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Article
Publication date: 19 September 2024

Ermus St. Louis

This study employed technological frames of reference (TFR) theory to explore officer attitudes toward body-worn cameras (BWCs) in the Chicago Police Department (CPD), identifying…

Abstract

Purpose

This study employed technological frames of reference (TFR) theory to explore officer attitudes toward body-worn cameras (BWCs) in the Chicago Police Department (CPD), identifying frames that may undermine compliance.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 officers, focusing on their perceptions of the BWCs’ purpose, adoption catalysts, effectiveness metrics and benefits and drawbacks.

Findings

Officers viewed BWCs primarily as tools for oversight and cited external influences and the department’s desire to be perceived as progressive as key catalysts for BWC adoption. There was widespread uncertainty regarding the criteria CPD uses to gauge BWC effectiveness. The protective feature of the cameras was cited as the primary benefit of the technology, while privacy intrusion and discretion were identified as key drawbacks. Noteworthy nuances were observed across these perceptual domains.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on a single police agency, limiting its generalizability. Nevertheless, it holds value for departments experiencing BWC policy compliance issues and those preparing to implement the cameras.

Practical implications

Insights into officers’ technological frames help identify perspectives that threaten desired use of BWCs and highlight necessary training and policy interventions that align officers' BWC readings with departmental goals to enhance policy compliance.

Originality/value

This study is among the few that employ TFR theory to examine officer perceptions of BWCs in a large urban police agency.

Details

Policing: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1363-951X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 August 2023

Hossam El-Din Fawzy, Maher Badawy and Magda Farhan

This paper aims to discuss the scanning methodology depending on the close-range photogrammetry technique, which is appropriate for the precise three-dimensional (3D) modelling of…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the scanning methodology depending on the close-range photogrammetry technique, which is appropriate for the precise three-dimensional (3D) modelling of objects in millimetres, such as the dimensions and structures in sub-millimetre scale.

Design/methodology/approach

The camera was adjusted to be tilted around the horizontal axis, while coded dot targets were used to calibrate the digital camera. The experiment was repeated with different rotation angles (5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 50° and 60°). The images were processed with the PhotoModeler software to create the 3D model of the sample and estimate its dimensions. The features of the sample were measured using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, which has been considered as a reference and the comparative dimensions.

Findings

The results from the current study concluded that changing the rotation angle does not significantly affect the results, unless the angle of imagery is large which prevent achieving about 20: 30% overlap between the images but, the more angle decreases, the more number of images increase as well as the processing duration in the programme.

Originality/value

Develop an automatic appropriate for the precise 3D modelling of objects in millimetres, such as the dimensions and structures in sub-millimetre scale using photogrammetry.

Article
Publication date: 21 May 2024

Jun Tian, Xungao Zhong, Xiafu Peng, Huosheng Hu and Qiang Liu

Visual feedback control is a promising solution for robots work in unstructured environments, and this is accomplished by estimation of the time derivative relationship between…

Abstract

Purpose

Visual feedback control is a promising solution for robots work in unstructured environments, and this is accomplished by estimation of the time derivative relationship between the image features and the robot moving. While some of the drawbacks associated with most visual servoing (VS) approaches include the vision–motor mapping computation and the robots’ dynamic performance, the problem of designing optimal and more effective VS systems still remains challenging. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to propose and evaluate the VS method for robots in an unstructured environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a new model-free VS control of a robotic manipulator, for which an adaptive estimator aid by network learning is proposed using online estimation of the vision–motor mapping relationship in an environment without the knowledge of statistical noise. Based on the adaptive estimator, a model-free VS schema was constructed by introducing an active disturbance rejection control (ADRC). In our schema, the VS system was designed independently of the robot kinematic model.

Findings

The various simulations and experiments were conducted to verify the proposed approach by using an eye-in-hand robot manipulator without calibration and vision depth information, which can improve the autonomous maneuverability of the robot and also allow the robot to adapt its motion according to the image feature changes in real time. In the current method, the image feature trajectory was stable in the camera field range, and the robot’s end motion trajectory did not exhibit shock retreat. The results showed that the steady-state errors of image features was within 19.74 pixels, the robot positioning was stable within 1.53 mm and 0.0373 rad and the convergence rate of the control system was less than 7.21 s in real grasping tasks.

