5975 research outputs found
Sort by
An investigation of a scalable flight control system for a variable pitch, fuel powered, quad-rotor craft
Get PDFSubmitted in the fulfillment of requirements of the degree of Master of Mechanical Engineering, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2023.Quadrotor platforms continue to face scalability issues that can be linked to factors such as
energy density of polymer battery power sources and the limited efficiency of their fixed pitch
propulsion systems.
This study employs a dual-method analysis, integrating both experimental and theoretical
approaches, to explore the trade-offs between endurance and payload capacity in a quadrotor
equipped with a scalable variable pitch rotor system. By applying this development framework,
the key objective of this work is to broaden the scope of feasible mission profiles by clarifying
the inherent constraints and compromises between endurance and payload capacity and
illuminating factors contributing to efficiency.
In this pursuit, the first main aspect focused on empirically validating various rotor geometries
using test bench system. Data collected is analysed using the computational tool MATLAB,
whereas XFOIL simulates airfoil lift and drag characteristics. Rotor performance is then
characterised through comparative analysis between experimental data and theoretical
predictions made by the Blade Element Momentum Theory (BEMT) rotor model. From
comparisons it was found that the BEMT model performance and behaviour remained
consistent at varying rotor geometry scales and correlated well with empirical thrust results. It
was also found that approximations for power output levels were marginally overestimated at
high blade pitch angles – the possible causes of which are further explored in an article
published in parallel to this work. [1]
The 6-DOF (degrees of freedom) nature of quadrotors in a dynamic environment is then
explored using Simulink wherein a flight control system (FCS) architecture is formulated by
integrating control laws with a BEMT rotor model. Comparative performance evaluations
focusing on dynamic behaviour, thrust generation, and power efficiency are then realised by
subjecting a standardised quadrotor airframe with varying rotor geometry and payload
capacities to an idealized climb-to-hover (C2H) trajectory.
From comparisons of simulation tests, it was significant to find that varying rotor geometry and
payloads yielded highly contrasting dynamic behaviours and efficiency performance in terms
of thrust generation and power demands. Simulation data also indicated that the B04 rotor
configuration was the most energy efficient and enabled superior climb rates and accelerations.
By employing figures for simulated hovering power demands, abstracted endurance times are shown to be greatly affected by the energy density and payload constraints between chemical
battery systems and carbon fuels. Comparative analysis of rotor performance also revealed that
the choice of hardware configuration may necessitate prioritising durability and responsiveness
over efficiency. Moreover, mission profiles optimised for high dynamic responsiveness must
ensure that FCS sensitivity does not exceed the strength constraints of mechanical subsystems
or airframe structure.
Collectively, this work successfully established a robust framework for future research and
early-stage development of scalable quadrotor platforms can be achieved by integrating
variable pitch rotor systems with modularized quadrotor control system architectures. This
framework provided key insights into improving quadrotor performance and efficiency,
particularly through scalable rotor geometry and payload capacity.
Information and communication technology as a blended-learning tool for sustainable development for university students
Get PDFThe integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as a blended-learning tool
into traditional classroom-based teaching and learning has been shown to improve students'
academic performance at globe and is essential to economic development. These claims were
investigated in a sample of undergraduate students at the faculty of Education, University of
Ibadan, Nigeria. Based on the goals of the research, a purposeful sample of students was chosen.
It used a mixed-method survey design. A total of 117 students completed the online survey
(quantitative component); while a focus group interview with 4 students (qualitative component)
was conducted. The findings showed significant barriers to, and affordances of, the use of ICT as
a blended-learning tool. In addition, the study discusses student access to ICT devices and internet
facilities on campus, student proficiency in using these devices and facilities, and the impact these
have on students’ academic activities. Finally, conclusions and recommendations are discussed in
the context of graduate career opportunities and national economic sustainable developmen
The importance of systemic support for student-driven social media learning on campus in Nigerian universities
Get PDFThe use of social media during the COVID-19 pandemic has emerged as a critical factor for
academic continuity on university campuses globally. This paper reviews the use of social
media as a learning tool among a undergraduates sample of students from selected Nigerian
universities during this pandemic challenges period. A set of online survey Google forms was
self-designed and used to explore how undergraduate students learn and concentrates on their
academic activities during this pandemic. A sample size of 450 was purposively selected from
the three universities, but only 153 online survey responses were valid for the data analysis.
