Initial Concept Research Articles

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.

A novel pattern language method for tradespace exploration: application to space mission architecting

With the growing complexity of systems across diverse domains, key challenges emerge in simultaneously designing networks and their underlying infrastructure, requiring resolution at concept stage. In space mission design, technological advancements and ambitious goals enable numerous mission architecture concepts due to diverse material flow options. Current design support tools function either after the initial concept design, or tend to rapidly converge toward point solutions, limiting the solution space. We introduce a digital tool for early-stage concept design, capable of generating, evaluating, and visualising a wide range of user-defined architectural options. It utilises a pattern language for space missions, incorporating building blocks like ‘launch’ or ‘electrolysis’. Validation with historic missions showcase the tool automatically identifies all four main mission architectures considered during the Apollo design and more, and accurately recommending the Lunar Orbit Rendezvous architecture which was actually selected. Predicted masses, informing costs, vary by 15% and duration by 30% from actual values, which is within expectations. Identifying missions and leveraging expert knowledge is also demonstrated in the Mars Sample Return case. This approach can help minimise the risk of overlooking effective mission concepts early on. Furthermore, the method is applicable in other domains facing concurrent infrastructure and logistics design challenges.

Using EPCG for Designing a Hexagon Tangram Puzzle

Designing and tuning a game is a complex creative process, with a variety of tools have been designed for assisting human designers in this process. But, many existing tools either entirely take the design away from humans, or they only assist in generating content - they cannot be used to create an entire game from scratch. This paper explores how Exhaustive Procedural Content Generation (EPCG) can be integrated as a co-creative partner in the design process. We describe how EPCG was used alongside human designers to create a novel Hexagon Tangram puzzle, from initial conception to puzzle curriculum. EPCG is used to answer design questions at each step of the design, which enable human designers to make more informed design choices.

Top-down and bottom-up effects on visual perception during data-based scientific reasoning in the context of population dynamics

ABSTRACT This study investigates the role of visual perception in data-based scientific reasoning within population dynamics. Visual perception involves representational characteristics of stimuli and context-based conceptions, influenced by top-down (contextual assumptions) and bottom-up (data representation) effects. In population dynamics, top-down effects relate to assumptions like natural equilibrium, while bottom-up effects concern how data are represented, typically through line graphs. We assessed pre-service biology teachers’ (N = 20) initial conceptions on population dynamics, categorizing them as either the Balance of Nature (BoN) or Flux of Nature (FoN) metaphors. Participants viewed line graphs depicting population dynamics while eye-tracking technology recorded their visual focus and think-aloud protocols provided verbal data. ANOVA results showed significant differences in eye-tracking metrics between AOI groups of BoN and FoN graphs, but no significant effects between initial conceptions and eye-tracking measures. Heat map analyses revealed that participants focused on visually prominent graph features, especially when interpretation required conceptual knowledge and pattern identification.

