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Hybrid transmissions have attracted great attention in the automotive industry due to their energy-saving, low-emission properties, and have become a focus of research and development. This paper presents a new method to design the configuration of two mode power split hybrid transmission using the combination of the simple planetary gear trains (PGT). For this purpose, the hybrid transmission structure is divided into two substructures, which achieve different operation modes respectively. Then the output of one substructure is reconnected with the components of another substructure to obtain the complete hybrid transmission configuration. In addition, by adding additional shifting elements, the hybrid configurations can also realize the fixed gear mode as a traditional automatic transmission. As a result, 38 hybrid transmissions are obtained, and the kinematic analysis of a new configuration is performed for the subsequent optimization. Furthermore, using this decomposition and recombination method, the hybrid transmissions with multiple PGTs and different operation modes can be synthesized by changing the predefined modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the last 20 years, fluid-related natural catastrophes caused by climate change have produced severe floods in numerous countries, resulting in many casualties, large scale infrastructure damage, and enormous economic losses. These catastrophic hydrodynamic phenomena disrupt whole transportation networks by washing down bridge decks, piers, and roadways, complicating rescue and recovery efforts. As recent flash floods have demonstrated, inland transportation infrastructure is just as vulnerable to fluid hazards as coastal infrastructure. This research investigates the mechanics of fluid flow impact to learn how fluid currents affect bridge piers. The next step is to build a finite volume bridge pier model that considers the consequences of fluid flow and radial motion around the pier. Results from fluid impact analysis, fluid–structure coupling analysis, and theoretical analysis are contrasted with those derived using the equations specified by national and international design standards. According to the results, it is necessary to raise the fluid flow force computed using the codes' formulas to account for the impact of the flood on the bridge pier. The standard codes for the highway bridge design approach frequently produce a larger fluid flow force result, so we can ignore fluid–structure interaction on the bridge pier in water flow velocity, which is minor. It is possible to disregard the fluid–structure interaction on the bridge pier only when finite volume analysis is performed. Practical Applications: Understanding the impact of fluid flow on bridge piers is crucial for enhancing the resilience of transportation infrastructure in the face of increasing hydrodynamic threats due to climate change. This research delves into the mechanics of fluid–structure interaction, shedding light on how fluid currents affect bridge stability. By developing a finite volume bridge pier model, the study provides a more accurate assessment of the forces exerted by floods, enabling engineers to design bridges that can withstand extreme hydrological events more effectively. The findings highlight the limitations of current design standards, suggesting that traditional approaches may underestimate the forces exerted by floodwaters on bridge piers. By incorporating fluid–structure interaction analysis into design protocols, engineers can ensure safer and more resilient bridge infrastructure, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure during severe flooding events. This research underscores the importance of adopting advanced modeling techniques to account for dynamic fluid behavior and mitigate the impact of hydrological pressures on critical infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete-to-concrete interface shear-stress transfer behavior is crucial for concrete composite slabs with lattice girders. In practice, diagonal reinforcements in the lattice girders make shear reinforcement ratios with ranging from 0.05% to 0.3%. However, numerous studies have shear reinforcement ratios greater than 0.5%, and investigations on interface with low shear reinforcement ratios are still insufficient. To investigate the shear-stress transfer behavior and to propose a simplified approach to calculate shear-capacity, direct shear tests were carried out to obtain the effects of surface roughness, shear reinforcement ratio and shear reinforcement inclined angle on shear-stress behavior. The tested results showed that the concrete-to-concrete interface occurred debonding brittle failure. The ultimate shear strength was mainly provided by interface bond strength, and the residual shear strength depended on shear reinforcement and surface roughness. The bond strength of smooth surface decreased by 26.5% than that of rough surface. The inclined angle of shear reinforcement should be not greater than 90. Finite element models established in ABAQUS were validated based on the tested results, which could be used to enlarge the parameters' range. The parametric analysis was conducted, and the dominant factors affecting on the interface shear-capacity were obtained. At last, a simplified approach was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classification of design codes by the level of complexity of their design was cre-ated for the first time. The obtained results are key to understanding the role of the QR code as a full-fledged work of art in the context of modern design. In the future, this will allow us to single out the most noticeable trends in the development of coded information in the conditions of modern visual culture.

