Furniture Industry Research Articles

EVALUATION OF LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT IN FURNITURE MANUFACTURING USING THE ANALYTICAL HIERARCHY PROCESS

Environmental issues in the furniture industry are of great importance due to the use of natural materials, such as wood and chemical substances like adhesives and paints. These issues encompass environmental conservation and managing the pollution and waste that is generated. This study adopted an integrated AHP-LCA decision model which helped identify several key factors as higher priorities. These factors include the bio-economic aspects, the production process, wood quality, stable supply of raw materials, technical considerations, and the recycling process. A pairwise comparison of 24 sub-criteria revealed that the quality of wood as a raw material, wood supply management and connections, the punching process, user education and trained workforce, and process design are critical criteria. Prioritizing these factors not only helps in the removal of pollutants, but also enhances the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) framework in the furniture industry. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) results using Sima-Pro software indicated that scenario 1, which involves designing recyclable furniture, has a significant impact on water toxicity and CO2 emissions. Additionally, replacing birchwood as an imported raw material (scenario 2) can help mitigate ionizing radiation effects. Finally, using recycled wood in the furniture manufacturing processes (scenario 3) significantly affects land use and emissions.

Implementing Long Short Term Memory (LSTM) in Chatbots for Multi Usaha Raya

The furniture industry is an important sector in Indonesia that supports the economy and provides quality furniture. An in-depth understanding of the furniture business is essential for industry players to improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. This research aims to develop a chatbot for Multi Usaha Raya furniture company to improve customer service and operational efficiency. In its development, the Machine Learning Model Development Life Cycle (MDLC) and deep learning approach using the Flask platform are employed. LSTM, a type of recurrent neural network (RNN) architecture capable of handling long-term dependencies, is utilized in this chatbot model. The model training results show an accuracy of 99%, validation accuracy of 96%, loss of 0.1%, and validation loss of 0.2% after 200 epochs, demonstrating the effectiveness of the LSTM algorithm for developing a chatbot in this company.

Aplicación de la metodología MASP para reducir el tiempo de producción: el caso de una industria del mueble

The furniture industry generated sales of R$78 million in the year 2021. However, a company in the sector is not always able to deliver on time to fulfill. In this context, this research aimed to identify the main causes for the delay in delivery of orders in the company studied, applying the Methodology of analysis and problem solving (MASP) in order to identify, analyze and propose corrective actions. The study was conducted in the company Arte Mobília, which manufactures furniture for indoor and outdoor environments made of aluminum and sling fabric, whose delimitation was the process related to the production of chairs. As results, in the first stage of MASP the problem of the delay of orders that were delivered 10 days late was identified and in the second stage the family and the product to be studied, the chair 1, was identified. In the analysis stage quality tools were applied, such as brainstorming, Pareto chart, Ishikawa diagram, and the five whys. With the application of MASP it was possible to reduce the production lead time by 10 days. With this, the company will be able to present a higher level of service and be more connective in the market. ILIA: Investigaciones Latinoamericanas en Ingeniería y Arquitectura, No. 01, 2024: 146-154.

The Study of Mechanical Properties of Sandwich Composites with a Hybrid Resin Matrix Based on Dammar, a Core of Chopped Corn Cobs and Natural Fabric Faces. Applications in the Furniture Industry

The Study of Mechanical Properties of Sandwich Composites with a Hybrid Resin Matrix Based on Dammar, a Core of Chopped Corn Cobs and Natural Fabric Faces. Applications in the Furniture Industry

Natural durability of Eucalyptus species harvested as electricity transmission poles in two different ecological zones of Ghana

