Publikationer från Mälardalens högskola
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Electroencephalography based adaptive control of a Robotic hand using Slip detection sensors
No full textThis thesis proposes an electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain-computer interface (BCI) system for adaptive control of a five-fingered robotic hand, incorporating slip detection sensors to enable closed-loop feedback. The system aims to assist individuals with neuromuscular impairments by distinguishing between motor imagery (MI) of hand opening and closing. EEG signals are processed using Riemannian geometry for feature extraction, followed by dimensionality reduction via Partial Least Squares (PLS), and classification using Support Vector Machines (SVM), Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), and Minimum Distance to Riemannian Mean (MDRM). Experimental evaluations on healthy subjects demonstrate that the RNN classifier achieves superior performance in decoding MI tasks, with improved Receiver operating characteristic as the evaluation criteria, with True Positive Rate (TPR) and False Positive Rate (FPR) serving as metrics and robustness across varying frequency bands. The robotic hand utilizes a slip detection sensor that dynamically adjusts grip force in response to slippage of objects, investigating the adaptability and reliability performing grasping tasks. Latency analysis confirms the system's suitability for real-time applications. The proposed approach offers a low-cost solution for convenient robotic hand control
Frivillig vs. Ofrivillig Invandring och Arbetslöshet i Sverige, 2000-2024
No full textThis study investigates the effect of immigration on the Swedish labour market between 2000 and 2024, with a focus on unemployment trends among the total population, native-born individuals, and foreign-born individuals. Using time series analysis, the research examines whether different motivations for migration influence labour market outcomes, concentrating on individuals granted residence permits. The analysis covers five groups, including distinctions based on migration categories. Initial findings suggest a weak short-term association between certain immigration flows and increased unemployment among native- born individuals; however, this relationship lacks robustness and is not statistically significant under more rigorous testing. No measurable effect is observed for other categories, and the distinction between different types of migration does not lead to significant variation in outcomes. Broader economic factors, such as inflation, emerge as more consistent predictors of unemployment
Data-Driven Decision-Making : A proposed framework for turning data into key insights
No full textPurpose – This thesis explores how organizations can transform raw or semi-structured data into actionable insights to support decision-making. With the rapid development of digital technologies and the exponential growth of data, the ability to transform data for strategic decision-making has become a critical factor for organizational success. The work focuses on developing a technical framework that addresses limitations in existing data mining frameworks and integrates proven tools for structuring and visualizing data. The research question also targets multinational companies and how they can transform the vast amounts of semi-structured data into actionable insights for decision-making. The focus on multinational companies is due to their typically complex structures, consisting of multiple functions that need to be synchronized and access levels that must be addressed - factors often overlooked in previous research. RQ1 – How can multinational companies transform semi-structured data into actionable insights for decision-making? Method – The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques to evaluate the proposed framework. A case study was conducted at Volvo CE to empirically test the framework. The work includes a comparative analysis of two data mining processes and reports—one conducted without the developed framework and the other using the framework. Results – The results show that the proposed framework generates value, as it demonstrates a significant error detection rate across various categories. The framework addresses documentation, data handling errors, validation, and decision-making. Using the framework, the case company was able to reduce the administrative burden by approximately 9% for the next generation of products. Major internal changes have also been initiated within the company based on the findings of the project. Conclusion – The thesis concludes that a structured approach is crucial for successful data utilization and decision-making. The proposed framework improves data quality, enabling Volvo CE to effectively leverage data-driven insights and enhance strategic alignment. To fully realize these benefits, it is important to foster a culture that values data insights and encourages cross-functional collaboration.Syfte – Detta examensarbete undersöker hur organisationer kan omvandla rå eller semistrukturerad data till handlingsbara insikter som ska ligga till grund för beslutsfattande. Med den snabba utvecklingen av digitala teknologier och den exponentiella tillväxten av data har förmågan att transformera data för strategiskt beslutsfattande blivit en kritisk faktor för organisatorisk framgång. Arbetet fokuserar på att utveckla ett tekniskt ramverk som hanterar begränsningar i befintliga data-mining-ramverk och integrerar beprövade verktyg för att strukturera och visualisera data. Forskningsfrågan vänder säg även mot multinationella företag och hur de kan omvandla den stora mängden semistrukturerad data till handlingsbara insikter för