Design Concept Research Articles

Research on Sustainable Intelligent Drying Wardrobe Design Strategy Based on Importance–Performance Analysis

Sustainable design concepts are design concepts that the United Nations and China have been promoting that aim to achieve environmental sustainability, social sustainability, and economic sustainability. In recent years, with the rise of intelligent drying wardrobes, more and more scholars have applied the concept of sustainable design to the theoretical research and design practices of intelligent drying wardrobes. But most of them focus on the research and practice of a certain functional module, while less focus on end users. This study examines users’ perceptions of the functional modules of intelligent drying wardrobes through a questionnaire. It focuses on environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The research also measures users’ satisfaction and the importance of these modules using IPA. From the perspective of end users, the results show that social sustainability is the best option, followed by economic sustainability and environmental sustainability. From the enterprise point of view, the high priority of social sustainability in terms of user’s needs is highlighted. However, in response to sustainable development policy, environmental sustainability is taken as the second most important guiding factor for the development of intelligent drying wardrobe functional modules. This paper fills the current research gap on the differences in users’ perceptions of intelligent drying wardrobe design modules and prioritizes users’ perception decisions on functional modules from the perspective of sustainability, so as to provide some reference for enterprise production.

The Landscape Design Proposal for the New Archeological Museum of Cyprus

This paper deals with the landscape design strategy that was followed in the proposal that was submitted to the International Architecture Competition of the New Archaeological Museum of Cyprus. The aim of this document is to analyze how landscape and architecture interact. In the author’s design proposal for the New Archaeological Museum of Cyprus, the various “gardens” integrated into the Landscape are analyzed. The concept of landscape design is related to the sacredness of trees to certain gods in Ancient Greece and Greek Mythology. The proposal addresses the symbolic meaning of trees and water. The design triggered the creation of several “gardens”: the “Sacred Garden”, the “Stone Garden”, the “Olive Garden”, the “Sacred Grove”, and the “Public Garden”, combining their soft landscapes with the hard landscape of the “Plaza” and the “Courtyard”. Each figure in the garden has a symbolic meaning that allows for a dialogue between landscape and architectural design. In addition, the findings provide valuable insights into the historical and spiritual value of landscape elements (plants, water) that are also thermal regulators for sustainable urban planning. The research results may be of value to landscape architects, architects, and landscape designers in the Mediterranean region.

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS OF AI IN BIOPHILIC URBANISM AND NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS IN CITIES

Applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the fields of design and planning become increasingly common. At the same time fears related to the threats of technocentrism and disconnectedness from nature towards applications of AI in managing and shaping our living environments are rising. The concept of biophilic design holds the potential for bridging the gap between urban population and nature and avoiding technocentrism in urban life and planning. Thus, the need arises to connect biophilic design and planning and the applications of AI in urbanism. Consequently, this research presents the review, discussion and experiment of potential applications of AI (mainly focusing on generative AI) in biophilic urbanism and nature-based solutions in cities.

Identification of RdRp-NiRAN/JAK1 Dual-Target Drugs for COVID-19 Treatment.

Inhibition of virus replication and inflammatory response is important for the treatment of severe COVID-19 patients. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) is indispensable for SARS-CoV-2 replication, and Janus kinase (JAK) 1 inhibitors exert immunosuppressive effects. RdRp/JAK1 dual-target drugs are expected to ameliorate the severity of the COVID-19 disease. The N-terminal nidovirus RdRp-associated nucleotidyltransferase (NiRAN) domain of RdRp is a pseudokinase, and it has structural similarities with JAK1. Herein, we evaluated the inhibitory effects of triphosphate forms of 31 nucleoside drugs in the DrugBank database on the NiRAN domain and JAK1 through a combination of theoretical and experimental methods. By analyzing the three properties of 31 nucleoside drugs (total hydrophobic surface area, number of hydrophobic atoms, and molecular weight), these drugs met the application rule of our developed molecular docking with conformer-dependent charges (MDCC). Based on the MDCC method combined with molecular dynamics simulations, Azvudine and Citicoline among these 31 drugs showed stronger predicted binding affinities with the NiRAN domain as well as JAK1 compared to the reference drug Remdesivir. Further experimental verification, including a thermal shift assay and homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence assay, demonstrated that Azvudine was an RdRp-NiRAN/JAK1 dual-target drug. This work provided a previously unexplored mechanism of Azvudine for COVID-19 treatment and proposed a design concept for RdRp-NiRAN/JAK1 dual-target nucleoside drugs.

