The 15-Minute City Model: The Case of Sicily during and after COVID-19

The 15-Minute City Model: The Case of Sicily during and after COVID-19

Author(s): Socrates Basbas,Tiziana Campisi,Thomas Papas,Mirto Trouva,Giovanni Tesoriere / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: COVID-19; urban planning; Sicily; 15-minute city model; sustainable transport

Travel restrictions due to COVID-19 initiated a radical rethink of the urban planning process, focussing on a concept initially proposed by Carlos Moreno in 2016; the "15-Minute City" model, aiming at the improvement of quality of life by creating or rearranging cities so that residents' needs can be reached within 15-minutes on foot or by bicycle or by public transit. In continuation to a research in 2020, this paper quantifies the attractiveness of the model to residents in nine regions of Sicily in 2022. Based on statistical analysis concerning the respondents' opinion, the model examined promotes walking as an anti-stress method and improves the overall health conditions at a community level. Therefore, policy makers can revalue the existing planning process and create a blueprint for a healthier and car-free lifestyle.

Analysis of the Impact of the Polish Residents' Mobility on the Environment

Analysis of the Impact of the Polish Residents' Mobility on the Environment

Author(s): Piotr Gorzelańczyk,Aleksandra Śniecikowska / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: mobility; environment; Poland; EURO; eco-driving; Covid-19

Environmental protection is a major task for countries around the world in the 21st century. One of the sources of pollution is the road transport. Therefore, an analysis of the impact of the mobility of Polish residents on the environment was carried out. To this end, a survey was conducted, asking questions such as: the frequency of switching from cars to public transportation, the way of moving in and out of built-up areas, the impact of transportation on the environment, the EURO standard, the purchase of an alternative-powered car and eco-driving. This research was carried out on a group of residents, taking into account: age, gender, place of residence and occupational status. Based on the research, it can be concluded that under the influence of Covid-19. the population is trying to protect itself from contagion, so it chooses individual means of transportation.

Development of the Universal Working Equipment of the Excavator for Preparation of Materials Based on Waste during the Road Building

Development of the Universal Working Equipment of the Excavator for Preparation of Materials Based on Waste during the Road Building

Author(s): Ivan Georgiadi,Adil Kadyrov,Vyacheslav Kunaev / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: loosening of frozen grounds; waste recycling; blast-furnace slag; single-bucket excavator; working equipment; working tool; excavation machines

The article proposes a technological line for recycling the blast-furnace slag. This line makes it possible to obtain the crushed stone for road building, which has high water and frost resistance. The design of replaceable working equipment of a single-bucket excavator, with replaceable working tools for loosening frozen slag in dumps and preparing it for use in road building, is proposed. The results of testing the manufactured replacement working equipment are presented. The results of mathematical processing of experimental data using the approximation method are presented, as well.

Stability of the Two-Link Metrobus

Stability of the Two-Link Metrobus

Author(s): Volodymyr Sakhno,Viktor Polyakov,Igor Murovanyi,Svitlana Sharai,Oleg Lyashuk,Uliana Plekan,Oleg Tson,Mariana Sokol / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: metrobus; trailer; controlling wheel module; angular velocity; lateral acceleration; uncontrolled and controlled autotrain trailer

It has been shown that a perspective type of passenger transport is a metro bus, which can be both two- and three-link. Mathematical model of an autotrain has been developed for a two-link metrobus with both an uncontrolled and a controlled trailer, with the help of which it is established that the speed of the metro bus is 10 m/s, the angular speed of links racking, lateral acceleration, the angles of axle wheels' diversion while manoeuvring of "steering wheel jerk" "Shift" and "turn" have a fading nature of oscillation, which ensures the stability of its motion. At the same time, the value of lateral accelerations in the center of masses of metrobus separate links with an uncontrolled trailer at a speed of 15 m/s, while performing various manoeuvres do not exceed 0.45 g, according to this characteristics, such metrobus is stable, instead of a metrobus with a controlled trailer, which at this speed loses its stability. This should be considered when developing the advanced two-link metrobus of increased overall length (24 m).

