Innovations in Mechanical Engineering II

Frontmatter

Development of Guidelines for the Design of Functionally Integrated Molds for a Novel Vacuum Assisted Resin Infusion Process

Abstract

In the present study, a newly developed vacuum assisted resin infusion process (FuVak) is described in which the conventional, disposable multilayer vacuum setup is replaced by reusable silicone vacuum hoods with integrated flow channels. In order to ensure high-quality impregnation of the fiberglass textile structure in a short time, while avoiding the use of disposable layers like flow aids, a suitable design of the flow channel geometry and their positioning on the vacuum hood must be determined. To study the effect of the channel cross-section, an experimental setup with varying geometries in laboratory-scale was designed, constructed, and tested. Optical detection of the flow front during the Infusion process and later examining of porosity distribution on the cured part were performed. The relationship between channel cross-section, flow speed and final part quality (porosity distribution) were determined and discussed. Based on this, an industry-scale, 2 m long part with higher complexity was fabricated with the novel process, validating the process ability to control of the flow front and quality of the composite.

Sven Meißner, Paul Falkenhain, Rafael Cordeiro, Sebastian Scholz

Challenges and Opportunities of Industry 4.0 at Mold Production Engineering and Management

Abstract

The performance of technology-enabled service ecosystems can be an alternative to the traditional system view. Service-Dominant Logic can offer a theoretical foundation that elucidates the performative nature of markets, technologies, and business models, overcoming boundless views of rationality in business model development through unification rather than division. Based on this theory, it is our intention to present a unification proposal for the mold-making industries. By transforming this sector of activity into Industry 4.0 with its integrated services. Unification enables them to respond quickly to the needs of the increasingly demanding and uncertain market. So, the aim of the paper is to propose a conceptual model, based on the Service-Dominant Logic theory that contributes to the development and innovation of the mold-making. In this paper, two pathways are proposed: Pathway 1: Private Connectivity Solution and Pathway 2: Network Connectivity Solution. The implementation of these two pathways integrated compose the teorical model that aims to contribute to increasing the responsiveness of mold-making, guaranteeing quality and delivery times. Value Creation Innovation Processes can positively improve the mold industries. In addition, each resource operating in a mold industry at the collaborative service’s ecosystem-level can increase the company’s annual revenue, compared to a company that has not started down the technology ecosystem path. Consequently, the companies’ profits can increase.

Arminda Pata, Agostinho Silva

Influence of Mechanical Processing on the Durability of Parts in Additive Manufacturing Conditions

Abstract

In this paper, the main problems associated with the mechanical processing of parts of various types and purposes are investigated. On the basis of this, a new technology for processing and strengthening the surface layer of parts made of high-speed steel of the P6M5 brand using the combined RTS effect is proposed. A block diagram of the main additive manufacturing processes, which are mainly used for manufacturing parts of various types of purposes, is presented. The results of the main stages of the technological process in the mechanical processing of parts are presented. The molecular diffusion of raw materials is studied. Based on the results obtained, the correlation between the components of the components was studied. Microstructural analysis revealed three different grain sizes: small grains, large grains, and molten grains. The homogenization process that occurs in the internal microstructure of the sample is justified. The maximum porosity, microparticle sizes, and total particle area were recorded. The main stages of the shear mechanism were investigated. Experimental results of studies on establishing the main regularities of changes in the structure of the surface layer of inhomogeneous materials are presented. A 3D model of the gear wheel is presented. Also, the average value of microhardness for gears in the conditions of additive production when performing the corresponding technological operations is predicted.

