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Article
Publication date: 3 September 2024

Jaya Choudhary, Mangey Ram and Ashok Singh Bhandari

This research introduces an innovation strategy aimed at bolstering the reliability of a renewable energy resource, which is hybrid energy systems, through the application of a…

Abstract

Purpose

This research introduces an innovation strategy aimed at bolstering the reliability of a renewable energy resource, which is hybrid energy systems, through the application of a metaheuristic algorithm. The growing need for sustainable energy solutions underscores the importance of integrating various energy sources effectively. Concentrating on the intermittent characteristics of renewable sources, this study seeks to create a highly reliable hybrid energy system by combining photovoltaic (PV) and wind power.

Design/methodology/approach

To obtain efficient renewable energy resources, system designers aim to enhance the system’s reliability. Generally, for this purpose, the reliability redundancy allocation problem (RRAP) method is utilized. The authors have also introduced a new methodology, named Reliability Redundancy Allocation Problem with Component Mixing (RRAP-CM), for optimizing systems’ reliability. This method incorporates heterogeneous components to create a nonlinear mixed-integer mathematical model, classified as NP-hard problems. We employ specially crafted metaheuristic algorithms as optimization strategies to address these challenges and boost the overall system performance.

Findings

The study introduces six newly designed metaheuristic algorithms. Solve the optimization problem. When comparing results between the traditional RRAP method and the innovative RRAP-CM method, enhanced reliability is achieved through the blending of diverse components. The use of metaheuristic algorithms proves advantageous in identifying optimal configurations, ensuring resource efficiency and maximizing energy output in a hybrid energy system.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s findings have significant social implications because they contribute to the renewable energy field. The proposed methodologies offer a flexible and reliable mechanism for enhancing the efficiency of hybrid energy systems. By addressing the intermittent nature of renewable sources, this research promotes the design of highly reliable sustainable energy solutions, potentially influencing global efforts towards a more environmentally friendly and reliable energy landscape.

Practical implications

The research provides practical insights by delivering a comprehensive analysis of a hybrid energy system incorporating both PV and wind components. Also, the use of metaheuristic algorithms aids in identifying optimal configurations, promoting resource efficiency and maximizing reliability. These practical insights contribute to advancing sustainable energy solutions and designing efficient, reliable hybrid energy systems.

Originality/value

This work is original as it combines the RRAP-CM methodology with six new robust metaheuristics, involving the integration of diverse components to enhance system reliability. The formulation of a nonlinear mixed-integer mathematical model adds complexity, categorizing it as an NP-hard problem. We have developed six new metaheuristic algorithms. Designed specifically for optimization in hybrid energy systems, this further highlights the uniqueness of this approach to research.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 August 2024

Simone Strambach and Stephen Omwenga Momanyi

This paper aims to contribute to research on hybrid organisations operating within the information and communication technology for development paradigm to foster socio-economic…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to research on hybrid organisations operating within the information and communication technology for development paradigm to foster socio-economic inclusion through the capacity building of marginalised individual youth to enable their entry and participation in the formal labour market.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative research design, the authors investigated impact sourcing service providers and their beneficiaries to unpack how hybrid organisations fulfil their social mission and to provide a nuanced understanding of their needed capabilities. Data triangulation through document analysis, participant observation and semi-structured interviews were conducted for the empirical findings’ robustness and in-depth analysis.

Findings

This paper illuminates how hybrids strived to build beneficiaries' capabilities through empirically grounded approaches of “standardised” and “individualised” skills development, which were strongly connected to the perceived capabilities among the beneficiaries. Organisations that practiced the “individualised” approach imparted technical knowledge and, depending on individual needs, relevant social skills. Critically, the empirical findings call into question the effectiveness of the scalability model, as the results showed that the creation of standardised, low-skilled and low-paid jobs contradicts the idealised self-help status that employment advocates. In addition, the findings underline the central role of constant experimentation, resilience and organisational learning in revamping capabilities of hybrid organisations. Remarkably, compared to organisations committed to the “standardised” technical competency path, the results underscored the difficulties that organisations taking an “individualised" approach face in developing organisational capabilities for their financial sustainability. Further, organisations engaged in standardised” skills development were found to readapt their business model to the economic value and kept the wording of dual mission as a narrative.

Originality/value

The paper makes a conceptual and empirical contribution bringing together two separately developed literature strands – the organisational capability approach and – the individual capability approach, to enhance a more profound understanding of how both capabilities are connected to each other in the dual-mission orientation of hybrids embedded in resource-poor environments, global value chains, Global South, hybrid organisations, organisational and individual capability building.

