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Future-Proofing Design: How THEi Uses AI to Enhance Product Design Education
Get PDFAI has the potential to revolutionise the way students in product design programmes learn and future-proof their skills. The BA(Hons) Product Design Programme at THEi offers cutting-edge content to help students become work-ready and future-proof. Its new future-proofing foci integrate areas such as augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) design, design for additive manufacturing (3D printing), UX/UI design, design for health and wellness, cross-disciplinary design, human-AI collaboration, and design for the circular economy. The team is exploring how AI may help deliver this future-proofing knowledge and skills to students in a learner-centred way. Students who become skilled in additive manufacturing will be highly valuable as 3D printing technologies become more accessible, and AI can cut hours of 3D model building time by converting images and sketches into 3D printable files. UX/UI design is critical for digital products and services, and students can use AI to analyse user behaviour and preferences, helping break down complex interactions into smaller manageable sections. We focus on design for health and wellness as an emerging design need especially with rapidly aging populations globally, and AI can help analyse and predict user health and wellness needs, giving greater insight into specific users where access to them may be difficult to arrange. As industries become more complex, cross-disciplinary collaboration is becoming more important, and AI can help students collaborate with students from other fields by giving them insights into priorities and reasonings behind their approaches and decisions, aiding conflict resolution and creation of common goals. Students constantly seek new ways to improve their design ability, and AI image generators offer a valuable tool that allows them to create high-quality, realistic images of their products in a fraction of the time it would take to produce manually, explore and iterate on different design options, and create realistic prototypes of products, all while maintaining a focus on the human-centric aspects of their work through collaboration with AI. In the area of sustainability, AI can provide tools that analyse and optimise designs for recyclability, repairability, and reusability, helping students design for the circular economy. In conclusion, AI tools and resources are helping enable students in product design programmes to develop the skills needed for emerging design trends and technologies, delivering future-proofing learning
Analysing the Effectiveness of a Generative Adversarial Network Model for the Creation of New Datasets of 3D Human Body and Garment Sizes in the Clothing Industry
Get PDFApparel designers and manufacturers are now using virtual garment simulation technology to evaluate 3D prototypes in virtual environments, which reduces thewaste of raw materials in the sampling process. With the immediate visualization of the 3D prototypes, designers and manufacturers can communicate with each other to adjust the virtual garments seamlessly, and thereby the production process has become simplified using simulation technologies. Nevertheless, there are several limitations to the current practice. Apparel companies do not have a universal sizing standard, which leads to problems because customers need to identify their sizes in different stores, and a high return rate is expected in this case. Additionally, the psychological preferences of the wearers are not taken into account when evaluating fit. Production teams in apparel companies are only concerned with the physical fit of their targeted customer groups; they neglect the actual will of a specific customer. For example, some may like to wear oversized garments, and a just-fit size is not what they want. It is valuable to find a method to adapt the psychographic orientations of the customers to the design and production process of a garment. Therefore, we had proposed our method for developing a virtual garment fitting prediction model to predict the garment pattern parameters with anthropometric data and psychographic orientations of subjects, and previous work had proven that the prediction model has high accuracy and stability. Nevertheless, a limitation was found in that the subject data was difficult to obtain. It would be advantageous if there were more data to test in the prediction model. Thus, this study proposes the build of generative adversarial network (GAN) models to generate new body dimension data and garment parameter data. The new datasets produced by the GAN models would be favourable for an improvement in the virtual garment fitting prediction model with more training and testing data to be processed. Moreover, the synthetic datasets can be employed by designers to do research in their garment evaluation process since they have more data on similar body dimensions and preferred garment sizes to assess. A more comprehensive appraisal of the garment fit can be attained by this approach, which accelerates the design process in the apparel production stage
Quantitative analysis and risk assessment to full-size microplastics pollution in the coastal marine waters of Hong Kong
Get PDFGiven the potential risk to the ecosystem, attention has increased in recent decades to the contamination of the aquatic environment by microplastics (MPs). Due to the limitations of conventional analysis methods of MPs, little is known about the size distribution and abundance of a full-size MPs from 1 μm to 5 mm. The present study quantified MPs with size ranges of 50 μm – 5 mm and 1–50 μm in the coastal marine waters from twelve locations in Hong Kong using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry respectively, during the end of wet (September 2021) and dry (March 2022) seasons. The average abundance of MPs with size ranges of 50 μm – 5 mm and 1–50 μm fromtwelve sampling locations marine surface waters were found ranging from 27 to 104 particles L−1 and 43,675–387,901 particles L−1 in the wet season respectively, and 13–36 particles L−1 and 23,178–338,604 particles L−1 in the dry season respectively. Significant temporal and spatial variations of small MPs abundance might be observed at the sampling locations, which were contributed by the influences of the estuary of Pearl River, sewage discharge points, land structure, and other anthropogenic activities. Based on theMPs abundance information, ecological risk assessmentwas conducted and revealed that the smallMPs (\u3c 10 μm) in coastal marine surface waters may pose potential health risks to aquatic organisms. Additional risk assessments are needed in order to determine whether or not the MPs exposure would cause health risks to the public
