Search Results (2,599)

Effective design is becoming increasingly necessary to shorten product development times to meet evolving user demands. Thus, it is essential that designers uncover user requirements and translate them into tangible product specifications, but with the added endeavour of balancing functional and sustainability requirements. This poses several challenges to designers. In early design, designers must make important decisions based on limited knowledge, risking developing products which are rejected by users. A literature review determined that no available system is sufficient to balance multi-user requirements and design characteristics. Hence, the research goal is to address the gap in design support systems, which inspired the generation of the PRioritising and achIeving Multi-user rEquirements (PRIME) framework being proposed. The contribution of this work lies in the fusion of topic modelling, sentiment analysis, and conflict resolution techniques to enhance multi-user experience. The framework prioritises multi-user and design requirements, and translates them into product specifications. Furthermore, PRIME proposes and evaluates innovative design aspects to fulfil the established design targets. This research focuses on providing a knowledge-based framework applied in the early design stages to capture multi-user requirements and lays the foundation for concept generation. A case study of smart and sustainable packaging is considered to highlight the framework’s applicability. Full article

Improving the end-of-life performance of polylactic acid (PLA) for food packaging requires strategies that enhance biodegradability, solubility, and dispersibility without compromising essential material properties. PLA-based films were produced by melt extrusion using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a hydrophilic modifier, aiming to enhance the water uptake and affinity of PLA, which may potentially lead to faster environmental degradation. Two PVPs with distinct molar masses at varying concentrations were used to investigate their effects on the structural, thermal, mechanical, optical, and barrier behavior of the films. Thermal analysis revealed a slight depression in glass transition temperature, more evident in blends with low-molecular-weight PVP10, indicating increased chain mobility and partial miscibility. A two-step degradation process with extended thermal decomposition profiles was observed upon the inclusion of PVP. SEM and ATR-FTIR analyses confirmed enhanced dispersion and non-covalent interactions in PVP10-based blends, in contrast to the pronounced phase separation and micro-voids observed in PVP40-based systems. Mechanically, films containing 5 and 10 wt.% of PVP10 retained tensile strength and stiffness, whereas PVP40 led to embrittlement. Optical properties were modified by increasing the PVP content, resulting in greater opacity and color differences, which potentially offer benefits for light-sensitive packaging. Altogether, PLA films containing 5 and 10 wt.% of PVP10 demonstrated the most favorable balance between water affinity-oriented design and packaging-relevant performance. Full article

To overcome poor catalyst recovery and inefficient mass transfer in photocatalytic water treatment, this study presents novel Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) photocatalytic reactors (PCRs) fabricated via Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing. Five TiO₂-loaded reactors (Fischer-Radin-Dunn (FRD), Neovius (N), Diamond (D), I-graph Wrapped Package (IWP), Gyroid (G)) with hierarchical porosity were designed. Using methylene blue (MB) as the target pollutant, the photocatalytic degradation performance of TPMS-PCRs is evaluated and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) hydrodynamic simulations are conducted to analyze their flow characteristics under both horizontal and rotational flow fields. The catalytic efficiency of TPMS reactors is influenced not only by pore characteristics, specific surface area, and inter-pore connectivity, but also by the flow velocities on both the reactor surface and within its internal channels. The FRD-type TPMS-PCR loaded with 2.5 wt% TiO₂ exhibited optimal photocatalytic performance, achieving 95.36% degradation efficiency under rotational flow within 2.5 h, compared to 88.2% under horizontal flow. Remarkably, after five degradation cycles, its efficiency further improved to 96.7%, demonstrating its excellent stability. The rotational flow field enhanced the average flow velocity by approximately sixfold compared to horizontal flow, with the D-type reactor reaching a maximum surface velocity of 5.3 × 10⁻² m/s. Full article

In this paper, a novel Tunneling-Drift-Diffusion Field-Effect Transistor (TDDFET) based on the combination of the quantum tunneling and conventional drift-diffusion mechanisms is proposed for the design of ternary logic circuits. The working principle of the TDDFET is analyzed in detail. Then, the device is packaged as a “black box” based on the table lookup method and further embedded into the HSPICE platform using the Verilog-A language. The basic unit circuits, such as the Standard Ternary Inverter (STI), Negative Ternary Inverter (NTI), Positive Ternary Inverter (PTI), Ternary NAND gate (T-NAND), and Ternary NOR gate (T-NOR), are designed. In addition, based on the designed unit circuits, the combinational logic circuits, such as the Ternary Encoder (T-Encoder), Ternary Decoder (T-Decoder), and Ternary Half Adder (T-HA), and the sequential logic circuits, such as the Ternary D-Latch and edge-triggered Ternary D Flip-Flop (T-DFF), are built, which has important significance for the subsequent investigation of ternary logic circuits. Full article