beslutsfattande. Fokuset ligger på multinationella företag då de ofta består av flertal funktioner som behöver synkroniseras och åtkomster som behöver adresseras, något som inte har tagits hänsyn till i tidigare forskning. RQ1 - Hur kan multinationella företag omvandla semistrukturerad data till handlingsbara insikter för beslutsfattande? Metod – Studien använder en blandad metodansats som kombinerar kvantitativ och kvalitativa tekniker för att utvärdera det föreslagna ramverket. En fallstudie genomfördes på Volvo CE för empiriskt testa ramverket. Arbetet inkluderar en jämförande analys av två data mining-processer och rapporter, där den ena utfördes utan det framtagna ramverket och det andra utfördes med hjälp av ramverket. Resultat – Resultatet visar att det föreslagna ramverket genererar värde, då det uppvisar betydande felupptäckningsgrad över olika kategorier. Ramverket adresserar dokumentation, datahanteringsfel, validering och beslutsfattande. Med hjälp av ramverket har man i caseföretaget kunnat minska den administrativa bördan med cirka 9% för nästa generationens produkter. Stora interna föreändringar har även påbörjats i företaget med hjälp av projektets undersökningsresultat. Slutsats – Examensarbetet drar slutsatsen att ett strukturerat arbetssätt är avgörande för framgångsrik datautnyttjande och beslutsfattande. Det föreslagna ramverket förbättrar datakvaliteten vilket gör det möjligt för Volvo CE att effektivt utnyttja datadrivna insikter och förbättra strategisk anpassning. För att realisera fördelarna full ut så är det viktigt att främja en kultur som värderar datainsikter och uppmuntra tvärfunktionellt samarbete
Antibiotikaresistens- det stora folkhälsoproblemet med de små bakterierna : En kvantitativ studie som undersöker samband mellan universitetsstudenters självskattade hälsolitteracitet och attityder gentemot antibiotikaanvändning
No full textBakgrund: En felaktig och allt för stor användning av antibiotika har skapat resistenta bakterier som inte längre svarar på antibiotikabehandling. Flera faktorer ligger bakom spridningen, där ibland globalisering och livsmedelsproduktion. Även människors förutsättningar som hälsolitteracitet och attityder inverkar på omfattningen av ansvarsfull antibiotikaanvändning. Dessa beteenden kan förklaras med stöd av tidigare forskning och hälsa tilltro-modellen. Syfte: Syftet med studien är att undersöka universitetsstudenters självskattade hälsolitteracitet samt deras attityder kring antibiotikaanvändning. Studien syftar även till att undersöka om det finns något samband mellan dessa. Metod: Studien är baserad på en kvantitativ metodik och har en tvärsnittsdesign. Den genomförda datainsamlingen ledde till 147 besvarade enkäter. En dataanalys innefattande frekvenstabeller och Spearmans rho har genomförts för att besvara frågeställningarna och klargöra eventuella samband mellan självskattad hälsolitteracitet och attityder gentemot antibiotika. Resultat: Studiens resultat visar att majoriteten av respondenterna hade en god självskattad hälsolitteracitet. Majoriteten av respondenterna hade även ansvarsfulla attityder gällande aktioner för att minska spridningen av resistenta bakterier men de uppfattade inte problematikens allvarlighet. Likväl kände dem inte att de på ett personligt plan kunde bidra till att bromsa spridningen. Slutligen återfanns flertalet positiva, statistiskt signifikanta samband mellan självskattad hälsolitteracitet och attityder till antibiotikaanvändning. Slutsatser: Studiens resultat indikerar att individer med en god självskattad hälsolitteracitet i större utsträckning tenderar att besitta ansvarsfulla attityder gentemot antibiotikaanvändning. Nyckelord: Antibiotikaresistens, Attityder, Folkhälsovetenskap, Hälsa-tilltro modellen, Hälsolitteracitet, One Health, Universitetsstudenter.Background: A wrongful and too frequent use of antibiotics has led to a problem with resistant bacteria that no longer responds to treatment. Multiple factors are behind the increased spread of resistant bacteria, including globalisation and food production. Furthermore, conditions such as health literacy and attitudes among humans influences the level of responsible use of antibiotics. These behaviours can be explained with support from previous research and the Health Belief model. Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate university students self-assessed health literacy as well as their attitudes towards antibiotics usage. The study aims to as well investigate if there is a connection between them. Method: The study is based on a quantitative method and has a cross- sectional design. The collection of data resulted in 147 answered surveys. Descriptive data has then been taken from this data and Spearman’s rho has been done to clarify any eventual connection between self-assessed health literacy and attitudes towards antibiotics. Results: The result of the study shows that most of the respondents had a good self-assessed health literacy. On the other hand, an ambiguity was shown related to attitudes towards antibiotic usage. Many of the respondents had responsible attitudes regarding actions to reduce the spread of resistant bacteria, but they did not find that the problem was one of the greatest in the world. Nevertheless, they didn’t think that they on a personal level could aid to reduce the spread. Finally, several positive, statistically significant connections could be made between self-assessed health literacy and attitudes towards antibiotics usage. Conclusions: The result of the study shows indicates that individuals with a higher level of health literacy tends to a larger degree possess responsible attitudes towards antibiotic usage. Keywords: Antimicrobial resistance, Attitudes, Health Belief Model, One Health, Public Health, University students.
