Product Quality Research Articles

The Role of Standards in Teaching How to Design Machine Elements

This paper introduces arguments in favor of the intensive use of standards in both teaching the Machine Elements discipline and solving the first projects of mechanical design (gearboxes, jacks, pumps, tanks, etc.). The paper presents a SWOTT approach to the use of new in-force standards in teaching the design of machine elements. The use of information from standards in courses and design handbooks is regulated by various standardization associations at different levels internationally, such as the ISO (International Organization of Standardization), IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), and ITU (International Telecommunication), and regional associations such as the CEN (European Commission for Standardization), CENELEC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization) and ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute), and national associations (for instance, the ASRO—Association of Standardization of Romania). In general, the conditions for using partial information from standards vary, but the authors present common lines and recommendations for introducing information from standards in books and design handbooks for engineering students. The use of information from standards for terms, materials, calculation models, test methods etc. is beneficial for students. This will provide them a good professional education towards adapting to a specific job in the field of mechanical engineering, where conformity to norms and standards is required by the dynamics of production, product quality and, not least, the safety of machines and operators.

A hybrid deep learning approach to automate industrial quality control

ABSTRACT Inspection systems play a critical role in ensuring product quality and maintaining a company’s reputation. However, current industrial systems are heavily dependent on human labor, which can lead to errors and inefficiencies. Although deep learning architectures have the potential to effectively automate inspection systems, their complexity often introduces computational challenges that can impede system speed. To address this issue, we propose a hybrid deep learning approach called Defect-Lite, which adapts the YOLOv5 object detection algorithm. YOLOv5 is renowned for its robustness in real-time defect identification in industrial environments. Our innovative method integrates the inverted residual layers of MobileNetV2 with the PANet architecture of YOLOv5, improving the speed of the algorithm and reducing its computational complexity. This improvement makes it feasible for real-time applications on lower-power machines. We evaluated the proposed model using custom real-time datasets designed to simulate actual industrial settings, running the model on various systems to demonstrate its adaptability and robustness. Experimental results indicate a precision of 0.743, recall of 0.66, mean average precision (MAP) of 0.739, and an F1 score of approximately 0.69 at 240 frames per second (FPS), based on our custom dataset containing 783 images across five classes of defects. These results significantly surpass the performance of the standard YOLOv5 model and other state-of-the-art approaches. Additionally, we deployed our model on a low-computation Raspberry Pi 4B microprocessor to assess its performance in a real-time scenario, where it successfully provided accurate bounding boxes for defects in live footage. Hence, the proposed defect inspection model is proven to be effective in real-world industrial settings.

Adoption of halal Korean cosmetics among Muslim students: Insights from Islamic private universities

Purpose – This study aimed to analyze the purchase intentions of Muslim students from private Islamic universities in Indonesia toward halal cosmetics in Korea.Methodology – This study involved 287 Muslim students from eight private Islamic universities in Indonesia. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Partial Least Squares (PLS) to examine the relationships between the variables.Findings – The results reveal that attitude, brand image, country of origin, and fear of missing out (FOMO) significantly influence purchase intention. Among these, brand image exerts the strongest effect, followed by FOMO, whereas country of origin has a smaller influence. In contrast, halal knowledge and religiosity do not directly affect purchase intention, although they significantly influence attitudes.Implication – These findings underscore the importance of Korean halal cosmetic brands in building strong brand image and fostering positive consumer attitudes. Companies should focus on the perceived product quality, innovation, and alignment with values that are important to Muslim consumers. In addition, the significant role of FOMO suggests the effectiveness of marketing strategies that create urgency and exclusivity.Originality – This research is original in its focus on Korean halal cosmetic purchase intentions among Muslim students from eight Islamic private universities in Indonesia. It contributes to the understanding of how brand image, religiosity, halal knowledge, country of origin, and FOMO shape consumer behavior in the halal cosmetic market.

