Original Methodology Research Articles

CONSTRUCTION OF EARTH CRUST SECTIONS DOWN TO THE MOHO BOUNDARY BASED ON LOW AMPLITUDE REFLECTED WAVES OF RIVER SEISMIC SURVEY USING CPD-2D METHOD (Vitim River, junction zone of the Angara-Lena monocline of the Siberian platform and the Bodaibo-Patom folded system)

In 2019, employees of the Research and Production Enterprise Luch jointly with specialists of the Seismological Branch of the Geophysical Survey of the Russian Academy of Sciences (GS RAS) carried out river seismic exploration works using the common depth point method (CDP-2D) along a 170 km long profile in the lower reaches of the Vitim River. The research was carried out according to the original methodology developed in the Siberian branches of the GS RAS, using the “Baikal” equipment recording seismic signals continuously (in contrast to traditional cable bottom or ground-based systems with time-limited recording). In this case, patented air guns “Malysh” were used in the water for the excitation of elastic waves, which have been recorded by ground registration method on the riverbank. To this day, the archives store primary materials from each receiving point (about 7000, with a distance of 25 m between them) in the form of a continuous hours-long digital recording of seismic signals and noise. These materials make it possible to generate seismograms of significant duration – up to 23 s, equal to the time interval between wave generations, in contrast to 6–10 second seismograms traditionally used to construct sections of the upper part of the Earth’s crust. In addition, the 24-bit Baikal recorder makes it possible to record signals with an amplitude two orders of magnitude lower than the amplitude of seismic noise. On the seismic sections constructed by the processor at arrival times of up to 13–14 sec, due to an increase in the stack fold of signals up to 1000–2000, we can select low-amplitude waves, reflected from boundaries in the middle and lower parts of the Earth’s crust to the Moho boundary. High fold is achieved by increasing the size of the stacking site (bin) by several times. By processing seismograms, generated from archival materials, for the first time, we have a complete vertical section of the Earth’s crust along a 170 km long profile, using low-amplitude signals. The profile passes through the junction zone of the Angara–Lena monocline and the Bodaibo-Patom folded system. The proposed approach can be used to obtain preliminary (and relatively cheap) information about the deep structure of the Earth’s crust along profiles performed using the CDP-2D river seismic exploration method.

Digital trust in China’s digital transformation process: methodology and results of an empirical research

The article is devoted to the topical issues of China's digital transformation and the role of digital trust in it. Digital transformation is a long — term comprehensive and rapid process, accompanied by rapid development of digital technologies, institutional changes and appropriate adaptation of people to new conditions. At the same time, it is emphasized that the drastic changes caused by digital transformation bring a lot of uncertainty and risks to society, which, without proper government response, can lead to social unrest and social unrest, and reduce confidence in this process. In the process of digital transformation, high trust between people can reduce suspicions, doubts and reduce social tension in society. In this regard, digital trust comes to the fore of sociological analysis — a new complex social phenomenon that combines sufficient confidence in the reliability of individuals, processes and technologies related to the security and benefits of the digital world. The author shows that the structure of digital trust is multifaceted and sets various objects for research: they can be technologies, processes, individuals, etc., therefore, those factors that affect these three components of the trust structure can be considered as factors affecting digital trust as a whole. However, the topic of digital trust has not been studied much, both from a theoretical and practical point of view, and its valid empirical studies are clearly insufficient. Indeed, some scientists have used factor analysis in their research to study the elements that affect digital trust. However, due to the lack of a well-developed theoretical framework, the mechanism of interaction between influencing factors and characteristics of digital trust cannot be reliably described. The article presents an original methodology for the sociological analysis of digital trust, based on the methodology of factor analysis. As a result of its testing, factors affecting the level of digital trust have been identified, which are of theoretical and practical importance.