This study assessed the possibility and feasibility of using two Eucalyptus species for electricity transmission poles in Ghana as a means of minimizing the import of transmission poles in the country. Eucalyptus species are grown in private and government-owned plantations in Ghana due to its growing demand for use as power line transmission poles. The species are seldom used by the furniture industry. The demand from the pole treatment industry for raw materials exceeds the domestic supply of teak, which is commonly used as transmission poles, resulting in the importation of pine poles to cover the deficit, hence the need for this study. The natural durability of Eucalyptus alba and Eucalyptus robusta in the Coastal Savanna Zone (CSZ) and Moist Semi-Deciduous Forest Zone (MSDFZ) was tested using white rot fungus (Coriolopsis polyzona) under an accelerated laboratory test. The results indicated significant variations in the mass lossess be-tween trees in the two vegetation zones. The sapwood and outer heartwood of the E. alba tree species of CSZ recorded the highest mass losses of 41.21 % and 20.79 %, respectively, compared to the E. robusta trees felled from MSDFZ that recorded mass losses of 32.3 % and 5.42 %, respectively. Also, the outer heart- wood and inner heartwood of the E. robusta MSDFZ felled trees were highly resistant (5.42 % and 6.99 %). CSZ wood species were less naturally resistant to C. polyzona attack than those harvested from MSDFZ, which appeared to be less susceptible and more naturally resistant to decay by C. polyzona. Both species are feasible for use as transmission line poles; however, trees from both ecological zones would need chemical preservatives to improve their service life, especially for outdoor applications.

Effect of Bamboo Nodes on the Mechanical Properties of Phyllostachys iridescens

Bamboo is a significant natural resource, recognized for its rapid growth, lightweight composition, high strength, and excellent mechanical properties, making it increasingly valuable in the furniture and construction industries. A critical structural aspect of bamboo is its nodes, yet there has been limited research on their impact on bamboo’s mechanical properties. This study investigates the mechanical properties of round bamboo tubes in three different states: internodes (S1), nodes with diaphragm removed (S2), and nodes with diaphragm (S3). The results show that the mechanical properties of S1 are a compressive strength (CS) of 29.72 MPa, a shear strength parallel to grain (SSp) of 11.82 MPa, a radial stiffness (Sr) of 155.59 MPa, an impact toughness (IT) of 20.74 kJ/m2, a modulus of rupture (MOR) of 16.45 MPa, a modulus of elasticity (MOE) of 408.53 MPa, a tensile modulus of rupture parallel to grain (MORT) of 189.62 MPa, and a tensile modulus of elasticity parallel to grain (MOET) of 431.05 MPa. Compared with S1, these above parameters change by CS +11%, SSp 6%, Sr +100%, IT −29%, MOR +5%, MOE +63%, MORT −29%, and MOET −58% in S2 and CS +10%, SSp 28%, Sr +250%, IT −31%, MOR +28%, MOE +92%, MORT −25%, and MOET −42% in S3. It demonstrates that the bamboo diaphragm and nodes significantly influence the mechanical properties of bamboo; they have a significant positive effect on the bending properties across the transverse grain, radial ring stiffness, and shear properties along the grain, but negatively impact the tensile properties along the grain.

Towards digitalization of the circular economy in the furniture industry

Fashionable, cheap furniture of questionable quality is often used for short-term economic gain. If the furniture is not liked, it is quickly discarded. The need to reduce CO2 emissions, dwindling resources and social and political demands contradict this practice and require the implementation of closed-loops material cycles and the introduction of circular business models. A systematic literature review and a case study were conducted to provide a comprehensive overview of current circular economy strategies (e.g. reuse, refurbishment and recycling) implemented in the furniture industry in relation to various key activities of platform companies. As part of the case study, interviews were conducted with stakeholders and experts from the furniture and interior design industry. The European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform was also consulted. The literature review and the case study show that the furniture industry is in a state of transition. By incorporating designs that allow for improved remanufacturing, refurbishment and reuse, companies in the industry are increasingly starting to consider circular economy patterns. Increasing digitization and servitization are driving new circular business models. Another key finding is that digital platforms are suitable for connecting stakeholders such as manufacturers, service providers and consumers, taking into account the relevant business models. The study also identified motivations, barriers and requirements for the implementation of circular and digital business models in the furniture and interior design industry. There is still a large gap between what can be achieved with a circular economy and its actual implementation.