The impacts of community-service learning on career adaptability and on ethics and social responsibility of university students: an experimental study
Get PDFThe aim of this study was to determine the impacts of community servicelearning (CSL) on the career adaptability, ethics, and social responsibility of Chinese undergraduate students studying business in Hong Kong. The CSL program was a credit-bearing program lasting two to three months (not less than 80 service hours). In a pre-test-post-test experimental design, students who enrolled in the class were the experimental group (n = 147; 67 male, 80 female) and students who did not enrol in the class were the control group (n = 104; 47 male, 57 female). The students completed the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale (CAAS) China Form and the Perceived Role of Ethics and Social Responsibility Scale (PRESOR) before and after the CSL program. At pre-test there were no significant differences between the two groups in CAAS or PRESOR scores. However, at post-test, mixed Group x Time ANOVAs showed that students in the experimental group had greater increases in career adaptability (including concern, control, curiosity, and confidence) and perceived role of ethics and social responsibility (including stockholder and stakeholder view), than those in the control group. The results show that CSL has positive impacts on students’ career adaptability, ethics, and social responsibility
Development and validation of an instrument to measure Chinese post-secondary and part-time students’ motivation to learn accounting in Hong Kong
Get PDFIn the current research, we developed and validated a questionnaire to measure Chinese working adults’ motivation to study accounting on a path of lifelong learning in Hong Kong, China. We conducted individual in-depth interviews with adult learners (n = 30) and professionals (n = 12) in study 1 and study 2. Qualitative analysis showed six specific common themes for Chinese working adults’ motivation to learn accounting. Based on these results and the research literature, we developed a list of 31 provisional items for the questionnaire. In Study 3, we administered the provisional questionnaire to students (N = 426) from sub-degree, undergraduate, and graduate programs. These data were analyzed using quantitative analysis. Exploratory factor analysis showed a sixdimensional structure. Removal of redundant items resulted in a 17-item questionnaire. Confirmatory factor analysis provided evidence of the reliability and validity of this measure, which assesses six domains of adult learners’ motivations for pursuing continuing education in accounting: development of knowledge and skills; family cohesion; reinforcement of social networking and communication; career development; enrichment of life; and self-development. This measure in the Chinese cultural context can be used for research purposes and for assessing students’ motivation in accounting programs in Hong Kong
Revolutionizing Manufacturing: Embracing Additive Manufacturing with Eggshell PLA Polymer
Get PDFThis abstract presents an exploration into the creation of a sustainable bio-polymer compound for additive manufacturing, specifically 3D printing, with a focus on eggshells and PLA polymer. The project initially conducted experiments using a variety of food by-products to create bio-polymers, and promising results were obtained when combining eggshells with PLA polymer. The research journey involved precise measurements, drying of PLA to remove moisture, and the utilization of a filament-making machine to produce 3D printable filaments. The project began with exploratory research and experiments, testing various combinations of food by-products to create bio-polymers. After careful evaluation, it was discovered that eggshells and PLA polymer produced promising results. The initial mixing of the two materials involved heating them just above the melting point. To make the compound 3D printable, the research focused on finding the optimal formulation and production process. The process started with precise measurements of the PLA and eggshell materials. The PLA was placed in a heating oven to remove any absorbed moisture. Handmade testing samples were created to guide the planning for 3D printed versions. The scrap PLA was recycled and ground into a powdered state. The drying process involved gradual moisture evaporation, which required several hours. The PLA and eggshell materials were then placed into the hopper of a filament-making machine. The machine\u27s four heating elements controlled the temperature of the melted compound mixture, allowing for optimal filament production with accurate and consistent thickness. The filament-making machine extruded the compound, producing filament that could be wound on a wheel. During the testing phase, trials were conducted with different percentages of eggshell in the PLA mixture, including a high percentage (20%). However, poor extrusion results were observed for high eggshell percentage mixtures. Samples were created, and continuous improvement and optimisation were pursued to achieve filaments with good performance. To test the 3D printability of the DIY filament, a 3D printer was utilized, set to print the DIY filament smoothly and consistently. Samples were printed and mechanically tested using a universal testing machine to determine their mechanical properties. This testing process allowed for the evaluation of the filament\u27s performance and suitability for additive manufacturing applications. In conclusion, the project explores the creation of a sustainable bio-polymer compound using eggshells and PLA polymer for 3D printing. The research journey involved precise measurements, drying of PLA, and the utilization of a filament-making machine to produce 3D printable filaments. Continuous improvement and optimization were pursued to achieve filaments with good performance. The project\u27s findings contribute to the advancement of additive manufacturing, offering opportunities for design innovation, carbon footprint reduction, supply chain optimization, and collaborative potential. The utilization of eggshell PLA polymer in additive manufacturing has the potential to revolutionise the manufacturing industry, providing a sustainable alternative and enabling the production of intricate and customized products