Viktoriya Pasternak, Oleg Zabolotnyi, Kostiantyn Svirzhevskyi, Irina Zadorozhnikova, José Machado

ISO 2631 Vibration Analysis in Portuguese Alfa Pendular Trains

Abstract

Trains are currently one of the most used transportation modes. Improving comfort is the key condition to attract more passengers. On train journeys, the comfort is highly influenced by vibration, which derives from train motion and results in whole-body vibration. This type of vibration is evaluated by the ISO 2631 standard.Following the international standard, the present study performs a ride comfort evaluation on the Alfa Pendular trains regarding the Porto Campanhã – Lisbon Oriente connection. Measurements were performed on the floor, seat surface and seatback, run on both seat classes. Regarding the ride comfort evaluation, it should be highlighted that low acceleration values were found for all journeys. Maximum discomfort peaks were obtained on the middle of train. The journeys were ranked as “little uncomfortable” or “not uncomfortable” during around 97% of its duration, concerning the seat surface evaluation. This value increased up to 99% for the seatback. It was also observed that when compared with the floor, the seat surface amplifies the total acceleration during the entire trip. This was the first study evaluating vibration comfort on Portuguese trains.

Patrícia Silva, Eurico Seabra, Joaquim Mendes

Noise Attenuation Analysis of a Multilayer Wall

Abstract

Residential buildings, in which more and more people live, are over-crowded in terms of noise, which affects both their comfort and health. That is why there are regulations and standards that impose noise limits in the apartments of these buildings, which must be acoustically insulated, and the walls between the rooms must ensure the required attenuation. The paper aims to analyze the acoustic attenuation of a multilayer wall, both by calculations and by experiment. The experimental results obtained are close to those obtained by calculation, which makes us consider that a builder can first theoretically estimate the acoustic attenuation of an apartment, saving time and money, then he can build the wall. The analysis is of interest to civil engineers who can create multilayer wall structures by combining different acoustic materials. It results in a partition wall with improved acoustic properties, which complies with the noise limits imposed by the standards.

Nicolae Adrian Niţu, Marcelin Benchea, Gelu Ianuş, Carmen Bujoreanu

Improving Procedures for Production and Maintenance Control Towards Industry 4.0 Implementation

Abstract

The automotive industry is constantly stimulated by strong competitiveness in terms of product quality, cost control and commitment to delivery times. In the last two decades, competitiveness has been increasing, demanding from organizations greater control over production and surrounding processes, in order to reduce production time and, consequently, reducing costs. However, this production time of a product goes beyond what is its construction, going through validations, controls and records, among others. In an organization where the range of production is varied and the profit margin is relatively low, it is necessary to reduce all processes additional to the production of the products and increase its control.

This work presents a proposal for the implementation of production control systems according to the requirements of the 4th Industrial Revolution, in a Bowden cables manufacturing company. These systems use a MES (Manufacturing Execution System) tool with different technologies segmented by the needs of each process, both at the shop floor level and non-productive processes. The objectives proposed by the authors of this article are to increase control over production and automate processes, making them more effective, efficient and reliable, reducing resources and increasing the value of the product, by reducing costs allocated to non-productive processes.

Rúben D. F. S. Costa, Marta L. S. Barbosa, Francisco J. G. Silva, José C. Sá, Luís P. Ferreira, Bebiana Pinto

Industry 4.0 Technologies for Maintenance Management – An Overview

Abstract

Few decades ago, maintenance was mainly seen as something that was difficult to manage. Nowadays, taking into account the impact of maintenance on other company processes (e.g. production, logistics, occupational health and safety management, environment), the maintenance process is recognized as an important business function. The economic impact of improper designed maintenance processes is related to costs, downtime, breakdowns, defects, additional inventory, etc., which affect product quality and the company’s performance. Maintenance technology is about finding and applying cost-effective ways to avoid or overcome degradation in machine performance and availability. The main goal of the paper is to present an overview of Industry 4.0 technologies in maintenance on the newest paradigm in the maintenance management. By the using of the advanced Industry 4.0, technologies, it is possible to monitor the state of the manufacturing equipment, diagnose faults, predict and solve problems before they occur. Moreover, the digitization of maintenance requires the mastery of both new technologies and organizational issues related to their planning, implementation and maintenance.