The Emerging of 2D Layer‐Blocked Frameworks

Blocked copolymers are a versatile and powerful class of materials, and their properties can be modified by carefully designing the molecular architecture. Their ability to self‐assemble into nanoscale structures and the multifunctionality make them invaluable in advanced materials science, nanotechnology, and biomedical engineering. Compared to traditional blocked copolymer morphologies such as linear, cyclic, and branched, 2D layer‐blocked frameworks provide materials with clear structure, permanent porosity, favorable chemical and thermal stability, larger surface area, ultra‐high carrier mobility, efficient charge separation and migration, and excellent photoexcitation response. In this concept article, we summarized the design concepts and state‐of‐the‐art strategies for the construction of 2D layer‐blocked frameworks and reviewed the development of some 2D‐like blocked frameworks and their applications in semiconductor, catalysis, energy storage, etc. Finally, we also outlook for the challenges of these materials in preparation and applications across different research fields.

Vulnerability of structures designed with seismic provision due to explosions in mines

The effect of blast-induced ground vibration on structures was examined. The aim was to investigate the extent to which the strength attributed by seismic design can resist the effect of mine blasts, as both earthquakes and blasts generate lateral forces. The study was conducted to see whether and how blasts can be controlled such that seismic design of structures may suffice the purpose of withstanding mine blasts. The responses in the elastic and post-elastic regions were compared for implementation of the concept of performance-based design. The responses of structures were investigated for both single and sequential blasts. The results showed that sequential blast events are more damaging than earthquakes. On the other hand, medium- and long-period structures under a single blast event can withstand blast-induced vibration if designed as per seismic provisions. To safeguard structures under sequential blasts, it is recommended that the number of blast events is controlled. The safety of structures under blast can be determined by knowing the additional strength attributed from the seismic effect. This may help to decide whether separate design provisions for blast-induced ground motion are needed.

Initial design concepts for solid boron injection in ITER

As part of ITER’s consideration to change its first wall material from beryllium to tungsten, the ITER Organization has proposed studying the feasibility of real-time solid boron injection (SBI) into the plasma to coat the walls and divertor to supplement glow discharge boronization (GDB) [1]. Boron deposits getter oxygen and reduce sputtering of tungsten from plasma facing components (PFCs). Particularly in areas with significant plasma wall interactions, boron coatings are expected to be short-lived under high performance plasma conditions. The proposed SBI system aims to maintain boron layers in these areas to avoid excessive radiation from tungsten in the plasma as a risk mitigation to ensure ITER will be able to reach and sustain Q = 10 conditions. The system will be used sparingly, as redeposition of boron can lead to significant tritium retention, which must be minimized in ITER to comply with nuclear safety concerns. SBI is proposed to limit and precisely control the amount of boron injected in real-time during plasma operation. Here, some of the design requirements and initial concepts for an SBI system in ITER are presented based on previous results carried out with SBI systems on a number of tokamaks and stellarators around the world [2–18].Previous results using SBI systems installed by PPPL have injected boron particles from 5 µm–2 mm diameter at calibrated rates of 2–200 mg/s in real-time during plasma operation on AUG [4], DIII-D [5], EAST [6], KSTAR [7], LHD [8], TFTR [9], WEST [10], and W7-X [11,12], leading to improved wall conditions with reduced plasma impurity concentrations and radiated power and improved plasma performance. The boron is ionized in the plasma edge and then deposited on plasma-wetted surfaces. On AUG [4], EAST [6] and WEST [10] reduced tungsten sputtering sources were observed following several discharges with SBI. Extrapolation of these SBI results are presented to estimate the amount of boron needed for wall conditioning in ITER. Real-time SBI control requirements and plasma operation scenarios for ITER are also described.