Descriptive statistics of frequency, mean and standard deviation were used in analysing
demographic variables and research questions. The research findings indicated that students
were ready for the new change to digital learning with their academic performance. Researchers
recommended that both the academic community and government should support building
resilient social media networks on campus among students and lecturers, including skills
development and ready access to devices and the internet
Exploring the factors contributing to low women participation in the KwaZulu-Natal film industry
Get PDFGlobally, there is a stark gender imbalance in the film industry, and this is true for the KwaZulu-Natal film industry. There is an underrepresentation of women in production and executive positions, suggesting barriers to entry that discourage women from pursuing a lucrative career in the film industry. A quantitative research approach and an online structured questionnaire were used as a guide to investigate the causes of the low representation of women in the KZN film industry. The target population for this study was 34 women in the film sector. This study offers valuable insight regarding the status of women's participation in the KZN film industry and the challenges they face in this sector. The results suggest that investors prefer males in the industry and the barriers to entry are favorable to those with financial muscle and connections which has limited women's participation in the industry. Common themes included lack of support, lack of long-term opportunities, lack of funding and limited resources, lack of strong women narratives in the film roles, nepotism, lack of connections, and sexual harassment. This study recommends that there is a need for the industry to foster more female-targeted local and international internship programs and the provision of mentorship programs that pair experienced female professionals with aspiring women in the film industry. Furthermore, there is an urgent need for the establishment of labor unions and policy formulation in the film industry to deal with issues of transformation, inclusivity, diversity, safety of women, and equality.</jats:p
The effect of interest rates on credit access for small and medium-sized enterprises : a South African perspective
Get PDFThis study investigates the effect of interest rates on credit access for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. The study employs a quantitative research design, using data collected from 200 SMEs in South Africa. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis, and multiple regression analysis. An inverse relationship between interest rate and credit accessibility was found using the Pearson correlation coefficient (r = –.199, p < 0.05). The results show that interest rates have a significant negative effect on credit access for SMEs in South Africa. Moreover, the study finds that SMEs experience considerable obstacles in obtaining affordable credit, and that interest rates play a crucial role in this. The study recommends that policymakers in South Africa should consider reducing interest rates and relaxing collateral requirements to improve credit access in SMEs. Furthermore, the study suggests that SMEs should focus on building a good credit history to improve their creditworthiness and increase their chances of accessing credit. Overall, the findings of this study contribute to the existing literature on the effect of interest rates on credit access for SMEs and provide insights for policymakers and SME owners in South Africa
Monetary access and survival of small and medium-sized enterprises in South Africa post-COVID-19 era
Get PDFThe COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to the survival of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa, particularly in accessing necessary funding for their daily operations. This study aimed to assess the relationship between monetary access and survival of SMEs in South Africa in the post-COVID-19 era. Quantitative methods were employed to collect data from a sample of 321 SMEs in South Africa, selected through purposive technique. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS, with linear regression and Pearson’s correlation analysis determining the impact of independent factors on the dependent variable. The findings revealed a notable positive correlation between monetary access and the survival of SMEs in the post-COVID-19 era. Specifically, increased access to financial resources was associated with improved survival rates for SMEs. Furthermore, limited financial access hindered the range of services SMEs could provide and restricted their overall performance. These findings emphasize the critical importance of policymakers regularly evaluating and revising their policy actions to address the challenges SMEs face in accessing finances. By adopting effective measures to enhance monetary access for SMEs, policymakers can support their survival and enable them to thrive in the post-COVID-19 era. Finally, this study underscores the significance of monetary access for SMEs’ survival in South Africa following the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the need for policy interventions that alleviate SMEs’ difficulties in obtaining funding, enabling them to contribute significantly to economic growth and development.</jats:p
The provision of access to electronic information by staff in Kwazulu-Natal Department of Health libraries in the digital transformation era
