Keith Case | Loughborough University (original) (raw)

Papers by Keith Case

Research paper thumbnail of Development of adjustable foot corrective device for clubfoot treatment

pertanika journal of science and technology, 2017

Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) or clubfoot is a complex deformity of the foot that is char... more Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) or clubfoot is a complex deformity of the foot that is characterised by four main deformities; forefoot cavus and adductus, hindfoot varus and ankle equinus. Currently, the Ponseti method is the most general and recognized treatment with a high success rate of over 90%. The treatment involves gentle manipulation and serial casting. However, the casting method could create complications for the patients such as soft-tissue damage and inconvenience in following the treatment schedule especially for those living far away from hospital. The aim of this research is to develop an adjustable corrective device for clubfoot treatment based on the techniques in the Ponseti method and at the same time attempt to eliminate the side-effects. The prototype consists of six adjustable movements from six different mechanisms to correct the four deformities. The prototype was developed using 3D printing method and the main material used is polylactic acid (PLA), ...

Research paper thumbnail of Crowd simulation: a video observation and agent-based modelling approach

International Journal of the Digital Human, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of End mill tools integration in CNC machining for rapid manufacturing processes: simulation studies

Production & Manufacturing Research, 2015

Watts (2015) End mill tools integration in CNC machining for rapid manufacturing processes: simul... more Watts (2015) End mill tools integration in CNC machining for rapid manufacturing processes: simulation studies,

Research paper thumbnail of Using Mobile Information Sources to Increase Productivity and Quality

Advances in Human Factors and Ergonomics Series, 2010

This paper presents an experimental study made on the use of different kinds of information sourc... more This paper presents an experimental study made on the use of different kinds of information sources in manual assembly. The general idea is that only the necessary information should be presented to the worker and it should be presented where and when the worker needs it as this is believed to both save time and unload cognitive strain. To account for the latter two aspects of this thought, where and when, this paper investigates the use of a handheld unit as an information source in manual assembly. Having a mobile information system, such as a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), that can be carried with you at all times, as opposed to a stationary one, such as a computer terminal, is hypothesized to greatly improve productivity and quality. Experimental results show that the use of a PDA significantly improves quality whereas productivity does not significantly improve.

Research paper thumbnail of The Publishers and Editors of Computer-Aided Design wish to extend grateful thanks to the following referees, who provide an invaluable service by ensuring that the quality of the published papers remains of the highest standard. Their time and effort is much appreciated

Research paper thumbnail of The Publishers and Editors of Computer-Aided Design wish to extend grateful thanks to the following referees, who provide an invaluable service by ensuring that the quality of published papers remains of the highest standard. Their time and effort is most appreciated

Research paper thumbnail of A framework to integrate design knowledge reuse and requirements management in engineering design

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing, 2008

This paper presents a framework to integrate requirements management and design knowledge reuse. ... more This paper presents a framework to integrate requirements management and design knowledge reuse. The research approach begins with a literature review in design reuse and requirements management to identify appropriate methods within each domain. A framework is proposed based on the identified requirements. The framework is then demonstrated using a case study example: vacuum pump design. Requirements are presented as a component of the integrated design knowledge framework. The proposed framework enables the application of requirements management as a dynamic process, including capture, analysis and recording of requirements. It takes account of the evolving requirements and the dynamic nature of the interaction between requirements and product structure through the various stages of product development.

Research paper thumbnail of Incorporating Cognitive Aspects in Digital Human Modeling

Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 2009

To build software which, at the press of a button, can tell you what cognition related hazards th... more To build software which, at the press of a button, can tell you what cognition related hazards there are within an environment or a task, is probably well into the future if it is possible at all. However, incorporating existing tools such as task analysis tools, interface design guidelines and information about general cognitive limitations in humans, could allow for greater evaluative options for cognitive ergonomics. The paper will discuss previous approaches on the subject and suggest adding design and evaluative guiding in DHM that will help a user with little to no knowledge of cognitive science, design and evaluate a human-product interaction scenario.