Classification of design codes by the level of complexity of their design was created for the first time. The obtained results are key to understanding the role of the QR code as a full-fledged work of art in the context of modern design. In the future, this will allow us to single out the most noticeable trends in the development of coded information in the conditions of modern visual culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dictation is considered an efficient exercise for testing French as a foreign language (FFL) learners’ language proficiency. However, the traditional class-based approach to dictation is constrained by the inherent complexity of the exercise’s design, materialisation, and delivery. In this research, we adopted a design-based research approach to design, develop, and apply an intelligent French dictation platform, which we tested on 50 undergraduate FFL learners. By examining their feedback, we identified certain advantages of the platform, such as time–space flexibility, instant correction, and the opportunity to repeat exercises, but also some disadvantages, such as inconvenient text entry, the inability to question a teacher, and the absence of collective learning and supervision. Crucially, this study constitutes an encouraging step forward in classifying frequent errors made by Chinese learners. The results provide a starting point for developing more advanced dictation platforms that will be capable of automatised error classification in the future.

Several different designs of 1.2kV-rated 4H-SiC MOSFETs have been successfully fabricated under various ion implantation conditions. Implantation conditions consisted of different P+ profiles and implantation temperatures of both room temperature (25°C) and elevated temperatures (600°C) in order to monitor subsequent lattice damage. Through the use of X-Ray topography, SEM imaging, and electrical measurements, it was shown that room temperature implanted devices can mimic the static performances of high temperature implanted MOSFETs and reduce lattice damage suffered during the fabrication process, when the dose of high energy implants are suppressed.

Nature has its own principles to preserve the ecosystem. It is the main source of various systems. Nature’s capabilities are superior in many fields that allow design solutions to some problems. The concept of biomimicry design combines biology and engineering to achieve complete unity, and to create sustainable design strategies based on taking advantage of solutions found in nature to solve various design problems.Design is one of the important fields of life. It is an artistic thought that accompanies the trends of arts as a artistic construction process that can be discerned from nature, the organization of elements, blocks, spaces, volumes and interrelations to achieve unity, balance, rhythm and movement within the artwork. For the design process to perform its function successfully in accordance with the concept and requirements of the design media; The biomimicry science became an approach to scientific thinking and engineering systems taken from nature to reach various entrances to artistic creativity.Biomimicry design is one of the newly emerging scientific and artistic way that produced by simulating nature’s systems and employing them in various designs to express and build contemporary design thought that simulates nature and its construction.Therefore, this study seeks to use the direction of biomimicry design as an aesthetic dimension to present a new vision to devise innovative designs with different tactile, sensual and visual effects for women's printing fabrics through color calculations and repeated formal rhythms.

Our goal is to introduce the term designcommunication written in one word, a creative, academically based design approach combining theory and practical experience as good as possible in various application settings, be it education, scientific research, concept, product or system development. Designcommunication provides a highly flexible framework and a sound methodological base beyond the familiar. Designcommunication, in other words, creating a connection as designing, is an approach that uses a holistic triple relation framework of opposing dimensions: material–immaterial, permanent–variable and survival–subsistence–development relations. This framework of relations is available and possibly applicable to anyone regardless of level and area of education. Introducing such a design approach to education opens new horizons of creative cooperation, as designcommunication facilitates the development of creativity, collaboration and communication as increasingly valued soft skills.

In maternity rooms, breastfeeding chairs are crucial pieces of equipment that greatly influence the breastfeeding experience. However, an abundance of data indicates that there are still issues with breastfeeding chairs, including inadequate support for breastfeeding, poor body type adaptability, and failure to adequately analyse the requirements of mothers and baby users. This study used an innovative research approach to breastfeeding chair design from the standpoint of user requirements to improve breastfeeding willingness and user experience. We propose a user requirement assessment design approach that integrates the Kano model, analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and quality function development (QFD) based on the requirements of mother and baby groups. This approach was intended to build a user experience evaluation model for mother- and baby-friendly products. Following this approach to breastfeeding chair design, a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) was used to assess the chair. Compared to the original breastfeeding chairs, the designs of breastfeeding chairs that met important requirements for mothers and infants, such as safety, hygiene, and breastfeeding support, resulted in an approximately 23 % increase in user satisfaction. This effectively improved the user experience of both mothers and infants. This approach is centred on the basic requirements of mothers and babies. It evaluates the essential requirements that impact the breastfeeding experiences of mothers and babies and provides multifaceted data regarding the attributes of the different requirements of mothers and babies. This results in theoretical research references for ensuing user-driven design products that cater to the requirements of mothers and their infants and play a pivotal role in formulating design guidelines for mother- and baby-friendly products.

