Archive access robot for smart archive repositories

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jianwei Cui ◽  
Linwei Cui ◽  
Huice Jiang
Keyword(s):  
Map Matching ◽  
Robot Arm ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Storage Room ◽  
Mobile Navigation ◽  
Intelligent Management ◽  
Enhance Efficiency ◽  
Autonomous Movement ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels

Purpose Managing archives using robots rather than people can considerably enhance efficiency, while need to modify the structure of archive shelves or installation tracks. This paper aims to develop a fully automated archive access robot without modification. Design/methodology/approach First, a mobile navigation chassis and a motion algorithm based on laser ranging and map matching are created for autonomous movement to any of the archives’ locations. Second, because the existing archives are stacked vertically, the bionic manipulator is made to mimic the movement of manual access to the archives, and it is attached to the robot arm’s end to access different layers of archives. In addition, an industrial camera is used to complete barcode identification of the archives and acquire data on their location and thickness. Finally, the archive bin is created to store archives. Findings The robot can move, identify and access multiple archival copies placed on floors 1–6 and 2–5 cm thick autonomously without modifying the archival repository or using auxiliary devices. Research limitations/implications The robot is currently able to navigate, identify and access files placed on different levels. In the future, the speed of the robot’s navigation and the movement of the robot arm could be even faster, while the level of visualization of the robot could be further improved and made more intelligent. Practical implications The archive access robot developed by the authors makes it possible for robots to manage archives instead of human, while being cheaper and easier to deploy than existing robots, and has already been tested in the archive storage room of the State Grid maintenance branch in Jiangsu, China, with better results. Social implications The all-in-one archive access robot can replace existing robotic access solutions, promote intelligent management of the archive industry and the construction of unmanned archive repositories and provide ideas for the development of robots for accessing book-like materials. Originality/value This study explores the use of robots to identify and access archives without changing archive shelves or installing auxiliary devices. In this way, the robot can be quickly applied to the storage room to improve the efficiency of archive management.

Industrial part localization and grasping using a robotic arm guided by 2D monocular vision

2018 ◽  
Vol 45 (6) ◽  
pp. 794-804 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhaohui Zheng ◽  
Yong Ma ◽  
Hong Zheng ◽  
Yu Gu ◽  
Mingyu Lin
Keyword(s):  
Camera Calibration ◽  
High Precision ◽  
Calibration Method ◽  
Monocular Vision ◽  
Robotic Arm ◽  
Robot Arm ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Calibration Algorithm ◽  
Target Locating ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The welding areas of the workpiece must be consistent with high precision to ensure the welding success during the welding of automobile parts. The purpose of this paper is to design an automatic high-precision locating and grasping system for robotic arm guided by 2D monocular vision to meet the requirements of automatic operation and high-precision welding. Design/methodology/approach A nonlinear multi-parallel surface calibration method based on adaptive k-segment master curve algorithm is proposed, which improves the efficiency of the traditional single camera calibration algorithm and accuracy of calibration. At the same time, the multi-dimension feature of target based on k-mean clustering constraint is proposed to improve the robustness and precision of registration. Findings A method of automatic locating and grasping based on 2D monocular vision is provided for robot arm, which includes camera calibration method and target locating method. Practical implications The system has been integrated into the welding robot of an automobile company in China. Originality/value A method of automatic locating and grasping based on 2D monocular vision is proposed, which makes the robot arm have automatic grasping function, and improves the efficiency and precision of automatic grasp of robot arm.