Details

Social Enterprise Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-8614

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 June 2009

J. Sharana Basavaraja, Sathish Sharma and Sathish Jain

The non‐recessed hybrid journal bearings of cylindrical type, when operating at higher rotational speeds can suffer self‐exited vibrations(oil‐whirl Instability), which can cause…

Abstract

Purpose

The non‐recessed hybrid journal bearings of cylindrical type, when operating at higher rotational speeds can suffer self‐exited vibrations(oil‐whirl Instability), which can cause excessive rotor motion causing bearing and sometimes total machine failure. The multi‐lobe journal bearing exhibits better stability as well as a superior capability to suppress oil‐whirl. The paper aims to present a theoretical study pertaining to a two‐lobe hole‐entry hybrid journal bearing by considering the combined influence of surface roughness and journal misalignment on the performance of the bearing.

Design/methodology/approach

The average Reynolds equation governing the flow of lubricant in the clearance space between the rough bearing surfaces together with the equation of flow through a capillary restrictor has been solved using FEM. The bearing performance characteristics have been simulated for a two‐lobe hole‐entry hybrid journal bearing for the various values of offset factor, restrictor design parameter, surface roughness parameter, surface pattern parameter and journal misalignment parameters.

Findings

The two‐lobe hole‐entry hybrid journal bearing system with an offset factor greater than one indicates significant improvement of the order of 15‐25 percent in the values of direct stiffness and direct damping coefficients compared to a circular hole‐entry hybrid journal bearing system. Also the lubricant flow of a two‐lobe hole‐entry hybrid journal bearing is reduced by 25 percent vis‐à‐vis circular bearing.

Originality/value

The present work is original of its kind, in case of two‐lobe hole‐entry hybrid journal bearing. The results are quite useful for the bearing designer.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 61 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 September 2014

C. Pornet, S. Kaiser, A.T. Isikveren and M. Hornung

The aim of this paper is to assess the potential of fuel-battery hybrid narrow-body (180PAX) transport aircraft according to different design ranges for an entry-into-service…

1236

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to assess the potential of fuel-battery hybrid narrow-body (180PAX) transport aircraft according to different design ranges for an entry-into-service (EIS) of 2035.

Design/methodology/approach

The philosophy used in the design of the twin-engine fuel-battery hybrid concept is to use the power of an electric motor during cruise to drive a single propulsive device, whereas the other one is powered conventionally by an advanced gas turbine. A methodology for the sizing and performance assessment of hybrid energy aircraft was previously proposed by the authors. Based on this methodology, the overall sizing effects at aircraft level are considered to size the hybrid aircraft to different range applications. To evaluate the hybrid concept, performance was contrasted against a conventional aircraft projected to EIS 2035 and sized for identical requirements. Additionally, sensitivity of the prospects against different battery technology states was analysed.

Findings

The best suited aircraft market for the application of the fuel-battery hybrid transport aircraft concept considered is the regional segment. Under the assumption of a battery-specific energy of 1.5 kWh/kg, block fuel reduction up to 20 per cent could be achieved concurrently with a gate-to-gate neutral energy consumption compared to an advanced gas-turbine aircraft. However, a large increase in maximum take-off weight (MTOW) occurs resulting from battery weight, the additional electrical system weight, and the cascading sizing effects. It strongly counteracts the benefit of the hybrid-electric propulsion technology used in this concept for lower battery-specific energy and for longer design ranges.

Practical implications

The findings will contribute to the evaluation of the feasibility and impact of hybrid energy transport aircraft as potential key enablers of the European and US aeronautical program goals towards 2035.

Originality/value

The paper draws its value from the consideration of the overall sizing effects at aircraft level and in particular the impact of the hybrid-electric propulsion system to investigate the prospects of fuel-battery hybrid narrow-body transport aircraft sized at different design ranges.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, vol. 86 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 1989

N. Sinnadurai

In order to identify and quantify the size and shape of the rapidly changing complexion of the market for hybrid microelectronics, in 1987 ISHM launched a survey in Europe of the…