Simulation and Experimental Analysis of Shelf Temperature Effects on the Primary Drying Stage of Cordyceps militaris Freeze-Drying

This study employs advanced numerical simulation to investigate the influence of shelf temperature on the freeze-drying kinetics and product quality of Cordyceps militaris. Emphasis is placed on the glass transition and structural collapse mechanisms during the primary drying stage. A detailed computational model was developed to predict temperature profiles, glass transition temperature, collapse temperature, and moisture distribution under varying process conditions. Simulation results indicate that maintaining the shelf temperature below 10 °C minimizes the risk of structural collapse and volume shrinkage while improving drying efficiency and product stability. Based on the model, an optimal freeze-drying protocol is proposed: shelf heating at 0 °C, condenser plate at −32 °C, and chamber pressure at 35 Pa. Experimental validation confirmed the feasibility of this regime, yielding a shrinkage of 9.52%, a color difference (ΔE) of 4.86, water activity of 0.364 ± 0.018, and a rehydration ratio of 55.14 ± 0.789%. Key bioactive compounds, including adenosine and cordycepin, were well preserved. These findings underscore the critical role of simulation in process design and optimization, contributing to the development of efficient and high-quality freeze-dried functional food products.

Analisis Iklan Media Sosial dan Kualitas Produk terhadap Keputusan Pembelian dengan Kepuasan Pelanggan sebagai Variabel Intervening pada UMKM Sambal K’diyah Kabupaten Brebes

This study analyzes the influence of social media advertising and product quality on purchase decisions, with customer satisfaction as a mediating variable at UMKM Sambal K’diyah in Brebes Regency. A quantitative method with SEM-PLS analysis was employed using a sample of 155 respondents. The results show that social media advertising and product quality have a significant positive effect on customer satisfaction (β = 0.630 and β = 0.373). Product quality also significantly influences purchase decisions (β = 0.664), as does customer satisfaction (β = 0.204). Furthermore, customer satisfaction mediates the relationship between both independent variables and purchase decisions. The R² values of 0.570 for customer satisfaction and 0.705 for purchase decisions indicate a strong predictive model. This study highlights the importance of digital promotion and product quality in increasing customer satisfaction and purchase decision-making.

Product Quality and Perceived Value of a Sports Brand

Product Quality and Perceived Value of a Sports Brand

The Role of Probiotics, Prebiotics, Synbiotics, and Postbiotics in Livestock and Poultry Gut Health: A Review

Background: The gut health of livestock and poultry is of utmost importance as it significantly impacts their growth performance, disease resistance, and product quality. With the increasing restrictions on antibiotic use in animal husbandry, probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics (PPSP) have emerged as promising alternatives. This review comprehensively summarizes the roles of PPSP in promoting gut health in livestock and poultry. Results: Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces, modulate the gut microbiota, enhance the gut barrier, and regulate the immune system. Prebiotics, including fructooligosaccharides, isomalto-oligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, and inulin, selectively stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria and produce short-chain fatty acids, thereby improving gut health. Synbiotics, combinations of probiotics and prebiotics, have shown enhanced effects in improving gut microbiota and animal performance. Postbiotics, consisting of inanimate microorganisms and their constituents, restore the gut microbiota balance and have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Additionally, the review looks ahead to the future development of PPSP, emphasizing the importance of encapsulation technology and personalized strategies to maximize their efficacy. Conclusions: Our aim is to provide scientific insights for PPSP to improve the gut health of livestock and poultry.

Analisis Total Productive Maintenance pada Mesin Reaktor Pompa Slurry 22P303A untuk Mengurangi Six Big Losses dengan Maintenance Value Stream Mapping Produksi II B PT PG

The manufacturing industry currently faces major challenges in maintaining and improving the operational performance of production machines to ensure efficiency and product quality. PT PG is engaged in the manufacturing industry, which seeks to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of production II B, especially by using a slurry pump machine during January to June. This study aims to determine the Total Productive Maintenance and how to improve during downtime and find out how to reduce the Six Big Losses with improvements using MVSM. The method used is TPM by reducing the Six Big Losses and using the maintenance value stream mapping (MVSM) approach. The results show that the Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) on the 22P303A reactor slurry pump machine at PT PG, especially in Production Unit II, namely in January of 67.06%, February of 50.32%, March of 58.42%, April of 59.71%, in May of 32%, and in June of 53.40%. And from the Six Big Losses Analysis research shows that downtime is the biggest loss with a total of 329 minutes or representing 35% of the total operational time. The biggest loss comes from Idling and Minor Stopage Losses with a total repair time using MVSM of 171 minutes.. Keywords: Maintenance Value Stream Mapping (MVSM),Slurry Pump Machine, Total Productive Maintenance