When Tradition Inspires Modernity

The research article sets out to unveil the challenge of preserving traditional design concepts within contemporary spaces. Its objectives are to examine how Acholi material culture items inspire functional and aesthetic concepts in modern interiors, explore methods to incorporate traditional pottery in contemporary spaces, and create prototype pots that integrate Acholi design elements. It sets out on the premise that blending traditional artefacts with modern interiors fosters cultural identity and pride among space owners and enhances visitors' appreciation. Its methodological considerations are qualitative, using a parallel prototyping design, with two potters and five culturally knowledgeable elders selected for insights. The research is theoretically informed by the concepts of cultural identity and preservation within modern aesthetics. Its key findings reveal that traditional material culture enriches product design, creates a sense of ownership, and fosters community pride, while also generating income for artisans. Furthermore, the use of traditional designs supports cultural continuity by exposing younger generations to their heritage. It recommends incorporating indigenous knowledge and practices to create spaces that are distinctive and culturally communicative, enhancing modern living while celebrating traditional values.

A New Polyvinyl Alcohol Lithium Chloride Hydrogel Electrolyte: High Ionic Conductivity and Wide Working Temperature Range

AbstractPolyvinyl alcohol/lithium chloride hydrogel (PVA/LiCl) is one of the most used electrolyte in supercapacitors. Increasing the ionic conductivity and operating temperature range of PVA/LiCl would greatly boost the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors and enhance the devices’ environmental adaptability. This is of great significance yet rarely concerned about in energy communities. In this work, SiO2 functionalized PVA/LiCl (PVA‐SiO2/LiCl) is experimentally realized with high ionic conductivity and wide operating temperature range. The spectroscopic and theoretical experiments prove that SiO2 significantly regulates cation solvation structure to promote cation‐anion pair dissociation and diminish coagulation of PVA chains, increasing ionic conductivity from 19.01 mS cm−1 of PVA/LiCl to 56.17 mS cm−1 of the new electrolyte. SiO2 can also prevent cation‐anion association as temperature decreases, and the abundant hydroxyl groups on the SiO2 and the stretched PVA chains tune hydrogen bonds among dipolar water molecules. They effectively expand the operating temperature range of PVA‐SiO2/LiCl. PVA‐SiO2/LiCl greatly boosts the electrochemical performance of MnO2‐based supercapacitor. The design concept developed here opens up a way toward high‐performance hydrogel electrolyte development.

A monochrome pipelined HMI system for foodborne microorganisms testing

Hyperspectral microscopy imaging (HMI) is an efficient and non-destructive method to detect microbial contaminants in food, as it can provide both spatial morphology and spectral signature. Aims at reducing thermal effect, low cost, and improving spectral resolution in testing, a pipeline-operated LEDs monochromatic illumination mode is proposed, which integrates the design concepts of both grating-based and LED-based HMI systems. By design of the LED set, shared grating monochromatic optical path, and coordinated control system, an HMI system has been developed that could obtain the hyperspectral data cube with 101 bands in 400–700 nm. Hyperspectral datasets of three species of Aspergillus are prepared using the prototype, and efficient results have been achieved in the training and testing of classical classification algorithms (1D-CNN (97.33 %), k-NN (96.33 %), SVM (97.67 %) and ResNet-18 (95.67 %)). The results demonstrate that the proposed monochromatic illumination mode and associated system are potential detection solutions for foodborne microbial contaminants with low-cost and high-accurate.

Packaging Materials Design And Developing Trend

Abstract: Packaging materials design is related to economic and social development. At the same time, it also reflects human aesthetic and emotional expression. With the continuous maturity of consumer psychology, people have a new understanding of packaging design, and the past packaging materials design concepts can no longer meet the various needs of customers. As is known, packaging plays a very important role in promoting products to customers. Therefore, attractive packaging materials design is essential. In this work, the developing history of packing materials design was reviewed in detail. Both the advantages and disadvantages of the packing materials were discussed. Packaging materials experienced the process from paper, plastic, and metal to composite materials. The functions of packaging materials have gone from single to comprehensive. Driven by the commercialization of fierce competition, although humans have made great achievements in packaging material design, there is still greater room for development in packaging material design to meet the needs of future society. For a long time from now to the future, the balance between practicality and aesthetics will still be the basic principle of material packaging design. In addition, the human experience, such as the friction coefficient of packaging materials, has begun to be considered. The artistic combination of materials, shapes, colors, and characters combined with artificial intelligence has gradually become the frontier of packaging material design. By learning from nature, it can be concluded that smart packaging, eco-friendly and sustainable development in packaging materials design combining practicality and aesthetics are the developing trend for the future.

