Diagram Method Research Articles

Improvement of Business Performance in Small-Medium Enterprise (SME) : Evidence From A Sanitaryware Company in Malaysia

The market for sanitaryware in the world was estimated at USD 13.00 billion in 2021, and it is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% over the next five years. Sanitaryware includes items like washbasins, pedestals, and other sanitary equipment like toilets. Typically, ceramic, pressed metal, and other materials are used to create these products. One of the key factors fuelling the market's expansion globally is the growing awareness of superior sanitaryware items due to different benefits to cleanliness and health. This paper uses the Fishbone diagram technique to identify the potential root causes of fluctuating revenue of a sanitaryware retailer in Malaysia. As a result, the proposed solutions to improve the business performance of the company are proposed using the Business Excellence Model approach. The findings of this research are expected to make important contributions to the sanitaryware industry as it will help the companies to understand the customer behaviours and strategies to improve their business performance. This research also can act as a basic guideline when they want to analyse their business performance using Fishbone diagram method

Experimental investigation and thermodynamic assessment of the Zn–Cu–Sr ternary system

Zn–Cu–Sr alloys play a crucial role in the development of biodegradable implant materials based on zinc. The current study aimed to investigate the phase equilibria of the Zn–Cu–Sr ternary system in the Cu–Zn-rich region, through experimental analysis. For this purpose, fifteen and fourteen samples were respectively prepared and equilibrated at 350 and 400 °C, to determine the isothermal sections. The equilibrated alloys were then subjected to various analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectrometry analysis (EDS), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and powder X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The analysis revealed the presence of five three-phase equilibria and ten two-phase equilibria in the two isothermal sections. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to investigate the phase transformation temperature with constant values of 8 at. % Sr and 30 at. % Cu. The obtained experimental results were used to perform a thermodynamic assessment of the Zn–Cu–Sr system especial in Zn-rich region using the calculation of phase diagrams (CALPHAD) method. The modified quasi-chemical model (MQM) was used to model the liquid solution, while the compound energy formalism (CEF) was used to represent Gibbs free energies of the solid phases. The present obtained thermodynamic parameters were found to accurately reproduce the experimentally measured phase relationships in the Zn–Cu–Sr ternary system.

Modeling for nonlinear acoustic imaging of an isolated crack via standing waves in a 2D solid

This paper is concerned with numerical modeling for nondestructive imaging of defects in solids via standing waves excited by a periodic sinewave signal. The stationary solution, purely sinusoidal in an intact sample, contains higher harmonics when damage is present. These harmonics are generated by contact acoustic nonlinearity and form their own standing waves whose intensity maximum usually indicates the position of damage, in a way similar to resonant vibrometry experiments. The key point of the developed numerical tool that describes those wave phenomena is a model of planar damage (crack, delamination) considered here as an inner contact with rough surfaces and friction. The corresponding boundary conditions are given by the previously developed contact model based on the Method of Memory Diagrams (MMD) capable of automating the account for hysteretic frictional effects. Combination of the MMD for boundary conditions and a finite element formulation for waves in a volume (MMD-FEM model) provides a complete description which represents a numerical code applied here for nonlinear standing waves simulations. We present a number of examples obtained for idealized 2D geometry and reveal conditions in which both position and extent of damage are clearly seen as well as cases where only partial detection is possible.

Multiple-Stimuli-Responsive Surfactant-Free Microemulsions Based on Hydrophobic Deep Eutectic Solvents.

Hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (HDESs) have been applied to colloidal systems such as microemulsions, despite the development of stimulus-responsive HDESs still being in a preliminary stage. Here, menthol and indole were hydrogen bonded to form CO2-responsiveness HDES. A surfactant-free microemulsion constituted of HDES (menthol-indole) as the hydrophobic phase, water as the hydrophilic phase, and ethanol as the double solvent was demonstrated to be CO2- and temperature-responsive. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) proved the single-phase region of the phase diagram, while conductivity and polarity probing techniques confirmed the kind of microemulsion. The ternary phase diagram and DLS methods were used to investigate the responsiveness of CO2 and effect temperature on the microemulsion drop size and behavior of the phase of the HDES/water/ethanol microemulsion. The findings revealed that when temperature increased, the homogeneous phase region increased. The droplet size in the homogeneous phase region of the associated microemulsion may be reversibly and accurately adjusted by adjusting the temperature. Surprisingly, a slight temperature change can cause a significant phase inversion. Furthermore, in the system, there was no demulsification in time for the CO2/N2 responsiveness process but rather the production of a homogeneous and pellucid aqueous solution.