Soundwalking in Space-time

This article analyzes features of the author’s artistic research in which he investigates space and time through soundwalking, an immersive and embodied practice with the capacity to engage critical attention and reanimate otherwise familiar surroundings. Inspired by social geographer Doreen Massey’s (2005) conception of space as “a simultaneity of stories so far” and “always in the process of being made,” the author’s soundwalks explore the points of intersection at which space is produced. In this paper, the author analyzes the temporal and corporeal aspects of the soundwalking, and their approach based upon an initial capture of sound recordings while walking a particular route, before returning them to be experienced in their original context, thereby exploiting the consequent temporal shift. Through the deliberate blending of these field recordings with the live soundscape during the shared experience of the group soundwalk, perceptions can be destabilized and new relations constructed to the socio‑political realities facing particular communities (LaBelle, 2018). Soundwalks challenge assumptions of present-day lived experience and invite the imagining of alternative pasts and potential futures. The author offers the soundwalk Pentrich Rising – South Wingfield (Brown, 2017) as a case study, sharing insights into their original methodology. Soundwalking is shown to be an effective means of spatio-temporal exploration, with potential to be investigated by researchers from artistic, sonic, spatial, social-historical, socio-political, and environmental disciplines.

Physics-informed and graph neural networks for enhanced inverse analysis

PurposeThis paper presents an original approach for learning models, partially known, of particular interest when performing source identification or structural health monitoring. The proposed procedures employ some amount of knowledge on the system under scrutiny as well as a limited amount of data efficiently assimilated.Design/methodology/approachTwo different formulations are explored. The first, based on the use of informed neural networks, leverages data collected at specific locations and times to determine the unknown source term of a parabolic partial differential equation. The second procedure, more challenging, involves learning the unknown model from a single measured field history, enabling the localization of a region where material properties differ.FindingsBoth procedures assume some kind of sparsity, either in the source distribution or in the region where physical properties differ. This paper proposed two different neural approaches able to learn models in order to perform efficient inverse analyses.Originality/valueTwo original methodologies are explored to identify hidden property that can be recovered with the right usage of data. Both methodologies are based on neural network architecture.

Spinal Apophyses Localization in Discretized Models of Human Backs by Shape Index Analysis.

The paper proposes a non-invasive original methodology to directly and automatically identify the spine line from the external position of vertebral apophyses, which are key anatomical landmarks. Apophyses are detected directly on discrete high-density geometric models of human backs acquired by a 3D scanner. The methodology is inspired by the posturologist's approach that detects the spine line through the identification, by manual palpation, of the spinal apophyses. For this purpose, an appropriate shape index is used to identify vertebral positions. The shape index estimates the local differential geometric properties of the back surface. This index is very discriminating in locating both pronounced and blurred apophyses. To validate the method, the research involved the analysis of 21 healthy human backs acquired in both standing and asymmetric postures. For each of them, a skilled operator detected the spinal apophyses by tactile investigation and located them through cutaneous marking. Markers have been used as the reference for spinal apophyses' positions. A comparison of the proposed approach with state-of-the-art methods has been conducted. This study evidences the high accuracy of the methodology proposed here and the capability to recognize also blurred apophyses. The method automatically performs the spine line identification and accurately locates apophyses along both vertical and coronal directions. The proposed inexpensive and easy-to-use approach significantly advances over other non-invasive methods. Its ability to detect the apophyses' location potentially offers new capabilities in detecting, diagnosing, and monitoring spinal disorders.

Differential evolution with multi-strategies for UAV trajectory planning and point cloud registration

The present study introduces a novel adaptive algorithm, MELSHADE-cnEpSin, which aims to enhance the performance of LSHADE-cnEpSin, which is not only stands out as one of the most competitive versions of differential evolution but also holds the distinction of being one of the CEC winner algorithms. Compared to the original methodology, four main distinctions are presented. To begin with, we adopt an adaptive selection mechanism (ASM) of crossover rate Cr value based on the external archive to rechoose a suitable value. In the next place, a nonlinear population reduction strategy using Sigmoid function is employed to improve population distribution. Additionally, a restart strategy is implemented to mitigate the risk of algorithmic convergence towards suboptimal solutions. Furthermore, the performance of MELSHADE-cnEpSin was evaluated using standard CEC2017 and CEC2022 test suites in conjunction with nine CEC-winning algorithms (L-SHADE, EBOwithCMAR, AGSK, LSHADE-SPACMA, LSHADE-cnEpSin, ELSHADE-SPACMA, EA4eig, MadDE and APGSK-IMODE) as well as two novel algorithms (ACD-DE and MIDE). Furthermore, MELSHADE-cnEpSin was effectively employed to address the challenge of UAV trajectory planning in intricate mountainous terrain and underwent simulation with point cloud registration cases utilizing a rapid global registration dataset, thereby showcasing the potential of MELSHADE-cnEpSin in tackling real-world optimization problems.