Training of Trainers 4.0 Industri Kecil Menengah Furnitur Untuk Mendorong Transformasi Digital Dengan Teknologi Internet of Things

The furniture industry in Central Java still faces various challenges, especially in adopting advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things and Industry 4.0. Many furniture SMEs still rely on manual or semi-manual production methods, which result in suboptimal product quality and production efficiency, making it difficult to compete in the global market. To address these challenges, the Community Service Program carried out by the Furniture Industry Business Management Study Program at Polytechnic of Furniture Industry and Wood Processing actively played a role through the Training of Trainers activity. This program aims to provide intensive training on the implementation of IoT and Industry 4.0 technologies to furniture SMEs in Central Java, focusing on developing practical skills and fostering digital transformation. Training of Trainers training involved Furniture Industry Business Management lecturers who possess specialized expertise in Industry 4.0 technologies. The training covered both theoretical and practical aspects, allowing participants to not only understand the concepts but also implement them in their work environments. Evaluation results showed a significant increase in the participants' understanding and skills in applying Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things technologies. A tangible example of the success of this training is PT. AST Indonesia, which successfully implemented Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things technologies in its production processes after participating in the Training of Trainers program. This success is concrete evidence that the training provided by Furniture Industry Business Management can contribute significantly to enhancing the competitiveness of furniture SMEs in the digital era, in line with the vision of "Making Indonesia 4.0.

PERSEPSI PELAKU UMKM INDUSTRI FURNITURE DALAM MENINGKATKAN DAYA SAING USAHA DI ERA DIGITAL (Studi Kasus Pada Pelaku UMKM di Kota Tangerang Selatan)

This study aims to explore the perceptions of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the furniture industry regarding enhancing business competitiveness in the digital era (a case study of SMEs in South Tangerang City). This research employs a qualitative method to gain in-depth understanding through data collection techniques including observation, documentation, and interviews, using a semi-structured interview format based on a predetermined interview guide with several informants from the furniture industry SMEs in South Tangerang City. The analysis of the interviews revealed that the strategies employed to improve competitiveness in the digital era focus on maintaining product quality, utilizing social media and e-commerce, and building good relationships with customers. Although some business actors have started using digital platforms, many still rely on traditional methods. Challenges such as price competition and the impact of political situations are also faced, but these are addressed through innovation, product differentiation, and strategic adaptation. While there have been efforts to leverage digital opportunities, there remains room for further development in the use of technology and more effective online marketing strategies.

Characterization of 3D printed samples from biomass-fungi composite materials

Biomass-fungi composite materials are derived from sustainable sources and can biodegrade at the end of their service. In these composite materials, the biomass particles (made from agricultural waste such as hemp hurd) act as the substrate, and a network of fungal hyphae grow through and bind the biomass particles together. These composite materials can be used to manufacture products traditionally made from petroleum-based plastics. Potential applications of these products are in the packaging, furniture, and construction industries. Typically, molding-based methods are used to manufacture products using these composite materials. Recently, the authors reported a novel 3D printing-based method using these composite materials. This paper reports a follow-up investigation into the characterization of 3D printed samples from biomass-fungi composite materials. Tensile and compressive testing samples were shaped using molds from a portion of each printed sample. Mechanical properties of these tensile and compressive testing samples and chemical properties of the printed samples were measured. Tensile and compressive testing measurement results showed that, at the significance level of 0.05, effects of 3D printing parameters studied (printing speed and extrusion pressure) were not statistically significant on Young’s modulus and ultimate tensile strength of the tensile testing samples, as well as on compressive strength and compressive modulus of the compressive testing samples. Results obtained from the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis show that chemical composition of printed samples was consistent with the data in the literature.

Reference-based genome assembly and comparative genomics of Calamus Brandisii Becc. for unveiling sex-specific genes for early gender detection.