Identification of Flexspline Parameters Affecting the Harmonic Drive Lost Motion Using the Global Sensitivity Analysis

Identification of Flexspline Parameters Affecting the Harmonic Drive Lost Motion Using the Global Sensitivity Analysis

Author(s): Peter Weiss,Lukáš Smetanka,Slavomír Hrček,František Brumerčík,Jakub Fiačan,Muhammad Irfan / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: flexspline; torsional backlash; global sensitivity analysis; harmonic drive

The aim of this research was to find out the specific geometrical parameters of the harmonic drive with the greatest impact on its lost motion. Harmonic drive units are widely used in production automation, robotics and automated manufacturing systems. Virtual model of Harmonic Drive was examined using the finite element method. The analyses were performed with considering the real test conditions of high precision gearboxes with a lost motion value of 4 % of the nominal output torque. The analyses' results were then used to develop a unique approach to obtain a functional relationship between the input parameters defining the shape of the flexspline and the harmonic drive lost motion value. Subsequently, the global sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the degree of influence of the selected flexspline parameters on the harmonic drive kinematic accuracy.

Methodology for Maintaining the Dynamic Characteristics of Passenger Cars

Methodology for Maintaining the Dynamic Characteristics of Passenger Cars

Author(s): Igor Martynov,Juraj Gerlici,Alyona Trufanova,Vadim Shovkun,Vadim Petukhov,Oleksandr Safronov,Kateryna Kravchenko / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: passenger car; track section; vertical dynamics coefficient; correlation function

The work presents the results of a statistical analysis of random processes of the coefficient of vertical dynamics of a passenger car variation. To determine the dynamic performance of cars the tests were running on the tracks of JSC "Ukrzaliznytsia". The main statistical characteristics of random processes are determined for various modes of car movement along curved and straight sections of the track. As a result of statistical processing of experimental data, correlation functions have been constructed that characterize the degree of connection between different time sections of the process of changing the coefficient of vertical dynamics. The obtained indicators of the law of distribution of the vertical dynamics coefficient values, approximating the models of correlation functions and the numerical values of their parameters, make it possible to further simulate the process of loading a passenger car without carrying out lengthy expensive tests.

Justification of the Cam Roller Parameters for Destruction of the Road Coatings for Obtaining the Lumpy Asphalt Scrap

Justification of the Cam Roller Parameters for Destruction of the Road Coatings for Obtaining the Lumpy Asphalt Scrap

Author(s): Rustem Kozbagarov,Nurbol Kamzanov,Marzhana Amanova,Aigyl Baikenzheyeva,Guldariya Naimanova / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: highway; cam rollers; asphalt concrete pavement; working bodies; asphalt scrap

Cam rollers can be used to break up cold asphalt pavements. In Kazakhstan, about 70 % of roads have such coatings. It is most effective to open at temperatures above 20 °C. To reduce the traction force and uniform movement of the roller, it is necessary to eliminate the resistance of the coating to the exit of the cams, when rolling the drum by pivoting the cams in the roller's direction. The reliability of the theoretical studies' results was confirmed by production tests of the cam rollers during the opening of the asphalt concrete pavement on the Gulshad-Akchatau highway.

Discussion about Metal Expansion Joints Manufacturing Technology of Preventing Thermal Deformation Pipelines Intended for the Fluids Transport

Discussion about Metal Expansion Joints Manufacturing Technology of Preventing Thermal Deformation Pipelines Intended for the Fluids Transport

Author(s): Piotr Kurp,Hubert Danielewski,Bartłomiej Szwed,Krzysztof Borkowski,Andrej Zrak,Oksana P. Gaponova / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: metal expansion joints; laser forming; pipelines compensating; pipelines thermal deformation

In this paper, the authors discuss the method of deformations compensation (resulting from the impact of variable temperatures and pressure) in pipelines intended for fluids transport (liquids and gases). Classical methods of compensation through the so-called "natural compensation" and using special devices called expansion joints. In this paper authors present research work on a new type of the metal expansion joints, called bellow-lens expansion joints. The mechanically assisted laser forming method, which was used to manufacture the bellow-lens expansion joints, was presented. The method uses CO2 laser radiation to heat the element from which the expansion joint will be made and the proprietary system consists of an actuator and swivel handle.