Hydrogen-based Power Systems (H2PSs) are gaining accelerating momentum globally to reduce energy costs and dependency on fossil fuels. A H2PS typically comprises three main parts: hydrogen production, storage, and power generation, called packages. A review of the literature and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) datasheets reveals that no single manufacturer supplies all H2PS components, posing significant challenges in system design, parts integration, and safety assurance. Additionally, both the literature and H2PS projects’ database highlight a gap in a systematic hydrogen equipment and auxiliary sub-systems technology selection process, and how this selection affects the overall H2PS Balance of Plant (BoP). This study addresses that gap by providing a guideline for available technology options and their impact on the H2PS-BoP. The analysis compares packages and auxiliary sub-system technologies to support informed engineering decisions regarding technology and equipment selection. The study finds that each package’s technology influences the selection criteria of the other packages and the associated BoP requirements. Furthermore, the choice of technologies across packages significantly affects overall system integrity and BoP. These interdependencies are illustrated using a cause-and-effect matrix. The study’s significance lies in establishing a structured guideline for engineering design and operations, enhancing the accuracy of feasibility studies, and accelerating the global implementation of H2PS. Full article

In the age of digital transformation, where students increasingly rely on technology for learning and communication, concerns arise regarding its potential association with academic outcomes. This study quantifies the relationship between Digital Behaviour (DB) and Academic Behaviour (AB) among engineering undergraduates at Misurata, Al-Asmarya Islamic, and Al-Marqab universities in Libya. DB is conceptualised as a spectrum ranging from excessive, compulsive device use (addictive behaviour) to purposeful academic technology use (digital immersion). Using a descriptive-analytical design, a convenience sample of 300 undergraduate engineering students completed a validated 20-item questionnaire (Cronbach’s α = 0.711–0.899 for subscales). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, simple regression, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v23. The analysis identified a weak but statistically significant positive correlation between students’ DB and their AB (r = +0.19, p = 0.002). Notably, AB scores increased in the senior study years, while digital engagement remained consistently high across all years, suggesting an evolving capacity among students to regulate their digital habits. ANOVA results revealed significant differences in AB by year of study, while gender showed no significant overall association. These findings contradict the conventional assumption that heavy digital use uniformly diminishes academic outcomes; instead, in digitally immersed learning environments, strategic DB may coexist with or support academic performance. The study concludes that DB is not inherently detrimental to AB and may provide benefits when managed effectively, especially among more advanced engineering students. It recommends early educational interventions that promote digital self-regulation and the strategic use of technology for academic purposes. Full article

High-power microelectronic packaging faces critical thermomechanical failures under rapid thermal cycling, primarily due to interfacial stress concentration and warping in conventional homogeneous heat sinks. To address this challenge, this study proposes a novel functionally graded SiC/Al composite with a tailored thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) gradient, designed to achieve adaptive thermal expansion matching between the chip and heat sink. Through multiscale finite element analysis, the stress–strain behavior and warping characteristics of homogeneous (Cu and Al) and gradient materials were systematically investigated. The results show that the gradient SiC/Al design significantly reduces the peak thermal stress and maximum warping deformation. The progressive CTE transition effectively mitigates abrupt interfacial strain jumps and extends device lifespan under extreme thermal loads. This advancement positions gradient SiC/Al composites as a key enabler for next-generation high-density packaging and power electronics requiring cyclic thermal stability. The study provides both theoretical insights into thermomechanical coupling and practical guidelines for designing robust electronic packaging solutions. Full article

During automated packaging of white tea, uneven tea pile thickness leads to reduced weighing accuracy, while traditional experimental methods struggle to reveal the underlying particle flow mechanisms, hindering equipment optimization. Addressing the lack of discrete element method (DEM) parameters for Baihao Yinzhen tea, this study calibrates its DEM parameters based on the DEM approach, providing input for virtual commissioning of packaging machinery. Through physical experiments, the static friction coefficient (0.546), restitution coefficient (0.326), and rolling friction coefficient (0.133) between tea leaves and steel plates were determined. A three-dimensional DEM model of tea leaves was established using slicing techniques and the multi-sphere aggregation method. The steepest-ascent method and Box–Behnken design were employed to optimize the simulation parameters, resulting in the following optimal parameter combination: inter-particle restitution coefficient (0.16), static friction coefficient (0.14), and rolling friction coefficient (0.15). Validation simulations demonstrated that the mean angle of repose of tea leaves under the optimized parameter combination was 22.51°, with a relative error of only 1.29% compared to the actual experimental result of 22.80°. The calibrated parameters can be directly applied to the simulation of the feeding system in white tea automatic packaging machines, enabling optimization of vibration parameters through prediction of pile behavior, thereby reducing weighing errors. Full article