Copyright of Educação is the property of EDIPUCRS - Editora Universitaria da PUCRS and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Our goal is to introduce the term designcommunication written in one word, a creative, academically based design approach combining theory and practical experience as good as possible in various application settings, be it education, scientific research, concept, product or system development. Designcommunication provides a highly flexible framework and a sound methodological base beyond the familiar. Designcommunication, in other words, creating a connection as designing, is an approach that uses a holistic triple relation framework of opposing dimensions: material-immaterial, permanent-variable and survival-subsistence-development relations. This framework of relations is available and possibly applicable to anyone regardless of level and area of education. Introducing such a design approach to education opens new horizons of creative cooperation, as designcommunication facilitates the development of creativity, collaboration and communication as increasingly valued soft skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Amazonia Investiga is the property of PRIMMATE and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This review paper highlights the most fundamental state of knowledge regarding the fatigue of concrete that is available through the literature over the last decades and reveals the areas that are needed for further investigation. The loading factors influencing the fatigue performance and the fatigue life estimation of concrete structures are taken into consideration. This review explores the impact of eight loading parameters on the fatigue life of concrete structures, and we aimed to be succinct in our investigation. Besides, we present a review on the deterministic and probabilistic approaches for fatigue life prediction. For example, in more recent studies, the utilization of machine learning techniques has been shown to outperform the traditional methods. The review gives adequate insight into the approach of some of the main current design codes for fatigue life prediction of concrete.

A design feature of the construction of electric heaters for non-pressurized spacecraft using a heating element in the form of a tape of a material with high resistivity, located on a flat base (electrical insulating substrate) in the form of a snake with the organization of the necessary gaps between the tapes, is revealed. A mathematical model has been developed for calculating the main design parameters of electric heaters: power, mass, heated surface area. The nomenclature of efficiency indicators used as optimization criteria has been formed: power utilization factor, filling factor of an electrically insulating substrate tape, surface density, energy-mass efficiency, thermal efficiency of heating, target efficiency. The methodological principles for ranking the requirements for the parameters of electric heaters are determined using the selected optimization criteria: the preferred use of tape materials with high resistivity and minimum thickness. A method is formulated for step-by-step calculation of the parameters of electric heaters in the presence of restrictions on the maximum heat flux density determined from the conditions for the use of electric heaters. General recommendations have been developed for choosing the parameters of electric heaters: use increased voltage, minimize the thickness of the heating element tape and the width of the gap between the tapes, determine the minimum value of the tape length for the maximum heat flux density at a given voltage rating.

Technology and design are increasingly recognized as important drivers of social innovation (SI). While new-age technologies can disrupt the realm of social innovation through resource-efficient solutions and multiple outcome benefits, the appliction of design thinking approaches and techniques can enhance the potential for SI through human-centered participatory processes and a socially shared vision and impact. Despite extensive research focusing on SI practices driven by technology and design respectively, few studies have concentrated on the synergistic effects of technology and design in the field of SI. This paper addresses this gap through an exploratory study on the incorporation and role of technology in the practice of design for SI. By applying the mapping approach to a sample of 81 Design-enabled Innovation (DEI) pilot projects in the DESIGNSCAPES project, the distribution, hosts and manifestations of technology footprints are identified, taking into account the multi-phase innovation processes and multifaceted role of design. Our findings suggest that in design-supported SI, technology can be integrated in a systematic and conventional manner across a range of domains related to people, interactions, contexts, and artefacts and that its interaction with design actions is highly dependent on the different roles of design, followed by a further discussion of a conceptual argument regarding the possible role of technology in supporting design for SI. Based on these findings and results, the article concludes with the limitations of the study and possible theoretical and managerial implications.

