength and water vapor transmission. The formed coating based on the formulated acrylate terpolymer emulsion performed better than its commercial counterpart.

Practical implications

To protect the steel embedded in concrete from corrosion and increase the life span of concrete, the surface of cement is treated with an anti-carbonation coating based on synthetic acrylate terpolymer emulsion.

Social implications

In addition to saving lives from building collapse, it maintains the infrastructure for the long run.

Originality/value

The anti-carbonation coating, which is based on the synthetic acrylate terpolymer emulsion, is environmentally benign and stops the entry of carbon dioxide and chlorides, which are the main causes of steel corrosion in concrete.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 53 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 September 2022

Nader L. Labib, Fouad Zahran, Mohamed Adel Youssef, Azza M. Mazrouaa and Manal Gamal Mohamed

This study aims to extend the pot life without altering the qualities and performance of the coating, which is important to increase when manufacturing polyurethane coatings.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to extend the pot life without altering the qualities and performance of the coating, which is important to increase when manufacturing polyurethane coatings.

Design/methodology/approach

An acrylic polyol from a mixture of different monomers of hydroxypropyl methacrylate, methacrylic acid, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate and n-butyl methacrylate was prepared with different ratios of 2,4-pentanedione as a pot life extender. The reaction takes place in presence of di-tert-butyl peroxide as initiator with samples (T1–T7). The physical properties of prepared acrylic polyol were characterized. Then, coating polyurethane varnish was prepared from the prepared acrylic polyol with an aliphatic polyisocyanate in a 1:1 equivalent ratio of OH:NCO at room temperature, in presence of paint thinner (diluents/solvent) and dibutyltin dilaurate as a catalyst to give samples (T1C–T7C). This coating was evaluated via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, drying time, hardness and gloss, distinctness of image and reflected image quality.

Findings

The coating has a prolonged pot life while still maintaining the other qualities, thanks to the greater 2,4-pentanedione content.

Originality/value

It is desired to have a paint which has a satisfactory pot life, short curing time and reduces many drawbacks such as inefficient working and deterioration of the paint before application.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 53 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 March 2024

Audu Ibrahim Ali, Mohd Kameil Abdul Hamid, Mohd Azman Bin Abas, Mohd Farid Muhamad Said, Anthony Chukwunonso Opia, Izhari Izmi Bin Mazali and Zul Hilmi Bin Che Daud

Due to the environmental issues caused by petroleum lubricants used in lubrication, the concept of creating various bio-lubricants requires research globally. Thus, this study…

Abstract

Purpose

Due to the environmental issues caused by petroleum lubricants used in lubrication, the concept of creating various bio-lubricants requires research globally. Thus, this study aims to develop, characterize and test the base ficus carica oil (fig oil) for its ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) content.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample characterization was done using the Fourier transmission infrared spectrum, whereas the morphologies of the EVA, SDBS particles and lubricated surfaces were carried out under scanning electron microscope equipment. To ensure the homogeneity of the solution (base oil and additives), the formulations were subjected to the sonication process. The anti-friction and anti-wear properties of EVA and SDBS particles as lubricant additives were investigated using a ball on a flat high-frequency reciprocating rig tribo-tester.

Findings

According to the findings, the base oil’s anti-friction and anti-wear capabilities can be greatly enhanced by the additions. revealed that the best results were obtained when 1.2% EVA + 2% SDBS was applied for the examination of wear (597.8 µm) and friction coefficient (0.106). Commercial references were used, nevertheless, and the results were excellent. This is because the particles in the contact area during lubrication have strong solubility and quickly penetrate the contact zone. The lubricating mechanisms were explained by a tribological model of the EVA + SDBS and SDBS particles.

Research limitations/implications

The coefficient of friction and wear reduction caused by the use of the additives will certainly enhance system performance and protect the machine components from excessive wear that could cause damage or failure.

Originality/value

The originality and uniqueness of this work are officially affirmed by the authors. The authors’ autonomous and original contribution to the development of sustainable lubrication is represented in this work. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other study has been published or made publicly available that duplicates the precise scope and goals of our research, and this conclusion is based on a thorough literature assessment.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 March 2024

Pingyang Zheng, Shaohua Han, Dingqi Xue, Ling Fu and Bifeng Jiang

Because of the advantages of high deposition efficiency and low manufacturing cost compared with other additive technologies, robotic wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM…

Abstract

Purpose

Because of the advantages of high deposition efficiency and low manufacturing cost compared with other additive technologies, robotic wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) technology has been widely applied for fabricating medium- to large-scale metallic components. The additive manufacturing (AM) method is a relatively complex process, which involves the workpiece modeling, conversion of the model file, slicing, path planning and so on. Then the structure is formed by the accumulated weld bead. However, the poor forming accuracy of WAAM usually leads to severe dimensional deviation between the as-built and the predesigned structures. This paper aims to propose a visual sensing technology and deep learning–assisted WAAM method for fabricating metallic structure, to simplify the complex WAAM process and improve the forming accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

Instead of slicing of the workpiece modeling and generating all the welding torch paths in advance of the fabricating process, this method is carried out by adding the feature point regression branch into the Yolov5 algorithm, to detect the feature point from the images of the as-built structure. The coordinates of the feature points of each deposition layer can be calculated automatically. Then the welding torch trajectory for the next deposition layer is generated based on the position of feature point.