Experimental Research on the Drying Process of Pear and Mango Slices in Hot Air and Supper Heated Steam Agents

Drying is an area that consumes a lot of energy and degrades the nutritional components of dried products if the right drying mode is not chosen. The drying process in different drying agent environments is being studied to find the right drying mode to increase product quality, reduce drying time, and reduce energy consumption. In this study, the drying processes of common agricultural products, namely pear slice and mango slice are conducted in a lab-scale dryer using hot air and superheated steam. Experimental calculation models are established, and product quality will be studied in several aspects including color change and shrinkage to comprehensively evaluate the applicability and suitable drying conditions for pears. The empirical models are built based on the Newton model which give the good agreement results in compared with the experimental model. For both fruit kinds, color of products obtained from superheated steam drying is darker than that from hot air-drying exception of at 110 oC while the porosity of dried product in superheated steam is higher than dried product in hot air. The research results are the basis for expanding the application ability of modulated gas and superheated steam for post-harvest processing technology.

Signaling Quality to Consumers: The Role of Social Media Marketing

Firms are increasingly turning to social media marketing to boost product visibility and spread consumer-generated content, which often reveals valuable information about product quality. However, our research shows that this dual role can backfire; heavy spending on social media marketing may no longer help high-quality firms stand out. Instead of investing heavily to reach a broad audience, high-quality firms may do better by cutting back and focusing on targeted niche markets. Furthermore, as consumers become more capable of discerning product quality through social media content, low- and medium-quality firms benefit less from mimicking one another. This creates stronger incentives for lower-quality firms to mimic the high-quality firm, which increases consumer confusion and weakens the quality signal conveyed through investment in social media marketing. These findings help explain the variation in firms’ social media marketing strategies and offer practical guidance on allocating social media budgets more effectively.

Implementation of Consumer Protection Act in the Digital Era

The development of information and communication technology has changed the global economic landscape, encouraging the emergence of a digital economy. Ecommerce has become the core of transactions, offering convenience and competitive prices. However, this convenience also opens up risks for consumers, especially in terms of consumer rights, product quality, privacy, data security, and dispute resolution. Consumer protection in online transactions in Indonesia is regulated by the Consumer Protection Act and Electronic Information and Transactions Act. These two laws provide sufficient legal protection, covering consumer rights and obligations as well as dispute resolution mechanisms. However, this legal protection is considered inadequate, especially for digital products. The gap between law and practice, lack of consumer knowledge, and weak supervision are challenges. Therefore, strengthening consumer protection mechanisms, especially in the context of international platforms, is crucial to ensure safety and fairness in e-commerce transactions.

Outliers and anomalies in training and testing datasets for AI-powered morphometry—evidence from CT scans of the spleen

IntroductionCreating training and testing datasets for machine learning algorithms to measure linear dimensions of organs is a tedious task. There are no universally accepted methods for evaluating outliers or anomalies in such datasets. This can cause errors in machine learning and compromise the quality of end products. The goal of this study is to identify optimal methods for detecting organ anomalies and outliers in medical datasets designed to train and test neural networks in morphometrics.MethodsA dataset was created containing linear measurements of the spleen obtained from CT scans. Labelling was performed by three radiologists. The total number of studies included in the sample was N = 197 patients. Using visual methods (1.5 interquartile range; heat map; boxplot; histogram; scatter plot), machine learning algorithms (Isolation forest; Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise; K-nearest neighbors algorithm; Local outlier factor; One-class support vector machines; EllipticEnvelope; Autoencoders), and mathematical statistics (z-score, Grubb’s test; Rosner’s test).ResultsWe identified measurement errors, input errors, abnormal size values and non-standard shapes of the organ (sickle-shaped, round, triangular, additional lobules). The most effective methods included visual techniques (including boxplots and histograms) and machine learning algorithms such is OSVM, KNN and autoencoders. A total of 32 outlier anomalies were found.DiscussionCuration of complex morphometric datasets must involve thorough mathematical and clinical analyses. Relying solely on mathematical statistics or machine learning methods appears inadequate.