Abstract

In order to identify and quantify the size and shape of the rapidly changing complexion of the market for hybrid microelectronics, in 1987 ISHM launched a survey in Europe of the market for thin‐film, thick‐film and surface‐mount‐on‐PCB hybrids for the periods 1980, 1986 and 1990. The survey aimed to obtain a hierarchical breakdown of the markets also into technology and application sectors. The general findings are reported. The credibility and quantity of the survey are considered in the context of the market for electronic equipment in Europe for 1987 and 1990. In electronics there is a continuing pressure to reduce prices and therefore adjustments should not be made for inflation. A growth in market value is thus a true reflection of a larger growth in market volume and a continuing increase in complexity. Thus, the 11% CAGR for 1986–1990 reflects a growth in equipment volumes of 20% over the 4 year period. Manufacturers will have to design and build increasingly complex circuits at a higher throughput and lower cost, at an increasing pace. It is not a business for faint hearts. Clearly the growth potential for the hybrid microelectronics market should be considered in the context of the equipment market, in order to judge the relative growth. In order to distinguish between the hybrid and PCB industries, the survey has aimed to estimate the growth in the developing market for hybrids using substrates up to 6 in. × 4 in. (Eurocard), not including the larger SMAs on PCBs for which there is a huge market growth potential. The immediate opportunity is from miniaturisation and cost reduction using hybrid microelectronics. The major push in technological emphasis in modern hybrids comes from the need for high‐density interconnection to support increasingly complex VLSI in high‐pin‐count surface‐mount micropackages and high‐performance substrates to support VHSIC and high‐performance circuits. Hence there is a major shift in hybrid microelectronics technology emphasis towards high‐density surface‐mount assemblies on PCB and other organic substrates. The total hybrid market sub‐divided among the basic three technologies reveals this emphasis. The portents are clear, and those who intend to succeed, or even simply survive, need to be aware of the shift in emphasis and prepare to diversify or establish strengths in niche applications.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 6 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Article
Publication date: 30 September 2013

Haiou Zhang, Xiangping Wang, Guilan Wang and Yang Zhang

The purpose of this paper is to report a new direct metal manufacturing method which integrates freeform deposition process and micro rolling process, introduce the manufacturing…

1915

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report a new direct metal manufacturing method which integrates freeform deposition process and micro rolling process, introduce the manufacturing principle and show the advantages of this method.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper introduces the hybrid manufacturing principle and devices first. Then, the key parameters of hybrid manufacturing process are studied by contrast experiments. The results of comparisons of manufacturing accuracy, microstructure and tensile test between freeform fabricated parts and hybrid manufactured parts show the advantages of this new direct manufacturing method.

Findings

The experiments results show that the accuracy of hybrid manufacturing method is improved obviously comparing with arc-based freeform deposition manufacturing method; the microstructure of the hybrid manufacturing part turns into cellular crystal instead of dendrite; the tensile strength of the part increases by 33 percent and the tensile deformation improved more than two times.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new hybrid direct metal manufacturing method for the first time. The hybrid manufacturing devices are developed. The experiments results show that the hybrid manufacturing method can be used on directly fabricating large metal components with outstanding quality, efficiency and low cost. The application prospect is great.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 19 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 August 2013

M.P. Jenarthanan and R. Jeyapaul

The purpose of this paper is to report the preparation, characterisation and machinability of resin hybrid GFRP composites, which are made of glass fibre and the mixture of epoxy…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the preparation, characterisation and machinability of resin hybrid GFRP composites, which are made of glass fibre and the mixture of epoxy & polyester resin.

Design/methodology/approach

Resin hybrid GFRP laminates containing 0, 20 and 40wt% of polyester resin with the epoxy resin are prepared by conventional hand layup technique using glass fibre as the reinforcement. The variation of break load and shear strength for three different combinations of epoxy and polyester resin are studied by ASTM. A plan of experiment based on Taguchi was established with prefixed cutting parameters and the machining was performed. A stylus type profilometer to examine the surface roughness and shop microscope to examine the delamination of resin hybrid GFRP laminates were used. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to investigate the cutting characteristics of resin hybrid GFRP composite materials using solid carbide end mill. The correlation was obtained by multiple‐variable linear regression using Minitab 14 software.

Findings

Taguchi analysis reveals that the resin hybrid GFRP laminate provides better machinability in terms of surface roughness and delamination when compared to homogenous GFRP laminates (pure epoxy resin). Polyester resin enhances the machinability of the GFRP laminates.

Research limitations/implications

The machinability of the resin hybrid GFRP laminates can be improved further by modifying the polyester resin percentage.

Originality/value

The resin hybrid GFRP laminates so developed can be used in aircraft and aerospace applications to increase the shear and work of fracture properties.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 42 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 August 2011

Akihiro Fukushima

The purpose of this paper is to propose two hybrid forecasting models which integrate available ones. A hybrid contaminated normal distribution (CND) model accurately reflects the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose two hybrid forecasting models which integrate available ones. A hybrid contaminated normal distribution (CND) model accurately reflects the non‐normal features of monthly S&P 500 index returns, and a hybrid GARCH model captures a serial correlation with respect to volatility. The hybrid GARCH model potentially enables financial institutions to evaluate long‐term investment risks in the S&P 500 index more accurately than current models.