Findings

The mean average precision score of modified YOLOv5 detector is 99.5%. Two types of overhanging structures have been fabricated by the proposed method. The center contour error between the actual and theoretical is 0.56 and 0.27 mm in width direction, and 0.43 and 0.23 mm in height direction, respectively.

Originality/value

The fabrication of circular overhanging structures without using the complicate slicing strategy, turning table or other extra support verified the possibility of the robotic WAAM system with deep learning technology.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 28 March 2024

Hans Voordijk, Seirgei Miller and Faridaddin Vahdatikhaki

Using real-time support systems may help operators in road construction to improve paving and compaction operations. Nowadays, these systems transform from descriptive to…

Abstract

Purpose

Using real-time support systems may help operators in road construction to improve paving and compaction operations. Nowadays, these systems transform from descriptive to prescriptive systems. Prescriptive or operator guidance systems propose operators actionable compaction strategies and guidance, based on the data collected. It is investigated how these systems mediate the perceptions and actions of operators in road pavement practice.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study is conducted on the specific application of an operator guidance system in a road pavement project. In this case study, comprehensive information is presented regarding the process of converting input in the form of data from cameras and sensors into useful output. The ways in which the operator guidance systems translate data into actionable guidance for operators are analyzed from the technological mediation perspective.

Findings

Operator guidance systems mediate actions of operators physically, cognitively and contextually. These different types of action mediation are related to preconditions for successful implementation and use of these systems. Coercive interventions only succeed if there is widespread agreement among the operators. Persuasive interventions are most effective when collective and individual interests align. Contextual influence relates to designs of the operator guidance systems that determine human-technology interactions when using them.

Originality/value

This is the first study that analyzes the functioning of an operator guidance system using the technological mediation approach. It adds a new perspective on the interaction between this system and its users in road pavement practice.

Details

Frontiers in Engineering and Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2634-2499

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 26 December 2023

Antje Fricke, Nadine Pieper and David M. Woisetschläger

Consumers' perceptions of product intelligence affect their willingness to accept smart offerings. This paper explores how people perceive various smart products based on their…

Abstract

Purpose

Consumers' perceptions of product intelligence affect their willingness to accept smart offerings. This paper explores how people perceive various smart products based on their smartness profiles, composed of five distinct smartness facets. Additionally, the study investigates how these perceptions of product intelligence impact consumers' evaluation of factors that either promote or impede the adoption of smart products. These factors are examined as potential mediators in the adoption process. This paper aims to determine if the value-based adoption model can be applied to a broad range of smart service systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Consumers assessed one of 28 smart products in a scenario-based quantitative study. Multilevel structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to test the conceptual model, taking the nested data structure into account.

Findings

The findings show that product smartness essentially enhances usage intention via adoption drivers (enjoyment and usefulness) and reduces usage intention via adoption barriers (intrusiveness). In particular, the ability to interact in a humanlike manner increases the benefits consumers perceive, which in turn increases consumer acceptance. Only the smartness characteristic of awareness impairs usage intention, mediated by the perceived benefits of enjoyment and usefulness.

Originality/value

In contrast to previous research, which usually focuses on single smart products, this work examines a variety of different products, which allows for better transferability of the results to other smart offerings. Furthermore, prior research has mainly focused on single facets of product smartness or researched smartness on an aggregated level. By considering the consumer perception of each smartness facet, the authors gain deeper insights into the perceptual differences regarding product smartness and how this affects technology adoption via conflicting key acceptance drivers and barriers.

Details

Journal of Service Theory and Practice, vol. 34 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2055-6225

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 2022

Naveenkumar R., Shanmugam S. and Veerappan AR

The purpose of this paper is to understand the effect of basin water depth towards the cumulative distillate yield of the traditional and developed single basin double slope solar…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the effect of basin water depth towards the cumulative distillate yield of the traditional and developed single basin double slope solar still (DSSS).

Design/methodology/approach

Modified single basin DSSS integrated with solar operated vacuum fan and external water cooled condenser was fabricated using aluminium material. During sunny season, experimental investigations have been performed in both conventional and modified DSSS at a basin water depth of 3, 6, 9 and 12 cm. Production rate and cumulative distillate yield obtained in traditional and developed DSSS at different water depths were compared and best water depth to attain the maximum productivity and cumulative distillate yield was found out.

Findings

Results indicated that both traditional and modified double SS produced maximum yield at the minimum water depth of 3 cm. Cumulative distillate yield of the developed SS was 16.39%, 18.86%, 15.22% and 17.07% higher than traditional at water depths of 3, 6, 9 and 12 cm, respectively. Cumulative distillate yield of the developed SS at 3 cm water depth was 73.17% higher than that of the traditional SS at 12 cm depth.

Originality/value

Performance evaluation of DSSS at various water depths by integrating the combined solar operated Vacuum fan and external Condenser.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 21 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

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