Małgorzata Jasiulewicz-Kaczmarek, Katarzyna Antosz

Design Concept of a Non-invasive Tagging Device for Blue Sharks

Abstract

This work describes the design concept process taken to develop a non-intrusive tagging device for blue sharks. The identification of the more important aspects involved in its accomplishment gave origin to the establishment of the design requirements, which served as guidelines for the design and validation of the generated concepts. By excluding any procedure that causes any, permanent or temporary, lesion to the tagged animal and limiting the resistance offered by the tag to the shark’s motion assures minimal influence on the gathered information and, at the same time, high quality and relevance of the data from every mission. The design requirements for a non-intrusive tag were established as well as the equipment selection process after market research. Finally, the conceptualization of a shell for the equipment was developed. An optimization process can now be implemented to find the final product.

José Azevedo, Tiago Bartolomeu, Senhorinha Teixeira, José Teixeira

Aspects Regarding Subtractive and Additive CAD-CAM Processes Applied in Prosthetic Dentistry

Abstract

The paper presents some technical features regarding the realization of dental prostheses and models by modern CAD-CAM technologies that operate on both the subtractive principle and the additive principle highlighting the advantages and disadvantages for each manufacturing approach compared to traditional methods applied in dental prosthetics. It also describes the processing steps for making dental prostheses by CAD-CAM methods, the equipment used, as well as the characteristics of the resulting restorations.

Edgar Moraru, Grigore Octavian Dontu, Tudor Catalin Apostolescu, Laurentiu Adrian Cartal, Bogdan Grămescu, Nazem Dawod

Design and Performance Assessment of a Double-Screen Trommel for MSW Separation

Abstract

The design of mechanical systems for Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) sorting requires a technical analysis of the structural components and the study of their functional integration. Such analysis should take into account the dimensioning adjusted to the waste quantities to be processed. The objective of this work is to model the geometry and the components of a rotating mechanical device for MSW sorting, also known as trommel. It consists of a cylindrical drum placed on top of drive rollers with a certain inclination, allowing the advancement of the MSW with the rotation movement. The technical design of each structural element was projected, considering the geometric constraints of the sorting facility. It was proposed a mesh with two different orifice sizes to minimize the wear rate that mainly occurs in the MSW feed zone. Given the geometry and the considered operating conditions, it was possible to obtain the maximum mass feed rate of 154.2 ton/h. The trommel efficiency was also estimated, considering that the MSW has an average particle diameter of 152 mm and that each particle impacts, at least, 20 times with the trommel surface before passing through the mesh open area. Thus, for a mesh with an open area fraction of 0.51, the trommel efficiency reaches the value of 82%.

Luís D. Forte, Ricardo Faria, Ana C. Ferreira

A Comparative Study of Weld Bead Geometry of AISI 1023 with Varying Plate Width Using SAW and ASAW

Abstract

Submerged arc welding (SAW) is a high heat input process which favours fine weld bead with high metal deposition. Although higher metal deposition is an assuring output of this process but optimization of welding parameters is still crucial for proper responses. Most of the work till now has been done by using various alloys and also by varying plate thickness but no work has been reported on impact of varying plate width on weld bead geometry. In this experiment, impact of varying plate width is investigated through Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array and a total of 18 experiments (9 for SAW and 9 for Advance submerged arc welding (ASAW) process) were conducted on 12 mm thick plate of plain carbon steel (AISI 1023). In this method, three levels of four process parameters are selected and their effect on weld bead geometry was observed. The S/N ratios was calculated to determine the optimum parameters. A novel water-cooled SAW process also used and comparison study between SAW and ASAW was done. optimum values of weld penetration, bead width, height of reinforcement, % D, HAZ area can be achieved have shown in the article.