With the growing demand for the bearing capacity of columns, large-section angle steel (LAS) columns have been widely adopted. Q345 is the most commonly used steel, but research on the axial compression stability of LAS columns mainly focuses on steels with 420 MPa and above. In order to study the buckling behavior of Q345 LAS columns, a total of 96 specimens are subjected to axial compression tests. The test results are compared with the specification and analyzed. Based on test data, an accurate finite element model of the Q345 LAS column is established, and the parametric analysis is carried out through the model. The results show that the buckling mode of Q345 LAS columns is flexural buckling, and local buckling is not observed. The axial compression stability coefficient of Q345 LAS short columns is significantly higher than the result of the specification. The reasons come from the constitutive model and the buckling mode, and the influence of section size can be ignored. The curve a in GB50017-2017 and Eurocode 3 can be used to calculate the axial compression stability of Q345 LAS columns. Finally, a new column curve is proposed to calculate the axial compression stability of Q345 LAS columns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fishways are essential hydraulic structures to ensure the migration of fish and other aquatic organisms in the area of cross structures in river systems. In this context, the present study focuses on vertical slot fishways with specific geometries and their discharge coefficients. A comprehensive data analysis was performed, aiming on the development of new fitting parameters in conjunction with their respective approaches for practical design procedures. In addition, validity ranges and parameter dependencies were defined. Using the new fitting equations, it is possible to determine accurate discharge coefficients to design functional strutures for a defined validity range. Results show that discharge coefficients are highly dependent on the basin geometry. Comparing newly developed fitting parameters have shown that investigated fitting equations can be used to determine discharge coefficients. However, it should be noted that newly developed fittings can only be applied in practice for the defined range of validity for investigated exemplary geometries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study included a series of experiments and a detailed numerical analysis to reveal the cross-sectional behaviors and residual compression ultimate capacities of cold-formed titanium-clad bimetallic steel (TCBS) angle section stub columns (ASSCs) following exposure to high temperatures. Four cold-formed TCBS ASSCs with different geometric dimensions were tested. The exposure temperature included 20 °C, 700 °C, and 900 °C. After experiment, a comprehensive numerical analysis was carried out, wherein 200 finite element models were included. Given the lack of specialized design approaches for cold-formed TCBS structures, the applicability of conventional design approaches for carbon steel structures to cold-formed TCBS ASSCs subjected to high temperatures was assessed, where the design approaches in EN 1993-1-1, AISI 100, and the Direct Strength Method were considered. It was found that the existing design approaches for post-fire cold-formed TCBS ASSCs lacked precision. Hence, modifications to the design approach in EN 1993-1-1 were proposed to improve the accuracy on the prediction of the residual compressive ultimate capacities of cold-formed TCBS ASSCs following exposure to high temperatures. This provided the foundation for evaluating the post-fire serviceability of cold-formed TCBS structures. • Cold-formed titanium-clad bimetallic steel angle section stub columns were subjected to post-fire compression tests. • Finite element models verified against the test results were proposed for parameter study. • Design standards for cold-formed titanium-clad bimetallic steel angle section stub columns were validated and revised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The residual behavior of the 6063-T5 aluminium alloy (AA) square hollow section (SHS) and rectangular hollow section (RHS) stub columns after different high temperatures (HTs) was investigated. A total of 48 coupon specimens and 16 stub columns were tested. The parametric study included 144 numerical models. Based on the tensile coupon test results, the effects of HT exposure on the mechanical properties of the 6063-T5 AA were clarified. After the stub column test, the variation trends of stub column ultimate resistance agreed well with those of the strength properties of the stress-strain curves. The local buckling was observed in all stub column specimens. The numerical simulation was selected to reveal the residual behavior of the RHS and SHS stub columns after different HTs. The results from the experiment and parametric study were used to evaluate the accuracy of existing design approaches. With the increment in HT, the accuracy of existing design approaches decreased, especially when the cross-section was non-slender. The modification suggestions considering the strain hardening effects were recommended to improve the accuracy of the design approaches in EN 1999-1-1 and GB 50429 on the ultimate resistance of the 6063-T5 AA SHS and RHS stub columns after HTs. The experiment results and modification suggestions were useful to build the evaluation approach on the residual serviceability of AA structure after HTs. • Mechanical characteristics of the 6063-T5 aluminium alloy (AA) after high temperatures (HTs) revealed. • Resistance performance of the 6063-T5 AA SHS and RHS stub columns after HTs investigated. • Modification suggestions for the current design approaches proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to reflectively explore minimalist architecture as an architecture that is driven by the reduction-based design method. The discussion aims to reframe the design processes and methods of minimalist architecture as informed by field observation. The phenomenon of applying a minimalist architectural approach has become a trend in small-scale housing in Indonesia lately. In the country, the small-scale residential design processes take place in different contexts and are faced with various limitations, from resources, budgets, land size, materials, and so on. The study will frame this discussion around exploring the reductive design method as a way of responding to these limitations. Informed by design strategies from the modern architecture movement, the study was conducted by observing reduction strategies in eight small-scale domestic design which was published and well-narrated in various media. The study findings demonstrate that the reduction does not only exist in the visual aspect of the design and construction process. It also exist in numerous other design elements, such as materials, forms, spaces, and ornamentation, as a strategic response towards the limitations of various resources.