The interactive effects of operating parameters on ash slagging during oxy-biomass combustion based on response surface methodology

Oxy-biomass combustion is one of the most promising carbon-negative technologies for achieving carbon neutrality, while ash slagging heavily hinders its application, which is affected by operating parameters significantly. In this study, the interactive effects of reaction temperature, O2 concentration, and recycled SO2 on the tendency of ash slagging were systematically explored by response surface methodology (RSM). The results showed that O2 concentration had the most important influence on the changes in ash softening temperature (ST), followed by reaction temperature and recycled SO2. Besides, there were strong interactions among these operating parameters, of which increasing O2 concentration dramatically amplified the effects of reaction temperature on ST. Meanwhile, O2 also had the dominant influence on the ash slagging index (RAFI), while it was dramatically weakened with increasing reaction temperature or SO2 concentration. Moreover, a novel method of ternary phase diagram was proposed for the simultaneous prediction of ST and RAFI, which revealed that the ash slagging tendency could be modified to the medium zone by adjusting reaction temperature, O2 concentration, and recycled SO2 to the ranges of 700 °C–730 °C, 40%–45%, 1500 ppm–1900 ppm, respectively.

Newly developed green technology innovations in business: paving the way toward sustainability

PurposeThis study’s goal is to research and describe developing green technology and green business models, as well as their commercial advantages. However, it focuses on how old business breakthroughs and models may be transformed into new green technologies and innovations that can affect the global business environment. This research concentrates on the technology component of green technologies and provides information on a variety of relevant emerging green business models and innovations such as energy efficiency, renewable energy consumption, commodities and systems, environmental protection, nontoxic materials, and waste minimization, among others. Additionally, this research connects Emerging Green Technology (EGT) innovations to the business for sustainability. It also emphasizes the advantages of green technology adoption in business specially in developing economies.Design/methodology/approachFor that purpose, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was performed based on the “inclusion/exclusion criteria” and “PRISMA flow diagram method”. The first screening and quality evaluation rejected 67 publications, 8 in eligibility and 10 in credibility. In the subsequent round, 45 papers out of 210 that met the search parameters were included to access the findings.FindingsThis study provides a foundation for future research into sustainable economic potential by examining the development, breakthroughs, obstacles, future trends and new research prospects of EGTs. As such, this research will serve as a helpful resource for economically growing nations looking to foster long-term growth in their businesses through sustainable development strategies.Research limitations/implicationsThe first limitation of the study is the generalization of the findings. The sample size of the study is limited. For that purpose, an SLR and “PRISMA flow diagram” methods were performed by “inclusion/exclusion criteria” for literature review. Except these, there are many new techniques of SLR. Further research with more sampling and sophisticated tests could produce better results for this study.Practical implicationsThis research provides valuable insights for businesses and politicians seeking to protect the environment, promote economic growth and create a sustainable society. The findings will be particularly useful for emerging nations grappling with issues related to technical innovation, safe environmental practices, reliable renewable energy sources, and ecological and economic growth.Originality/valueThis study’s findings will aid in the design and implementation of new green technology and innovations in current businesses, which will assist in limiting climate change and eventually affect their move to sustainable growth paradigms. For emerging nations, this study will be useful in addressing issues about technical innovation, safe environmental conditions, reliable renewable energy sources as well as ecological and economic growth. According to our research results, the authorities of developing nations would gain from utilizing green business models and technology to spur economic development. Our findings should thus add to the current body of knowledge.