Calamus brandisii Becc. is an endangered rattan species indigenous to the Western Ghats of India and used in the furniture and handicraft industries. However, its dioecious nature and longer flowering time pose challenges for conservation efforts. Developing markers for early gender detection in seedlings is crucial for maintaining viable populations for in-situ and ex-situ conservation. Currently, no sex chromosomes or gender-specific genes have been reported in the species. We report the first comprehensive comparative genomics study between the male and female genomes of C. brandisii to identify polymorphisms and potential genes for gender determination. Reference-based assembly was conducted and the male and female genomes were predicted to contain 43,810 and 50,493 protein-coding genes respectively. The haploid genome size was ∼691Mb and ∼884Mb for male and female genomes respectively. Comparative analysis revealed significant genetic variation between the two genomes including 619,776 SNPs, 73,659 InDels, 212,123 Structural variants (SVs) and 305 copy number variations (CNVs). A total of 5 male-specific and 11 female-specific genes linked to the sex determining region was predicted. The genomic variants identified between the two genomes could be used in development of markers for early gender identification in C. brandisii for restoration programs. The gender-specific genes identified in this study also provide new insights into the mechanisms of sex determination and differentiation in rattans.

Spatiotemporal Prediction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Rubber Wood Furniture Industry, Taking Hainan as the Case

The rubber wood furniture industry chain, including planting and manufacturing subsystems, emits significant greenhouse gases (GHGs), meanwhile, has huge carbon emission reduction potential. However, quite few studies have taken the whole industry chain GHGs into consideration, especially assessing and modelling those from rubber tree planting to furniture manufacturing. We took the rubber wood furniture of Hainan province as the case, explored its whole life cycle GHGs from cradle-to-gate and predicted the potential GHGs from 2031 to 2062. This study is fully based on field survey and sampling data, including that of the rubber tree planting (40-year cycle) and furniture manufacturing. The results reveal: (1) Whole industry chain of rubber wood furniture emits 3.27×106 kgCO2-eq GHGs per 20,000t rubber logs consuming, where the planting accounts the most (88.20%). Transport and electricity consumption are the main GHGs sources of planting and manufacturing subsystems respectively; (2) The whole life-cycle GHGs of rubber wood furniture in 2023 of Hainan is 2.07×107 kgCO2-eq, which mainly come from Danzhou (24.74%), Haikou (19.55%), and Qiongzhong (15.79%); (3) The total GHGs from the rubber wood furniture industry in Hainan from 2031 to 2062 are 210 MtCO2-eq and 129 MtCO2-eq respectively, without or with felling restriction. The changes of GHGs from 2051 to 2062 are caused by the regional center shift of planting gravity; (4) Improving energy use efficiency and optimizing the location of furniture factories would reduce GHGs. This study can provide empirical support for the low carbon sustainable transformation of the rubber wood furniture industry worldwide.

Жиһаз индустриясы үшін мамандар даярлаудағы инновациялық цифрлық шешімдер

In the context of the rapid development of technologies and changing market requirements, this approach is becoming increasingly relevant, as it contributes to the formation of creative and innovative specialists. The purpose of the study is to analyze the use of digital design and design thinking in the educational process, as well as to assess their impact on the formation of professional competencies of students. The paper examines modern practices and methodologies, including the use of 3D modeling software, virtual reality and other digital tools that allow students to interact with real-time projects. The study used interactive multimedia tools, digital methods of graphic design, and virtual experiences adapted in the learning process. The results of the analysis show that the integration of digital technologies into training not only increases the level of student participation, but also contributes to the development of critical thinking, teamwork skills and the ability to solve practical problems in furniture design and production. These conclusions indicate the need to adapt educational programs to modern requirements and challenges, and also open up new opportunities for the use of innovative teaching methods in the furniture industry, which, in turn, can contribute to increasing the competitiveness of specialists in the labor market.