Abstract Background Quality by design (QbD) refers to the achievement of certain predictable quality with desired and predetermined specifications. A quality-by-design approach to method development can potentially lead to a more robust/rugged method due to emphasis on risk assessment and management than traditional or conventional approach. An important component of the QbD is the understanding of dependent variables, various factors, and their interaction effects by a desired set of experiments on the responses to be analyzed. The present study describes the risk based HPLC method development and validation of ceftriaxone sodium in pharmaceutical dosage form. Results An efficient experimental design based on central composite design of two key components of the RP-HPLC method (mobile phase and pH) is presented. The chromatographic conditions were optimized with the Design Expert software 11.0 version, i.e., Phenomenex ODS column C18 (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5.0 μ), mobile phase used acetonitrile to water (0.01% triethylamine with pH 6.5) (70:30, v/v), and the flow rate was 1 ml/min with retention time 4.15 min. The developed method was found to be linear with r2 = 0.991 for range of 10–200 μg/ml at 270 nm detection wavelength. The system suitability test parameters, tailing factor and theoretical plates, were found to be 1.49 and 5236. The % RSD for intraday and inter day precision was found to be 0.70–0.94 and 0.55–0.95 respectively. The robustness values were less than 2%. The assay was found to be 99.73 ± 0.61%. The results of chromatographic peak purity indicate the absence of any coeluting peaks with the ceftriaxone sodium peak. The method validation parameters were in the prescribed limit as per ICH guidelines. Conclusion The central composite design experimental design describes the interrelationships of mobile phase and pH at three different level and responses to be observed were retention time, theoretical plates, and peak asymmetry with the help of the Design Expert 11.0 version. Here, a better understanding of the factors that influence chromatographic separation with greater confidence in the ability of the developed HPLC method to meet their intended purposes is done. The QbD approach to analytical method development was used for better understanding of method variables with different levels.

This article is about of the experience of mastering the discipline "Computational Methods" by students of the direction 02.03.02 Fundamental Informatics and Information Technologies of Nizhny Novgorod State University, where a student, under the general guidance of a mentor, independently carries out research work, repeating and consolidating theoretical knowledge and forming the skills and abilities of general professional and professional competencies, including IT-directions. It is the elements of research education that contribute to a more active independent work of the student, which is not always successfully attainable in universities and therefore is considered relevant in teaching. Further, in the article the choice of topics is justified. Next, the authors describe the progress of one of the works: the problem of finding the optimal control with an initial-boundary value problem for an equation of hyperbolic type and a phase constraint. It shows the transition to an integral-differential equation to automatically satisfy the phase constraint. The student, applying one of the methods for finding the minimum, finds the optimal value of the truncated problem, thereby obtaining a minimizing sequence. The convergence of the sequence of optimal values of the objective functions of the truncated problems to the optimal value of the original is proved. Screenshots of a program written by the popular algorithmic Python language, performed by one of the students, are presented. Thus, the authors describe their experience of merging in the educational process of science and the IT-industry, where one cannot prepare a competitive graduate without the other.