The balance between exploration and exploitation is a fundamental element in the design and performance of bio-inspired optimization algorithms. However, to date, its conceptual evolution and its treatment in the scientific literature have not been systematically characterized from a bibliometric approach. This study performs an exhaustive analysis of the scientific production on the balance between exploration and exploitation using records extracted from the Web of Science (WoS) database. The processing and analysis of the data were carried out through the combined use of Bibliometrix (R package) and VOSviewer, tools that made it possible to quantify productivity, map collaborative networks, and visualize emerging thematic trends. The results show a sustained growth in the volume of publications over the last decade, as well as the consolidation of academic collaboration networks and the emergence of new thematic lines in the field. In particular, metaheuristic algorithms have demonstrated a significant and growing impact, constituting a fundamental pillar in the advancement and methodological diversification of the exploration–exploitation balance. This work provides a quantitative framework and a structured view of the evolution of research, identifies the main actors and trends, and raises opportunities for future lines of research in the field of optimization using metaheuristics, the most prominent instantiation of bio-inspired optimization algorithms. Full article

The growing concern over environmental sustainability has intensified the focus on consumers’ perceptions of eco-friendly food packaging, especially among younger generations. This study aims to investigate the attitudes, preferences, and barriers faced by Greek university students regarding sustainable food packaging, a demographic considered pivotal for driving future consumption trends. An online questionnaire assessing perceptions, preferences, and behaviours related to sustainable packaging was administered to students, with responses measured on a five-point Likert scale. Three hundred and sixty-four students took part in this survey, with the majority (60%) of them being female. Principal component analysis was employed to identify underlying factors influencing perceptions, and k-means cluster analysis revealed two consumer segments: “Innovatives”, including one hundred and ninety-eight participants (54%), who demonstrate strong environmental awareness and willingness to adopt sustainable behaviours, and “Sceptics”, including one hundred sixty-six participants (46%), who show moderate engagement and remain cautious in their choices. Convenience, affordability, and clear product communication emerged as significant factors shaping student preferences. The findings suggest that targeted educational campaigns and transparent information are essential to converting positive attitudes into consistent purchasing behaviours. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and marketers looking to design effective sustainability strategies tailored to the student population. Full article

Direct copper-plated ceramic (DPC) substrates have emerged as a favored solution for power device packaging due to their unique technical advantages. AuSn, characterized by its high hermeticity and environmental adaptability, represents the optimal sealing technology for DPC substrates. Through the application of vacuum sintering techniques and adjustment of peak temperatures (325 °C, 340 °C, and 355 °C), the morphology and composition of interfacial compounds were systematically investigated, along with an analysis of their formation mechanisms. A gradient aging experiment was designed (125 °C/150 °C/175 °C × oxygen/argon dual atmosphere × 600 h) to elucidate the synergistic effects of environmental temperature and atmosphere on the growth of intermetallic compounds (IMCs). The results indicate that the primary reaction in the sealing weld seam involves Ni interacting with Au-Sn to form (Ni, Au)₃Sn₂ and Au₅Sn. However, upon completion of the sealing process, this reaction remains incomplete, leading to a coexistence state of (Ni, Au)₃Sn₂, Au₅Sn, and AuSn. Additionally, Ni diffuses into the weld seam center via dendritic fracture and locally forms secondary phases such as δ(Ni) and ζ’(Ni). These findings suggest that the weld seam interface exhibits a complex, irregular, and asymmetric microstructure comprising multiple coexisting compounds. It was determined that Tpeak = 325 °C to 340 °C represents the ideal welding temperature range, where the weld seam morphology, width, and Ni diffusion degree achieve optimal states, ensuring excellent device hermeticity. Aging studies further demonstrate that IMC growth remains within controllable limits. These findings address critical gaps in the understanding of the microstructural evolution and interface characteristics of asymmetric welded joints formed by multi-material systems. Full article

Background: Pain is a problem faced by critically ill surgical patients and has a major impact on their outcomes. Pain assessment is therefore essential for effective pain management, with a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment. Clinical supervision, supported by models such as SafeCare, can improve professional development, safety and the quality of care in intensive care units. Objectives: This study aimed to: (1) assess current pain assessment practices in a polyvalent Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in the Porto district; (2) identify nurses’ training needs regarding the Clinical Supervision-Sensitive Indicator—Pain; and (3) evaluate the impact of clinical supervision sessions on pain assessment practices. Methods: A quantitative, quasi-experimental, cross-sectional study with a pre- and post-intervention design was conducted. Based on the SafeCare model, it included a situational diagnosis, 6 clinical supervision sessions (February 2023), and outcome evaluation via nursing record audits (November 2022 and May 2023) in 31 total critical ill patients. Pain was assessed using standardised tools, in line with institutional protocols. Data was analysed using Software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v25.0. Results: Pain was highly prevalent in the first 24 h, decreasing during hospitalisation. Generalised acute abdominal pain predominated, with mild to moderate intensity, and was exacerbated by wound care and mobilisation/positioning. Pain management combined pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment. There was an improvement in all the parameters of the pain indicator post-intervention. Conclusions: Despite routine assessments, gaps remained in reassessing pain post-analgesia and during invasive procedures. Targeted clinical supervision and ongoing training proved effective in improving compliance with protocols and supporting safer, more consistent pain management. Full article

