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The innovative activity of machine-building enterprises is the main guarantee of their sustainable and effective development, which makes it possible to compare technical and technological innovation in the production of products in different periods and between different enterprises in points. Quantitative numerical assessment of the innovative component of the enterprise is a prerequisite for developing a strategy for further effective production management. After all, in addition to financial performance indicators, technical innovations play a decisive role in the modern market environment, although little attention is paid to them. In the work, based on organizational and technical modeling and logical methods of exploratory evaluation, the author’s method of establishing a quantitative comparative level of innovative activity of a machine-building enterprise was built. The developed methodology for evaluating the innovative component of machine-building production is based on three basic criteria: mastering new machines, mastering technological processes, and the effectiveness of implementing design and technological solutions. The first two criteria take into account the nomenclature, novelty, the risk of introducing a new solution and the technical level of products. To determine these criteria, several levels of novelty of machines and technologies are proposed and the author’s understanding of their content is given. The third criterion, the effectiveness of implementation, is evaluated by indicators that take into account the intensity of adjustments at various stages of design. The result of the study is a method of comparative assessment of the level of innovative components of the development of machine-building production with a set of indicators that provide professionals with a tool for monitoring the processes of introducing new equipment and technologies into production and the subsequent formation of an effective innovative strategy for the development of a machine-building enterprise. The capability of the proposed methodology is presented in the given example of evaluating the innovative development (state) of an abstract machine-building enterprise.

The article analyzes the institutional foundation of the innovativeness and competitiveness of two German industrial sectors, mechanical engineering and biotechnology. It applies a systemic innovation approach to identify what changes at the national and regional levels can explain why mechanical engineering has kept a competitive advantage for many decades while we can observe a dynamic catching-up process in biotechnology. Both sectors provide good examples of the reconfigurations that take place in national innovation systems in both territorial and functional terms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The highly specialized Testbed 4.0 laboratory is located on the premises of the Technical University in Košice at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, specifically in the building of the Department of Industrial and Digital Engineering. The idea of creating the Testbed concept arose as a response to the needs arising from the currently ongoing digital transformation of companies and at the same time as a support tool for companies in the competitive struggle, whether on the market of Slovak companies or on a European scale. The article will describe its individual focuses as well as its other forms abroad. It is necessary to point out that the Testbed located in Košice is the first and only specialized laboratory of its kind in Slovakia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Educación en Ingeniería is the property of Asociacion Colombiana de Facultades de Ingenieria 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 Special Issue on "Selected Papers from IEEE ICASI 2018" includes excellent papers presented at the IEEE ICASI 2018 regarding the "applied system innovation" topic. Mechanical engineering and design innovations are both academic and practical engineering fields, which involve systematic technological materialization through scientific principles and engineering designs. Technological innovations in mechanical engineering include IT-based intelligent mechanical systems, mechanics and design innovations, and applied materials in nanosciences and nanotechnology. The aim is to encourage the attendees at the IEEE ICASI 2018 to publish their experimental and theoretical research relating to applied system innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper discusses selected aspects of the use of polymeric materials in the construction of ring springs. Design/methodology/approach: Special attention is paid to differences in characteristics of such materials in comparison to springs made of traditional material - steel. Findings: The result of the work is a static-dynamic model of polymer ring springs. An analysis of the influence of friction on the performance characteristics was carried out. The results of the preliminary experimental studies confirm the correctness of the model. Practical implications: Analytical models have been developed, as tools to support the design processes of ring spring structures, in the field of innovative material solutions. They are a tool for the selection of geometric and material characteristics of springs, meeting the set