This paper presents the experimental and numerical analysis of cold-formed Q1200 ultra-high-strength steel (UHSS) angle- and channel-section stub columns to elucidate their resistance performance. Initially, the mechanical property test including the flat and corner coupon specimens was conducted to quantify the effect of the cold-forming process on Q1200 UHSS. Then, the stub column test was conducted on 16 cold-formed Q1200 UHSS angle- and channel-section stub columns. Based on the experimental results, a finite element model was established to simulate the resistance performance of the cold-formed Q1200 UHSS angle- and channel-section stub columns. Subsequently, a parametric study involving 133 numerical models was performed. Then, the suitability of the design approaches in EN 1993-1-12, AISI S100, AS/NZS 4600, and the direct strength method (DSM) was evaluated. For angle-section stub columns, the design approach outlined in EN 1993-1-12 was deemed suitable and the effective cross-sectional area design approach and DSM in AISI S100 were found to be safe. However, these approaches were excessively conservative for slender cross-sections in directly predicting the ultimate resistance of angle sections. Because of unsafe predictions, the design approaches in EN 1993-1-12, AISI S100, and DSM were deemed inappropriate for channel-section stub columns. The modification suggestions were proposed for the current design approaches, where the beneficial effects from the strain hardening were included. Based on the comparisons, the revised design approaches in EN 1993-1-12, AISI S100, and DSM could be used to accurately predict the ultimate resistance of the cold-formed Q1200 UHSS angle- and channel-section stub columns. • Mechanical properties of Q1200 UHSS with cold-forming effects were studied. • Resistance of cold-formed Q1200 UHSS angle and channel sections was revealed experimentally and numerically. • Design approaches were evaluated for cold-formed Q1200 UHSS angle and channel sections under axial compressive loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Kepes is the property of Universidad de Caldas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The emerging autonomous mobile robots promise a new level of efficiency and flexibility. However, because these types of systems operate in the same space as humans, mobile robots must cope with dynamic changes and heterogeneously structured environments. To ensure safety, new approaches are needed that model risk at runtime. This risk depends on the situation and is therefore a situational risk. In this paper, we propose a new methodology to model situational risk based on multi-agent adversarial reinforcement learning. In this methodology, two competing groups of reinforcement learning agents, namely the protagonists and the adversaries, fight against each other in the simulation. The adversaries represent the disruptive and destabilizing factors, while the protagonists try to compensate for them. The situational risk is then derived from the outcome of the simulated struggle. At this point, the system's Digital Twin provides up-to-date and relevant models for simulation and synchronizes the simulation with the real asset. Our risk modeling differentiates the four steps of intelligent information processing: sense, analyze, process, and execute. To find the appropriate adversaries and actors for each of these steps, this methodology builds on Systems Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA). Using STPA, we identify critical signals that lead to losses when a disturbance under certain conditions or in certain situations occurs. At this point, the challenge of managing the complexity arises. We face this issue using training effort as a metric to evaluate it. Through statistical analysis of the identified signals, we derive a procedure for defining action spaces and rewards for the agents in question. We validate the methodology using the example of a Robotino 3 Premium from Festo, an autonomous mobile robot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of compact unbalanced-/balanced-to- unbalanced diplexer (U2U/B2U) based on full dual-mode dielectric resonator (DR) is investigated for the first time. The relationships of the external quality factors ( $Q_{e}$ ) under the two modes are analyzed. It is found that the $Q_{e}$ of two modes can be controlled independently, which makes the design procedure simple and efficient. Based on the analysis, both of the proposed U2U and B2U diplexer can be easily built by properly adding feeding probes for the DR without increasing the circuit size by altering the location of the feeding probes according to the distribution of the electromagnetic fields. To verify the proposed design concept, the diplexers mentioned above are simulated, implemented and measured. The isolation is achieved by the orthogonality between modes while the low insertion loss is obtained due to the high unloaded quality factor ( $Q_{u}$ ) of the dual-mode DR. The measurements are in accordance with the simulated results, showing low loss and good selectivity.

With the growing demand for the bearing capacity of columns, large-section angle steel (LAS) columns have been widely adopted. Q345 is the most commonly used steel, but research on the axial compression stability of LAS columns mainly focuses on steels with 420 MPa and above. In order to study the buckling behavior of Q345 LAS columns, a total of 96 specimens are subjected to axial compression tests. The test results are compared with the specification and analyzed. Based on test data, an accurate finite element model of the Q345 LAS column is established, and the parametric analysis is carried out through the model. The results show that the buckling mode of Q345 LAS columns is flexural buckling, and local buckling is not observed. The axial compression stability coefficient of Q345 LAS short columns is significantly higher than the result of the specification. The reasons come from the constitutive model and the buckling mode, and the influence of section size can be ignored. The curve a in GB50017-2017 and Eurocode 3 can be used to calculate the axial compression stability of Q345 LAS columns. Finally, a new column curve is proposed to calculate the axial compression stability of Q345 LAS columns.

This article presents some of the conceptual and methodological aspects concerning the design of a MOOC for in-service primary school teachers. Upon receiving the Codaes-Descaes support, researchers and students from three public universities established a development program based on phases, which basically consisted in articulating a design approach, a anagement model and an organizational structure. The focus centers on the management strategy used to merge intra and interinstitutional work from specialists from different fields of knowledge. We also present the MOOC contents on Initial Literacy, and discuss the importance of summing up efforts to develop digital learning resources and maximizing the Open Educational Resources according to the affordances of the platform that will host the MOOC.