Tejendra Singh Singhal, Jinesh Kumar Jain, Manoj Kumar, Rajeev Agrawal

Ecofriendly Technologies of Fish Oils and Collagen Extraction from Fishery Waste – A Review

Abstract

Following the exponential growth of the human population, a remarkable increase in the amount of fish waste has been produced worldwide. Fish processing industry generates a considerable number of by-products which represents a considerable environmental problem. Accordingly, reuse and valorisation of these by-products is a key process for marine resources preservation. This literature review focuses on eco-friendly extraction technologies of collagen and fish oils obtained by fish by-products. Furthermore, we will also carry out a literature review of ecotoxicological studies to evaluate the ecological impact of the extraction of the high-commercial products.

Nádia Valério, Margarida Soares, Maria Cândida Vilarinho, Joana Carvalho

Study Concerning the Correspondence Between Optical Materials and Optical Coatings Using Matlab

Abstract

Optical coatings generally consist of thin films made up of single or multiple layers of either metallic or dielectric materials. When properly designed and fabricated, these coatings can substantially modify the reflection and transmission properties of an optical component. Almost all lenses have AR coatings to maximize transmission factor and minimize ghost images factor. Even we talk about glasses or complex optical systems, AR coatings of one or many layers, depending on what is intended to gain. When it comes about mirrors, AR eliminated old technologies based on complex matrix and super polished, raising reflection factor light weight and low cost. The paper is focused on a guide for selecting optical materials and proper optical coating types depending on the wavelength range and the applications requirements. The software permits selection of optical materials and optical coatings for certain application considering spectral domain, spectral characteristics such as transmittance/reflectance, material, coating technology, number of layers and incidence angle. The selection guide was developed in Matlab environment. The program is a useful tool for knowledge of coating types and selection of proper optical coating for a specific application and for a group of convenient substrates. Selecting the right optical glass for a particular application can significantly impact cost, durability, and performance. In a future development of the interface, some features will be added, such as adding materials catalogues and matching criteria for better combinations between substrates and coatings.

Dana Rizescu, Ciprian Ion Rizescu

Bat Algorithm for Discrete Optimization Problems: An Analysis

Abstract

In this article the application of the discrete version of the bat algorithm to flowshop scheduling problems is presented and compared with Simulated Annealing, Local Search, as well as versions of each that start from constructive heuristics (Palmer and CDS). Bat algorithm is a novel metaheuristic, developed for continuous problems that has shown exceptional results. This paper intends to assess its effectiveness and efficiency for discrete problems when compared with other optimization techniques, including Simulated Annealing and Local Search, whose results are already proven. First, it was developed a literature review about those algorithms, then they were implemented in VBA with Microsoft Excel. Once implemented, the parameterization was carried out, ensuring an adequate application of the algorithms before they can be compared. Then, the methods were applied for 30 normally distributed instances, in order to draw broader conclusions. Finally, a statistical evaluation was carried out and concluded the inferiority of the Local Search in relation to the metaheuristics and the superiority of the hybrid version of the Bat Algorithm with CDS in relation to Simulated Annealing, with significantly better solutions, in an equal computation time.

Bruno Sousa, Rita Guerreiro, André S. Santos, João A. Bastos, Leonilde R. Varela, Marlene F. Brito

Geometrical Metrology in Food Product Measurements

Abstract

The paper presents research and scientific considerations to determine the usefulness of modern measurement systems including computer tomography and machine vision systems for mapping the geometry and dimensional measurements of products in the food industry. Due to the variable characteristics of food products, their control during the production process (active metrology) increasingly requires the search for new measurement solutions. These criteria are met by measurement devices combined with classification, machine learning and artificial intelligence systems for automated feature analysis. The measurement methodology was developed, necessary system components were described and IT procedures were applied to enable correct measurements of the assumed product characteristics. Additionally, the factors influencing the errors of measurements obtained with the described systems are indicated, supported by statistical analysis of the obtained results. The study confirmed the suitability of modern measurement systems for product inspection in the food industry.