Research paper thumbnail of Using Ergonomic Risk Assessment Methods for Designing Inclusive Work Practices: A Case Study

Human Factors and Ergonomics in Manufacturing & Service Industries, 2016

In common with many industries, manufacturing faces the challenge of effective management of a di... more In common with many industries, manufacturing faces the challenge of effective management of a diverse workforce. Humans differ greatly but traditional manufacturing work practices do not take into account human variability issues during the work design process. Variations in individual and organizational work performance due to many individual factors such as age, gender, level of skill, experience and background bring performance inconsistencies. This research investigates the effects of individual skill on work performance in general, and workplace safety and human well-being in particular. A research framework is proposed for highlighting major differences in work performing strategies, their potential impact on work performance and how these findings can be used for designing more inclusive work practices. A case study has been presented where ergonomics risk assessment methods have been used to validate the usefulness of this framework. It is also concluded that skill has a strong relationship with the level of risk attached to various task performing strategies.

Research paper thumbnail of Inclusive design drivers and barriers – a manufacturing perspective from Pakistan

Production & Manufacturing Research, 2015

The demographics of older people and people with disabilities in developing countries are discuss... more The demographics of older people and people with disabilities in developing countries are discussed in the context of inclusive design and the drivers and barriers to inclusive design have been identified. Data were collected from 50 individuals from various industrial sectors in Pakistan. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) relates to inclusive aspects of products, but most respondents either did not know about CSR or did not have a CSR post in their organizations, but 64% had awareness of inclusive design terminology. The study concluded that motivation through social responsibility; innovation and differentiation; demographics and consumer trends; brand enhancement; customer satisfaction; new market opportunity; and legislation were the perceived drivers for manufacturers in Pakistan. Most respondents felt that lack of resources and guidance, lack of awareness about inclusive design, difficulty in changing the business culture, lack of government regulations, and the perception that inclusive design is expensive were the most significant barriers.

Research paper thumbnail of Digital Human Modelling and the Ageing Workforce

Procedia Manufacturing, 2015

Digital human modelling (DHM) has often focused on user populations that could be characterised a... more Digital human modelling (DHM) has often focused on user populations that could be characterised as able-bodied and in the working age group. It is clear however that demographic changes are resulting in older populations in developed countries but this is also becoming increasingly true even in developing countries. The economic pressures of increased life expectancy are resulting in demands for workers to remain in employment well past what would previously have been considered a normal retirement age. In many countries legislation is increasing retirement ages for entitlement to state pensions, and enforceable retirement ages are being outlawed. As a consequence older working populations can be expected. Age in the workforce has many positive aspects including increased experience, wisdom, loyalty and motivation, but an inevitable consequence of ageing is negative effects such as the loss of capabilities in strength, mobility, vision and hearing. The challenge of including older workers is recognised as an important aspect of Inclusive Design and DHM is recognised as a potentially useful method for its implementation. Today's highly demanding and competitive working environments require the highest levels of productivity from individuals so that overall operational and business objectives can be achieved. DHM-based workplace risk assessment methods have successfully been used to improve working environments by conducting virtual posture based ergonomic risk analysis. Older workers are significantly different from younger workers in terms of their physical, physiological and cognitive capabilities and these capabilities directly or indirectly affect human work performance. This article suggests the use of human capability data in a virtual environment to explore the level of acceptability of a working strategy based on real capability data (joint mobility in this case) of older workers. A case study shows that the proposed DHM-based inclusive design method is useful recommending working strategies that are acceptable for older workers in terms of work productivity, well-being and safety.