Between Charm And Intimidation: China’s Public Diplomacy In The 21St Century : A descriptive analysis of five methods of power within Chinese public diplomacy in Sweden
No full textOver the past decade, China’s public diplomacy has undergone significant changes. This research explores a shift from traditional soft power toward alternative forms of influence. Despite extensive discourse on soft power, there is a noticeable gap in research addressing other dimensions of political influence. This study seeks to fill that void by analysing China's diplomatic strategies beyond conventional soft power frameworks. This thesis employs both quantitative and qualitative approaches to obtain primary research. The quantitative analysis examines all embassy web articles from 2017 to 2021, visualizing annual shifts in China’s public diplomacy through graphs and charts. Complementary qualitative research assesses the content of articles to extract patterns and develop new theoretical perspectives. Furthermore, extensive secondary research has been conducted to lay the foundations for the development of new political theories. This includes Joseph S. Nye’s article “Power and foreign policy” (2011) and Christopher Walker’s essay “What Is ”Sharp Power”?” (2018) published in the Journal of Democracy. Findings indicate that China has adopted a notably more assertive public diplomacy stance toward Sweden, as evidenced by both quantitative and qualitative research. This strategic shift can be better understood through the bifocal and boundary power theories developed in this study, offering fresh insights into China's diplomatic maneuvers. The implications of these findings extend beyond Sweden, providing a broader framework for analyzing the evolving nature of China’s global influence.
Elevers hot och våld mot grundskolelärare : En kvantitativ enkätstudie
No full textStudiens syfte var att undersöka grundskolelärares perspektiv på hur hot och våld från eleverhar påverkat deras arbetsmiljö och trygghet i grundskolan. Metoden som användes var en kvantitativ ansats där enkätundersökning genomfördes med 88 respondenter. Analysen utgickfrån tre statistiska metoder för att analysera det insamlade enkätmaterialet: korrelationsanalys, deskriptiv analys samt faktoranalys. Foucaults maktteori ha använts för attfå förståelse över elevers våld mot lärare och dess påverkan. Resultaten visade att lärares arbetsmiljö påverkades negativt av hot och våld som förekom från elever. Det framkom även att demografiska faktorer var bidragande till att hot och våld uppstod. Lärare beskrev också vilka åtgärder som de ansåg var nödvändiga. Slutsatsen som kunde dras var att elevers hot och våld i skolan påverkade lärares professionella roll, som till exempel att planera för- och efterarbete för att kunna bedriva undervisningen. Studien gav en övergripande bild av uppkomsten av hot och våld från elever i grundskolan, samt vilka åtgärder som krävdes för att lösa problemen
Towards Smarter Energy Management: Clustering Electric Vehicle Charging and Trading Patterns
No full textAs more electric vehicles (EVs) take to the roads, understanding how they are charged is essential for better energy management and a more flexible power grid. This thesis looks at how AI and data mining, especially clustering techniques, can be used to study EV charging habits in private, commercial, and industrial settings. The study compares two time-series clustering approaches—one that preserves the natural flow of charging data (shape-based clustering using Dynamic Time Warping- DTW) and another that simplif ies the data into key features for analysis (feature-based clustering using K-Means and hierarchical clustering). The goal is to identify patterns in charging habits and key factors influencing them, such as state of charge (SOC), charging duration, and weather conditions. The research is based on real EV charging data from Swedish energy companies like Eskilstuna Energi och Milj¨o (ESEM) and Uddevalla Energi. Since the datasets are large and complex, data cleaning and preprocessing were essential to handle missing values, remove outliers, and ensure consistency. Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) was then used to uncover trends and correlations in charging behavior. Clustering based on shape proved to be quite demanding in terms of computing resources, and it didn’t always reflect the time-related patterns in the data as clearly as expected. On the other hand, using extracted features made the process more efficient and much easier to interpret. Out of all the methods I explored, Agglomerative Clustering stood out by forming clear and meaningful groups. These results could be especially helpful for grid operators and energy providers who are working to improve how electric vehicle charging is managed and integrated into the energy system
Sjuksköterskors möten med våldsutsatta kvinnor : En litteraturstudie om erfarenheter