M. Wieczorowski, N. Swojak, M. Szelewski, A. Pereira, T. G. Mathia, B. Gapinski

Analysis and Validation of a CFD Simulation of the Wind Through a Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine as an Actuator Disc with a Porous Jump Condition

Abstract

Wind energy plays a crucial role in reducing climate change and it is expected to grow in the coming decades. Due to the increase in energy demands, wind turbines have increased to greater sizes. As such, evaluating the wake produced by them has become a way to maximize their respective power output when studying different wind turbine arrangements in wind parks. Thenceforth, numerical simulations have become valuable assets in this industry. The objective of this work is to analyse the wind flow on a flat terrain through a horizontal axis wind turbine with the use of a CFD procedure developed with ANSYS Fluent. This technique implements the \(k\)-\(\varepsilon\) turbulence model and custom inlet equations to describe a neutral atmospheric boundary layer. The rotor was considered as an actuator disc, modelled with the use of a porous jump boundary condition. The solution presented comforting results in terms of decrease in wind velocity and pressure drop at the location of the rotor, as well as an increase of turbulence due to the obstacle in the flow. The numerical model was validated with the use of mathematical wake models, and it presents reasonable results in the far wake of the stream, with a \(\approx\)5% accuracy.

Diogo Silva, João Silva, Paulo Pinto, Senhorinha Teixeira, José Teixeira

Eutectic Modification of Al-Si Alloys by Using AlSr10

Abstract

The eutectic modification of the AlSi7Mg0.3 alloy with Sr allows for an effective refinement of the eutectic in aluminium alloys. The additive introduced as a modifier must have the following requirements: forming sufficiently strong adsorption bonds with melt modifying atoms; sufficient stability in the aluminium melt at high temperatures without changing the chemical composition. The aim of the realized experiment is first of all to investigate the distribution and influence of strontium in the structure of Al-Si alloys. Subsequently, an experiment was carried out on the quality evaluation of effect of the modifier on the structural integrity in AlSi7Mg0,3 alloy. Elemental distribution of Sr in the microstructure of AlSi7Mg0,3 alloy was determined by scanning electron microscope with EDS analyser.

Iryna Hren, Sylvia Kusmierczak, Nataša Naprstková, Roman Horky

Flow Visualizations in a PDMS Cerebral Aneurysm Biomodel

Abstract

Cerebral aneurysm is an abnormal dilatation of the blood vessel which affects a high percentage of the worldwide population. One way to investigate this pathology is using in vivo techniques, but these types of experiments have a high cost and low reproducibility. Thus, to understand the local hemodynamics of brain aneurysms, it is imperative to manufacture in vitro models that simulate real brain aneurysms. These biomodels are suitable for experimental testing, as well as for evaluating and validating computational models. In this work, was manufactured a biomodel of a cerebral aneurysm made by polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), combining rapid prototyping technology with a PDMS gravity casting process. Experimental flow visualizations were performed at different flow rates. The flow visualizations results have shown that there is a transition from laminar to turbulent flow for a flow rate near 6 ml/min. The proposed PDMS biomodels have shown the ability to perform flow visualizations and have the potential to help the development and validation of computational models.

Andrews Souza, Maria Sabrina Souza, Conrado Ferrera, Hélder Puga, Rui Lima, João Ribeiro

What Times Should Be Used for fNIRS and EEG Protocol?

Abstract

fNIRS (Functional near-infrared spectroscopy) and EEG (Electroencephalogram) are two technologies that measure brain activity. Recently expanded to new fields, such as Design. These technologies are beginning to be applied simultaneously in the laboratory or in real life, as they allow researchers to collect distinct data - electrical activity in the form of brain waves and the concentration of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin (HbO and HbR), respectively. The purpose of this study is to present a review on the event timing applied individually to optimize the usage of both tools, and a reflection on how a study protocol should be designed for the integration of both technologies into a hybrid fNRIS-EEG recording. The results show that the purpose of the study and the type of stimulus or task to be done by the participants, must be considered since they determinate the events timing in each step of the protocol. Event timing includes longer durations when there is interaction between the participant and the stimulus, or for completion of a task. Additionally, the resting period for fNIRS signals baseline correction must be carefully considered for the convergence on the use of both technologies in the same protocol.