INFLUENCING DETERMINANTS OF WASTE IMPORT TRADE: “A CASE STUDY ON ASEAN+6”

This study explores the impact of technical barriers to trade (TBT) on the import value and weight of 54 types of waste products according to 1999–2018 data on trade between ASEAN+6 countries and 200 trading partners. By using disaggregated detailed product data and the gravity model, we obtained results demonstrating that implementation of TBT by importing countries is likely to enhance waste trade. After controlling for three combinations of fixed effects, the results remain robust. We consider the quality of waste products by dividing waste products into recyclable and non-recyclable materials, revealing that imported recyclable waste is more likely to be imported than non-recyclable waste. When waste trade is regulated by importing countries through TBT implementation, the exporting countries may export relatively valuable waste products, and recyclable waste is of greater economic value because it can be used as an input in other production processes. Finally, developed countries are more likely than developing countries to export waste to the ASEAN+6 countries, a finding that supports the waste haven hypothesis.

РАЗРАБОТКА КОНЦЕПЦИИ ИСПЫТАНИЙ ПРОДУКЦИИ ОАО «ГОМСЕЛЬМАШ» ДЛЯ ОБЕСПЕЧЕНИЯ ТРЕБУЕМОГО КАЧЕСТВА

The article describes a system for testing agricultural machines manufactured by OJSC Gomselmash at the design and production stages. The system is used to solve problems of ensuring the required quality of the enterprise's products while reducing the risk of failure during operation. The system provides seven levels of testing at three large-scale stages. Its main advantage is that it includes effective methods of wear-fatigue testing of the most important power systems of machines. The implementation of the system is ensured by appropriate testing methods

Quality Management and Sustainability in the Defense Industry: Synergies and Challenges for a Sensitive Sector

Objectives: This article analyzes how quality management practices can be integrated with sustainability in the defense industry, aiming to balance effectiveness, safety, and socio-environmental responsibility in a strategic and sensitive sector. Theoretical Framework: The study is based on international standards such as ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 14001 (environmental management), as well as regulations like the REACH Directive, the Montreal Protocol, and the Paris Agreement. It also discusses environmental impacts and strategies such as circular economy, renewable energy use, and Kaizen methodology. Method: A mixed-methods approach (qualitative and quantitative) with a descriptive and exploratory character was adopted. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire applied to 18 employees of a Brazilian defense company, including closed-ended (Likert scale) and one open-ended question. Results and Discussion: Findings indicate a positive perception of the integration between quality and sustainability: 67% perceive strong integration, 66% report improved product quality, and 72% highlight a positive impact on institutional image. Main challenges include lack of financial resources (44%), insufficient training (17%), and limited leadership support (11%). Success cases like IMBEL, Embraer, and Helibras show that sustainable practices can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and strengthen corporate image. Research Implications: The integration of quality and sustainability is feasible and strategic, promoting innovation, efficiency, and legal compliance. Results can guide public policies and business practices in the defense sector. Originality/Value: The study shows that quality and sustainability are complementary. Its originality lies in the integrated approach applied to a traditionally change-resistant sector, offering practical paths for sustainable modernization.