FOREWORD AND FAREWELL

As I write my final foreword as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Naval Sciences and Engineering (JNSE), it is with deep gratitude and pride that I look back on the transformative progress we have achieved together. I first took on this role with the responsibility of publishing the second issue of 2022, just as the journal transitioned from the Naval Sciences and Engineering Institute to the Turkish Naval Academy (TNA). Now, following my promotion to Rear Admiral (Lower Half) and my appointment as the Deputy General Manager of Naval Shipyards, I prepare to step down, filled with confidence in the journal's future impact. During my tenure, JNSE has not only expanded its reach but also evolved in structure. As the first Editor-in-Chief after this significant transition, I established a structured workflow to ensure the smooth handling of the journal’s workload. This progress would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our esteemed contributors, editors, reviewers, and readers, who have collectively strengthened the journal’s place as a respected publication in naval sciences and engineering. Naval sciences and engineering have always been at the forefront of the Turkish Navy’s priorities, with an increasing emphasis on innovation and self-reliance in defense capabilities. As researchers and engineers, our collective work—through publications like this journal—contributes, even if indirectly, to these larger goals. It is essential to recognize that advancements in naval platforms, weaponry, and defense systems depend heavily on foundational research in science and technology. Every study, every paper, and every breakthrough—however modest it may seem—plays a role in building the knowledge base that supports these ambitious naval goals. In this foreword, I highlight recent and ongoing projects of the Turkish Navy, from initial concepts to construction, to offer future contributors an idea of impactful areas of study. Research in fields like autonomous systems, AI-driven operations, and advanced propulsion technologies can shape the Navy’s future capabilities. As the quote often attributed to Faraday or Franklin reminds us, "What is the use of a newborn baby?" Theoretical research, like this newborn, may not reveal its full utility immediately, yet it holds the potential to make profound impacts over time. (Full foreword available in the PDF version.) As I transition from this role, I am proud of the journal’s achievements. One of the most notable milestones has been the introduction of Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs) for all published papers since the second issue of 2022. This change has allowed for greater visibility, wider dissemination, and immediate online publication, which are crucial in the fast-paced world of research. Additionally, reorganizing the editorial team, including the appointment of key roles such as the Technical Editor, Layout Editor, and Secretariat from the capable staff of the TNA has ensured a streamlined workflow and elevated the journal's standards. The December 2024 issue is a testament to the journal’s interdisciplinary reach. This issue includes four valuable studies: one presenting a robust planning model for irrigation, a topic of relevance as climate change increasingly impacts maritime and agricultural resources; a second, developing a cybersecurity perception scale for maritime industry employees, reflecting the growing importance of cybersecurity in naval operations; a third, a performance analysis of adaptive MIMO techniques for visible light communication, which holds promise for improving naval communication systems; and finally, a paper on thyroid nodule segmentation using ultrasound, which highlights how advances in medical imaging can also improve healthcare aboard naval vessels. These papers, though diverse, reflect the journal's goal of fostering interdisciplinary innovation. As I conclude my tenure as Editor-in-Chief, I want to express my gratitude one last time to the readers, the dedicated editors who served alongside me, and the referees who ensured the quality of the research we published. It has been a privilege to oversee the journal through significant milestones, and I deeply appreciate the effort and commitment of everyone involved. Reflecting on my tenure, I am particularly proud of the journal's growth, both in scope and influence. Over these years, we have not only expanded our reach but have also contributed to shaping the dialogue around the future of naval technology. Though this marks the end of my tenure, I depart with the satisfaction of knowing that we have upheld the highest standards in naval science and engineering research. As I bid farewell, I leave with the hope that the journal continues to inspire and contribute to the advancement of naval sciences. May your journey be swift and your destination secure. Fatih ERDEN, Ph.D. Editor-in-Chief

Evolution of fundamental nursing concepts

Eminently essential to nursing and nursing science, the four concepts of person, environment, health and care enable us to give meaning to the discipline, situate it, link it to theories, question it and help it evolve. Enunciated in 1984 by Jacqueline Fawcett, these initial concepts are evolving in line with health and social issues.

Improving transparency: Development of reporting guidelines for burden of disease studies

Abstract The burden of disease (BOD) approach, originating with the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study in the 1990s, has become a cornerstone for population health monitoring. Despite the widespread use of the Disability-Adjusted Life Year (DALY) metric, variations in methodological approaches and reporting inconsistencies hinder comparability across studies. To tackle this issue, we set out to develop guidelines for reporting DALY calculation studies to improve the transparency and comparability of BOD estimates. The development of the STROBOD statement began within the European Burden of Disease Network, evolving from initial concepts discussed in workshops and training sessions focused on critical analysis of BOD studies. In 2021, a working group was formed to refine the preliminary version into the final Standardised Reporting of Burden of Disease studies (STROBOD) statement, consisting of 28 items structured across six main sections. These sections cover the title, abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and open science, aiming to ensure transparency and standardization in reporting BOD studies. Notably, the methods section of the STROBOD checklist encompasses aspects such as study setting, data inputs and adjustments, DALY calculation methods, uncertainty analyses, and recommendations for reproducibility and transparency. A pilot phase was conducted to test the efficacy of the STROBOD statement, highlighting the importance of providing clear explanations and examples for each reporting item. The inaugural STROBOD statement offers a crucial framework for standardizing reporting in BOD research, with plans for ongoing evaluation and potential revisions based on user feedback. While the current version focuses on general BOD methodology, future iterations may include specialized checklists for distinct applications such as injury or risk factor estimation, reflecting the dynamic nature of this field.