Iara Margolis, Rute Silva, Diego Pinal, Nelson Costa, Bernardo Providência

Inclusive Platform: GUS for Social Inclusion and Competencies Development in Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Cerebral Palsy (CP) refers to a set of neurodevelopment disorders associated with motor and functional limitations in individuals, and often accompanied by other impairments. The lack of adapted resources to CP hinders a normal development and social inclusion. Create accessibilities and adapted solutions for this population which promote social inclusion and skills development is necessary. In this paper we propose a conceptual development of an inclusive platform for children with CP and children with normal development. Through Games Used Seriously (GUS), our platform aims to develop skills (motor, cognitive and social) and social interaction, with individual and multiplayer games (e.g. cooperative or competitive games) and communication strategies. Components for increasing of the motivation and engagement with platform is included (e.g. social media information or gamification). Include hardware equipment with biometric sensors and tangible interaction allows more resources to explore motor skills and clinical control. The ability to obtain quantitative indicators in this tool allows to make constant evaluation and to be a source of information for secondary users (parents and therapists). This solution may be an important complementary resource to conventional therapy and can be applied in other environments.

Gil Dias, Filomena Soares, Vítor Carvalho, Armanda Pereira, Tiago Martins

Kinematic Analysis from Solar Panel Tracking System

Abstract

In this article will present you a solar panel tracking system that will be mechanically analyzed. The solar panel can be fixed or mobile using a solar tracker which is an active system that allows the solar panels to move after the sun to capture more sunlight at an angle almost perpendicular to the panel, periodically changing its inclination and axial position. This article presents two different modes of kinematic analysis for the universal joint. The main object of the work is to eliminate the variable angular velocity due to the use of the simple cardan shaft. A technical solution with universal double articulation has been conceived, designed, and analyzed from a kinematic point of view, which, regardless of the 1 or 2 functional motors, will allow the solar system to move at a constant speed. The proposed solar panel solution with the presented adaptable mechanical structure can periodically change its inclination and axial position, regardless of the driven motor, yet the system will move at a constant speed which gives a real advantage from a dynamic point of view.

Andreea Dana Alionte, Cristian Canacheu, Alexandru Costin Ciobanu, Ion Murzac, Dana Mirela Văleanu, Liviu Marian Ungureanu

Continuous Improvement of Logistics Processes in a Production Line of Electric Buses Chassis

Abstract

Nowadays, environmental concerns are deeply rooted in our society. This growing concern is reflected in the strategies implemented by organizations, which are increasingly focused on eco-friendly strategies, not only for its strategic aspect but also for its social responsibility. Therefore, a bus manufacturing company and an automotive company, both located in the north of Portugal, followed this trend by acting in an extremely important area, electric mobility. Since the market is becoming increasingly competitive in these areas it is necessary to ensure the ability of the organization to adapt to its volatility and the efficiency of its processes, in which logistics flows play an important role. It is within the scope of internal logistical flows and processes that this work, developed at the automotive company, in the chassis production line for electric buses, is inserted. The main objective of this project is the continuous improvement of logistics processes, using Lean tools. Firstly, it was necessary to perform a diagnosis and to map the current state of the logistics processes of the electric chassis line, to identify the existing problems and prioritize them in terms of urgency. Based on the Lean philosophy and its inherent tools, such as Standard Work, 5S, Kaizen philosophy and Visual Management, several improvements were presented and implemented, to mitigate the problems that were identified. With the implementation of these improvements in the picking operations, more specifically the picking of the material for the picking boxes, a 44.6% reduction of the time spent on the operation was obtained. Regarding the supply of material to the production line, the duration of this logistic process was reduced by 18.4%.