Intuited the usefulness of an asynchronous online discussion in a course management system among university students in Hong Kong
Get PDFAn asynchronous online discussion in a course management system is widely adopted in higher education. Despite adopting its pedagogical strengths, students did not engage much in the activity. This study employed the technology acceptance model as a theoretical framework to probe the effectiveness of the adoption in enhancing students’ learning experiences. Two research questions about how students intuited an asynchronous online discussion in a course management system were formed based on a hypothesis that students did not believe it was useful in their learning. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews among university students in Hong Kong. This study found that while informants did not perceive the discussion useful for their learning, their perceptions were mediated by way of its practicing, students’ learning strategies and socially desirable behaviour. One significant contribution of this study is to unveil that socially desirable behaviour could mediate the effectiveness of educational technology in enhancing learning experiences. This study called forth educators to consider the social context in which students are situated when adopting a pedagogy. This study’s findings can have significant implications for education policymakers to launch appropriate education reforms to enhance teaching effectiveness. It also constitutes a theoretical implication for the technology acceptance model
The perspective of new managerialism on changes in Hong Kong’s self-financing postsecondary education institutions: progress, challenges and outlook
Get PDFPurpose – The present study adopts the analytical framework of newmanagerialism (NM) to explore the progress, challenges and outlook of self-financing post-secondary institutions in Hong Kong since 2000. This study also identified issues and related managerial implications for developing this niche formof higher education in Hong Kong. Design/methodology/approach – This study conducted a critical review of self-financing post-secondary institutions in Hong Kong, including the sub-degree and degree sectors, via collecting a series of policy documents and archives from the Legislative Council of Hong Kong, the Public Records Office and other government bodies. To supplement the findings, semi-structured in-depth interviews of 18 academic staff of Hong Kong’s self-financing post-secondary institutions were carried out. Findings – The study shows that self-financing post-secondary institutions not only encounter challenges related to insufficient resources but also face pressure from accreditation requirements of various international organisations. The study also suggests that massification and privatisation of self-financing post-secondary institutions, and embracing a managerial approach for operation and governance will induce a new wave of self-financing post-secondary institutions in the near future. Originality/value – This study offers insights for self-financing post-secondary institutions into implementing appropriate strategies to maintain competitiveness and retain talents in the coming years
A Consensus-based Droop Control with Adaptive Virtual Impedance of Grid-Forming Converters
Get PDFThis article presents a consensus-based droop control to achieve accurate active and reactive power sharing among distributed grid-forming (GFM) converters. Regardless of the mismatched distribution lines, this method is realized through the adaptive modification of the line impedance based on the virtual impedance concept. Different from common methods that use reactive power mismatch to generate consensus signals, the proposed method takes account of both active and reactive power errors to correct the value of virtual resistance and reactance for the coordination of the power-sharing performance of distributed GFM converters. To demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed control method, a microgrid consisting of four GFM converters and two resistive-inductive loads is built in MATLAB/Simulink. Several case studies including the steady-state operation of four paralleled GFM converters, sudden load changes, the disconnection of one GFM converter, and the communication failure, are conducted to test the performance of the proposal consensus-based droop control. Results show that the proposed method can ensure the good maintenance of voltage and frequency stability through accurate proportional sharing of active/reactive power
The Associations of Spirituality, Adversity Quotient and Ethical Decision Making of Accounting Managers in the Contexts of Financial Management and Corporate Social Responsibility
Get PDFThe objectives of this study are to explore the associations and interactions of spirituality, the adversity quotient (AQ), and the ethical decision making (EDM) of accounting managers in the contexts of financial management and corporate social responsibility. Additionally, the study aims to evaluate the predictive roles of spirituality and the adversity quotient (AQ) on their ethical decision making. A self-administered questionnaire was utilised to collect data from 510 accounting managers via the quantitative approach. The research results provide empirical evidence that the spiritual wellbeing (SWB) and AQ of accounting managers are positively correlated with EDM. In particular, the personal–communal domain of SWB is a significant predictor of moral equity, contractualism, egoism and deontology, whilst the environmental domain of SWB is a significant predictor of contractualism, utilitarianism, egoism and deontology. In terms of demographics, religion is a significant predictor of moral equity and deontology, whilst the origin and ownership dimension of AQ is a significant predictor of moral equity, contractualism, egoism and deontology. The control and reach dimensions of AQ are a significant predictor of moral equity respectively. Overall, individual characteristics, personal values, beliefs, interpersonal relationships and the environmental domain of SWB significantly influence EDM among accounting managers