Research paper thumbnail of A review of approaches to supply chain communications: from manufacturing to construction

J. Inf. Technol. Constr., 2007

With the increasing importance of computer-based communication technologies, communication networ... more With the increasing importance of computer-based communication technologies, communication networks are becoming crucial in supply chain management. Given the objectives of the supply chain: to have the right products in the right quantities, at the right place, at the right moment and at minimal cost, supply chain management is situated at the intersection of different professional sectors. This is particularly the case in construction, since building needs for its fabrication the incorporation of a number of industrial products. This paper provides a review of the main approaches to supply chain communications as used mainly in manufacturing industries. The paper analyses the extent to which these have been applied to construction. It also reviews the on-going developments and research activities in this domain.

Research paper thumbnail of Product lifecycle optimisation of car climate controls using analytical hierarchical process (Ahp) analysis and a multi-objective grouping genetic algorithm (mogga)

© School of Engineering, Taylor’s University. A product’s lifecycle performance (e.g. assembly, o... more © School of Engineering, Taylor’s University. A product’s lifecycle performance (e.g. assembly, outsourcing, maintenance and recycling) can often be improved through modularity. However, modularisation under different and often conflicting lifecycle objectives is a complex problem that will ultimately require trade-offs. This paper presents a novel multi-objective modularity optimisation framework; the application of which is illustrated through the modularisation of a car climate control system. Central to the framework is a specially designed multi-objective grouping genetic algorithm (MOGGA) that is able to generate a whole range of alternative product modularisations. Scenario analysis, using the principles of the analytical hierarchical process (AHP), is then carried out to explore the solution set and choose a suitable modular architecture that optimises the product lifecycle according to the company’s strategic vision.

Research paper thumbnail of Cutting Tools in Finishing Operations for CNC Rapid Manufacturing Processes: Simulation Studies

Over the years, CNC machining has been widely used in producing metal parts with high accuracy an... more Over the years, CNC machining has been widely used in producing metal parts with high accuracy and reliable quality. A distinct process planning approach that utilizes an indexing device to hold the workpiece has extended CNC applications into the realm of rapid manufacturing (CNC-RM) processes. This study improves the implementation of this technology by providing a methodology for integrating the tools into finishing processes. It aims to enhance the process efficiency by minimizing the stair-casing effect of layer removal and so improve the quality of machined parts. In order to achieve this, finishing operations are executed using different types of end mill tools to cater for specific surfaces on parts. Several simulations are carried out to verify the method and implications. The present findings indicate the advantages of the developed approach in terms of cutting time and the minimisation of excess volumes left on parts. It is shown that using different cutters for finish cu...

Research paper thumbnail of Instructional factories and training courses: the inception and implementation of training courses for un-skilled and semi-skilled munitions workers during the great war

The Great War shell scandal of 1915 was as much to do with a lack of skilled workers as it was to... more The Great War shell scandal of 1915 was as much to do with a lack of skilled workers as it was to do with the early inability of the Munitions Industry to manufacture the war materials required by the war. The number of skilled workers had never been large and volunteering for the Army on a large scale had drastically reduced that pool. Attempts to avoid ‘dilution’, or the use of un-skilled and semi-skilled workers, particularly women, in the munitions industry in the early months of the Great War failed. The Volunteer Scheme was an initial disaster for the newly created Ministry of Munitions. Recalling skilled men from the Army failed in equal measure. The only way for the Ministry to plug the skills gap, was to bring in semi and un-skilled workers. In 1916/17 Technical Institutes like Loughborough and Aston began to run short training courses for workers.

Research paper thumbnail of Simulation of human movement and behaviour in crowded spaces using gaming software

This paper discusses the development of human movement and behaviour simulation in crowded spaces... more This paper discusses the development of human movement and behaviour simulation in crowded spaces as part of the AUNT-SUE (Accessibility and User Needs in Transport for Sustainable Urban Environments) research project. The research starts with applying a video observational method to understand human movement and behaviour in crowded spaces in the real world. Six hours of video were recorded at a multi-mode transportation system and almost 19,000 individual human movements and behaviours were analyzed. Six types of behaviour were derived from the three major movements of free, opposite and same direction. Six factors affecting human movement and behaviour were recognized from the video analysis. The DarkBASIC Professional gaming software was used to simulate the human movement and behaviour in the virtual world. The six factors affecting human movement and behaviour were considered as the parameters for the virtual humans. Case studies considering multi-mode transportation systems, ...