Optimization of Wood Waste through the Design of Multifunctional Clocks Using KANO and QFD Methods to Increase the Economic Revenue of CV. PIRANTI

One of the companies engaged in the teak wood furniture industry and interior design of the room is CV. PIRANTI. The problem found by researchers is the occurrence of the accumulation of waste of wood which becomes fuel for wood oven, causing environmental pollution. As such, to minimize wood- waste accumulation—a scenario in which the accumulation of timber waste in December 2018, January 2019, and February 2019 totaled 177 kg—the author will waste the wood into clocks that have value that can also add economic income for the company. The KANO and QFD methods are used in this study. This research is aimed at: 1) Product design planning using waste wood; 2) Product design planning using the Kano and QFD methods; and 3) Knowing the increase in income of CV. Tools by utilizing waste wood. The result of this research is 1) can process the waste of wood using the method KANO, 2) can know the level of satisfaction and the interests of customers using QFD method, 3) and can know the advantages of wood waste treatment when used Multifunction Wood. In processing QFD data, obtained 2 types of product design. Got a price calculation with a price margin of 25% for the product, where the price ranged from 52 000 rupiah to 65 000 rupiah per product with a profit of 13 000 rupiahs for product A, and product B with prices ranging from 46 000 rupiah to 57 500 rupiah with a profit of 11 500 rupiah per product.

Design redistribution: the role and involvement of craftsmen in the embodiment of design in the Indonesian rattan furniture industry

ABSTRACT This article explores the roles and positions of craftsmen in the design development within the Indonesian rattan furniture industry. Positioned as subcontractors, craftsmen play an essential role in the design development process, particularly in the exploration and interpretation of sketch drawings into prototypes that meet buyers’ specifications and gain their approval. This research utilised a phenomenological approach to explore the experiences of craftsmen in creating prototypes conveyed solely through sketch drawings. Rattan furniture design is generally dynamic and organic, characterised by numerous curves and complex forms that are challenging to depict accurately. Sketch drawings are rough and often lack proper proportions, scalability, standardisation, and intricate details, leading to varying interpretations of the prototype sketch drawings. Based on their experience and creativity, the craftsmen create prototypes solely by referring to sketch drawings. Consequently, there has been a significant collaboration between contractors and craftsmen as subcontractors in the design process. This research is part of an initiative aimed at recognising craftsmen as marginalised participants in small business entities, highlighting their contributions and rights within the collaborative design process.

Optimizing working capital management strategies for enhanced profitability in the UK furniture industry: Evidence and implications

In this study, we are interested in WCM (working capital management) strategies and profitability in the UK furniture manufacturing sector. Observing the period from 2007 to 2023 of public companies panel data has found that extreme (aggressive and conservative) and moderate (moderate) WCM approaches are associated with firm performance. The results indicate that a conservative WCM investment policy augments liquidity and profitability and thereby confirms that maintaining liquidity is conducive to operational efficiency. Novel to the literature and considering economic externalities and technological progress, the analysis carries important implications for academics and working capitalists concerning profitability enhancement via better WCM.

Research on the design of growable children’s beds based on combined hierarchical analyses

Although the market share of domestic children’s furniture is increasing annually, some potential problems limit its long-term and stable development, and there is still a gap in China compared with foreign countries. This study focused on the demand preferences for growable children’s beds and examined the design features that influence these preferences. This study introduces a combination of Hierarchical Analyses (AHP), Quality Function Development (QFD), and the Platts Conceptual Decision Matrix (PUGH) into the innovative design of a research model for children’s furniture (AHP-QFD-PUGH). This study screened and classified the decision-making indicators obtained from the research, ranked their importance by quantitative calculation, and finally proposed an optimal design solution. Additionally, to further study the structural characteristics, the function-behavior-structure (FBS) model served as a supplementary analysis tool to effectively circumvent subjective factors in product design. This integrated model accurately explored user needs and product characteristics, providing substantial guidance and new ideas for optimizing the design of growable children’s beds and enhancing growth of the children’s furniture industry.