Beatriz Especial Gomes, Maria Teresa Pereira, Marisa Oliveira, Fernanda A. Ferreira

3D Print Technology Used in High Technical Education

Abstract

The paper deals with technical project-based as an alternative form of schooling. Its focus is on problematic of 3D printings, their essence and their practical application. This article treats these topics as a necessity for former technical experts studying at technical faculty at University. It presents the application of 3D printing as a total challenge task. The task was to create own 3D printer and on the printer to create and print in 3D model some actual object. Described technical project is an actual for students of technical studies, but is suitable to build cross disciplinary cooperation. It was realized in cooperation to Nature sciences faculty and with a Historical department of Faculty of Philosophy. This real problematic of finding a real shape and appearance of real historical building, exactly of destroyed church.

Jan Novotný, Martin Jaskevič, Tomáš Vysloužil

Is Critical Thinking a Skill or a Way to Develop Skills? An Overview in Engineering Education

Abstract

One of the most highly valued skills for higher education in Engineering is the development of critical thinking. Critical thinking skills have great importance in cultivating personal and professional competences for the transition to the industrial context. Also, critical thinking achieves a vital importance when students start their professional engineering activity. Engineers are challenged to analyze and think creatively through problems from multiple perspectives in order to reach an appropriate solution. Some studies suggest campus culture and out-of-class experiences may play a role in the improvement of critical thinking. So, this paper aims to identify and to understand how this topic is handled in engineering education, based on scientific literature. Despite the acknowledgement of critical thinking importance in engineering education, there is no practical evidence of its inclusion in the university curricula.

Celina P. Leão, Ana C. Ferreira

Solving Manufacturing Orders Scheduling Problem Using Annealing Simulation

Abstract

For many years, the decision-making process has been based on a human factor and the foreman’s know-how, what was error prone. Nowadays production processes are more and more complex. The company that wants to be competitive in the market must take under consideration many factors and basing on human factor only is not efficient at all. The paper presents the production scheduling optimization problem in the furniture company. Until now, company engineers used to schedule production based on customers’ orders and their know-how. The problem was that customers make orders at various times with fixed deadlines, and for the company, it is profitable to group customers’ orders together. Wise order scheduling makes a significant difference in total production time and cost. In the paper, the use of a greedy algorithm, Simulated Annealing, and Tabu Search algorithms to verify the current method of production process scheduling and improve the process has been proposed.

Kamil Musiał, Artem Balashov, Anna Burduk, Dominika Rysińska-Wojtasik

Dynamic Sectorization - Conceptualization and Application

Abstract

Sectorization is the division of a large area, territory or network into smaller parts considering one or more objectives. Dynamic sectorization deals with situations where it is convenient to discretize the time horizon in a certain number of periods. The decisions will not be isolated, and they will consider the past. The application areas are diverse and increasing due to uncertain times. This work proposes a conceptualization of dynamic sectorization and applies it to a distribution problem with variable demand. Furthermore, Genetic Algorithm is used to obtain solutions for the problem since it has several criteria; Analytical Hierarchy Process is used for the weighting procedure.

Filipe Soares de Sousa, Maria Margarida Lima, Elif Göksu Öztürk, Pedro Filipe Rocha, Ana Maria Rodrigues, José Soeiro Ferreira, Ana Catarina Nunes, Cristina Oliveira