A neuro decision-making approach for prioritizing circular economy criteria in sustainable smart cities

Sustainable cities are crucial in establishing effective waste management systems and minimizing environmental pollution. For cities to be sustainable, different aspects need to be considered, such as technological development, clean energy usage, and energy efficiency. However, taking the most important actions is essential because of the very high cost that will arise, and this situation causes countries to have budget deficit problems. In other words, there is a significant need for a new study that makes a priority analysis with respect to the circular economy-based criteria for smart cities. Accordingly, this study aims to identify significant factors to improve sustainable cities using a novel decision-making model. First, essential determinants of the smart cities were evaluated with the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) technique based on quantum spherical fuzzy sets (QASH) and facial expressions of the decision-makers. Second, smart investment choices for sustainable cities were ranked according to the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) approach. In addition, comparative ranking results were constructed together with sensitivity analysis. The ranking results of the extended VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) are compared with the extended TOPSIS results and their sensitivity analysis results. The main contribution of this study is that appropriate priority strategies were determined by using an original methodology to have sustainable cities. A new methodology is developed in this study by the name of neuro decision-making. According to the comparative evaluation and sensitivity analysis, the findings are found as reliable and relevant. Resource efficiency is the most critical factor in improving sustainable cities. Constructing sustainable buildings is the most appropriate strategy for increasing smart cities. Necessary actions should be taken to minimize unconscious water and energy use. New technological developments need to be quickly adapted to businesses. In this way, it would be possible to perform the same work amount using less energy and water. For this purpose, it is important both to provide the necessary training and to emphasize the importance of these issues in television advertisements.

Unveiling military strategic narratives on social media: a civil–military relations perspective

ABSTRACT Although the armed forces’ social media narratives on operations can significantly influence public support, the rationale behind their decision-making process remains unclear. Drawing on civil–military relations theory, we explain the logic behind military decision-making in crafting these narratives. We argue that the strategic narratives of the armed forces are deeply influenced by their relationship with society. The nature of this relationship determines how the military balances two essential imperatives: promoting the armed forces’ representation within the parent society and highlighting the distinct characteristics of the armed forces. This balance influences the extent to which operations are narrated (circulation or non-circulation) within the overall narration and how they are presented. We test our argument by analysing the Italian Army’s Twitter communication. Tweets are analysed using an unsupervised LDA topic model on the entire corpus, manual coding of a subset on international missions and a mixed-method analysis. Our article contributes to the scholarship on public opinion and war, using an original methodology to analyse the strategic narratives of an overlooked actor. It also contributes to civil–military relations, suggesting an innovative method for studying the relationship between the armed forces and society.