Efficient production of honey-enhanced banana chips: A multi-objective optimization approach

Food industries aim to optimize processes for quality products in shorter times. For fruits, specific storage and transport conditions are essential to maintain quality, extend shelf life, and preserve sensory and nutritional properties. This study aims to maximize honey incorporation into banana slices during osmotic dehydration, assisted by ultrasound, while minimizing processing time. The process includes three stages: 1) 20 min ultrasound-assisted immersion in distilled water, 2) osmotic dehydration in hypertonic honey solution, and 3) hot air drying. The second and third stages were mathematically modeled using a multi-objective MINLP optimization in GAMS with the Baron solver. Optimal conditions achieved an 8.75% gain in soluble solids (SG) in 11.48 h, reducing processing time by 64% with a 70% honey solution. This optimization allows a compromise solution between two contradictory objectives for planning the production process: maintaining product quality and reducing production time. The process leads to lower total costs.

Marketing Challenges Faced by Agri and Allied Startups: A Study on Selective Organisations in Madhya Pradesh

In the evolving landscape of agribusiness, understanding the marketing challenges faced by agri and allied startups is essential for fostering sustainable growth and innovation. This research delves into the complex interplay of economic, social, and technological factors that impede the marketing efforts of these nascent enterprises in Madhya Pradesh. By examining selective organizations within the region, the study aims to identify key barriers and enablers specific to the agri startup ecosystem. Initial findings indicate that inadequate access to funding and resources significantly hampers marketing initiatives, restricting startups from implementing comprehensive marketing strategies (Lawrence OU, 2025). Furthermore, the lack of market intelligence and understanding of consumer preferences obstructs these organizations from effectively positioning their products and services within a competitive marketplace (Khalisha A et al., 2025). A crucial aspect of the research involves evaluating the role of digital marketing platforms which, despite having emerged as critical tools for connecting with consumers, remain underutilized by many agricultural startups due to limited technological expertise (K Morin et al., 2024). The study highlights the need for targeted training programs that equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge required to leverage these platforms efficiently. Additionally, the uniqueness of cultural and regional contexts in Madhya Pradesh necessitates tailored marketing strategies rather than a one-size-fits-all approach commonly employed by larger firms (Maulana FR, 2024). Market segmentation also reveals significant insights; locally produced goods often compete with well-established brands that dominate consumer preferences, leading to a challenge in brand recognition and loyalty for these startups (K Morin et al., 2023). With consumers increasingly inclined towards sustainability, startups have an opportunity to capitalize on this trend by emphasizing organic and environmentally friendly practices in their marketing campaigns (Elragal R et al., 2024). However, the research uncovers that many startups struggle to communicate these value propositions effectively, leading to missed market opportunities (Ahmed NZA-A et al., 2024).Moreover, challenges pertaining to supply chain management and logistics further complicate marketing efforts. Inconsistent product quality and delivery issues can undermine customer trust and satisfaction, critical factors that influence long-term business viability (Kountios G et al., 2023). Understanding these logistical hurdles and developing robust supply chain strategies will be paramount for agri startups aiming to enhance their market outreach (Neves MF et al., 2020). The study employs a mixed-method approach, incorporating qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys from selected agribusiness startups in Madhya Pradesh. This dual approach not only enriches the data but also allows for a comprehensive analysis of the marketing challenges faced (Dr.Mishra A, 2025). Field interviews revealed that many entrepreneurs express a desire for stronger networks with industry stakeholders, which could facilitate knowledge sharing and collaborative efforts in marketing (Neves MF et al., 2020). Such collaboration may prove beneficial, as it encourages joint marketing endeavors and resource sharing among startups, amplifying their competitive advantage (R Balaji et al., 2023).Finally, the research concludes by suggesting strategic pathways for these organizations to navigate their marketing challenges more effectively. It emphasizes the importance of developing a coherent marketing strategy that integrates innovative practices with a deep understanding of the local market dynamics (Weerasekera S, 2023). By fostering a culture of adaptability and resilience, agri startups can not only overcome existing hurdles but also leverage their unique positioning in the market to achieve sustainable growth (Kaur R et al., 2023). Overall, the findings of this study underscore the urgent need for more comprehensive support systems that empower agri startups, ultimately leading to a more robust agricultural sector in Madhya Pradesh (Pant M et al., 2023). In sum, this research contributes critical insights into the myriad marketing challenges faced by agri and allied startups, providing a foundation for future studies that can explore additional dimensions of this vibrant yet struggling sector. By addressing these challenges, stakeholders can better support the emergence of successful agricultural enterprises in the region, fostering overall economic development (Iliyas M, 2023)(María Ancín et al., 2022)(Alobid M et al., 2022)(Sexton A et al., 2022)(Robert M Chiles et al., 2021)(Yogesh K Dwivedi et al., 2020).