Analisis Kesenjangan Performa Layanan – Harapan Konsumen pada Sebuah Usaha Pangkas Rambut di Malang

Mbois Barbershop is MSME that provides hair cutting services and has been affected Covid-19 pandemic. Coinciding with the new-normal era, one way to increase the income Mbois barbershop is generate consumer loyalty. Consumer loyalty can achieve by improving service quality performance. The purpose this research is to analyze Gap between service industry performance and service expectations at Mbois barbershop and determine service improvements for Mbois barbershop. The benefit this research increase consumer loyalty, which can result in an increase the number of consumers. The research stages consist of determining the number samples, collecting questionnaire data, validity, and reliability testing, calculating Gap value, analyzing Cartesian diagrams, and business improvement. A total of 30 samples were used with random sampling method. Validity testing was conducted using Pearson correlation moment method and reliability testing using Cronbach's alpha method. Gap analysis was conducted using Cartesian diagram method and Gap value calculation. The results showed that all physical evidence variables fell into quadrant two, making it a priority for improvement, especially for attributes such as healthier hair after receiving services, cleanliness after haircuts, and no itching after haircuts. The recommended improvements are purchase hair tonic, Haircut Cape, and Neck Paper Tissue. The attributes that need to be reduced from service performance are in quadrant four, which includes the skill workers in handling visitor's requests from the responsiveness variable and the workers' display visitors as priority from the empathy variable. Suggestions for further research include conducting servqual analysis with nine Likert scales to obtain more objective consumer assessment. The suggestion for implementing improvements is to consider the cost of repairs.

Effect of Homogenization Process on Microstructure of Al–Zn–Mg–Cu Aluminum Alloys

Herein, the best homogenization process of 466.5 °C × 36 h + 490 °C × (14–26.4 h) that can completely eliminate the coarse phases σ[Mg(Zn, Al, Cu)2] and S(Al2CuMg) in the Al–Zn–Mg–Cu aluminum alloy is developed. The homogenization process is determined by the method of calculation phase diagram, and the experimental verification. It is shown in the results that, first, in the microstructure of the as‐cast alloys, the crystal structure of the σ[Mg(Zn, Al, Cu)2], Al7Cu2Fe, and Mg2Si phases is determined. Second, during the homogenization process, the σ[Mg(Zn, Al, Cu)2] phase dissolves and also transforms into the S(Al2CuMg) phase. Most importantly, the dissolution temperature range of the σ[Mg(Zn, Al, Cu)2], S(Al2CuMg), and Al7Cu2Fe phases is determined from 472.56 to 476.36 °C, from 484.09 to 485.39 °C, and from 540.18 to 547.23 °C, respectively. At best homogenization process, the residual Al7Cu2Fe phase area fraction ranges from 1.28 ± 0.16% to 1.60 ± 0.18%. In addition, dispersed η(MgZn2) phase precipitates in supersaturated Al‐matrix during differential scanning calorimeter heating. And, the concentration differences between the grain center and the eutectic of structure of Zn, Mg and Cu regression equations are established, which can provide some reference for the design of experimental parameters, thus reducing the experimental workload.

Experimental investigation and thermodynamic optimization of the Co–Ta–Zr system

This work is focused on a deeper understanding of the solidification microstructure of the as-cast alloys, as well as the phase constituents and phase fractions of annealed samples in the Co–Ta–Zr system. Nine primary solidification regions were experimentally determined in the liquidus surface projection, and three primary solidification regions were deduced based on binary phase diagrams. Six three-phase equilibria were observed in the isothermal sections at 1373 and 1273 K. The maximum solubilities of Zr in μ and CoTa2 were determined to be ∼ 6.1 and ∼ 6.7 at% at 1373 K, and ∼ 3.9 and ∼ 5.9 at% at 1273 K, respectively. The maximum solubilities of Ta in Co23Zr6 and CoZr were determined to be ∼ 3.3 and ∼ 14.1 at% at 1373 K, and in Co23Zr6, CoZr and CoZr2 were determined to be ∼ 2.6, ∼ 13.5 and ∼ 11.9 at% at 1273 K, respectively. The Co–Ta–Zr system was optimized by CALculation of PHAse Diagram (CALPHAD) method based on the experimental data. Four solution phases, liquid, bcc, fcc, and hcp, were described as substitutional solution. The thermodynamic models of intermetallic phases Co11Zr2, Co23Zr6, CoZr2, Co3Ta, CoTa2, λ1, λ2 and λ3 were treated as (Co)11(Ta,Zr)2, (Co)23(Ta,Zr)6, (Co,Zr)(Ta,Zr)2, Co3(Co,Ta), (Co,Ta,Zr)(Co,Ta,Zr)2, (Co,Ta)2(Co,Ta), (Co,Ta,Zr)2(Co,Ta,Zr) and (Co,Ta)2(Co,Ta) using a two-sublattice model, respectively. CoZr3 was described as (Co,Zr)(Co,Zr)Zr2 by a three-sublattice model. μ phase was modeled as (Co,Ta,Zr)1(Ta,Zr)4(Co,Ta,Zr)2(Co,Ta,Zr)6 using a four-sublattice model. And CoZr with a B2 structure was described as an ordered phase of bcc_A2, and the model was treated as (Co,Ta,Zr,Va)0.5(Co,Ta,Zr,Va)0.5(Va)3. A set of self-consistent thermodynamic parameters of the Co–Ta–Zr system was obtained using CALPHAD method. The calculated solidification paths and phase fractions can provide theoretical guidance for material design and thermal processing.