operational expectations. Originality/value: Extensive possibilities in the selection among a group of structural polymer materials allow the formation of structural solutions with a variety of characteristics, both elastic and impact or damping. The area of application ranges from mechanical engineering to construction or transportation. The characteristics complement the possible field of solutions in cases of use of traditional metallic materials, especially high-grade steels. Material solutions make it possible to achieve significant economic effects in addition to unavailable performance characteristics, both static and dynamic. These are due to competitive prices for polymer materials, including composites, and manufacturing costs. They open up a wide field for utility innovations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We apply a functional data approach for mixture model-based multivariate innovation clustering to identify different regional innovation portfolios in Europe, considering patterns of specialization among innovation types. We combine patent registration data and other innovation and economic data across 225 regions, 13 years, and eight patent classes. The approach allows us to form several regional clusters according to their specific innovation types and captures spatio-temporal dynamics too subtle for most other clustering methods. Consistent with the literature on innovation systems, our analysis supports the value of regionalized clusters that can benefit from flexible policy support to strengthen regions as well as innovation in a systematic context, adding technology specificity as a new criterion to consider. The regional innovation cluster solutions for IPC classes for 'fixed constructions' and 'mechanical engineering' are highly comparable but relatively less comparable for 'chemistry and metallurgy'. The clusters for innovations in 'physics' and 'chemistry and metallurgy' are similar; innovations in 'electricity' and 'physics' show similar temporal dynamics. For all other innovation types, the regional clustering is different. By taking regional profiles, strengths, and developments into account, options for improved efficiency of location-based regional innovation policy to promote tailored and efficient innovation-promoting programs can be derived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our university has implemented the Tec21 educational model, based on four fundamental pillars: Challenge-Based Learning (CBL), flexibility, inspiring trained faculty, and a memorable educational experience. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of CBL implementation experiences at the beginning of undergraduate engineering programs using technological innovations such as 3D printing, DC motors, and microcontrollers. Three challenges were designed: Rube Goldberg, Cable Car, and Mini Drag Race. The challenges were implemented during at least two years where over 1,000 engineering freshmen took part. The challenges were evaluated by quantitative and qualitative methods. Overall, students enjoyed the learning experiences, learnt new technologies, and developed disciplinary and transversal competencies. Students were also more engaged and motivated to pursue their engineering academic program. These strategies challenged the students with the basic characteristics of the new Tec21 educational model. Finally, faculty involved in the implementation of these challenges expressed they required to get out of their comfort zone, learn new technologies, and change their traditional role to become a coach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the dynamical behavior of a six-bar linkage used in mechanical presses for metal forming such as deep drawing. Raising the technical level of machines requires an expansion of technological capabilities of the equipment and devices of the existing structures, as well as their equipping with fundamentally new mechanisms. In this regard, the task of developing methods for the dynamic of complex flat lever mechanisms with the desired laws of motion of the input and output elements allowing automatizing the implementation of all design phases with the use of computer is quite relevant. The simulation results obtained with a Maple program are validated by comparing the theoretical values of the input moment with the ones obtained from the conservation of energy law. Content of the article is distinguished by serious problem statement, interesting theoretical study and its practical test. This article provides new scientific results that have theoretical and applied significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nova Scientia is the property of Nova Scientia 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 study aimed to develop software for multi-axis electrical discharge machining (EDM) computer numerical control (CNC) systems using open CNC technology and soft CNC technology and to then apply the software to the machining of rimmed turbine blisks. Through the analysis of functional requirements, this study established the hierarchy structure of the software. On the basis of this structure, three main modules and their communications were established with Linux and RT-Linux as the development platforms. The software architecture was also constructed. Through the construction of the modules and communications and the realization of the functions, the