A Semantic Study of the Beautiful Names of Allah and His Supreme Attributes

the correct understanding of God Almighty is not only the most necessary but the primary prerequisite of religious life, and knowledge of His names and attributes is also connected with this comprehension. Nonetheless, knowledge in this area has never been without significant and stormy adversities whereby many notions related to the names and attributes of God have become displaced and misinterpreted over time. Since Arab accent is crucial in appropriate understanding of these subjects Arabic is thus a powerful and key tool for dealing with these issues. Arabic language is relevant in this study in light of the fact that it is very relevant in crafting right conceptions of the aforementioned concepts. The language’s ignorance has led to many misunderstandings. The research entitled: ‘A Semantics Investigation of the Beautiful Names of Allah and the Supreme Qualities of Allah: A Pragmatic Analysis of Sahih Al Bukhari’. The importance of this issue cannot be overemphasized because it restores the original methodology of the early generations of approaching the understanding of the names and attributes of God. The purpose of this work is to recall the intentions of the first generations in the recognition of God’s names and qualities. I hope that this work helps fulfill the reason for the creation of humanity and jinn, as stated in the Quran: Thus, the Quran says:. existing and based,"Upon the authority of Allah, it stated: “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me” Quran 51:56. For this study I carried out a comprehensive study of Sahih Al-Bukhari and its explanations and Arabic dictionaries for all the information on the topic to be sourced. It is made up of two major parts and is followed by the introduction and preface and contains findings from the study. Based on the method used in this piece of research, the analysis is analytical, because it is only possible to choose hadiths that are most discussed in scholarly conversations due to the fact that there is a large number of prophetic hadiths that refer to the names and attributes of Allah.

Small Punch Test to Estimate the Threshold Stress in Aggressive Environments by Incremental Step Loading

The present work is a relevant advance in the validation of the incremental step loading technique (ASTM F1624 standard) when applied to Small Punch tests (SPT) for the threshold load determination of medium- and high-strength steels in aggressive environments, as a novel alternative to conventional time-consuming tests under constant load. It completes previous works by the authors on this topic, extending a methodology to estimate the threshold stress from SPT tests in aggressive environments, covering the whole range of hardness marked by ASTM F1624 as the main goal. This is achieved by calibrating a model of the material’s hardness by the use of a coefficient in function of it. For this purpose, four medium- and high-strength steels of 33, 35, 50 and 60 HRC (Hardness Rockwell C) are exposed to three different cathodic polarization hydrogen embrittlement environments of 1, 5 and 10 mA/cm2 in 1N H2SO4 acid electrolyte connected to a platinum anode. Threshold stresses in these circumstances are obtained by uniaxial specimens following ASTM F1624 and compared to their homologous threshold loads obtained by Small Punch tests according to the authors’ original methodology proposal. Finally, the aforementioned model, consisting of a correlation based on composing an elastic and a plastic part, is calibrated for a hardness ranging 33–60 HRC, this being the main original contribution of this work; the elastic part is dependent just on the elastic-to-plastic transition SPT load, while the plastic part is ruled by a material hardness-dependent coefficient. This technique supposes an advance in engineering tools, due to its applicability in situations of material shortage, such as in-service components, welded joints, local areas, complex geometries, small thicknesses, etc., often present in aerospace, automotive or oil–gas, among others.

A methodology to assess and select seismic fragility curves: Calibration from expert survey and fuzzy analysis

Fragility curves (FCs) are extended decision-making tools for estimating the structural performance of systems exposed to seismic hazards. However, selecting an inappropriate FC can significantly affect the accuracy of loss and damage calculations in seismic risk assessments.This article enhances the “Select.FC” method, a recently proposed novel approach that allows the selection of FCs with a higher degree of reliability. This method utilizes a multidimensional index incorporating a comprehensive set of variables about various aspects of FCs. A calibration and validation process is conducted on the variable scores of this multidimensional index based on a worldwide survey of experts. The implementation of the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) method further enhances the objectivity and dependability of the scores calculated from the experts' responses.The proposed approach not only allows for the evaluation of FCs but also provides a practical tool for researchers. This evaluation of FCs is crucial, as it enhances the accuracy and reliability of seismic vulnerability and risk assessments.The results obtained from the expert survey and the FAHP reveal several discrepancies between the calibrated new scores assigned to specific variables and those proposed in the original methodology. However, in the aggregate, these discrepancies disappear. Therefore, the “Select.FC” method and its proposed classification of FCs into six categories based on the score obtained in the final multidimensional index seem quite robust regarding important changes in the weights of some of the variables.