Adaptive frequency control in smart microgrid using controlled loads supported by real-time implementation.

The operation of the system's frequency can be strongly impacted by load change, solar irradiation, wind disturbance, and system parametric uncertainty. In this paper, the application of an adaptive controller based on a hybrid Jaya-Balloon optimizer (JBO) for frequency oscillation mitigation in a single area smart μG system is studied. The proposed adaptive control approach is applied to control the flexible loads such as HPs and EVs by using the JBO which efficiently controls the system frequency. The suggested technique uses the power balance equation to provide a dynamic output feedback controller. The main target is to regulate the frequency and power of an islanded single area μG powered by a PV and a diesel generator with integrations of smart bidirectional loads (HPs and EVs) that are controlled by the proposed adaptive controller in presence of electrical random loads. Moreover, the JBO is designed to minimize the effect of the system load disturbance and parameter variations. For a better assessment, the proposed controller using JBO technique is compared with two other methods which are the coefficient diagram method (CDM) and adaptive one using classical the Jaya technique. In the obtained results, the frequency deviation is found as 0.0015 Hz, which is fully acceptable and in the range of the IEEE standards. The MATLAB simulation results reveal that the suggested technique has a substantial advantage over other techniques in terms of frequency stability in the face of concurrent disturbances and parameter uncertainties. The real-time simulation tests are presented using a dSPACE DS1103 connected to another PC via QUARC pid_e data acquisition card and confirmed the MATLAB simulation results.

Preparation of nano emulsion with high salt resistance

In this paper, the high salt shale reservoir as the research object, through the combination of microemulsion dilution method and pseudo-ternary phase diagram to screen the salt resistance of good nano emulsion. In the system, D-limonene was used as the oil phase, and the surfactant CAB-35 and AOS were selected by pseudo-ternary phase diagram method as the surfactant in the ratio of 1:1, and then mixed with n-butanol in the ratio of 1:1 to obtain the best microemulsion effect. The nano emulsion system was prepared by diluting the microemulsion. By testing the interfacial tension, the optimum preparation conditions of nano emulsion were screened. The results showed that the nano emulsion prepared by dilution under the condition of 5:5 oil/water ratio of microemulsion system had the best ability to reduce the interfacial tension between oil and water.

Optimization of the stability constants of the ternary system of diclofenac/famotidine/β-cyclodextrin by nonlinear least-squares method using theoretical equations

This study aimed to establish a new method for determining the stability constants of drug/β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) complexes when multiple drugs interacting with each other coexist in the solution of complexation. The basic drug famotidine (FAM) and the acidic drug diclofenac (DIC) were used as model drugs, their solubility decreasing owing to their mutual interaction. The dissolution of both FAM and DIC was characterized by AL-type phase solubility diagrams in the presence of the other’s 1:1 complex with β-CD. When the stability constant was calculated from the slope of the phase solubility diagram using the conventional phase solubility diagram method, it was modified in the presence of the other drug. However, by performing optimization calculations that considered the interactions between the drug/β-CD complex and the drug, drug/β-CD complexes, and drugs, we were able to accurately calculate the stability constant of DIC/β-CD and FAM/β-CD complexes even in the presence of FAM and DIC, respectively. The results of the solubility profile indicated that various molecular species, which are attributed to drug-drug and drug/β-CD interactions, interfere with the values of the dissolution rate constants and saturated concentration in the solubility profiles.