Self-encapsulation ultra-soft micro-channel with high thermal conductivity and passive radiation cooling

Oriented towards the industrialization of micro-electronic products, micro-channels suitable for micro and small electronic devices are committed to solving the issue of efficient thermal dissipation in the systems. Accordingly, research on integrating multifunctional thermal management composite materials for designing micro-channels has become a hot development trend. Notably, the design concept of efficient thermal dissipation micro-channel with the dual functional synergy of high thermal conductivity and passive radiation cooling was advanced. The compound of high thermal conductivity hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) and high-elastic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) entrusts the micro-channel with a superb substrate with flexibility, stretchability, hydrophobicity, and high thermal conductivity. Draw support from a zero-energy consumption and environmentally friendly passive radiation cooling strategy, the micro-channel with a polyvinylidene fluoride/cellulose acetate (PVDF/CA) nanofiber film acquires an ultra-high reflectivity of up to 99.50 % (0.2–2.5 μm) and a high emissivity of 94.81 % (8–13 μm). The programmable patterned graphene oxide (GO) ink is assisted with high-viscosity natural Gleditsia sinensis polysaccharide (GSP) through 3D printing. Ultimately, a self-encapsulated, flexible, high thermal conductivity (0.42 W m-1K−1), passive radiation cooling micro-channel accumulated a temperature difference of 10.76 °C, potentially making a promising thermal management micro-channel system for development.

Performance characterization and combination design optimization of fast-melting SBS/CR modified asphalt

To broaden the application prospects of fast-melting styrene-butadiene-styrene modifiers (F-SBS) and meet diverse requirements, this study utilizes crumb rubber (CR) as a partial substitute for F-SBS to prepare fast-melting SBS/CR modified asphalt (F-SCMA). Firstly, rheological tests were conducted on fast-melting SBS modified asphalt (F-SBSMA) with varying dosages of F-SBS (3.0%, 3.5%, and 4.0%). Subsequently, F-SBS was added to the neat asphalt in dosages of 3.0%, 2.5%, 2.0%, 1.5%, and 1.0%. CR was then incorporated into the F-SCMA in corresponding dosages (2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, and 10%) to form F-SCMA with different ratios of F-SBS and CR. The dosage of F-SCMA was further determined using performance grade (PG), Brookfield viscosity, linear amplitude sweep (LAS), softening point difference, and multiple stress creep and recovery (MSCR) tests. Finally, the microscopic mechanisms of F-SCMA were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and fluorescence microscopy (FM) tests. The results indicated that F-SBS significantly enhanced the rheological properties of neat asphalt. The modified asphalt containing 3.5% F-SBS exhibited a PG of 76-28, which represents the most significant modification effect among the various dosages of F-SBSMA. In comparison, the F-SCMA with 2.5% F-SBS and 6% CR demonstrated higher high- and low-temperature continuous PG, better temperature stability, improved elasticity, and enhanced fatigue resistance than 3.5% F-SBSMA. F-SCMA containing 3% F-SBS and 4% CR, as well as 1% F-SBS and 8% CR, exhibited superior high- and low-temperature properties, respectively. Furthermore, FTIR and FM tests revealed that F-SBS and CR were effectively incorporated into the asphalt through a physical mixing process, indicating compatibility between the two modifiers and the neat asphalt. This study establishes a theoretical framework for assessing the comprehensive performance of F-SCMA, expands the application prospects of F-SBS, and provides design concepts for the application of F-SCMA in environments with different requirements.