No full textBakgrund: Våld i nära relationer innebär ett allvarligt hot mot kvinnors hälsa ochlivssituation. Sjuksköterskor möter ofta kvinnor som lever i en utsatt situation, vilket ställerkrav på både kunskap och förmåga att skapa en trygg vårdmiljö. Tidigare forskning visar attvåldet kan få allvarliga fysiska, psykiska och sociala konsekvenser för de utsatta kvinnorna.Syfte: Syftet var att belysa sjuksköterskors erfarenheter av mötet med kvinnor som utsattsför våld i nära relationer. Metod: En kvalitativ litteraturstudie baserad på tiovårdvetenskapliga artiklar. Artiklarna granskades utifrån Fribergs (2022b)kvalitetsgranskningsmall för kvalitativa studier och analyserades sedan utifrån Evans (2002)metod. Resultat: Två huvudteman identifierades: känslomässiga utmaningar ochprofessionella utmaningar. Under det första temat framkom subteman som osäkerhet ochfrustration. Det andra temat omfattade subteman som tidsbrist samt behov av utbildning.Slutsats: Sjuksköterskor upplever mötet med våldsutsatta kvinnor som både känslomässigtoch professionellt utmanande. Bristande kunskap och stöd försvårar bemötandet. För attförbättra vården krävs ökad utbildning samt tydliga riktlinjer och rutiner. Nyckelord:bemötande, erfarenheter, kvinnors hälsa, sjuksköterskor, våld i nära relationer.Background: Intimate partner violence poses a serious threat to women's health andoverall life situation. Nurses frequently encounter women living in vulnerable circumstances,which requires both knowledge and the ability to create a safe and supportive careenvironment. Previous research shows that such violence can have severe physical,psychological, and social consequences for the affected women. Aim: To illuminate nurses’experiences of encountering women exposed to intimate partner violence. Method: Aqualitative literature review based on ten nursing research articles. The studies were assessedusing Fribergs (2022) quality appraisal template for qualitative studies and the content wasanalysed using the metod described by Evans (2002). Results: Two main themes emerged:emotional challenges and professional challenges. Under emotional challenges, thesubthemes uncertainty and frustration were identified. Under professional challenges, thesubthemes time constraints and need for education were found. Conclusion: Nursesexperience emotional and professional difficulties when meeting women exposed to intimatepartner violence. Lack of knowledge and organizational support complicates care. To improvenursing practice, enhanced education and clear clinical guidelines are required. Keywords:Experience, intimate partner violence, nurses, women’s health
Emerging Grand Challenges and Megatrends for the Future of Europe
No full textMegatrends are cross-sectional and lasting developments creating grand challenges. This study investigates the interlinkages of 14 megatrends and their consequences using cross-impact and emerging issues analyses. The results map out interlinkages and long-term implications for Europe’s future, underscoring the importance of involving broader perspectives in policy making to uncover wider issues. This study contributes to defining grand challenges and connecting futures studies with socio-technical transitions literature. Results discuss the advent of eco-awareness as a megatrend, and it identifies five emerging challenge areas. Further research is essential for a more comprehensive understanding of these intersections
Optimering av dragkroksdesign i sandgjutet aluminium – en studie i småskalig tillverkning
No full textA towbar is a load-bearing component used for towing or transporting heavy objects and is therefore subjected to significant mechanical stress. Its design requires a combination of high strength, good manufacturability, and low weight. In a previous project, a lightweight towbar in aluminum was developed using sand casting as the manufacturing method. While the original design met the specified requirements, it also exhibited stress concentrations, manufacturing challenges and excessive material usage. This bachelor thesis constitutes an exploratory study aimed at improving the previous design by analyzing and addressing the identified shortcomings. The optimization process was carried out in two stages. First, the component’s geometry was improved, followed by an investigation into the potential for increasing material strength through heat treatment. The geometric optimization began with refining the previous design to smooth out critical transitions, improve stress distribution and adapt the geometry for sand casting. Subsequently, topology optimization was applied using CAD software to identify and reduce excess material, resulting in a new design that maintained mechanical performance despite a lower volume. Once the new geometry had been developed, a total of ten towbars were cast using an aluminum alloy suited for casting. Of these, five underwent a simplified T6 heat treatment, consisting of solution treatment, quenching and artificial aging. The aim was to investigate how this treatment affects the strength of sand-cast aluminum in small-scale production. The process was carried out using available workshop equipment, simulating conditions found in hobby-level or prototype-oriented manufacturing. To evaluate the material’s strength, tensile tests were performed on cast specimens, while compression tests on all towbars provided insight into their actual performance under load. Results from the compression tests showed that both the optimized geometry and the heat treatment contributed to increased load capacity. The heat-treated towbars generally demonstrated higher fracture loads than the untreated ones, indicating that even simple heat treatments can yield noticeable improvements in material strength. The topologically optimized design also achieved a significantly improved weight-to-strength ratio compared to the original towbar. This work demonstrates that both performance and efficiency in a mechanical component can be improved through a combination of simulation tools, manufacturing expertise, and material understanding - even in environments with limited resources. The results are particularly relevant for small-scale product development where low weight and high strength must be achieved without access to advanced equipment