The Oncology QCARD Initiative: Fostering efficient evaluation of initial real-world data proposals.

The oncology quality, characterization, and assessment of real-world data (Oncology QCARD) Initiative was formed to develop a set of minimum study design and data elements needed to evaluate the fitness of the real-world data (RWD) source(s) proposed in an initial study concept as part of early interaction with scientific reviewers. A multidisciplinary executive committee (EC) was established to guide the Oncology QCARD Initiative. The EC conducted a landscape review of published literature, guidances, and guidelines to evaluate relevant dimensions of data quality measurement. Guided by the review and informed by expert feedback, the Oncology QCARD Initial Protocol Characterization (IPC) provides a summary of minimum elements needed to adequately describe an initial clinical study concept that involves RWD and is intended to support decision-making. Fit-for-use data and fit-for-purpose design emerged as themes from the landscape analysis. Data that are fit-for-use are both relevant (sufficiently capturing exposure, outcomes, and covariates) and reliable (understanding data accrual and quality control and whether the data represent the underlying concepts they are intended to represent) to answer a specific research question. A fit-for-purpose design takes appropriate steps to ensure internal and external validity and allows for transparency in reporting. The QCARD-IPC focuses on high-level characteristics of RWD sources and study design domains including data temporality, population, medical product exposure, comparators, and covariates, endpoints, statistical analysis, and data quality assurance plans. Evaluation of studies including RWD requires understanding the data source, study design, and potential biases to preliminarily evaluate whether selected RWD are fit-for-use for the research question. The Oncology QCARD-IPC provides a structured, transparent approach to facilitate early review and enhanced communication between study sponsors and scientific reviewers of initial study proposals including RWD.

Peran Art Director dalam Pembuatan Kampanye Iklan “Jakarta 101” Wisata Lokal di Jakarta

In the "Jakarta 101" advertising campaign, there are three local tourist locations in Jakarta that are rarely visited and hidden gems that we want to highlight, namely Difabis Kopi, Museum di Tengah Kebun, and Gang Hijau Cemara. In the process of creating this campaign, the Art Director has a central role. pre-production to post-production stages. The Art Director is responsible for designing the initial concept in the form of a visual concept, creating a logo, and executing the concept. The main objective of this advertising campaign is to introduce the unique side and hidden advantages of local tourist attractions in Jakarta , and also produce a campaign that is effective when viewed visually and in reading this journal, while presenting an innovative approach for those interested in opening a highly creative business both within and outside the city. The reasons behind the creator's initiative in creating the advertising campaign " Jakarta 101" is to spread awareness that amidst the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan city, there are unique locations such as coffee shops that empower individuals with disabilities, interactive museums with guides who discuss the meaning behind each historical artifact, as well as educational places that emphasize the importance of environmental awareness and recycling practices. This advertising campaign aims to increase tourists' interest in visiting local tourist attractions in Jakarta that are rarely visited and hidden gems in Jakarta.

Structuring and empirical validation of a creative activity chain model for innovation in sustainable infrastructure development

This study constructs and empirically validates a Creative Activity Chain (CCA) structure model tailored for innovation in sustainable infrastructure development. In today’s competitive environment, fostering innovation is crucial for maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of infrastructure projects. The research underscores that a significant portion of a project’s long-term value is established during its initial concept and planning stages, highlighting the critical role of creativity in infrastructure development. The CCA model is developed through theoretical frameworks and empirical data, encompassing three key dimensions: creative subject chain, creative action chain, and creative operation chain. The model’s validity is tested with data from five large infrastructure development firms in China, involving 768 R&D staff as respondents. Rigorous statistical methods, including exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), structural equation modeling (SEM), and regression analysis, confirm the model’s robustness. The findings reveal significant positive correlations between the creative activity chain’s dimensions and the successful development of sustainable infrastructure projects. Additionally, the study examines the mediating effect of link strength within the creative activity chain, demonstrating its substantial impact on project outcomes. Implications for management include promoting diverse creative teams, systematic process management, and leveraging varied operational tools to enhance creativity in infrastructure development. This research contributes to the literature by introducing an integrated model for managing creative activities in sustainable infrastructure development, offering practical insights for improving innovation processes.