Bortezomib (BOR)‐Pegylated‐Gold Nanovector: Synthesis, Spectroscopic Evaluation and Diagnostic Tool as Galectin‐1 Biomarker

ABSTRACTIn this paper, we applied an original chemical methodology in which gold salt (HAuCl4) interacts with the chemotherapeutic drug (bortezomib; i.e., BOR) by chelation and then stacked with dicarboxylic acid‐terminated polyethylene‐glycol (PEG‐diacide) as a biocompatible surfactant. The suggested chemical protocol is rapid (“one‐pot”) and reproducible, providing the formation of a hybrid‐nanovector named BOR IN PEG‐AuNPs. In order to prove a therapeutic approach, our hybrid‐nanovector (BOR IN PEG‐AuNPs) interacts with Galectin‐1 (Gal‐1) protein biomarker under specific concentrations. The efficient concentration range of this nanovector is obviously profiled by tumor microenvironment (TME) heterogeneity, optimizing cells access to the interaction region. Considering several influential factors related to spatial mapping and physical profile in all extracellular matrix (ECM), drive a change in neighborhood electrical potential configuration, leading the nanovector response with biomarkers transcriptions, hence, patterning TME leads to promote antitumor immunity in favor of tumor suppression. Each step of chemical synthesis and detection was monitored by spectroscopic techniques (Raman; UV‐Vis spectroscopies) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Our study demonstrated that hybrid‐nanoparticle system represents a key to further synergic chemotherapeutic and diagnostic tools for the treatment of cancer.

Evaluation of compression behaviour of 316L SS Gyroid and Diamond structures using SLM process – Experimental programme under static and dynamic compression loadings

The relative comparison in terms of energy absorption efficiency for a set of 4 structures made of various Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces (TPMS) topologies is experimentally investigated. These TPMS structures are printed by Selective Laser Melting AM process using 316L SS. The study is carried out in consideration of the effect of parameters such as relative density, compressive loading directions and loading rates, number of unit cells for Diamond and Gyroids TPMS both declined for Sheet and Skeletal topologies. The objective is to quantify their structural responses in terms of apparent stress and strain, dynamic enhancement and Specific Energy Absorbed (SEA) and to evaluate their structural integrity in terms of collapse stability. The results reveal that the Sheet pattern of TPMS structures with its constant wall thickness and uniform geometry exhibits better energy absorption capabilities than the Skeletal pattern. The Diamond family shows greater interest rather than the Gyroid family only in the case of the Sheet pattern. The increase in relative density from 20 to 30 % is characterised by improved manufacturing quality, an increase in energy absorption capacity and more homogeneous progressive deformations during compression. On the whole, the set of TPMS geometries exhibits energy absorption capacities prior to those of other conventional cellular materials currently used for impact engineering applications. Finally, in a first approach, an original design methodology using charts can be developed to establish a link between the energy absorption capabilities and the design geometric parameters of TPMS structures.

Deep Learning Methods to Mitigate Human-Factor-Related Accidents in Maritime Transport

Artificial intelligence aims to be the solution to multiple engineering problems by trying to emulate the human learning process. In this sense, maritime transport standards have clearly evolved, which are based on two principal pillars: the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). Based on a formal safety assessment research process, these pillars try to solve most of the maritime transport accidents, which, in their final steps, are associated with human factors. In this research, an original methodology employing a deep learning process for image recognition during mooring line operation, a dangerous process on ships, is developed. The main results indicate that the proposed method is an excellent tool for advising ship officers on watch and, consequently, provides a new way to prevent human factors onboard from causing accidents, which in the future must be considered in international standards.

A multi-criteria measurement and assessment of human capital development in EU-27 countries: A 10-year perspective