Originality/value

Compared with traditional Kalman filtering for image-based VS and position-based VS methods, this paper adopts the model-free VS method based on the adaptive mapping estimator combination with the ADRC controller, which is effective for improving the dynamic performance of robot systems. The proposed model-free VS schema is suitable for robots’ grasping manipulation in unstructured environments.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 51 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Abstract

Details

Intelligence and State Surveillance in Modern Societies
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83549-098-3

Article
Publication date: 21 May 2024

Gan Zhan, Zhihua Chen, Zhenyu Zhang, Jigang Zhan, Wentao Yu and Jiehao Li

This study aims to address the issue of random movement and non coordination between docking mechanisms and locking mechanisms, and proposes a comprehensive dynamic docking…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to address the issue of random movement and non coordination between docking mechanisms and locking mechanisms, and proposes a comprehensive dynamic docking control architecture that integrates perception, planning, and motion control.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, the proposed dynamic docking control architecture uses laser sensors and a charge-coupled device camera to perceive the pose of the target. The sensor data are mapped to a high-dimensional potential field space and fused to reduce interference caused by detection noise. Next, a new potential function based on multi-dimensional space is developed for docking path planning, which enables the docking mechanism based on Stewart platform to rapidly converge to the target axis of the locking mechanism, which improves the adaptability and terminal docking accuracy of the docking state. Finally, to achieve precise tracking and flexible docking in the final stage, the system combines a self-impedance controller and an impedance control algorithm based on the planned trajectory.

Findings

Extensive simulations and experiments have been conducted to validate the effectiveness of the dynamic docking system and its control architecture. The results indicate that even if the target moves randomly, the system can successfully achieve accurate, stable and flexible dynamic docking.

Originality/value

This research can provide technical guidance and reference for docking task of unmanned vehicles under the ground conditions. It can also provide ideas for space docking missions, such as space simulator docking.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 51 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 August 2024

Rob Bogue

The aim of this article is to provide details of recent technological developments in robotic teleoperation.

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this article is to provide details of recent technological developments in robotic teleoperation.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a short introduction, the two main sections of this article provide examples of recent research involving the application of virtual reality and haptic technologies, respectively, to robotic teleoperation. Brief conclusions are drawn.

Findings

Teleoperation systems are being developed which incorporate virtual reality and haptic feedback technologies. Those using virtual reality seek to enhance the operator’s feeling of immersion in the scene and improve their situation awareness and trials involving diverse tasks illustrate that the technology can achieve these aims and overcome many limitations of traditional systems. Haptic feedback further enhances the degree of operator involvement and control and is now being adopted in commercial minimally invasive surgical systems. Systems which combine virtual reality with haptic feedback are being developed and have the potential to allow operators to conduct increasingly complex tasks.

Originality/value

Through reference to recent research, this illustrates how virtual reality and haptic technologies are enhancing the capabilities of robotic teleoperation.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 51 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 28 June 2024

Ebere Donatus Okonta and Farzad Rahimian

The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyse the potential of existing buildings in the UK to contribute to the net-zero emissions target. Specifically, it aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyse the potential of existing buildings in the UK to contribute to the net-zero emissions target. Specifically, it aims to address the significant emissions from building fabrics which pose a threat to achieving these targets if not properly addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

The study, based on a literature review and ten (10) case studies, explored five investigative approaches for evaluating building fabric: thermal imaging, in situ U-value testing, airtightness testing, energy assessment and condensation risk analysis. Cross-case analysis was used to evaluate both case studies using each approach. These methodologies were pivotal in assessing buildings’ existing condition and energy consumption and contributing to the UK’s net-zero ambitions.

Findings

Findings reveal that incorporating the earlier approaches into the building fabric showed great benefits. Significant temperature regulation issues were identified, energy consumption decreased by 15% after improvements, poor insulation and artistry quality affected the U-values of buildings. Implementing retrofits such as solar panels, air vents, insulation, heat recovery and air-sourced heat pumps significantly improved thermal performance while reducing energy consumption. Pulse technology proved effective in measuring airtightness, even in extremely airtight houses, and high airflow and moisture management were essential in preserving historic building fabric.

Originality/value

The research stresses the need to understand investigative approaches’ strengths, limitations and synergies for cost-effective energy performance strategies. It emphasizes the urgency of eliminating carbon dioxide (CO2) and greenhouse gas emissions to combat global warming and meet the 1.5° C threshold.

Details

Urbanization, Sustainability and Society, vol. 1 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2976-8993

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 August 2023

S. Balasubrahmanyam and Deepa Sethi

Gillette’s historically successful “razor and blade” business model (RBM) has been a promising benchmark for multiple businesses across diverse industries worldwide in the past…

Abstract

Purpose

Gillette’s historically successful “razor and blade” business model (RBM) has been a promising benchmark for multiple businesses across diverse industries worldwide in the past several decades. The extant literature deals with very few nuances of this business model notwithstanding the fact that there are several variants of this business model being put to practical use by firms in diverse industries in grossly metaphorically equivalent situations.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts the 2 × 2 truth table framework from the domains of mathematical logic and combinatorics in fleshing out all possible (four logical possibilities) variants of the razor and blade business model for further analysis. This application presents four mutually exclusive yet collectively exhaustive possibilities on any chosen dimension. Two major dimensions (viz., provision of subsidy and intra- or extra-firm involvement in the making of razors or blades or both) form part of the discussion in this paper. In addition, this study synthesizes and streamlines entrepreneurial wisdom from multiple intra-industry and inter-industry benchmarks in terms of real-time firms explicitly or implicitly adopting several variants of the RBM that suit their unique context and idiosyncratic trajectory of evolution in situations that are grossly reflective of the metaphorically equivalent scenario of razor and recurrent blades. Inductive method of research is carried out with real-time cases from diverse industries with a pivotally common pattern of razor and blade model in some form or the other.