TOWARDS AN INFORMATIONAL UPCYLING: LEVERAGING COMPUTATION TO (RE)DESIGN BIOMATERIALS’ LIFE CYCLES

As the imperative to mitigate climate-altering emissions and curb natural resources exploitation intensifies, the fields of architecture and industrial design are compelled to explore alternative material practices. This imperative requires a transition from the traditional cradle-to-grave model to a cradle-to-cradle design paradigm, emphasizing upcycling, the process of repurposing waste into higher-value products. However, the definition of “value” in this context remains vague. In this paper, we posit value as an informational shift, denoting the “ecological intelligence” embedded within recycled materials compared to their prior life cycles. Amidst the concurrent ecological and digital transitions, the concept of “Informational Upcycling” (IU) emerges, bridging Circular Economy principles with the creative potential offered by digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in architectural and technological design. IU leverages computational methods to address the complexity, non-linearity, and unpredictability inherent in reclaimed materials, which pose challenges to their reuse and upcycling, thereby questioning established design methodologies and tools.This conceptual framework is informed by a case study analysis of international critical research practices and is articulated through a comprehensive digital workflow, pointing out the enabling technologies for IU, with a specific focus on wood waste. Finally, the paper illustrates the application of this theoretical framework through the FoRWARD (Furniture Waste for Circular Design) research project, funded under MICS – NextGenEU, PE11, Spoke 4. Led by the Department of Architecture at the University of Naples “Federico II”, this initiative aims to test this approach within the Italian furniture industry, showcasing practical implementations of IU principles.

Inventory Planning of Raw Materials for Furniture Products (Case Study: CV XYZ Furniture)

The burgeoning industrial sector in Indonesia has intensified competition among businesses vying for market share. The furniture industry is a prime example of this dynamic landscape. To expand their market reach, companies must demonstrate their ability to fulfill every consumer demand. Failure to meet these expectations will prompt consumers to seek alternatives. One crucial factor in meeting consumer demands is product availability, which is directly influenced by the availability of raw materials within the company. CV XYZ Furniture, a furniture company based in Padang City, exemplifies this challenge. The company produces a diverse range of furniture, primarily utilizing rattan as its raw material. However, CV XYZ Furniture currently lacks a structured inventory planning method for raw materials, resulting in excess inventory for each period. To address this issue, this research aims to establish an optimized inventory planning strategy for raw materials used in furniture production at CV XYZ Furniture. The continuous review system method serves as the foundation for this endeavor. The research outcomes encompass the determination of optimal demand quantity, reorder point, and safety stock. The implementation of the continuous review system model yielded a significant reduction in total inventory costs, amounting to Rp8,625,594 or 2.03%. It can be proven that the continuous review system model is suitable for calculating raw material inventory at CV XYZ Furniture for raw material planning in the following years.

Collaborative and integrated data-driven delay prediction and supplier selection optimization: A case study in a furniture industry

Optimizing supplier selections is an open ended problem, relevant to the operational performance of both individual companies and entire supply chains. Considering the prediction of future occurrences of delays in the optimization of supplier selections is still an under covered problem. Unlike existing literature, this article suggests a more collaborative and integrated workflow to improve the visibility and involvement of multiple stakeholders in the supplier selection decision-making processes. This is achieved through enhanced collaboration between multiple stakeholders (suppliers, customers, decision-makers from different departments, in addition to data sources from information systems), and better integration between data analysis and decision-making, through data-driven-machine-learning and optimization. The specificities of a French company in the furniture industry are considered. A workflow model is designed to support information sharing and to streamline knowledge and interactions between multiple stakeholders from different expertise domains. A Collaborative Predictive Optimization System (CPOS) is designed to classify expected occurrences of delays, to optimize order allocations, and to enable stakeholder collaboration. Delay prediction involves Decision Trees, Random Forests, and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). Supplier selection is solved using mathematical programming, while considering the classification of expected occurrences of delays. Stakeholder collaboration relies on information systems and uses prediction and optimization to support finding satisfactory agreements. The approach is validated using a real 3.5-year dataset, including 139 suppliers, 7,934 products and 89,080 purchase orders. A detailed experimentation, including sensitivity analysis, best–worst case analysis, and a larger scale analysis on company datasets, shows that the suggested approach enhances collaboration and achieves delay reduction and total procurement cost savings. Valuable managerial insights are collected, including the necessity to adopt digital technologies, to adapt company workflows, and to improve upstream negotiations and supplier commitments to yearly plannings.