Get PDFSubmitted in fulfillment of the requirements of the Master of Management Science in Library and Information Studies Degree, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.This study investigated the provision of staff digital access to information in KwazuluNatal Department of Health (KZN DOH) libraries. The current state of access to information was determined, challenges encountered were identified, systems and technologies used for the provision of access to information were assessed, the level of digital skills for staff members in accessing digital information was examined, and strategies for optimising the utilization of electronic information resources were discovered. National Health Digital Strategy of South Africa (2019 – 2024) emphasis on leveraging technology for better health outcomes aligns seamlessly with the health libraries' mission to provide timely and accurate health information. The goal is to create a seamless digital environment where health professionals, students, and researchers can easily access and utilise various health information resources. Digitisation in libraries is part of technological advancements of the twenty-first century that help to manage information securely and enable efficient retrieval and timeous dissemination. This study adopted interpretivist research paradigm. Qualitative research methodology was used for this study, with phenomenology as the research design. The target population for this study were student nurses, nurses, doctors, lecturers, and librarians from the thirteen (13) hospitals and nursing campus libraries in KwaZulu Natal. Non-probability, judgement, or purposive sampling was adopted, and according to Pathak (2015), it is the best sampling method for a phenomenological study. The sampling frame for this study consisted of student doctors, doctors, student nurses, librarians, lecturers, and other health staff. The study utilised a sample of 73 available and accessible participants across ten hospitals and nursing colleges with digital library resources. Data collection from the recruited participants included interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted to gather participants’ background data and information on library usage. Focus group discussions were utilised to generate discussion among the diverse participants, including student nurses, lecturers, nurses, and doctors. Phenomenological reduction was used for dimension reduction during data analysis. From the librarians' perspective, budgetary technological constraints and the need for improved digital literacy among patrons are significant concerns. In response, librarians have implemented various strategies, including enhancing digital access, providing training, and introducing innovative solutions. Conversely, patrons express satisfaction with the library staff but desire improved network reliability, access to online resources, extended library hours, and further digital literacy training. As the document analysis highlights, the legislative and strategic frameworks provide a roadmap for libraries to align their services with national health objectives and embrace digital transformation. The study recommended enhancing digital infrastructure, improving digital literacy, and adopting innovative technologies to effectively transition to digital information access. The study recommends reducing the digital gap and increasing digital awareness through investment in digital skills among patrons and providing digital tools.
A framework for supporting technological innovation by manufacturing small and medium enterprises in KZN
Get PDFSubmitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Business and Information Management, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.Unemployment is an ongoing phenomenon in every country. It is rapidly increasing, which leads to a decline in the economy and other societal problems. This is particularly evident in developing countries such as South Africa, where the unemployment rate is 32.9%. The South African government has identified small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as a key aspect of its strategy to reduce unemployment rates and to realise the vision outlined in the National Development Plan 2030. SMEs are major job creators and contribute significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP) of South Africa. They account for the majority of employment opportunities in the country, especially in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services. SMEs also support economic growth through their capacity for innovation and swift market adaptation. They are ideal for generating innovative ideas due to their pioneering role in adopting new technologies and are particularly adept at identifying gaps in the market which could be addressed through innovative solutions. There are ongoing debates about the uptake of technology by SMEs in African countries, including South Africa. Some scholars argue that manufacturing SMEs in South Africa have been hesitant to adopt modern technologies, which has hindered their growth and their ability to reach full potential. However, there are counterarguments that provide a more nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities for technology adoption among manufacturing SMEs in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. One significant issue is SME owners' inability to fully grasp the complexity of information and communications technology (ICT), which has a negative impact on their decision to adopt ICT. Furthermore, government regulations and compliance requirements have been a crucial factor affecting the viability and growth of manufacturing SMEs. Without a comprehensive understanding of ICT, SMEs find it challenging to make informed decisions about their investments in this field. Critically evaluating the use of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies as a way of improving success rates amongst manufacturing SMEs in KZN will enable the development of a framework which can provide practical guidance for the adoption of 4IR technologies by manufacturing SMEs in KZN. The objectives of this study are supported by a pragmatic methodology, which considerably expands the area of the investigation. 