multi-axis EDM CNC system software was developed and installed into a five-axis EDM CNC machine to realize the machining of rimmed turbine blisks. Machining results show that the architecture of the software is correct, harmonious, and reasonable. The software is also stable and reliable and features strong real-time capability and accurate movement control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review on investigations of precise vibromechanics and vibroengineering performed in Lithuania is presented in this paper. Results of research, inventions and innovations obtained in this field are discussed. Some of the development in the area of precise vibromechanics are presented in more details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The history of modern composites begins in the 20th century, when a number of new materials and technologies were invented. New materials are necessary for electrical engineering and computer industry, but their importance rapidly grows in mechanical engineering, especially in aerospace and automotive industry. Industrial demands force to rapidly innovate and bring new materials, with essentially improved properties. Submitted paper deals with the basic overview of manufacturing, processing and main features of the composite materials, based on carbon fibers and their application in the automotive industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this exploratory study is to reveal employers' views on problems related to workforce human capital (skills and qualification). Where do employers themselves view the core of difficulties with ensuring adequately skilled workforce? Do they assign them to technological and organizational changes (a functional concept of job-specific human capital obsolescence), or do they see these problems as a result of other circumstances, such as macro-structural conditions or institutional settings? To answer these questions selected employers in mechanical engineering and information technology sectors in the Czech Republic were interviewed. The results show that the employers see the problems: 1) on the side of workforce - insufficient abilities and skills, exaggerated demands and low motivation; 2) as inadequate capacities and capabilities of the organization itself; 3) at macro-level as institutional shortcomings in the initial educational system and social benefits system. The problems related to workforce skills and qualification cannot be, thus, interpreted only in the functionalist view as job-specific human capital obsolescence, but the formulation of the problems is significantly affected by the institutional framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the spectra of the emerging trends and technologies to enhance engineering education. It mentions engineering as a significant area where improvements are needed to provide better technologies, learning techniques and educators, and produce knowledgeable students for industry development. It also explores technological advances which could help in boosting and promoting the learning process of students. It further examines the difficulties encountered by learners and staff in the field of mechanical engineering.

Grid-pattern framing of tubular structures for tall buildings is becoming popular because of its aesthetic appeal. The recently developed hexagrid pattern constitutes an innovative shape from both architectural and structural perspectives. This study investigated the characteristics of tall hexagrid tubular buildings, focusing on the size and pattern of the hexagrid modules, and proposed a sizing formula based on stiffness-design criteria of members in the preliminary design stage. An analysis of 60-story buildings revealed findings that are worthy of consideration in the preliminary design stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The innovativeness of low- and medium-technology (LMT) manufacturing firms in advanced economies has been the research focus of a growing body of literature since the beginning of the last decade. This paper reviews the main research findings and highlights the largely unresolved problem in LMT research of the contradiction between the presumed homogeneity of LMT sectors because of the formal category of ‘low R&D intensity’, and the heterogeneity of the same firms in LMT sectors. To overcome this problem, the paper proposes an empirical taxonomy of innovative LMT firms based on the dimension of knowledge. To sketch out this knowledge-oriented taxonomy, the paper uses the concept of the ‘distributed knowledge base’. In this approach, four different patterns of knowledge use in LMT firms can be identified. This conceptual perspective has consequences for understanding the sources and directions of innovation strategies in LMT firms and the perspectives of LMT sectors pertaining in advanced economies, such as the EU. Additionally, specific recommendations on innovation policy can be inferred from these considerations that go beyond the current state of the art. Overall, this paper sums up some of the findings of past low-tech research, and reinterprets its central findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Mechanical Engineering / Strojniški Vestnik is the property of University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Journal of Mechanical Engineering 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.)