Research paper thumbnail of Human variability, task complexity and motivation contribution in manufacturing

This paper is a preliminary study of the human contribution to variability in manufacturing indus... more This paper is a preliminary study of the human contribution to variability in manufacturing industry and how motivation and learning play a key role in this contribution. The longer term aim is to incorporate this understanding in a methodology, using principles and guidelines, that aims to help in the design of intelligent automation that reduces product variability. This paper reports on the early stages that are concerned with understanding relationships between human-induced product variability, task complexity and human characteristics and capabilities. Two areas have been selected for initial study in manufacturing industry: (a) the relationship between manual task complexity and product variability and (b) the relationship between employee motivational factors and learning behaviours. The paper discusses the progress to date in conducting initial empirical studies and surveys in industry and draws tentative conclusions of the value of this knowledge to the overall objective o...

Research paper thumbnail of Digital human modelling over four decades

International Journal of the Digital Human, 2016

This paper aims to provide a retrospective of the use of a digital human modelling tool (SAMMIE) ... more This paper aims to provide a retrospective of the use of a digital human modelling tool (SAMMIE) that was perhaps the first usable tool and is still active today. Relationships between digital human modelling and inclusive design, engineering design and ergonomics practice are discussed using examples from design studies using SAMMIE and government-funded research. Important issues such as accuracy of representation and handling multivariate rather than univariate evaluations are discussed together with methods of use in terms of defining end product users and tasks. Consideration is given to the use of the digital human modelling approach by non-ergonomists particularly with respect to understanding of the impact of human variability, jurisdiction and communication issues.

Research paper thumbnail of Autonomous Vehicles in Developing Countries: A Case Study on User’s View Point in Pakistan

Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing, 2016

Technological advancements are continuously changing the human life. Like many other developments... more Technological advancements are continuously changing the human life. Like many other developments, autonomous vehicle system is attracting public interest and being widely discussed by all the stakeholders. Recent reports show that in future, autonomous vehicles or self-driving cars will be on roads in developed countries such as in UK and US. In this age of information technology, advancements made in developed countries not only move to the developing countries but also impact the opinions and lives of the people living in these countries. Therefore, there is a need to develop more effective strategies which can help the adaption of upcoming technologies in transport systems like autonomous vehicles. In this respect, user's perception becomes highly significant as this can help designers by providing them the information about real time issues and human observations. Up till now, no significant work has been carried out on exploring the user's perception about autonomous vehicles in developing countries like Pakistan. This study aims at capturing the user's view point about the use of autonomous vehicles which can provide relevant information on perceived benefits and challenges in user's perspective. An underlying objective is also to compare this perspective with developed countries like US, UK, and Australia etc. Findings of the study will help in assessing user's perceptions in terms of challenges, the level of awareness and understanding about autonomous vehicles. It will lead to shaping up the strategies to address the needs of users so that more viable and equally acceptable technological interventions can be made.

Research paper thumbnail of Supporting a Design Driven Approach to Social Inclusion and Accessibility in Transport

Social Inclusion, 2016

This paper presents research into the area of public transport and accessibility, addressing the ... more This paper presents research into the area of public transport and accessibility, addressing the support of practitioners in achieving socially inclusive solutions to the mobility issues of diverse populations. For decades, social policy has been underpinned by a stereotyping of populations into simplified sub groups: old, young, disabled, etc. and thus solutions often fail to properly address the richness of human variability. These shortcomings are often ‘managed’ through the ability for people to adapt, however, this is not a sustainable way in which to build a socially inclusive transport infrastructure. A software design tool called HADRIAN is presented. This tool provides a means to evaluate designs for their physical inclusiveness through the use of a virtual user group. This virtual user group is the embodiment of over 100 people that can be used to assess an existing or proposed design and to gain an understanding of what may be done to improve its accommodation. A case stu...