Homeostatic regulation of brain activity: from endogenous mechanisms to homeostatic nanomachines.

After the initial concepts of the constancy of the internal milieu or homeostasis, put forward by Claude Bernard and Walter Cannon, homeostasis emerged as a mechanism to control oscillations of biologically meaningful variables within narrow physiological ranges. This is a primary need in the central nervous system that is continuously subjected to a multitude of stimuli from the internal and external environments that affect its function and structure, allowing to adapt the individual to the ever-changing daily conditions. Preserving physiological levels of activity despite disturbances that could either depress neural computation or excessively stimulate neural activity is fundamental, and failure of these homeostatic mechanisms can lead to brain diseases. In this review, we cover the role and main mechanisms of homeostatic plasticity involving the regulation of excitability and synaptic strength from the single neuron to the network level. We analyze the relationships between homeostatic and Hebbian plasticity and the conditions under which the preservation of the excitatory/inhibitory balance fails, triggering epileptogenesis and eventually epilepsy. Several therapeutic strategies to cure epilepsy have been designed to strengthen homeostasis when endogenous homeostatic plasticity mechanisms have become insufficient or ineffective to contrast hyperactivity. We describe "on demand" gene therapy strategies, including optogenetics, chemogenetics, and chemo-optogenetics, and particularly focus on new closed loop sensor-actuator strategies mimicking homeostatic plasticity that can be endogenously expressed to strengthen the homeostatic defenses against brain diseases.

Learners' Initial Conceptions in Science and School Performance

Learners' Initial Conceptions in Science and School Performance

Standardised reporting of burden of disease studies: the STROBOD statement.

The burden of disease (BOD) approach, originating with the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study in the 1990s, has become a cornerstone for population health monitoring. Despite the widespread use of the Disability-Adjusted Life Year (DALY) metric, variations in methodological approaches and reporting inconsistencies hinder comparability across studies. To tackle this issue, we set out to develop guidelines for reporting DALY calculation studies to improve the transparency and comparability of BOD estimates. The development of the STROBOD statement began within the European Burden of Disease Network, evolving from initial concepts discussed in workshops and training sessions focused on critical analysis of BOD studies. In 2021, a working group was formed to refine the preliminary version into the final Standardised Reporting of Burden of Disease studies (STROBOD) statement, consisting of 28 items structured across six main sections. These sections cover the title, abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and open science, aiming to ensure transparency and standardization in reporting BOD studies. Notably, the methods section of the STROBOD checklist encompasses aspects such as study setting, data inputs and adjustments, DALY calculation methods, uncertainty analyses, and recommendations for reproducibility and transparency. A pilot phase was conducted to test the efficacy of the STROBOD statement, highlighting the importance of providing clear explanations and examples for each reporting item. The inaugural STROBOD statement offers a crucial framework for standardizing reporting in BOD research, with plans for ongoing evaluation and potential revisions based on user feedback. While the current version focuses on general BOD methodology, future iterations may include specialized checklists for distinct applications such as injury or risk factor estimation, reflecting the dynamic nature of this field.