Research of Features of Oxide Coatings Deposition by D–gun Spraying

Abstract

Protective and functional coatings based on oxides are of considerable interest for high-tech industries. Of nparticular interest is alumina, which is cheap and accessible, the production of powders of which has been mastered on an industrial scale. The features of oxide coatings deposition by D – gun spraying method are considered in the article. When developing technological processes for D – gun spraying of oxide coatings, it is necessary to take into account and provide optimal conditions for the occurrence of leading transformations and phenomena that have a decisive effect on the structure and properties of the resulting coatings. For this, the flow rate and composition of the combustible mixture, the geometry and dimensions of the barrel, the conditions for introducing the powder into the barrel, a single dose of powder, the distance of spraying, the cyclogram of the working cycle and other technological methods can be used. The possibility of controlling the phase composition and properties of the coatings is shown on the example of applying coatings from aluminum oxide powder. A significant effect of thickness of single coating layers on the kinetics of polymorphic transformations and the phase composition of aluminum oxide coatings has been established. The method of D – gun spraying makes it possible to obtain coatings of aluminum oxide with an increased content of the α phase. Also, D – gun spraying allows the application of durable coatings based on titanium, iron and cobalt oxides.

Oleksiy Romanchenko, Olga Porkuian, Yuriy Kharlamov, Volodymyr Sokolov, Oleg Krol

Key Performance Indicators: A Perspective on Developing and Implementing Performance Indicators in a Textile Company Warehouse

Abstract

The performance of a company’s warehouse influences its competitiveness. High-performance warehouse management allows the company to increase profit, reduce delivery time and provide better customer service. To have a perception of the warehouse management performance, it is necessary to identify the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and be able to monitor them. Creating a performance monitoring system in an industrial organization requires a deep understanding of the organization, the need and culture, to dig the information and adapt the theoretical indicators to the needs of the organization. Thus, the main purpose of this article is to develop and implement a monitoring system for key performance indicators for an industrial organization in an operations area in which there are still no performance measurements/indicators, describing the main steps that allow the development of such a system. This system resulted from university-industry cooperation, which allowed to establish a set of KPIs and a Dashboard that led the company to easily start monitoring its performance.

Ana Francisca Costa, Ana Pinto, Ana Catarina Mendes, Ana Rita Quinteiro, Carla Coelho, Carla Meira, Isac Pereira, Jorge Marinho, José Barbosa, Natacha Cunha, Rui Miranda, Nuno Drumond, Rui M. Lima

Composite Materials Based on GPPS/PE-HD Matrix Used in Automotive Industry

Abstract

Polymer composites have many advantages over metal and ceramic composites. The most important are high specific strength, relatively easy production and processing, corrosion resistance, better dynamic properties, good damping properties, high dimensional stability and the ability to produce complex parts at once or assemble them from a smaller number of elements (integral construction). High specific strength was the main reason reinforced plastics are suitable for applications that have to withstand impacts. The automotive industry is a complex industry that affects mechanical, electrical, chemical and, of course, plastics and rubber production. The requirements of the automotive industry have changed quite significantly recently. The most important factors influencing car design today are cost, final consumption and pollutant emissions. At the same time, consumption and emissions were not taken into account very significantly a few years ago. The presented paper aims to thermal analysis of composite materials based on polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) and Maleinanhydrid a Di-terc-butyl peroxide were used as additives.

Lucia Knapčíková, Justyna Trojanowska, Matúš Martiček, Jozef Husár

On the Suitability of Instrumented Orthogonal Cutting Tests Towards Cutting Load Modelling in Turning Operations

Abstract

Cutting load monitoring is of utmost importance in the machinability assessment in metal cutting operations. It allows for the analysis of important aspects such as the cutting stability or tool geometry, thus enabling a constant improvement of machining operations. In order to facilitate the benchmark of different cutting scenarios orthogonal cutting is often used, given its simplicity when compared with industrial machining operations of more intricate dynamics. In this study, the specific cutting pressure estimates obtained from orthogonal cutting experiments are compared with the ones obtained from turning operations for 3 selected alloys, in order to evaluate the suitability this parameter towards mechanistic modelling.

T. Silva, V. Sousa, F. Silva, A. M. P. Jesus

Backmatter