Research paper thumbnail of Development of adjustable foot corrective device for clubfoot treatment

pertanika journal of science and technology, 2017

Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) or clubfoot is a complex deformity of the foot that is char... more Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) or clubfoot is a complex deformity of the foot that is characterised by four main deformities; forefoot cavus and adductus, hindfoot varus and ankle equinus. Currently, the Ponseti method is the most general and recognized treatment with a high success rate of over 90%. The treatment involves gentle manipulation and serial casting. However, the casting method could create complications for the patients such as soft-tissue damage and inconvenience in following the treatment schedule especially for those living far away from hospital. The aim of this research is to develop an adjustable corrective device for clubfoot treatment based on the techniques in the Ponseti method and at the same time attempt to eliminate the side-effects. The prototype consists of six adjustable movements from six different mechanisms to correct the four deformities. The prototype was developed using 3D printing method and the main material used is polylactic acid (PLA), ...

Research paper thumbnail of Crowd simulation: a video observation and agent-based modelling approach

International Journal of the Digital Human, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of End mill tools integration in CNC machining for rapid manufacturing processes: simulation studies

Production & Manufacturing Research, 2015

Watts (2015) End mill tools integration in CNC machining for rapid manufacturing processes: simul... more Watts (2015) End mill tools integration in CNC machining for rapid manufacturing processes: simulation studies,

Research paper thumbnail of Using Mobile Information Sources to Increase Productivity and Quality

Advances in Human Factors and Ergonomics Series, 2010

This paper presents an experimental study made on the use of different kinds of information sourc... more This paper presents an experimental study made on the use of different kinds of information sources in manual assembly. The general idea is that only the necessary information should be presented to the worker and it should be presented where and when the worker needs it as this is believed to both save time and unload cognitive strain. To account for the latter two aspects of this thought, where and when, this paper investigates the use of a handheld unit as an information source in manual assembly. Having a mobile information system, such as a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), that can be carried with you at all times, as opposed to a stationary one, such as a computer terminal, is hypothesized to greatly improve productivity and quality. Experimental results show that the use of a PDA significantly improves quality whereas productivity does not significantly improve.

Research paper thumbnail of The Publishers and Editors of Computer-Aided Design wish to extend grateful thanks to the following referees, who provide an invaluable service by ensuring that the quality of the published papers remains of the highest standard. Their time and effort is much appreciated

Research paper thumbnail of The Publishers and Editors of Computer-Aided Design wish to extend grateful thanks to the following referees, who provide an invaluable service by ensuring that the quality of published papers remains of the highest standard. Their time and effort is most appreciated

Research paper thumbnail of A framework to integrate design knowledge reuse and requirements management in engineering design

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing, 2008

This paper presents a framework to integrate requirements management and design knowledge reuse. ... more This paper presents a framework to integrate requirements management and design knowledge reuse. The research approach begins with a literature review in design reuse and requirements management to identify appropriate methods within each domain. A framework is proposed based on the identified requirements. The framework is then demonstrated using a case study example: vacuum pump design. Requirements are presented as a component of the integrated design knowledge framework. The proposed framework enables the application of requirements management as a dynamic process, including capture, analysis and recording of requirements. It takes account of the evolving requirements and the dynamic nature of the interaction between requirements and product structure through the various stages of product development.

Research paper thumbnail of Incorporating Cognitive Aspects in Digital Human Modeling

Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 2009

To build software which, at the press of a button, can tell you what cognition related hazards th... more To build software which, at the press of a button, can tell you what cognition related hazards there are within an environment or a task, is probably well into the future if it is possible at all. However, incorporating existing tools such as task analysis tools, interface design guidelines and information about general cognitive limitations in humans, could allow for greater evaluative options for cognitive ergonomics. The paper will discuss previous approaches on the subject and suggest adding design and evaluative guiding in DHM that will help a user with little to no knowledge of cognitive science, design and evaluate a human-product interaction scenario.