The vibratory alignment of the parts in robotic assembly

2017 ◽  
Vol 44 (6) ◽  
pp. 720-729 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bronius Baksys ◽  
Jolanta Baskutiene ◽  
Saulius Baskutis
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Robotic Assembly ◽  
Mathematical Approach ◽  
Robot Arm ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Pressing Force ◽  
Passive Compliance ◽  
Alignment Process ◽  
Assembly Operations ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to consider the experimental and theoretical investigation of the vibratory alignment of the peg-hole, when the peg is fixed in the remote centre compliance (RCC) device, and the vibrations are provided either to the hole or to the peg. Design/methodology/approach The experimental analysis of the circular and rectangular peg-hole vibratory alignment using the attached to the robot arm RCC device, under vibratory excitation of the hole, has been performed. The parameters of the vibratory excitation and the part-to-part pressing force influence on the alignment process have been analysed. The mathematical approach of the vibratory alignment using the passive compliance device with the vibrations provided to the peg has been proposed, and the simulation has been carried out. Findings The research has approved the applicability of the RCC device for both of the vibratory alignments of the non-chamfered peg-hole parts either circular or rectangular ones. The compensation of the axial misalignments has been resulted by the directional displacement of the peg supported compliantly. To perform the successful alignment of the parts, it has been necessary to adjust the frequency and the amplitude of the vibrations, the pressing force, the lateral, as well as the angular stiffness of the device. Research limitations/implications The experiments on the vibratory alignment of the rectangular peg-hole parts have been carried out considering only the translational misalignment moved into one direction. The non-impact regime of the vibratory alignment has been analysed. Practical implications The obtained results can be applied in designing the reliable and efficient devices of the vibratory assembly for the alignment of the non-chamfered peg-hole parts, as well as for chamfered ones, if the axial misalignment exceeds the width of the chamfer. The vibratory technique and passive compliance provide possibility to accomplish the assembly operations using the non-expensive low accuracy robots. Originality/value The new method and the mathematical approach of the vibratory assembly using the RCC device can ensure the reliable alignment of the non-chamfered parts, chamfered circular and the rectangular ones, in case the axial misalignment exceeds the assembly clearance, and prevent jamming and wedging.

Unmasking conflict in vertical coopetition

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anni Rajala ◽  
Annika Tidström
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Manufacturing Sector ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Multiple Levels ◽  
A Company ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels ◽  
And Task

Purpose The purpose of this study is to increase understanding about vertical coopetition from the perspective of interrelated conflict episodes on multiple levels. Design/methodology/approach The empirical part is based on a qualitative single case study of a coopetitive buyer-supplier relationship in the manufacturing sector. Findings Conflicts in vertical coopetition evolve from being merely functional and task-related to becoming dysfunctional and relationship-related, as the level of competition increases. The nature of conflict episodes influences the development of vertical coopetition, and therefore, the interrelatedness of conflict episodes is important to acknowledge. Practical implications Although a conflict is considered functional within a company, it may still be dysfunctional as far as the coopetitive relationship with the buyer or seller is concerned. Competition may trigger conflicts related to protecting own technology and knowledge, which may lead to termination of the cooperation, therefore coopetition should be managed in a way that balance sharing and protecting important knowledge to get advantages of coopetition. Originality/value The findings enhance prior research on vertical coopetition by offering new perspectives on causes of conflicts, their management, outcomes and types. The value of taking a multilevel approach lies in the ability to show how conflicts occur and influence other conflicts through the interrelatedness of conflict elements on different levels.

Property investment: gearing and the equity rate of return

2019 ◽  
Vol 37 (3) ◽  
pp. 323-328 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nick French
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Investment Project ◽  
Equity Returns ◽  
Rate Of Return ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Bank Rate ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to comment upon the relatively straightforward but often misunderstood role of gearing (or leverage) on the potential equity return of a property investment. Design/methodology/approach This education briefing is an explanation of the upside and downside risk of borrowing (at different levels) to successful investment. Findings The use of gearing can greatly enhance equity returns but at an increased risk. Practical implications The process of borrowing at a bank rate below the return rate on an investment project can increase the equity return of the project as long as all incomes and discount rate remain at appropriate levels. Originality/value This is a review of existing models.

Gastronomic clusters in an Ecuadorian tourist destination: the case of the province of Manabí

2020 ◽  
Vol 122 (12) ◽  
pp. 3917-3934
Author(s):  
Jesús Claudio Pérez Gálvez ◽  
Pablo Torres-Matovelle ◽  
Gina Molina-Molina ◽  
Francisco González Santa Cruz
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Tourist Destination ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Travel Destination ◽  
Fundamental Part ◽  
Predominant Factor ◽  
Motivating Factor ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels ◽  
Segmentation Models

