This paper proposes a new approach for the design of a composite structure. This approach is formulated as an optimization problem where the weight of the structure is minimized such that a reserve factor is higher than a threshold. The thickness of each region of the structure is optimized together with its stacking sequence and the ply drop-offs. The novelty of this approach is that, unlike i...

The development of consistent and stable quasicontinuum models for multidimensional crystalline solids remains a challenge. For example, proving the stability of the force-based quasicontinuum (QCF) model [M. Dobson and M. Luskin, M2AN Math. Model. Numer. Anal., 42 (2008), pp. 113–139] remains an open problem. In one and two dimensions, we show that by blending atomistic and Cauchy–Born continu...

Atomistic/continuum coupling method is a class of multiscale computational for the efficient simulation crystalline defects. The recently developed blended ghost force correction (BGFC) combines efficiency blending methods and accuracy QNL type methods. BGFC can be applied to multi-body interaction potentials general interfaces. In this paper, we present formulation, implementation analysis in ...

This research has two aims: (1) to bridge a gap in blended learning research — the lack of a systems approach to the understanding of blended learning research and practice, and (2) to promote a more comprehensive understanding of what has been achieved and what needs to be achieved in blended learning research and practice. To achieve these aims, we first assess the strengths and limitations i...

BACKGROUND Blended learning, defined as the combination of traditional face-to-face learning and asynchronous or synchronous e-learning, has grown rapidly and is now widely used in education. Concerns about the effectiveness of blended learning have led to an increasing number of studies on this topic. However, there has yet to be a quantitative synthesis evaluating the effectiveness of blended...

Ultimately with the raise of computer technology, blended learning has found its way into teaching. The technology continues to evolve, challenging teachers and lecturers alike. Most studies on blended learning focus on the practical or applied side and use essentially pedagogical concepts. This study demonstrates that the leadership sciences can enrich pedagogy in building a framework for teac...

This paper describes the design of sinuous antenna reflector feeds using blended rational interpolation. The blended rational interpolation method is developed to interpolate a sparse set of high-fidelity (HF) data while following the trends of a denser set of low-fidelity (LF) data. The HF data are obtained by full-wave computational electromagnetics simulations of the input impedance of a pyr...

Background: Blended learning includes an integration of face to face classroom learning with technology enhanced online material. It provides the convenience, speed and cost effectiveness of e-learning with the personal touch of traditional learning. Objective: The objective of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of a combination of e-learning module and traditional teaching (Blen...

Similarly to related developments such as blended learning and blended care, blended working is a pervasive and booming trend in modern societies. Blended working combines on-site and off-site working in an optimal way to improve workers' and organizations' outcomes. In this paper, we examine the degree to which workers feel that the two defining features of blended working (i.e., time-independ...