Revealing multi-level shortrange migration of electrons on full-spectrum response e-LDH/t-BiOCl/Bi2S3 and their essential role in the detoxification of Cr(VI) and refractory organic pollutants

The toxic dyeing wastewater containing both carcinogenic Cr(VI) and refractory dyes poses serious threats to ecological safety and human health. Herein, a novel composite photocatalytic material e-LDH/t-BiOCl/Bi2S3 with an ultrathin sandwich structure constructed achieves removal rate constants of 0.044 and 0.019 min−1 for Cr(VI) and reactive red 2 by adsorption-photocatalysis synergistic mechanism in full-spectrum illumination. This structure employs the interface conditions and built-in electric field to form multilevel short-range charge migration channel, achieving the targeted reduction and oxidation of Cr(VI) and azoxy dyes by electrons (e−) and holes (h+). Besides facilitating the reduction of Cr(VI), e− can also enhance the effective utilization of h+ and mediate the formation of other reactive oxygen species that target RR2 degradation. The degradation mechanism, pathway, and biological toxicity of RR2 single and Cr(VI)/RR2 coexistence reaction system were discussed by DFT calculation, LC-MS characterization, and T.E.S.T. evaluation. Moreover, we further investigated the photocatalytic activity and cost-effectiveness of the e-LDH/t-BiOCl/Bi2S3 system under continuous flow and real water settings, and determined the primary water quality parameters that influence photocatalytic performance. This work establishes a new concept for the rational design of robust ternary heterostructure photocatalysts with desirable morphology and competitive performance for photocatalytic applications.

Unveiling the dual-state emissive behaviour of 4,6-diarylpyrimidin-2-amines through a plug-and-play approach

We present here a series of 4,6-diarylpyrimidin-2-amine derivatives (5a-j) with tunable optical properties both in the solid and solution states. Our plug-and-play fluorophore design demonstrates that the aryl groups at the 4th and 6th positions of the 2-aminopyrimidine core enable distinct optical characteristics for each derivative. The fluorophore design concept was validated using theoretical and spectroscopic methods. The designed compounds were synthesised in moderate to good yields, and their structures were confirmed via IR, NMR, HRMS, and single-crystal XRD analyses. Optical studies revealed that varying the aryl substituents significantly impacts absorption, emission, and bandgap values in both phases. The absolute quantum yields (ϕF) of the synthesised derivatives ranged from 8.11 to 71.00% in DMF and 5.86–29.43% in thin films, with fluorescence lifetimes (τ) between 0.8 and 1.5 ns in DMF and 0.63–3.16 ns in films, respectively. CIE (Commission Internationale de l’Éclairage) diagrams indicate blue-green emission for 5a-j in the visible spectrum. The electrochemical analysis confirmed that the HOMO/LUMO (Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital/Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital) energy levels can be modulated by altering the substituent rings. These results highlight the dual-state emission properties of 2-aminopyrimidine fluorophores, demonstrating their potential for a wide range of optoelectronic and advanced applications.

Research on the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Museum Exhibition Design

With the rapid development of information technology, artificial intelligence has developed rapidly, and is gradually widely used in all walks of life, which has a profound impact on social development. In the field of museum exhibition design, artificial intelligence also plays a role that cannot be ignored. Relevant designers should pay attention to the role of high-tech in the information age in promoting the development of the museum industry, innovatively introduce artificial intelligence technology, and promote the development of the museum to follow the pace of the time and better cater to the needs of the audience. In this context, this paper will first briefly expound the relevant concepts of artificial intelligence and museum exhibition design, then briefly discuss the application principles of artificial intelligence in museum application in museum exhibition design, and finally explore the relevant application paths, aiming to give full play to the application value of artificial intelligence in museum exhibition design, innovative design direction, and create diversified design forms. To provide visitors with a more novel tour experience, improve the recognition of the museum at the social level, and strengthen its role in cultural construction through scientific and technological means.

Impact of Conventional and Laser-Assisted Machining on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ti-Nb-Cr-V-Ni High-Entropy Alloy Fabricated with Directed Energy Deposition