Особенности эмиссии и полевая электронная спектроскопия оксидного термокатода

The results of a study of the emission characteristics and gas release of oxide thermocathode by the method of time diagrams in the temperature range of 678÷885 °C and emission currents from 0.08 to 1.3 mA are presented, a directly proportional dependence of the partial pressures of the released gases CO and CO2 on the cathode emission current is established. The energy spectra of the emitted electrons of oxide thermocathode at a temperature of ~600 °C were measured, corresponding to the "spotted cathode" model. The dynamics of changes in the energy spectrum of the emitted electrons of the “spotted cathode” is presented, showing the existence of stages of activation, growth and deactivation of the emission of “spots” with an increase in the emission voltage.

Sediment characteristics and sedimentary environment analysis of a sandbar-lagoon system developed at the estuary of Fudu River, China

Developed at the estuary of Fudu River, the sandbar-lagoon system there occupies the longest sandy coastline of east coast of Liaodong Bay, China. Over the past several decades, substantial changes are believed to have occurred over the system regarding its sedimentary characteristics and dynamic environment, partly due to the anthropogenic influences. However, few studies have been reported to investigate such evolution. To fill this gap, grain size analysis was conducted with 52 sediment samples to reveal the sediment distribution patterns. In addition, the sedimentary environment and sediment transport trend were studied using the Pejrup M triangular diagram and Gao-Collins grain size trend analysis method. Our results show that the surface sediments are mainly sandy with coarser sediment found over the northern part of the sandbar whereas fine-grained sediments are mainly in the lagoon area. The sedimentary dynamics environment can be divided into the northern area of sandbar and the lagoon area. The relatively larger grain size, low sorting coefficient and positive skewness in the northern part of sandbar indicates a strong and stable hydrodynamic environment dominated by waves and currents. Meanwhile, the small mean size, high sorting coefficient and negative skewness in the lagoon area implies a weak hydrodynamic environment due to significant reduction of hydrodynamic strength. In the lagoon area, the sediments are transported mainly from coastal ocean to the interior of lagoon in suspension. Our study provide basin understanding of the controlling dynamics on sandbar evolution, and can provide guidelines for the preservation of the sandbar-lagoon system.

Comparative analysis of CPM, PDM and PERT method on the duration of bridge work (Case study : Gelam Bridge Project)

The preparation of the duration is a very important thing considering that there are many project work activities and must also be arranged in such a way that sequentially starting with the work activity starting until the completion of the bridge project work activity. The use of the three methods in the preparation of project activity activities is the critical path method (CPM), precedence diagram method (PDM), and project evaluation review technique (PERT). The results of the study showed that in preparing the duration of bridge work using these three methods obtained in the CPM method, results were obtained on the duration of the Gelam Bridge project work for 178 days, then using the PDM method, results were obtained on the duration of the Gelam Bridge project work for 141 days, and while the PERT method took a duration of 184.1 days, where the duration was quite long compared to the two methods above, due to the aspects of probability. The calculation of the duration will always be different because it depends on the volume of the work to be done to the coefficients in the work with the method used.

SnO2-Based Porous Nanomaterials: Sol-Gel Formation and Gas-Sensing Application

Porous nanocomposites using two (tin dioxide-silica dioxide) and three (tin dioxide-indium oxide-silica dioxide)-component systems for gas sensors were created with the sol-gel method. To understand some of the physical-chemical processes that occurred during the adsorption of gas molecules on the surface of the produced nanostructures, two models-the Langmuir model and the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller theory-were used to carry out calculations. The results of the phase analysis concerning the interaction between the components during the formation of the nanostructures were obtained through the use of X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller technique (to determine the surface areas), the method of partial pressure diagrams in a wide range of temperatures and pressures and the results of the measurement of the nanocomposites' sensitivity. The analysis allowed us to find the optimal temperature for annealing nanocomposites. The introduction of a semiconductor additive into a two-component system based on tin and silica dioxides significantly increased the sensitivity of the nanostructured layers to reductional reagent gases.