Findings

Several new variants of the razor and blade model (much beyond what the extant literature explicitly projects) have been discovered from the multiple metaphorically equivalent cases of RBM across industries. All of these expand the portfolio of options that relevant entrepreneurial firms can explore and exploit the best possible option chosen from them, given their unique context and idiosyncratic trajectory of growth.

Research limitations/implications

This study has enriched the literature by presenting and analyzing a more inclusive or perhaps comprehensive palette of explicit choices in the form of several variants of the RBM for the relevant entrepreneurial firms to choose from. Future research can undertake the task of comparing these variants of RBM with those of upcoming servitization business models such as guaranteed availability, subscription and performance-based contracting and exploring the prospects of diverse combinations.

Practical implications

Smart entrepreneurial firms identify and adopt inspiring benchmarks (like razor and blade model whenever appropriate) duly tweaked and blended into a gestalt benchmark for optimal profits and attractive market shares. They target diverse market segments for tied-goods with different variants or combinations of the relevant benchmarks in the form of variegated customer value propositions (CVPs) that have unique and enticing appeal to the respective market segments.

Social implications

Value-sensitive customers on the rise globally choose the option that best suits them from among multiple alternatives offered by competing firms in the market. As long as the ratio of utility to price of such an offer is among the highest, even a no-frills CVP may be most appealing to one market segment while a plush CVP may be tempting to yet another market segment simultaneously. While professional business firms embrace resource leverage practices consciously, amateur customers do so subconsciously. Each party subliminally desires to have the maximum bang-to-buck ratio as the optimal return on investment, given their priorities ceteris paribus.

Originality/value

Prior studies on the RBM have explicitly captured only a few variants of the razor and blade model. This study is perhaps the first of its kind that ferrets out many other variants (more than ten) of the razor and blade model with due simplification and exemplification, justification and demystification.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 31 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 July 2024

Zhiyu Li, Hongguang Li, Yang Liu, Lingyun Jin and Congqing Wang

Autonomous flight of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in global position system (GPS)-denied environments has become an increasing research hotspot. This paper aims to realize the…

Abstract

Purpose

Autonomous flight of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in global position system (GPS)-denied environments has become an increasing research hotspot. This paper aims to realize the indoor fixed-point hovering control and autonomous flight for UAVs based on visual inertial simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) and sensor fusion algorithm based on extended Kalman filter.

Design/methodology/approach

The fundamental of the proposed method is using visual inertial SLAM to estimate the position information of the UAV and position-speed double-loop controller to control the UAV. The motion and observation models of the UAV and the fusion algorithm are given. Finally, experiments are performed to test the proposed algorithms.

Findings

A position-speed double-loop controller is proposed, by fusing the position information obtained by visual inertial SLAM with the data of airborne sensors. The experiment results of the indoor fixed-points hovering show that UAV flight control can be realized based on visual inertial SLAM in the absence of GPS.

Originality/value

A position-speed double-loop controller for UAV is designed and tested, which provides a more stable position estimation and enabled UAV to fly autonomously and hover in GPS-denied environment.

Details

Robotic Intelligence and Automation, vol. 44 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2754-6969

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 August 2024

Yan Kan, Hao Li, Zhengtao Chen, Changjiang Sun, Hao Wang and Joachim Seidelmann

This paper aims to propose a stable and precise recognition and pose estimation method to deal with the difficulties that industrial parts often present, such as incomplete point…

31

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a stable and precise recognition and pose estimation method to deal with the difficulties that industrial parts often present, such as incomplete point cloud data due to surface reflections, lack of color texture features and limited availability of effective three-dimensional geometric information. These challenges lead to less-than-ideal performance of existing object recognition and pose estimation methods based on two-dimensional images or three-dimensional point cloud features.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, an image-guided depth map completion method is proposed to improve the algorithm's adaptability to noise and incomplete point cloud scenes. Furthermore, this paper also proposes a pose estimation method based on contour feature matching.

Findings

Through experimental testing on real-world and virtual scene dataset, it has been verified that the image-guided depth map completion method exhibits higher accuracy in estimating depth values for depth map hole pixels. The pose estimation method proposed in this paper was applied to conduct pose estimation experiments on various parts. The average recognition accuracy in real-world scenes was 88.17%, whereas in virtual scenes, the average recognition accuracy reached 95%.

Originality/value

The proposed recognition and pose estimation method can stably and precisely deal with the difficulties that industrial parts present and improve the algorithm's adaptability to noise and incomplete point cloud scenes.

Details

Robotic Intelligence and Automation, vol. 44 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2754-6969

Keywords

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