Because of the remarkable developments in robotics in recent years, technological convergence has been active in this area. We focused on finding patterns of convergence within robot technology using network analysis of patents in both the USPTO and KIPO. To identify the variables that affect convergence, we used quadratic assignment procedures (QAP). From our analysis, we observed the patent network ecology related to convergence and found technologies that have great potential to converge with other robotics technologies. The results of our study are expected to contribute to setting up convergence based R&D policies for robotics, which can lead new innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper creates the necessary theoretical and applied frame to reduce the unpredictability of the dynamics of innovation, the speed of technological transfer and the speed of reconfiguration/transformation through the integration of systems engineering techniques, dedicated methods for strategic decision making processes and the integration of portfolio management principles in real options with an additional stochastic ingredient expressed by Geometric Brownian Motion (GBM). This new philosophy does not try to find an optimum decision-making in the process of innovation, but contributes to a generalized dynamic prediction on the development of specific mechanism based on flexibility in order to build special dedicated solutions in the field of innovative industries, like robotics and mechatronics. Strategic management ingredients should respond to the challenge of adapting to the typical circumstances of market reactions and the change of the consumer behaviour. Decision making process in high tech industries like robotics and mechatronics is very complex because the technical element should be understand in the relationship with innovators, socio-economic and financial elements. The framework is even more complicated by the market reactions to disruptive technological progress and a very strong global competition. Flexible ingredients in the organizational process offered by concepts like lean manufacturing and Six Sigma are materialized only in a technical manner, but managers in high tech industries are influenced by the need of additional flexibility in order to adapt a quickly respond to changes in markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper outlines the principles of modelling and designing a laboratory for ideas, an innovative solution dedicated to the development of creativity and creative problem solving skills in an engineering context. Reflecting the objectives, this paper defines the connection between creativity and engineering, adopting them as a single mindset, and describes how creativity should be taught, having in mind new education models at leading engineering schools. It highlights five factors which have a significant impact on creativity of individuals – motivation, environment, knowledge and domain skills, openness to other domains, and open ended problems in assignments. As a co-creative and supportive environment, laboratory for ideas covers these factors and encompasses different groups of actors and activities. By encouraging students’ entrepreneurial intentions and practical innovativeness, it is described how it should systematically strengthen both their creativity and engineering mindset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article seeks to contribute to the debate concerning the influence of trade unions on the rate of technological change, by presenting evidence on the adoption of Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing equipment (CADCAM) in Great Britain. The data upon which the study is based was collected by means of a sample survey carried out in the summer of 1983 and early 1984, and is part of a wider study investigating the economic impact of CADCAM in mechanical engineering. The survey involved detailed personal interviews with 101 establishments throughout England, in addition to a shorter postal questionnaire being sent to a further 200 establishments throughout Britain. The definition of a new technology permits a rigorous analysis of the issues involved and offers insight into the process of technological change in a recession which are of far wider interest.

A virtual impactor aerosol concentrator has been developed that uses circumferential slots for acceleration of aerosol particles and for collection of the coarse fraction. This allows for accurate and economical machining of small slot widths, which leads to low-pressure losses for the separation process. One important application of the device is in the concentration of bioaerosols, especially for military field applications where minimization of power consumption is necessary. A prototype configuration of the circumferential slot virtual impactor (CSVI), which was designed using numerical methods, was constructed and tested. The device has a curvilinear slit nozzle with a diameter of 150.3 mm (5.918 in), which provides a total slot length of 472 mm. Its slot width was 0.499 mm (0.0197 in). According to Loo and Cork, for circular-jet virtual impactors the misalignment between the axis of the acceleration jet and the receiver nozzle will cause an increase in wall losses of about 1.6% for each 1% of misalignment. Measurements were made of the nozzle dimensions in the critical region of the CSVI that showed 1.8% relative misalignment. When this prototype was operated at a flowrate of 122 l/min and a flow fraction (minor air flowrate/total air-flowrate) of 10%, the cutpoint was 2.2 μm aerodynamic diameter and the corresponding cutpoint Stokes number was 0.58. The collection efficiency was greater than 72% for particle sizes larger than twice the cutpoint, up to the largest particle size tested (≈10 μm aerodynamic diameter). The peak collection efficiency was greater than 95%. For virtual impactors, a critical performance parameter is the loss of particulate matter to the inner walls of the system. For the prototype system, where numerical methods had been used to generate designs that reduced wall losses, the losses at the cutpoint size of 2.2 μm aerodynamic diameter, are approximately 3%. For an operational condition of a total flowrate of 122 l/min and a coarse particle flow fraction of 10%, the pressure drop across the major flow stream (fine particle stream) was 63 Pa (0.25 in of water), with an ideal power consumption of 0.14 watts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Poiesis & Praxis is the property of Springer Nature 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.)