From Concept to Novel: Tâhirülmevlevî’s (1877-1951) Sufi Engagement and Critique of Teşebbüs-i Şahsî (Individual Initiative) in the Late Ottoman Era

During the late Ottoman era, particularly the Hamidian period (1876-1909), a culture of diligent labor and industriousness emerged, emphasizing economic progress. State-led initiatives triggered substantial socio-economic shifts, alongside increased regulations to integrate Sufi networks into state apparatus to reduce their economic burden due to constant benefit from the endowment funds. At this juncture, Tâhirülmevlevî (Mehmet Tâhir Olgun) (d. 1951) departed from the Yenikapı Mevlevîhâne and firmly rejected benefiting from endowment funds. Instead, he turned to press and publishing activities that he believed would sustain both his livelihood and spiritual service. His narrative, especially encapsulated in his autobiographical novel Teşebbüs-i Şahsî (1912), offers a critique of the administrative reforms of the era, articulating a perspective that the lack of ethical integrity and judicial fairness severely impeded the successful adoption of teşebbüs-i şahsî (individual initiative) frameworks. His reflections extend to critique societal perceptions of Sufis as economic dependents, delving into why substantial reforms failed to gain traction within the Turkish-Muslim community. Through his literary and journalistic endeavors, Olgun not only personifies the concept of individual initiative but also critically examines its execution and impact within the complex socio-political landscape of late Ottoman society, underscoring the complex interplay between individual aspirations and collective societal transformations.

Vegetal wools for building application: investigation of optimization approaches for the enhancement of low-frequency sound absorption

Bio-based building materials, such as vegetal wools for thermal and acoustic applications, are increasingly used in construction. Indeed, as they store atmospheric carbon dioxide, they have a lower carbon footprint than conventional materials. Despite high-level multi-functional properties, they suffer from poor low-frequency absorption for thin panels (less than 5 cm thick). Therefore, it seems relevant to investigate the optimization possibilities available, including meta-material approaches, and to adapt them to the specificities of vegetal wools, such as a low air resistivity for hemp and flax wools which are our main concern. To meet this challenge, a state-of-the-art is being carried out to identify the optimization methods best suited to the specific characteristics of vegetal wools. This preliminary work is based on the implementation of an initial optimization concept using a multilayer poroelastic material with a perforated resistive layer. The material structure is optimized using analytical modeling to target low frequencies. Experimental verifications are then carried out to determine the sound absorption coefficient of vegetal wools with optimized configurations.

Real-Time Aerodynamic Load Estimation for Hypersonics via Strain-Based Inverse Maps

This work develops an efficient real-time inverse formulation for inferring the aerodynamic surface pressures on a hypersonic vehicle from sparse measurements of the structural strain. The approach aims to provide real-time estimates of the aerodynamic loads acting on the vehicle for ground and flight testing, as well as guidance, navigation, and control applications. Specifically, the approach targets hypersonic flight conditions where direct measurement of the surface pressures is challenging due to the harsh aerothermal environment. For problems employing a linear elastic structural model, the inference problem can be posed as a least-squares problem with a linear constraint arising from a finite element discretization of the governing elasticity partial differential equation. Due to the linearity of the problem, an explicit solution is given by the normal equations. Precomputation of the resulting inverse map enables rapid evaluation of the surface pressure and corresponding integrated quantities, such as the force and moment coefficients. The inverse approach additionally allows for uncertainty quantification, providing insights for theoretical recoverability and robustness to sensor noise. Numerical studies demonstrate the estimator performance for reconstructing the surface pressure field, as well as the force and moment coefficients, for the Initial Concept 3.X (IC3X) conceptual hypersonic vehicle.

The "Kumon method" as a means of mastering the initial subject knowledge in children

Introduction. The problem of activating educational activities has always been in the center of attention of teachers, however, the changes taking place at the present time have given it special relevance. New socio-economic conditions dictate the need to study new forms and methods of education aimed at intensifying the process of acquiring knowledge. The purpose of this study is to study the effectiveness of the Kumon method in relation to the development of initial subject concepts by children of preschool and primary school age from the point of view of the theory of meaningful learning. Materials and methods. The article provides an analysis of the content of the key provisions of the Kumon method based on methods of systematization and classification, as well as general scientific methods of analysis, generalization and synthesis. The support of the idea of L. S. Vygotsky's "zone of proximal development" makes it possible to use rich theoretical material on self-learning as a child's ability to identify and search for information, distinguish and assign it, taking into account the relationship with previously acquired information. Results. The purpose of the study was to study the key characteristics of the organization of training in the Kumon system. The principles, neuropsychological foundations of the method under consideration, and the possibilities of this technology from the perspective of the multidimensionaldevelopment of a child's personality are analyzed. The authors concluded that in modern pedagogical practice, the use of the Kumon method can be effective for children who need to master the procedural aspects of mathematics and reading. Discussion and conclusions. As a research perspective, the authors see the study of the possibilities of the Kumon method as an individual method.