Interests in radiant cooling systems have increased in recent years. There is, however, no standardized method for radiant system design that is broadly accepted by the building industry. Through literature review, twelve surveys and eight interviews with leading practitioners, this paper summarizes the design methods documented in the guidelines, assesses the state of the industry, and identifies potential gaps and limitations in current design practice. The findings include: 1) design guidelines provide a wide range of approaches for cooling load calculation and system sizing; 2) most practitioners calculate cooling load for radiant systems the same way as for air systems, with only 23% of the respondents reported using dynamic simulation tools that have the capability to model radiant systems for cooling load estimation; 3) 46% of the respondents reported that steady state analysis methods/tools were used for radiant system sizing.

This paper proposes a positive experience design approach for Internet of Things (IoT) intelligent products to improve users' subjective well-being in the fields of artificial intelligence and big data. First, the authors selected six target users and taking the Xiaomi IoT intelligent products for the research objects and conducted a thorough observation on how the target users used IoT intelligent products in their own homes over two weeks via a home-visiting interview, group diary, and focus group. Second, they constructed an individual activities table for the participants' IoT intelligent product experience using a hierarchical task analysis (HTA). Third, two researchers sorted out the sub-tasks of happiness in the HTA table. Finally, the authors found the positive experience design approach of IoT intelligent products. The positive experience design approach of IoT intelligent products is proposed from focusing on the personal pleasure experience to individual life meaningful design and group social relationship design, including individual pleasure experience, personal goal realization, group needs satisfaction and the harmony of group relations. The paper uses the two design examples of an interactive kettle and a harmonious chair to further discuss the feasibility of the design approach. In the era of big data, it is helpful for designers to use this design approach to improve the users' sense of sustainable pleasure, achievement perception of their future goal realization, and the well-being of the group's social relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses Icelandic installation artist Olafur Eliasson’s approach of the threshold as a productive liminal space rather than as a static boundary between the inside and the outside. Often defined as the physical division between the interior and the exterior in architecture, the authors argue that by looking at Eliasson’s works in detail, the threshold’s inherent capacity of comprising a dynamic dialogue between inside and outside where one is determined by the other unfolds. This paper proposes that designing the relationships between inside and outside involves subtle renegotiations and redefinitions of conventionalised notions of their boundaries and a resultant emergence of new design strategies. Eliasson designs thresholds in diverse ways that he analyses and provokes the spatial associations between inside and outside, interior and exterior. While in Eliasson`s work the categories of inside and outside remain mutually exclusive, they physically co-exist at the same time; deliberately refracted, juxtapositioned, connected or confounded in an experimental yet rigorous approach that employs different scales and common characteristics. Seventeen of his works are analysed and grouped into four different threshold design strategies that result in an object, an association, an event and an immersive space.

A high percentage of failures of new products is considerably associated with management issues at the initial, with a large amount of uncertainty, stage of product development. Taking into account the fact that the characteristics and functionality of the future product are determined exactly at the initial stage, the management of the process here is of decisive importance. In the digital transformation process, companies rethink the product development management process and, correspondingly, the competence model of product managers. The purpose of the paper is to identify the key competencies (qualities, personal characteristics and abilities allowing to carry out professional activity key tasks) of the digital era product managers, as well as testing the design and project approaches in developing their competencies. Getting primary information about the main professional tasks was provided through in-depth interviews with successful product managers from the following industries: internet and telecommunications, software, pharma and finance. Two typical profiles/types of product managers were identified and called «technologically-oriented» and «business-oriented». As a result of the empirical research the key universal competencies of product managers to manage innovative products development effectively have been revealed. The partial overlap with the competences of innovation entrepreneurs, identified earlier, was discovered. for the development of key competencies, the innovation training program was developed and tested. The statistical analysis results showed that project based learning in combination with design thinking, Lean Startup & Customer Development, as well as modern digital rapid prototyping technique application, provide positive dynamics in the development of revealed key competencies for beginning product managers.