PurposeGastronomy is currently becoming a predominant factor for understanding and taking part in the cultural heritage of a destination. The enjoyment of culinary pleasures has become a primary motivating factor when choosing a travel destination. Gastronomy is, therefore, a fundamental part of the satisfaction that the traveller experiences when visiting a location.Design/methodology/approachData collection for the research was based on the completion of fieldwork with a sample of tourists who visited the Ecuadorian province of Manabí. Based on this understanding and completed fieldwork, the study analyses the gastronomic experiences of tourists visiting the province of Manabí (Ecuador).Findingsstudy shows the existence of three types of tourists, based on their higher or lower interest in the local gastronomy when travelling: survivors, enjoyers and experiencers. The results also reveal that there are different levels of satisfaction regarding local gastronomy in terms of interest and the previous cultural motivation of the tourist.Practical implicationsThe characterisation of the different tourist segments identified and the assessments that these dictate regarding the destination’s gastronomy allow tourist managers to develop and offer tourist products adapted to the wishes and needs of tourists.Originality/valueResearch involves the innovation in the use of segmentation models for culinary tourism widely considered in Europe but applied in this case to developing countries in Latin America.

scholarly journals Identifying counterfeit brand logos: on the importance of the first and last letters of a logotype

2019 ◽  
Vol 53 (10) ◽  
pp. 2109-2125 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abhishek Pathak ◽  
Carlos Velasco ◽  
Gemma Anne Calvert
Keyword(s):  
Emerging Markets ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Visual Similarity ◽  
Objective Measures ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Bona Fide ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels ◽  
Brand Logos

Purpose Counterfeiting is a menace in the emerging markets and many successful brands are falling prey to it. Counterfeit brands not only deceive consumers but also fuel a demand for lower priced replicas, both of which can devalue the bona-fide brand. But can consumers accurately identify a counterfeit logo? This paper aims to explore this question and examines the accuracy and speed with which a consumer can identify a counterfeit (vs original) logo. Design/methodology/approach Seven popular brand logos were altered by transposing and substituting the first and last letters of the logotypes. Consumers then classified the logos as counterfeit (vs original) across two experiments. Findings Participants were faster and more accurate in identifying a counterfeit logo when the first letter (vs last letter) of a logotype was manipulated, thus revealing last letter manipulations of a brand’s logotype to be more deceptive. Research limitations/implications This paper comments only on the manipulation of logotypes but not of logo symbols. Similarly, findings may not be generalizable across languages which are read from right to left. Practical implications Counterfeit trade is already a multibillion dollar industry. Understanding the key perceptual differentiators between a counterfeit (vs original) logo can be insightful for both consumers and firms alike. Originality/value Research available on objective measures of similarities (vs dissimilarities) between counterfeit (vs original) brand logos is limited. This paper contributes by examining the ability of consumers to discriminate between counterfeit (vs original) logos at different levels of visual similarity.

Agencies, it’s time to innovate!

2015 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 34-49 ◽  
Author(s):  
Klas Palm ◽  
Johan Lilja ◽  
Håkan Wiklund
Keyword(s):  
Public Management ◽  
Current Understanding ◽  
Work Processes ◽  
Administration System ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Critical Areas ◽  
Efficiency And Effectiveness ◽  
The Government ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the phenomenon of innovation in the current Swedish governmental administration system. More specifically, the paper explores the current understanding within the system of what innovation is, as well as why and how it should be achieved. Innovation is currently at the top of many agendas worldwide: not only in the private sector but also when it comes to increasing quality, efficiency and effectiveness in public administration. In Sweden, this is reflected in the recent call from the Government for innovation in public management. However, innovation has not traditionally occurred to any significant extent on the strategic level of Swedish public management. Furthermore, governmental administration is a complex system in need of coordination and alignment for this new call to be effectively realized in practice. Design/methodology/approach – This paper has been based on a qualitative approach with a case consisting of three embedded units: the Government itself, a ministry and a Government agency. The data have been collected from documents and interviews. Findings – This paper shows that there is currently a notable disparity when it comes to how aspects of innovation are understood at different levels within the Swedish governmental administration system. Furthermore, the recent business development to increase the standardization of work processes is perceived as having created poorer preconditions for working with innovations. Practical implications – The results highlight critical areas of disparity and possibilities for improvement toward a shared understanding and aligned innovation actions within the system. Originality/value – This paper contributes knowledge about the current understanding of innovation in the Swedish governmental administration system.