Raman Spectroscopy for Instant Bladder Tumor Diagnosis: System Development and In Vivo Proof-Of-Principle Study in Accordance with the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR2017/745).

This work reports on an in vivo Raman-based endoscopy system, invaScope, enabling Raman measurements of healthy and tumor bladder tissue during an endoscopic procedure in the operating theatre. The presented study outlines the progression from the initial concept (validated through previously performed ex vivo studies) to the approval and implementation of a clinical investigational device according to the requirement within the framework of the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR2017/745). The study's primary objective was to employ the invaScope Raman system within the bladder, capturing in vivo spectroscopic Raman data followed by standard histo- and cytopathological examinations of urological tissue (considered the gold standard). The collected data were analyzed and correlated with histopathological findings post-procedure. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the feasibility of using diagnostic equipment, probes, and software for application in a clinical setting, evaluating usability aspects that are important during surgical procedures. This research represents a pivotal step toward advancing Raman spectroscopy for routine clinical use in characterizing bladder lesions.

Co‐Designing Nurse Practitioner Roles in a Tertiary Hospital: A Qualitative Exploration of Patterns and Underlying Dynamics

ABSTRACTAimsTo explore patterns and dynamics during the co‐design process of nurse practitioners' role development in three departments in a Belgian tertiary hospital.DesignParticipatory action research was utilised in conjunction with principles of a Grounded Theory approach to explore patterns and dynamics.MethodsSixteen meetings were conducted between January and June 2021 with interdisciplinary teams to develop the roles. Thirteen exploratory interviews were held with the stakeholders involved between March and June 2022. All meetings and interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were systematically analysed using researcher triangulation and thematic analysis.ResultsStakeholders' initial conception of the nurse practitioner roles affected development. A dynamic interplay of individual, team‐related and contextual (e.g., financial and legal) factors shaped these conceptions. Through co‐design, stakeholders' conception evolved as insights were shared, misconceptions challenged and perspectives broadened. Physicians generally the developmental process, while nursing leadership was more fragmented.ConclusionThis study identifies patterns and dynamics in interdisciplinary teams during the developmental process. The key findings underpin the crucial role of stakeholders' conceptions, use of co‐design and leadership in this process. Therefore, a thorough understanding of initial conceptions is ess, and efforts should be directed towards providing sufficient knowledge and experience to prevent misconceptions. Additionally, this study emphasises the significance of a balanced team composition that incorporates diverse conceptions of the role. Finally, actions should be taken to empower leadership among nurses.ImpactIdentified dynamics offer insights for healthcare organisations developing nurse practitioner roles. Educational institutions can use these insights to enhance healthcare professionals' curricula, preparing healthcare professionals for evolving advanced nursing roles and leadership. Additionally, it emphasises the necessity for policy work to establish a legal framework for nurse practitioners in Belgium.Reporting MethodThe ‘Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research’ were used for reporting.Patient or Public ContributionThis study did not involve direct participation from patients or the public.

Design and Analysis of Small Fallen Leaf Collection, Crushing, and Recycling Vehicle

Leaf recycling, a crucial component of urban environmental protection, aims to systematically collect and reuse fallen leaves on streets. At present, fallen leaves are usually cleaned manually by sanitation workers, and environmental protection departments then use special cars to transport fallen leaves to treatment stations for incineration. This not only requires a significant amount of labor and material resources but also causes air pollution and wastes fallen leaves. In this study, a collecting, crushing, and recycling vehicle was designed to solve this problem. The proposed device significantly improves the efficiency of collecting fallen leaves and facilitates their secondary utilization. The design process is described in detail, including the working design of the entire device, static analysis, and transmission system design. The entire vehicle model was 3D printed to verify that the initial design concept satisfies the assembly and production requirements of the device.