With the rapid development of information technology and semiconductor technology, the iteration speed of electronic devices has accelerated in an unprecedented manner, and the market demand for miniaturized, highly integrated, and highly intelligent devices continues to rise. But when these electronic devices operate at high power, the electronic components generate a large amount of integrated heat. Due to the limitations of existing heat dissipation channels, the current heat dissipation performance of electronic packaging materials is struggling to meet practical needs, resulting in heat accumulation and high temperatures inside the equipment, seriously affecting operational stability. For electronic devices that require high energy density and fast signal transmission, improving the heat dissipation capability of electronic packaging materials can significantly enhance their application prospects. In order to improve the thermal conductivity of composite materials, hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) was selected as the thermal filling material in this paper. The BMI resin was structurally modified through molecular structure design. The results showed that the micro-branched structure and h-BN synergistically improved the thermal conductivity and insulation performance of the composite material, with a thermal conductivity coefficient of 1.51 W/(m·K) and a significant improvement in insulation performance. The core mechanism is the optimization of the dispersion state of h-BN filler in the matrix resin through the free volume in the micro-branched structure, which improves the thermal conductivity of the composite material while maintaining high insulation. Full article

Ocean energy is an abundant, eco-friendly, and renewable energy resource that is useful for powering sensor networks connected to the maritime Internet of Things (MIoT). These sensor networks can be used to measure different marine environmental parameters that affect ocean infrastructure integrity and harm marine ecosystems. This ocean energy can be harnessed through hybrid nanogenerators that combine triboelectric nanogenerators, electromagnetic generators, piezoelectric nanogenerators, and pyroelectric generators. These nanogenerators have advantages such as high-power density, robust design, easy operating principle, and cost-effective fabrication. However, the performance of these nanogenerators can be affected by the wear of their main components, reduction of wave frequency and amplitude, extreme corrosion, and sea storms. To address these challenges, future research on hybrid nanogenerators must improve their mechanical strength, including materials and packages with anti-corrosion coatings. Herein, we present recent advances in the performance of different hybrid nanogenerators to harvest ocean energy, including various transduction mechanisms. Furthermore, this review reports potential applications of hybrid nanogenerators to power devices in marine infrastructure or serve as self-powered MIoT monitoring sensor networks. This review discusses key challenges that must be addressed to achieve the commercial success of these nanogenerators, regarding design strategies with advanced simulation models or digital twins. Also, these strategies must incorporate new materials that improve the performance, reliability, and integration of future nanogenerator array systems. Thus, optimized hybrid nanogenerators can represent a promising technology for ocean energy harvesting with application in the maritime industry. Full article

Sanicro 25 (X7NiCrWCuCoNb25-23-3-3-2) steel is specifically designed for use in superheater components within the latest generation of conventional power plants. These power plants operate under conditions often referred to as super-ultra-supercritical, with steam parameters that can reach up to 30 MPa and temperatures of 653 °C for fresh steam and 672 °C for reheated steam. While last-generation supercritical power plants still rely on fossil fuels, they represent a significant step forward in more sustainable energy production. The most sophisticated facilities of this kind can achieve thermodynamic efficiencies exceeding 47%. This study aimed to conduct a detailed analysis of the initial precipitation processes occurring in Sanicro 25 steel within the temperature range of 700–900 °C. The temperature of 700 °C corresponds to the operational conditions of this material, particularly in secondary steam superheaters in thermal power plants that operate under ultra-supercritical parameters. Understanding precipitation processes is crucial for optimizing mechanical performance, particularly in terms of long-term strength and creep resistance. To accurately assess the microstructural changes that occur during the early stages of service, a digital twin approach was employed, which included CALPHAD simulations and experimental heat treatments. Experimental annealing tests were conducted in air within the temperature range of 700–900 °C. Precipitation behavior was simulated using the Thermo-Calc 2025a with Dictra software package. The results from Prisma simulations correlated well with the experimental data related to the kinetics of phase transformations; however, it was noted that the predicted sizes of the precipitates were generally smaller than those observed in experiments. Additionally, computational limitations were encountered during some simulations due to the complexity arising from the numerous alloying elements present in Sanicro 25 steel. The microstructural evolution was investigated using various methods, including light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Full article