Research paper thumbnail of Using Ergonomic Risk Assessment Methods for Designing Inclusive Work Practices: A Case Study

Human Factors and Ergonomics in Manufacturing & Service Industries, 2016

In common with many industries, manufacturing faces the challenge of effective management of a di... more In common with many industries, manufacturing faces the challenge of effective management of a diverse workforce. Humans differ greatly but traditional manufacturing work practices do not take into account human variability issues during the work design process. Variations in individual and organizational work performance due to many individual factors such as age, gender, level of skill, experience and background bring performance inconsistencies. This research investigates the effects of individual skill on work performance in general, and workplace safety and human well-being in particular. A research framework is proposed for highlighting major differences in work performing strategies, their potential impact on work performance and how these findings can be used for designing more inclusive work practices. A case study has been presented where ergonomics risk assessment methods have been used to validate the usefulness of this framework. It is also concluded that skill has a strong relationship with the level of risk attached to various task performing strategies.

Research paper thumbnail of Inclusive design drivers and barriers – a manufacturing perspective from Pakistan

Production & Manufacturing Research, 2015

The demographics of older people and people with disabilities in developing countries are discuss... more The demographics of older people and people with disabilities in developing countries are discussed in the context of inclusive design and the drivers and barriers to inclusive design have been identified. Data were collected from 50 individuals from various industrial sectors in Pakistan. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) relates to inclusive aspects of products, but most respondents either did not know about CSR or did not have a CSR post in their organizations, but 64% had awareness of inclusive design terminology. The study concluded that motivation through social responsibility; innovation and differentiation; demographics and consumer trends; brand enhancement; customer satisfaction; new market opportunity; and legislation were the perceived drivers for manufacturers in Pakistan. Most respondents felt that lack of resources and guidance, lack of awareness about inclusive design, difficulty in changing the business culture, lack of government regulations, and the perception that inclusive design is expensive were the most significant barriers.

Research paper thumbnail of Digital Human Modelling and the Ageing Workforce

Procedia Manufacturing, 2015

Digital human modelling (DHM) has often focused on user populations that could be characterised a... more Digital human modelling (DHM) has often focused on user populations that could be characterised as able-bodied and in the working age group. It is clear however that demographic changes are resulting in older populations in developed countries but this is also becoming increasingly true even in developing countries. The economic pressures of increased life expectancy are resulting in demands for workers to remain in employment well past what would previously have been considered a normal retirement age. In many countries legislation is increasing retirement ages for entitlement to state pensions, and enforceable retirement ages are being outlawed. As a consequence older working populations can be expected. Age in the workforce has many positive aspects including increased experience, wisdom, loyalty and motivation, but an inevitable consequence of ageing is negative effects such as the loss of capabilities in strength, mobility, vision and hearing. The challenge of including older workers is recognised as an important aspect of Inclusive Design and DHM is recognised as a potentially useful method for its implementation. Today's highly demanding and competitive working environments require the highest levels of productivity from individuals so that overall operational and business objectives can be achieved. DHM-based workplace risk assessment methods have successfully been used to improve working environments by conducting virtual posture based ergonomic risk analysis. Older workers are significantly different from younger workers in terms of their physical, physiological and cognitive capabilities and these capabilities directly or indirectly affect human work performance. This article suggests the use of human capability data in a virtual environment to explore the level of acceptability of a working strategy based on real capability data (joint mobility in this case) of older workers. A case study shows that the proposed DHM-based inclusive design method is useful recommending working strategies that are acceptable for older workers in terms of work productivity, well-being and safety.

Research paper thumbnail of A review of approaches to supply chain communications: from manufacturing to construction

J. Inf. Technol. Constr., 2007

With the increasing importance of computer-based communication technologies, communication networ... more With the increasing importance of computer-based communication technologies, communication networks are becoming crucial in supply chain management. Given the objectives of the supply chain: to have the right products in the right quantities, at the right place, at the right moment and at minimal cost, supply chain management is situated at the intersection of different professional sectors. This is particularly the case in construction, since building needs for its fabrication the incorporation of a number of industrial products. This paper provides a review of the main approaches to supply chain communications as used mainly in manufacturing industries. The paper analyses the extent to which these have been applied to construction. It also reviews the on-going developments and research activities in this domain.