User Experience (UX) is characterized by its temporal dimension, dynamic nature, and variability. Although descriptive models about the temporal dimension and related aspects exist, an understanding of the design possibilities and a design approach that ensures the design of the temporal dimension promoting a positive UX and well-being are still lacking. This paper addresses this research gap and builds on Zimbardo and Boyd’s Time Perspective Theory (TPT). TPT presents five time perspectives (TPs)—Past-Negative, Past-Positive, Present-Fatalistic, Present-Hedonistic, and Future—to reveal that people have individual attitudes toward time that influence their thoughts, actions, and feelings. Studies conclude that a balance between the positive TPs (Past-Positive, Present-Hedonistic, and Future), i.e., temporal harmony, contributes to long-term well-being. We present our design framework and approach “designing for temporal harmony,” which incorporates the theory into the practice to highlight the temporal design possibilities and to offer guidance for designers. We applied the design framework and approach to a case study, developed an app concept, and evaluated it with users. The results demonstrate that it is possible to systematically develop temporal UX concepts that evoke positive anticipations, experiences, and retrospections, and that these promote a positive UX as well as contribute to users’ long-term well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isolators with quasi-zero-stiffness (QZS) for isolating undesired vibrations have attracted immense attention from researchers in recent years. They are usually constructed by combining positive and negative stiffness elements in parallel. Such design approach based on two separate elements cannot take full advantage of novel structures such as origami-inspired structures. In this paper, an integrated design approach for QZS isolators is proposed based on bifurcation theory. The effects of preload of the isolators can also be introduced. A theoretical method for achieving QZS property is proposed by finding the design parameters corresponding to the supercritical pitchfork bifurcation. Another case inspired by supercritical pitchfork bifurcation is also proposed (i.e., named CISP) for realizing QZS property. Based on the proposed approach, a QZS isolator under preload is designed with stacked Miura-origami units. The design process, including the geometric analysis of the units and achievement of QZS property, is first elaborated. The dynamic model of the isolator is established and validated by rigid body dynamics simulation, followed by the vibration isolation performance evaluation. The results show that the designed origami-based vibration isolator can achieve ultra-low frequency of isolation and peak transmissibility under excitation with small amplitude and/or high damping. The proposed design method paves the way to develop high-efficiency vibration isolators with QZS property for vibration engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the deep mixing method, the ground is mechanically mixed in place while a binder, often based on cement, is injected. After hardening of the soil-cement mixture, called soil mix material, soil mix elements are formed in the ground. Originally known as a ground improvement technique, the deep mixing is more and more applied for the construction of earth-water retaining structures within the framework of excavation works. After a short introduction to the execution aspects of the method, the authors discuss the hydro-mechanical properties of the soil mix material mainly based on the results of the BBRI Soil Mix project (2009-2013). A design approach dedicated to the soil mix retaining walls and developed in collaboration with the SBRCURnet is then presented. In this methodology, which is in line with the structural Eurocodes, design rules are adapted to the functions of the soil mix wall (earth-water retaining, bearing and cut-off functions) including the temporary or permanent character of the application. Based on the result of large-scale bending tests, the interaction between the soil mix material and the steel reinforcement is considered in the calculations allowing a reduction of the steel section between 10 and 40 %.

Large aperture sparse array has the ability of mainlobe interference suppression. However, sparse array causes grating lobe problem. If the array is steering at the target and the mainlobe interference is located at the grating lobe, the adaptive filter will produce a grating lobe zero phenomenon that severely reduce the target energy. This study proposes a design approach of large aperture sparse array for mainlobe interference cancellation. By properly designing the number of auxiliary receiving antennas, the baseline of the large aperture sparse array, the aperture of auxiliary receiving antennas, the position of auxiliary receiving antennas and carrier frequency of radar transmitting signal, the grating lobes can be suppressed effectively, thus decreasing the system complexity and cost while cancelling the mainlobe interference. Simulations and field experiments have illustrated the effectiveness of the proposed design approach.

The cable-pylon anchorage zone is a typical D-region in a cable-stayed bridge, for which there has been no uniform simplified design method until now. In this paper, based on the extensive statistics of actual projects, topology optimization techniques and principle of minimum strain energy, two precise strut-and-tie models for the cable-pylon anchorage zone are proposed, which can clearly reveal the load-transmitting mechanism of the anchorage zone. Th e explicit geometric parameters of the strut-and-tie models are derived; thus, the designers can directly use these models. A simple design procedure to deploy prestressing tendons in the anchorage zone is also introduced, whose effectiveness and convenience are demonstrated by two design examples. A new design named the “one-way prestressing tendons PC cable-pylon” is also discussed regarding its application scope.

This paper proposed a design approach for piezoelectric-transformer-based power supplies. Initially, an analytical approach is used to derive the Mason equivalent circuit parameters of a PT. This is coupled with a semi-automated procedure to decide the appropriate physical dimensions of the PT. The procedure is applied to a typical low-power power supply specification, whereupon a specific transformer is design, verified using COMSOL and used as a simulated converter in SPICE. Results show that the design can be successfully implemented while maintaining efficient zero-voltage switching operation.