Experimental Investigation and Thermodynamic Assessment of the Ternary Al–Ni–Er System

Al–Ni–Er is an essential system in heat-resistant Al alloys. However, the aluminum-rich corner of this system, which has the most practical application significance, has not been fully studied. In this work, the phase equilibria of the Al–Ni–Er system are investigated via experiments and thermodynamic modeling. The isothermal sections of the Al-rich corner of this ternary system at 600 and 700 °C were determined through equilibrated alloys combined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). In addition, the vertical sections of the Al–Ni–Er system at Al0.7Ni0.3–Al0.7Er0.3 and Al0.8Ni0.2–Al0.8Er0.2 were measured via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. A new ternary compound, τ14-Al12Ni2Er3, was discovered. On the basis of the experimental results of this and previous studies, the ternary Al–Ni–Er system was optimized with the calculation of phase diagrams (CALPHAD) method. The calculated isothermal and vertical section phase diagrams of the ternary system are in good agreement with experimental and literature data.

Frequency control scheme based on the CDM-PID controller for the hybrid microgrid system with stochastic renewable generators

In this paper, we introduce a Coefficient Diagram Method (CDM) to design a conventional PID controller. This controller is used to decrease the frequency fluctuations of a microgrid system composed of two renewable energy sources (WTG and STPG) and four controlled elements (UC, FESS, BESS and DEG). The method compares two characteristic polynomials of the same order:, the coefficients of the first polynomial are a function of microgrid parameters and the unknown gains of the PID controller. The second is called the target polynomial; its coefficients are calculated by choosing the stability indices and the equivalent time constant to satisfy the desired performances of the closed-loop system. Mathematically, the order of the polynomial controller determines the type of linear system of equations to solve: undetermined or overdetermined. In our application, the least squares method is used to find an approximate solution to the overdetermined system resulting from this comparison. Digital simulation is performed to test the performance of the microgrid controlled by the CDM-PID controller. The obtained results are compared with two recently published works where the parameters of the PID controllers are tuned by DE and chaotic PSO algorithms. The results show that the CDM-PID controller gives better performance.

Forehand and Backhand Tennis Exercises: Study Literature Review

Study purpose. The sport of tennis is one of the most popular branches globally and there are various techniques in hitting tennis. The purpose of this article review is to find out about exercises to improve groundstroke ability in tennis in Indonesia. The research method uses a literature review (Study Literature Review). Materials and methods. The article selection model is often carried out using the prism flow diagram method. As many as 20 National Journal articles used as references in writing. Results. Based on the results of the analysis of the data obtained, it states that footwork and tennis court drills can improve the ability of groundstroke forheand and backhand accuracy in court tennis. This research can be categorized as having a very high success rate. Conclusion. The conclusion of this study is that footwork exercises and tennis court drills can improve groundstroke accuracy forehand and backhand in the very good category, and are also supported by several exercises or other training methods.

An integrated simulation model towards laser powder bed fusion in-situ alloying technology

The Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) in-situ alloying is a novel technology for preparing novel alloys efficiently. However, the narrow process window limit its application. A micro-scale integrated simulation model is designed and constructed based on the Discrete Element Method (DEM), the Finite Element Method (FEM), and Calculation of phase diagram (CALPHAD) method in the work. The equation of the methods are introduced. By defining the parameters such as composition inhomogeneity ω, the forming performance of LPBF in-situ alloying FeCoCrNi medium entropy alloys are predicted. The calculation results show that the hysteresis diffusion effect makes the mixing powders more challenging to be in-situ alloyed than conventional main component alloys. For the mixed powder beds consisting of 15–53 μm particles with equal mass ratio, the composition deviation on the micro-scale is within 2.5%, and the composition homogeneity reaches 98.9 %. Under a laser power of 150 W and a scanning speed of 500 mm/s, several laser remelting process are indispensable to eliminate unmelted elements. Experiments are carried out to verify the accuracy of the integrated simulation model, and the high-efficiency preparation experiment of non-equiatomic ratio medium entropy alloy was carried out by using the technology.