Research paper thumbnail of Product lifecycle optimisation of car climate controls using analytical hierarchical process (Ahp) analysis and a multi-objective grouping genetic algorithm (mogga)

© School of Engineering, Taylor’s University. A product’s lifecycle performance (e.g. assembly, o... more © School of Engineering, Taylor’s University. A product’s lifecycle performance (e.g. assembly, outsourcing, maintenance and recycling) can often be improved through modularity. However, modularisation under different and often conflicting lifecycle objectives is a complex problem that will ultimately require trade-offs. This paper presents a novel multi-objective modularity optimisation framework; the application of which is illustrated through the modularisation of a car climate control system. Central to the framework is a specially designed multi-objective grouping genetic algorithm (MOGGA) that is able to generate a whole range of alternative product modularisations. Scenario analysis, using the principles of the analytical hierarchical process (AHP), is then carried out to explore the solution set and choose a suitable modular architecture that optimises the product lifecycle according to the company’s strategic vision.

Research paper thumbnail of Cutting Tools in Finishing Operations for CNC Rapid Manufacturing Processes: Simulation Studies

Over the years, CNC machining has been widely used in producing metal parts with high accuracy an... more Over the years, CNC machining has been widely used in producing metal parts with high accuracy and reliable quality. A distinct process planning approach that utilizes an indexing device to hold the workpiece has extended CNC applications into the realm of rapid manufacturing (CNC-RM) processes. This study improves the implementation of this technology by providing a methodology for integrating the tools into finishing processes. It aims to enhance the process efficiency by minimizing the stair-casing effect of layer removal and so improve the quality of machined parts. In order to achieve this, finishing operations are executed using different types of end mill tools to cater for specific surfaces on parts. Several simulations are carried out to verify the method and implications. The present findings indicate the advantages of the developed approach in terms of cutting time and the minimisation of excess volumes left on parts. It is shown that using different cutters for finish cu...

Research paper thumbnail of Instructional factories and training courses: the inception and implementation of training courses for un-skilled and semi-skilled munitions workers during the great war

The Great War shell scandal of 1915 was as much to do with a lack of skilled workers as it was to... more The Great War shell scandal of 1915 was as much to do with a lack of skilled workers as it was to do with the early inability of the Munitions Industry to manufacture the war materials required by the war. The number of skilled workers had never been large and volunteering for the Army on a large scale had drastically reduced that pool. Attempts to avoid ‘dilution’, or the use of un-skilled and semi-skilled workers, particularly women, in the munitions industry in the early months of the Great War failed. The Volunteer Scheme was an initial disaster for the newly created Ministry of Munitions. Recalling skilled men from the Army failed in equal measure. The only way for the Ministry to plug the skills gap, was to bring in semi and un-skilled workers. In 1916/17 Technical Institutes like Loughborough and Aston began to run short training courses for workers.

Research paper thumbnail of Simulation of human movement and behaviour in crowded spaces using gaming software

This paper discusses the development of human movement and behaviour simulation in crowded spaces... more This paper discusses the development of human movement and behaviour simulation in crowded spaces as part of the AUNT-SUE (Accessibility and User Needs in Transport for Sustainable Urban Environments) research project. The research starts with applying a video observational method to understand human movement and behaviour in crowded spaces in the real world. Six hours of video were recorded at a multi-mode transportation system and almost 19,000 individual human movements and behaviours were analyzed. Six types of behaviour were derived from the three major movements of free, opposite and same direction. Six factors affecting human movement and behaviour were recognized from the video analysis. The DarkBASIC Professional gaming software was used to simulate the human movement and behaviour in the virtual world. The six factors affecting human movement and behaviour were considered as the parameters for the virtual humans. Case studies considering multi-mode transportation systems, ...