384 manufacturing SMEs in KZN are the target population for this study, and approaches for identification and selection of the sample size include convenience and purposive sampling. The study utilises both primary and secondary research. Interviews and questionnaires are utilised as data collection instruments. The review of literature and relevant theories such as the technology acceptance model (TAM), the technology-organisation-environment (TOE) framework, dynamic capability theory (DCT), the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), task-technology fit, process virtualisation, and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) assist in identifying and addressing potential barriers that may arise during the technology adoption process, such as cost, skills, resistance to change, and compatibility with existing systems. The primary results of this study demonstrate that digital competencies and thorough ICT knowledge are lacking in manufacturing SMEs in KZN. In addition, ICT adoption and usage in manufacturing SMEs in KZN is significantly low, which diminishes the potential of ICT as a long-term strategy. This is evident in the investigation of several factors relating to the acceptance and use of ICT by manufacturing SMEs as a longterm tool for business success. The findings of this study also suggest that manufacturing SMEs do not have the capacity to identify and implement appropriate and adequate ICTs as a sustainable strategy to improve their business viability. Based on the key findings, the study recommends that manufacturing SMEs prioritise digital literacy, which will enhance their comprehension of the potential benefits of ICT adoption. Consultation with IT professionals is recommended as a valuable means for SME owners to obtain reliable guidance and to discuss the complexities of ICT. The government should consider creating platforms to enable SMEs to express objections to regulations, contribute to amendments, and provide insight into the impact of legislation on their business.
The epidemiology of low back pain in construction workers in the eThekwini Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal
No full textThis work is submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Master’s degree in Health Sciences: Chiropractic, at the Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.Background
Low back pain (LBP) is a significant musculoskeletal disorder and a major
occupational health concern globally. In developing countries, occupational LBP
remains a major public health crisis, with high levels of LBP reported, resulting in
high levels of absenteeism, disability, and a loss of productivity. Construction
workers are involved in one of the most physically demanding occupations, making
them exceedingly susceptible to LBP. They are also exposed to a variety of
demographic, lifestyle, and occupational risk factors that may further predispose
them to LBP. In South Africa, research on LBP amongst construction workers is
currently lacking. The aim of this study was, therefore, to determine the
epidemiology of LBP in construction workers in the eThekwini Municipality of
KwaZulu-Natal.
Methodology
This study adopted a cross-sectional survey design. Participants were recruited from
the two largest construction companies in the eThekwini Municipality. A sample size
of 256 construction workers was used and questionnaires were provided to the
participants at their respective companies. The questionnaire was divided into four
sections, namely demographic factors, lifestyle factors, occupational factors, and
LBP history. IBM SPSS version 28 was used to analyse the data. Descriptive
statistics, such as mean, standard deviation and range, were used to summarise
continuous data. Frequency counts and percentages were used to summarise
categorical data. Risk factors for LBP were assessed for those who reported LBP.
Pearson’s chi-square tests or Fisher’s exact tests were deemed as appropriate and
were used to assess categorical factors, while t-tests were used to assess mean
differences for continuous variables. A p-value of <0.05 was used to indicate
statistical significance.
Results
A total of 256 construction workers in the eThekwini Municipality were investigated
in this study. The mean age of the male participants was 34.2 ± 9.2 years, while the
female participants were 37.5 ± 8.1 years. The mean BMI of the men was calculated
as 24.1 ± 3.9 kg/m2 and for the women it was 32.0 ± 10.1 kg/m2. The females had a mean weight of 78.7 ± 18.7kg and the men had a mean weight of 69.8 ± 9.9 kg. The
males had a mean height of 1.7 ± 0.1kg and the females had a mean weight of 1.6
± 0.1 kg. The point and period prevalences were 16.8% (n=43) and 26.2% (n=67)
respectively. The study reported that 54.3% of the participants experienced LBP on
both sides of the lumbar spine, 43.2% experienced it daily, and 48.1% had mild pain.