In today's global economy and across various types of organizations, human capital is a fundamental resource that determines their existence and development. This is particularly important in the context of ongoing climate-technological transformation processes based on innovative solutions. The role and importance of personal resources are well understood in the EU-27 countries, which base their future on competent human capital. This paper addresses this critical and timely topic by assessing human capital in the EU-27 countries over the period 2013–2022. The research aims to evaluate these countries' human capital potential, distinguishing between the "new EU-13" and the "old EU-14" countries, and to measure the effectiveness of its development during the study period. A crucial part of the research was to determine the impact of human capital on selected indicators of economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development. To achieve these objectives, an original research methodology was developed, employing the COPRAS method to determine the human capital assessment index and the equal weights and CRITIC methods to establish the weights of indicators characterizing the studied human capital. The impact assessment of this capital, along with innovation and unemployment on economic growth, was conducted using an econometric model. Meanwhile, correlations between the human capital assessment index and the indicators characterizing innovation, economic growth, and sustainability were analyzed using Spearman's non-parametric tests. The results show significant variation in human capital between the EU-27 countries and between the "old EU-14" and "new EU-13" groups. The Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden achieved the best results in terms of human capital development, while Greece, Romania, and Bulgaria had the weakest outcomes. In contrast, Cyprus, Malta, and Portugal recorded the greatest progress during the review period. These results offer extensive opportunities for multidimensional inference and can be used to assess the current state of the EU-27 economy. They should also inform the development of strategies for individual countries and the EU-27 as a whole.

Tectonic–Hydrothermal Processes and their Relationship with the Petroleum Potential of the Bazhenov-Abalak Complex of Western Siberia

Abstract —The main types of reservoir rocks have been identified within the Bazhenov-Abalak complex. To assess the geological resources of hydrocarbons, it is proposed to formally divide the entire set of lithological rock types comprising the Bazhenov-Abalak complex into two main varieties: fluid seals and reservoirs. We argue that it is possibile to distinguish between potentially productive and productive rocks, represented by siliceous and carbonate varieties, according to logging data. A possible mechanism for the formation of reservoir rocks within the Bazhenov-Abalak complex as a result of the tectonic-hydrothermal impact on these deposits has been reconstructed. An original methodology for identifying perspective zones of various categories of hydrocarbon accumulation in the Bazhenov-Abalak complex through integrating seismic data and tectonophysical modeling carried out on their basis has been proposed. For example, an assessment of the predicted geological resources of hydrocarbons contained in the Bazhenov-Abalak complex within the limits of 3D seismic exploration of the Yem-Yegovskaya area has been carried out. The necessity of assessing the prospects for oil content and calculating the predicted geological resources of hydrocarbons in the whole Bazhenov-Abalak complex, and not only in the Bazhenov Formation, is substantiated, based on a single mechanism of formation of reservoir rocks of tectonic-hydrothermal origin in them.

CMQ Matrix for Occupational Impact Measurement 4.0

This article presents its own original methodology to measure the occupational impact of the digitalization of companies, or occupational impact 4.0, by measuring 10 indicators obtained in research carried out by the author on the effects of Industry 4.0 on occupations and jobs. Drawing on different research traditions, the matrix of indicators measures the occupational impact, individually in each job, connecting the substantive content of the work (the tasks and activities carried out in the workplace) with the specific organization of work that takes place in each company or industrial plant because of its digital transformation programs.

Accelerated calculation of phase-variable for numerical simulation of multiphase flows

In this manuscript, we unveil an innovative acceleration technique for the simulation of multiphase flows, which builds upon the foundation laid by our previously devised multiphase flow solver. The cornerstone of this method lies in augmenting computational efficiency through the selective updating of variables solely within domains characterized by significant gradients of the phase variable. This tactic diminishes the dimensionality of the system of linear equations, thereby hastening the computational process. To pinpoint the regions warranting focused attention, a judicious criterion is indispensable to strike an optimal balance between efficiency and precision. This criterion affords a marked decrement in computational expenditure while preserving the fidelity of the original methodology. Rigorous validations corroborate that this acceleration mechanism can enhance computational efficiency by a minimum of 49.5% in resolving the phase field equation and by at least 70.2% in the computation of pragmatic two-phase flows, without compromising accuracy. Moreover, the efficacy of this acceleration technique is inversely proportional to the rate of interface evolution, becoming increasingly efficient as the interface evolves more slowly.