The high-entropy alloy (HEA) has recently attracted significant interest due to its novel alloy design concept and exceptional mechanical properties, which may exhibit either a single or multi-phase structure. Specifically, refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEA) composed of titanium, niobium, and nickel-based HEA demonstrate remarkable mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. Additive manufacturing (AM), specifically Direct Energy Deposition (DED), is efficient in fabricating high-entropy alloys (HEA) owing to its fast-cooling rates, which promote uniform microstructures and reduce defects. This study involved the fabrication of the Ti33Nb28Cr11V11Ni17 (Ti-Nb-Cr-V-Ni) RHEA utilizing DED. Additionally, the post-processing of the fabricated alloy is conducted using conventional machining (CM) and laser-assisted machining (LAM). The results indicate thermal conductivity and specific heat increased, whereas tensile strength reduced with rising temperature. Significant softening was observed above 800 °C, resulting in a considerable decrease in tensile strength. Furthermore, the LAM caused material softening and reduced the cutting force by 60.0% relative to CM. Furthermore, the chemical composition of Ti-Nb-Cr-V-Ni remained unaffected even after post-processing with CM and LAM. The research indicates that post-processing with LAM is essential for developing resilient RHEA for practical use.

Design and Application of Modern Interior Design Style System Based on Unity3D

With the constant change of fashion trends, interior design styles are changing day by day. Based on Unity3D technology, this paper develops a system for modern interior-style design and application. Taking the residential interior as a case study, the interior style design is achieved through 3D modeling and texture rendering and then combined with the Unity3D engine to achieve scene roaming and interactive design. The system enables designers to express design concepts more intuitively and efficiently and also improves customer participation and satisfaction. Through the experience of designers and customers, the system is verified to have more practical value than traditional interior design solutions.

Optimisation design and experimental analysis of rotary blade reinforcing ribs using DEM-FEM techniques

This study addresses the prevalent issue of rotary blade fractures in tillage operations by designing a new type of reinforcing rib that mitigates neck force and alleviates stress concentration. Initially, utilising traditional design concepts, the side-plate reinforcing rib was segmented into units and analysed using ANSYS to develop an initial model. Evaluation indices such as specific strength structural efficiency and specific stiffness structural efficiency were employed to perform orthogonal optimisation of the rib dimensions, achieving optimal measurements of 72.9 mm in length, 15.7 mm in width, and 3.5 mm in thickness. These dimensions enhance the specific strength structural efficiency by 14.14% and the specific stiffness structural efficiency by 0.95% compared to the initial model. Further, the rib's mathematical model was refined and generalised by a curve-fitting method across different rotary blade models (IT series), followed by topological optimisation to fine-tune morphological features. This optimisation reduced the model's mass by 9.78% and improved efficiency metrics by 2.6% (strength) and 0.5% (stiffness). Comparative experiments using DEM-FEM coupled analysis were conducted on three optimised models to assess the redesigned blade's performance. The experiments evaluated key performance metrics such as neck force, maximum stress, fatigue life, and ultimate fracture stress. The results indicate that after two rounds of optimisation, the blade's neck force was reduced by 16.85%, the maximum stress decreased by 15.22%, the fatigue life increased by 76.03%, and the ultimate fracture stress improved by 20.16%. These changes align with the optimisation objectives. Subsequent control and calibration tests produced a load-strain curve that validated the simulation data with a marginal error range of 3%–10%, validating the simulation's accuracy. This research provides a robust theoretical framework for optimising the reinforcing rib and fracture resistance of rotary blades.

Methodological approach for fast high-resolution image selection: FAHRIS algorithm

Recent research highlights advancements in collecting Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) data using radiosondes on stratospheric balloons, revealing a need for enhanced in-flight image stabilization. This paper proposes a twofold approach: Firstly, it introduces a design concept for a high-resolution image acquisition and stabilization system for aerial instruments (e.g., drones, balloons). Secondly, it presents a novel Fast Algorithm for High-Resolution Image Selection (FAHRIS) for rapid image selection, grouping and stitching of acquired imagery. FAHRIS’ effectiveness is validated using datasets from three flights over Italy: a stratospheric balloon flight reaching 34 kms over Florence, and drone flights using a DJI Mavic 2 up to 253 m over Trevisoand 330 m over Padua. Limitations and challenges encountered during the validation of FAHRIS, such as computational constraints affecting dataset processing, are addressed. Additionally, the results of the image stitching process highlight potential distortions and stretching issues, particularly evident in images with significant relative angles.•Design proposition of stabilization system for aerial instruments.•Development of a novel and fast image selection, grouping and stitching algorithm (FAHRIS).•Validation of algorithm against data sets from three flights.