Factors such as height (p=0.507), weight (p=0.657), and BMI (p=0.657) were not
significantly associated with LBP. It was noted that age (n=81; p=0.124) was
marginally non-significantly higher in those with LBP. No association between LBP
and sex was noted (p=0.517) and LBP was equally likely in men and women (31%
in men and 37.5% in women). A longer duration of smoking (p=0.015), a higher
number of cigarettes smoked per day (p=0.047), the presence of work-related stress
(p=<0.001), personal stress, or both, were significantly associated with LBP. The
general workers (43.2%; n=16), followed by the erectors (33.3%; n=6), were most
likely to have LBP. The most frequently used treatment was getting advice from a
general practitioner, 56.7% (n=17), followed by self-medication, 30% (n=9).
Conclusion
LBP continues to be a major health burden on construction workers, impacting their
daily activities and causing disability. The prevalence of LBP reported in the study
was similar to some of the previous studies, whilst it varied from others.
Notwithstanding this, LBP in construction workers is a concern requiring urgent
attention. A joint intervention strategy between health professionals and the
construction industry is required. This will reduce absenteeism, stress, decreased
productivity, and activity limitations.
An exploration into the utilization of vitamins and minerals by chiropractors in the management of musculoskeletal conditions in runners
No full textA dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Master’s degree of Technology in Chiropractic at the Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.Background
Chiropractors are primary healthcare providers who provide a holistic form of healthcare for
the treatment and management of neuromusculoskeletal disorders. The South African
chiropractic scope of practice includes dietary advice or supplement recommendations in
adjunct to other treatment options when managing a patient. Chiropractors treat a variety
of runners of diverse levels, ages, genders and who participate in various domains of
running. Runners are at a high risk of developing musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, with
numerous risk factors identified in literature. Musculoskeletal conditions may have a
negative impact on a runner’s recovery, performance, quality of life, psychosocial wellbeing
and cause financial burdens. Chiropractic treatment is often used to manage MSK
conditions in runners but it is unknown what role the utilisation of vitamins and minerals may
have in the management of conditions in runners. The utilisation of vitamins and minerals
by chiropractors when managing runners has not been investigated; thus, it is unknown
how chiropractors prescribe, dispense, or provide nutritional education to runners. The type
of supplement recommended for certain conditions in runners remains unknown and the
influence that supplementation may have in the management of runners is also unknown.
The benefits of understanding supplement utilisation methods by chiropractors will assist
the profession in the prevention, treatment and management of MSK conditions in runners.
Improved treatment outcomes will assist runners’ recovery, performance and injury rates
and promote beneficial outcomes in the chiropractic profession.
Aim of the study
The study aims to explore the utilisation of vitamins and minerals by chiropractors in the
management of MSK conditions in runners.
Methodology
The study employed a qualitative, exploratory descriptive design to investigate how
chiropractors utilise vitamins and minerals in the management of MSK conditions in runners.
Interviews were conducted with 15 South African chiropractors, guided by predetermined
open-ended questions in a semi-structured manner. The participants needed to be
registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA), practicing
for a minimum of three years, regularly treat runners, and recommend nutritional
supplements to runners. The research questions asked chiropractors how they utilise vitamins and minerals when they manage MSK conditions in runners; what type of
supplements they advise; for what conditions do they advise supplements; and if
supplementation had an influence in the management of runners. The data were analysed
to identify themes and sub-themes, using Tesch’s method of data analysis.
Results
From the data, four main themes with their associated sub-themes emerged. The themes
described the active utilisation of nutritional supplements by chiropractors for runners. Sub
themes described the factors and reasoning for the recommendation of supplements to
runners by the chiropractors. Furthermore, supplement recommendations were identified
for both MSK and non-MSK conditions in runners. The data revealed the type of
supplements which the chiropractors recommended for certain conditions in the runners. A
positive influence of supplementation in runners was reported by the chiropractors. The
sub-themes described improvements in the treatment outcomes after supplementation,
improved recovery and performance of the runner, and decreased injury rates. A theme of
holistic management of runners by chiropractors emerged, which included the use of dietary
advice, monitoring of supplementation and interdisciplinary care of the runner when
necessary.
Conclusion
This study determined how chiropractors selected, prescribed and dispensed nutritional
supplements to runners. This study revealed which nutritional supplements the
chiropractors recommended to runners and for certain MSK and non-MSK conditions, as
well as the influence of supplementation in runners. As previous literature has not
investigated the recommendation of supplements by chiropractors in runners, this study
generated new information to fill a gap in the literature.