Design/methodology/approach

The probability distribution of an expected investment outcome is generated with a Monte Carlo simulation. A taller peak and fatter tails (kurtosis), which the probability distribution of monthly S&P 500 index returns contains, is produced by integrating a CND model and a bootstrapping model. The serial correlation of volatilities is simulated by applying a GARCH model.

Findings

The hybrid CND model can simulate the non‐normality of monthly S&P 500 index returns, while avoiding the influence of discrete observations. The hybrid GARCH model, by contrast, can simulate the serial correlation of S&P 500 index volatilities, while generating fatter tails. Long‐term investment risks in the S&P 500 index are affected by the serial correlation of volatilities, not the non‐normality of returns.

Research limitations/implications

The hybrid models are applied only to the S&P 500 index. Cross‐sectional correlations among different asset groups are not examined.

Originality/value

The proposed hybrid models are unique because they combine available ones with a decision tree algorithm. In addition, the paper clearly explains the strengths and weaknesses of existing forecasting models.

Details

The Journal of Risk Finance, vol. 12 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1526-5943

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 July 2024

Santiago Gutiérrez-Broncano, Mercedes Rubio-Andrés, Jorge Linuesa Langreo and Miguel Angel Sastre-Castillo

For this paper, the authors focus on Porter’s competitive advantage. Hybrid strategy refers to how a firm creates value vis-à-vis competitors by simultaneously relying on lower…

Abstract

Purpose

For this paper, the authors focus on Porter’s competitive advantage. Hybrid strategy refers to how a firm creates value vis-à-vis competitors by simultaneously relying on lower costs and greater differentiation to achieve a competitive advantage. This strategy emphasises both and aims to provide much more monetary value to customers through the combination of reduced cost and a higher rate of differentiation. In addition, this research focuses on family small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), because they have particularities arising from the incorporation of family members both as owners of the SME and in managerial positions. The porpose of this study is to analyse whether the existing differences produced by the role of the family in strategic decision-making and the concentration of family power have a higher impact on performance and innovation than non-family SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modelling was used to analyse Spanish firms with fewer than 250 employees. This study randomly selected SMEs operating in Spain from the Spanish Central Business Directory (2021) database. The overall sample design was based on stratified sampling.

Findings

SMEs are facing new challenges, and this has led to the emergence of new competitive strategies. Companies have started to combine differentiation strategies with cost strategies to achieve superior performance and better adapt to these changes. This study confirms a positive relationship between the adoption of hybrid strategies and market performance in SMEs. In addition, hybrid strategy reinforces innovation, which has a mediating role between hybrid strategy and market performance. Finally, the findings indicate that family SMEs achieve a greater impact of hybrid strategy on innovation than non-family SMEs. Moreover, innovation plays a mediating role only in the case of family firms, which enhances the relationship between hybrid strategy and market performance.

Originality/value

For SMEs to survive in turbulent environments, this study proposes the adoption of hybrid strategies instead of pure strategies. The novel model links hybrid strategy (as opposed to “stuck in the middle”), innovation and market performance. The research is valuable for owners and managers of family SMEs because this study finds differences in the relationships studied compared to non-family SMEs.

Details

International Journal of Organizational Analysis, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1934-8835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 July 2024

Simon Williams and Nicky Shaw

We explore the benefits and challenges for organisations using hybrid working practices post-pandemic. We focus upon the non-profit English social housing sector; however, this…

Abstract

Purpose

We explore the benefits and challenges for organisations using hybrid working practices post-pandemic. We focus upon the non-profit English social housing sector; however, this research is relevant to any organisation adopting hybrid working practices. The implications for productivity and performance management of hybrid practices are currently not well understood.

Design/methodology/approach

Within this Reflective Practice work, we apply a dual-theoretic lens to a new Ways of Working tool and adopt a mixed methods approach. First scoping interviews were conducted with senior managers possessing strategic knowledge of their organisations’ approaches to hybrid working. Secondly, a large-scale survey was administered to evaluate employees’ perceptions of hybrid working, including their concerns for future impacts.

Findings

Our data identify several benefits and challenges associated with hybrid working. Reclaimed commuting time was deemed a positive benefit, alongside greater personal time, work-life balance and (for the majority) less-interrupted workspace. Challenges were identified regarding the transparency of staff reward and recognition, the potential for masked burnout and purposeful team communication.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the unique context of the pandemic and widespread, but sudden adoption of home- and hybrid working, this study can be taken as a snapshot in time as organisations recalibrate the consequences of new ways of working.

Originality/value

Despite hybrid working having been possible for decades, many articles describe typical benefits (e.g. less commuting time) and challenges (e.g. organisational culture) without fully understanding productivity and performance implications. To explore this, we extend Palvalin et al.’s (2015) Tool by establishing a theoretical foundation through the conservation of resources theory and practice theory.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

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