scholarly journals Setting the agenda for research on issue arenas

2014 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 200-215 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marita Vos ◽  
Henny Schoemaker ◽  
Vilma Liisa Luoma-aho
Keyword(s):  
Communication Strategies ◽  
Corporate Communication ◽  
Issues Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Stakeholder Interaction ◽  
Setting Theory ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels

Purpose – This paper seeks to contribute to the field of corporate communication by clarifying the theoretical basis of communication in issue arenas and proposing an agenda for research on issue arenas. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing on insights from stakeholder thinking, network theory, issues management, and agenda-setting theory, the authors identify different levels of analysis that could explain the behaviour of organisations in the public debate on current issues. Findings – The organisation-centred approach is replaced by a strong emphasis on interaction in networks of organisations, groups and individuals. Decision-making on communication strategies can be further developed by analysing the particularities of each issue arena, in particular the characteristics of the issue and the actors involved as well as the course of the debate and the communication strategies utilised in stakeholder interaction. Research limitations/implications – This theoretical approach calls for further research, but offers an agenda and suggests four starting levels for analysis. Practical implications – This paper provides a timely approach to the analysis of corporate communication that may help understand the complexities of a rapidly changing organisational environment and, ultimately, assist organisations in developing customised communication strategies suited to each issue arena relevant to their operations. Originality/value – Insights from various theories are brought together to serve as a starting point for the further analysis of communication in issue arenas.

Competencies for public library managers: diversity in practice

2015 ◽  
Vol 36 (6/7) ◽  
pp. 462-475 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mary Wilkins Jordan
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Training Programs ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Original Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Managerial Competencies ◽  
The Public ◽  
Job Titles ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify competencies in common across public library managers. Design/methodology/approach – The request for public library managers to participate in this survey was posted to the public listserve. Participants were asked about the tasks they do regularly, to identify the skills currently seen as most important in their work. They were then given a list of competencies, and asked to identify those they felt were most important for current public library managers, for those in future managers. Findings – Some commonalities emerged, but there was not a substantial amount of overlap between skills identified by directors and non-director managers as important now or into the future. Research limitations/implications – Further research into managerial competencies focussed on specific job titles is necessary to see what kinds of skills each may value. Likewise, a broader look at public library managers may provide a better set of common competencies that will be useful for both training and hiring. Practical implications – Understanding strategies for managerial competencies will be useful in building successful training programs. Social implications – Learning in this study that it will be challenging to carry out training relevant to all types of public library managers is useful; instead it can be tailored to different levels of managers for more success. Originality/value – This is an original study, building on other work the author has carried out. The value is in understanding the real needs of managers, not just anecdotal stories.

Collaborative writing with wikis: an empirical investigation

2016 ◽  
Vol 40 (3) ◽  
pp. 380-399 ◽  
Author(s):  
Helen S. Du ◽  
Sam K.W. Chu ◽  
Randolph C.H. Chan ◽  
Wei He
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Collaborative Writing ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Collaborative Behavior ◽  
Coordination Behavior ◽  
Group Members ◽  
Revision Histories ◽  
Collaborative Activities ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Different Levels

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the process and interaction among group members using wikis to produce collaborative writing (CW) projects, and to compare their collaborative behavior among students at different levels of education. Design/methodology/approach – The study investigated the participation and collaboration of Hong Kong primary school, secondary school, and university students in the process of developing their wiki-based CW projects. Both qualitative and quantitative data were obtained from analyzing the revision histories and the content of wiki pages. Findings – Results indicated that the level of education significantly affected student CW actions, and their interaction and coordination behavior to co-construct the work. Also, the frequency of collaborative activities varied noticeably among the primary, secondary, and university students. Practical implications – The study enriches our understanding of the complex and dynamic process of CW using wikis. It has practical implications on why and how the pedagogy and technology should be implemented differentially for the students at three different levels of education to facilitate collaborative knowledge construction. Originality/value – Research to date is still lacking an in-depth knowledge about the processes and activities involved when students write collaboratively on wikis. Also, no study has yet compared the collaborative behavior among students at different levels of education. The results of this study contribute to the development of new and appropriate modes of group-based collaborative learning at all levels of the education system for the twenty-first century.

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