Validation of a dispositional critical thinking scale using an original analytical methodology for addressing data from Google Trends

PurposeA methodological approach is required that complements studies based on surveys, providing a perspective with greater truthfulness and coverage. The study aims to develop a methodology to validate psychological/managerial constructs using data from Google Trends, taking as a case study a critical thinking (CT) scale in organizational domains previously supported by survey data.Design/methodology/approachThe developed methodology consists of eight stages, in which the following is integrated: (1) Internet search interest data (19 Spanish-speaking countries); (2) deductive research processes (e.g. theoretical model, linguistic manifestations, fieldwork, data matrix, analysis statistical, reporting); (3) psychometric properties (e.g. construct validity, criterion validity, reliability) and (4) objective data to examine criterion validity (e.g. unemployment rate).FindingsThe application of the methodology produces evidence that supports the reliability (Cronbach’s alpha, Guttman’s λ4), construct validity (intra-correlations and correlations with reference variables: “entrepreneurship,” “critical thinking,” “soccer,” “beer,” “pornography”) and criterion validity (prediction of unemployment rate) of the CT scale.Research limitations/implicationsThe methodology makes it possible to support or invalidate the quality of construct measurement scales by planning, capturing and processing data available on the internet.Practical implicationsThis manuscript is useful for research in business management (and related areas), which is intensive in the use of psychological/managerial constructs.Originality/valueThe methodology uses a new type of evidence; it is noninvasive, usually more truthful than responses to surveys, and has greater coverage of people participating indirectly in the study.

Design and Technological Aspects of Integrating Multi-Blade Machining and Surface Hardening on a Single Machine Base

Modern mechanical engineering faces high competition in global markets, which requires manufacturers of process equipment to significantly reduce production costs while ensuring high product quality and maximum productivity. Metalworking occupies a significant part of industrial production and consumes a significant share of the world’s energy and natural resources. Improving the technology of manufacturing parts with an emphasis on more efficient use of metalworking machines is necessary to maintain the competitiveness of the domestic machine tool industry. Hybrid metalworking systems based on the principles of multi-purpose integration eliminate the disadvantages of monotechnologies and increase efficiency by reducing time losses and intermediate operations. The purpose of this work is to develop and implement a hybrid machine tool system and an appropriate combined technology for manufacturing machine parts. Theory and methods. Studies of the possible structural composition and layout of hybrid equipment at integration of mechanical and surface-thermal processes were carried out, taking into account the basic provisions of structural synthesis and componentization of metalworking systems. Theoretical studies were carried out using the basic provisions of system analysis, geometric theory of surface formation, design of metalworking machines, methods of finite elements, and mathematical and computer modeling. The mathematical modeling of thermal fields and structural-phase transformations during HEH HFC was carried out in ANSYS (version 19.1) and SYSWELD (version 2010) software packages using numerical methods of solving differential equations of unsteady heat conduction (Fourier equation), carbon diffusion (2nd Fick’s law) and elastic–plastic behavior of the material. The verification of the modeling results was carried out using in situ experiments employing the following: optical and scanning microscopy; and mechanical and X-ray methods of residual stress determination. Formtracer SV-C4500 profilograph profilometer was used in the study for simultaneous measurement of shape deviations and surface roughness. Surface topography was assessed using a Walter UHL VMM 150 V instrumental microscope. The microhardness of the hardened surface layer of the parts was evaluated on a Wolpert Group 402MVD. Results and discussion. The original methodology of structural and kinematic analysis for pre-design studies of hybrid metalworking equipment is presented. Methodological recommendations for the modernization of multi-purpose metal-cutting machine tool are developed, the implementation of which will make it possible to implement high-energy heating with high-frequency currents (HEH HFC) on a standard machine tool system and provide the formation of knowledge-intensive technological equipment with extended functionality. The innovative moment of this work is the development of hybrid metalworking equipment with numerical control and writing a unique postprocessor to it, which allows to realize all functional possibilities of this machine system and the technology of combined processing as a whole. Special tooling and tools providing all the necessary requirements for the process of surface hardening of HEH HFC were designed and manufactured. The conducted complex of works and approbation of the technology of integrated processing in real conditions in comparison with traditional methods of construction of technological process of parts manufacturing allowed to obtain the following results: increase in the productivity of processing by 1.9 times; exclusion of possibility of scrap occurrence at finishing grinding; reduction in auxiliary and preparatory-tasking time; and reduction in inter-operational parts backlogs.