Pengaruh Harga Produk, Kualitas Produk, dan Brand Image Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Aqua di Kota Kendal

Aqua, as a leading bottled mineral water brand in Indonesia, faces challenges in maintaining its market share amid increasing competition and boycott issues. This study aims to analyze the impact of product quality, product pricing, and brand image on purchasing decisions for Aqua in Kendal City. The research employs both quantitative and qualitative methods. Data collection techniques involve distributing questionnaires to 188 respondents and conducting interviews with 10 respondents. The respondents were selected using purposive sampling based on specific criteria, such as having used Aqua and being aware of the boycott issue. The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression to test the influence of each independent variable on the purchasing decision. The results show that product quality, product pricing, and brand image have a positive and significant impact on Aqua's purchasing decisions. Brand image emerged as the most dominant factor influencing purchasing decisions. Additionally, the majority of informants are highly concerned about the boycott issue and disturbed by the Israeli attacks, which has affected their purchasing decisions. This study recommends that Aqua improve product quality, implement competitive pricing strategies, and strengthen its brand image through innovation and marketing campaigns to maintain customer loyalty. Aqua should also promote its neutral stance publicly, clarifying that it is not involved in the Israel-Palestine issue, in order to maintain public trust in the brand.

ANALISIS PENGARUH KUALITAS PRODUK, DESAIN PRODUK DAN CITRA MEREK TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN MOTOR MATIC HONDA VARIO MELALUI WORD OF MOUTH SEBAGAI VARIABEL INTERVENING DI DAERAH ISTIMEWA YOGYAKARTA

This study aims to determine the effect of product quality, product design and brand image on purchasing decisions of Honda Vario Automatic Motorcycles through word of mouth as an intervening variable in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The method used in this study is quantitative with Partial Least Square (PLS) analysis. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to respondents who are consumers of Honda Vario Automatic Motorcycles in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The sampling technique used was Purposive Sampling, with a total of 100 respondents. Data processing using SmartPLS 4 with the conclusion that product quality and product design do not have a positive effect on purchasing decisions or word of mouth. Conversely, word of mouth has a positive effect on purchasing decisions. Brand image has a positive and significant effect on purchasing decisions and word of mouth. In addition, word of mouth is only able to mediate the influence of brand image on purchasing decisions, but cannot mediate the influence of product quality and product design on purchasing decisions.

Current State of the Art and Potential for Construction and Demolition Waste Processing: A Scoping Review of Sensor-Based Quality Monitoring and Control for In- and Online Implementation in Production Processes

Automated quality assurance is gaining popularity across application areas; however, automatization for monitoring and control of product quality in waste processing is still in its infancy. At the same time, research on this topic is scattered, limiting efficient implementation of already developed strategies and technologies across research and application areas. To this end, the current work describes a scoping review conducted to systematically map available sensor-based quality assurance technologies and research based on the PRISMA-ScR framework. Additionally, the current state of research and potential automatization strategies are described in the context of construction and demolition waste processing. The results show 31 different sensor types extracted from a collection of 364 works, which have varied popularity depending on the application. However, visual imaging and spectroscopy sensors in particular seem to be popular overall. Only five works describing quality control system implementation were found, of which three describe varying manufacturing applications. Most works found describe proof-of-concept quality prediction systems on a laboratory scale. Compared to other application areas, works regarding construction and demolition waste processing indicate that the area seems to be especially behind in terms of implementing visual imaging at higher technology readiness levels. Moreover, given the importance of reliable and detailed data on material quality to transform the construction sector into a sustainable one, future research on quality monitoring and control systems could therefore focus on the implementation on higher technology readiness levels and the inclusion of detailed descriptions on how these systems have been verified.