Research paper thumbnail of Human variability, task complexity and motivation contribution in manufacturing

This paper is a preliminary study of the human contribution to variability in manufacturing indus... more This paper is a preliminary study of the human contribution to variability in manufacturing industry and how motivation and learning play a key role in this contribution. The longer term aim is to incorporate this understanding in a methodology, using principles and guidelines, that aims to help in the design of intelligent automation that reduces product variability. This paper reports on the early stages that are concerned with understanding relationships between human-induced product variability, task complexity and human characteristics and capabilities. Two areas have been selected for initial study in manufacturing industry: (a) the relationship between manual task complexity and product variability and (b) the relationship between employee motivational factors and learning behaviours. The paper discusses the progress to date in conducting initial empirical studies and surveys in industry and draws tentative conclusions of the value of this knowledge to the overall objective o...

Research paper thumbnail of Digital human modelling over four decades

International Journal of the Digital Human, 2016

This paper aims to provide a retrospective of the use of a digital human modelling tool (SAMMIE) ... more This paper aims to provide a retrospective of the use of a digital human modelling tool (SAMMIE) that was perhaps the first usable tool and is still active today. Relationships between digital human modelling and inclusive design, engineering design and ergonomics practice are discussed using examples from design studies using SAMMIE and government-funded research. Important issues such as accuracy of representation and handling multivariate rather than univariate evaluations are discussed together with methods of use in terms of defining end product users and tasks. Consideration is given to the use of the digital human modelling approach by non-ergonomists particularly with respect to understanding of the impact of human variability, jurisdiction and communication issues.

Research paper thumbnail of Autonomous Vehicles in Developing Countries: A Case Study on User’s View Point in Pakistan

Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing, 2016

Technological advancements are continuously changing the human life. Like many other developments... more Technological advancements are continuously changing the human life. Like many other developments, autonomous vehicle system is attracting public interest and being widely discussed by all the stakeholders. Recent reports show that in future, autonomous vehicles or self-driving cars will be on roads in developed countries such as in UK and US. In this age of information technology, advancements made in developed countries not only move to the developing countries but also impact the opinions and lives of the people living in these countries. Therefore, there is a need to develop more effective strategies which can help the adaption of upcoming technologies in transport systems like autonomous vehicles. In this respect, user's perception becomes highly significant as this can help designers by providing them the information about real time issues and human observations. Up till now, no significant work has been carried out on exploring the user's perception about autonomous vehicles in developing countries like Pakistan. This study aims at capturing the user's view point about the use of autonomous vehicles which can provide relevant information on perceived benefits and challenges in user's perspective. An underlying objective is also to compare this perspective with developed countries like US, UK, and Australia etc. Findings of the study will help in assessing user's perceptions in terms of challenges, the level of awareness and understanding about autonomous vehicles. It will lead to shaping up the strategies to address the needs of users so that more viable and equally acceptable technological interventions can be made.

Research paper thumbnail of Supporting a Design Driven Approach to Social Inclusion and Accessibility in Transport

Social Inclusion, 2016

This paper presents research into the area of public transport and accessibility, addressing the ... more This paper presents research into the area of public transport and accessibility, addressing the support of practitioners in achieving socially inclusive solutions to the mobility issues of diverse populations. For decades, social policy has been underpinned by a stereotyping of populations into simplified sub groups: old, young, disabled, etc. and thus solutions often fail to properly address the richness of human variability. These shortcomings are often ‘managed’ through the ability for people to adapt, however, this is not a sustainable way in which to build a socially inclusive transport infrastructure. A software design tool called HADRIAN is presented. This tool provides a means to evaluate designs for their physical inclusiveness through the use of a virtual user group. This virtual user group is the embodiment of over 100 people that can be used to assess an existing or proposed design and to gain an understanding of what may be done to improve its accommodation. A case stu...