Cyclic Variability Correlations to Operating Conditions for Spark-Ignition Engines

Cyclic Variability Correlations to Operating Conditions for Spark-Ignition Engines

Author(s): Mohamed I. Amin,Ali Elmaihy,Moatasem Shahin / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: spark ignition engines; cyclic variability; engine speed; engine load; compression ratio

Variations of successive combustion cycles are associated with power losses, vibration and fluctuations in the engine speed, torque and work done. Previous studies declared that the elimination of cycle-to-cycle variation (CCV) could improve the engine power by 10 %. This work aims at correlating cyclic variability to engine operating conditions to determine the relevant operating conditions that affect the CCV and help designers to predict it. Experimental work was carried out on spark ignition, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, 2.2 liters, with an 8.85:1 compression ratio and a maximum power of 85 kW at 5,000 rpm. The cyclic variability of many indicators is calculated from the measured in-cylinder pressure data. Results have been used to introduce new correlations considering the effect of normalized speed and load on cyclic variability with acceptable fit. These correlations could be a useful tool in early design calculations, CCV modeling and control.

Investigation of the Strength of a Chain Binder for Securing a Wagon on the Railway Ferry Deck

Investigation of the Strength of a Chain Binder for Securing a Wagon on the Railway Ferry Deck

Author(s): Alyona Lovska,Juraj Gerlici,Oleksij Fomin,Pavol Šťastniak,Yuliia Fomina,Kateryna Kravchenko / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: transport mechanics; chain binder; loading; strength; rail and ferry transportation

The article presents the results of the strength analysis of the chain binder components for symmetry fixing a wagon on the railway ferry deck, taking into account the actual hydrometeorological conditions of the navigation area. The simulation of the wagon dynamic load during the railway ferry rolling was carried out to determine the loads acting on the chain binder. The strength of the chain binder hook was analysed. The calculation results showed that the maximum equivalent stresses in the hook occur in the radial part and exceed the allowable ones by 23%. Therefore, to ensure the strength of the chain binder, it is necessary to comply with the appropriate roll angles of the railway ferry or create measures to reduce its load when rolling. The conducted studies will contribute to ensuring the safety of wagon transportation by sea and increasing the efficiency of rail-ferry transportation.

Development of a Prototype of a Protective UV-C Half-Face Mask with Implementation of Additive Technology

Development of a Prototype of a Protective UV-C Half-Face Mask with Implementation of Additive Technology

Author(s): Daniel Varecha,Ján Galík,František Brumerčík,Róbert Kohár,Rudolf Madaj,Mário Drbúl,Adam Glowacz,Witold Glowacz,Hui Liu / Language(s): English / Issue: 2/2023

Keywords: rapid prototyping; photogrammetry-3D projection additive manufacturing; 2D/3D roughness of PA12; selective laser sintering (SLS) multi-jet fusion (MJF)

The authors of this manuscript present development of a prototype protective UV-C half-face mask. The first stage of this study focuses on proposing a UV-C half-face mask design and the second phase investigates the quality of printings, 3D/2D roughness and porousness of three different printed samples of PA12. Development of the protective half-face mask used the non-destructive technology of 3D scanning of the human body by the Ein Scan scanner. As a part of the experiment, three samples were prepared with Sinterit Lisa, EOS Formiga and HP jet fusion printers. SLS and MJF technology were used during the experiment. The experimental observation of the structure of the surface was secured using the Alicona Infinite focus G5 device. The conclusions present the study's results and the authors' recommendations for other developers dealing with the development of the protective face masks.

From Kyiv to Brisbane: Evgenii Vodolazkin’s reflections on spiritual identity in the context of space

From Kyiv to Brisbane: Evgenii Vodolazkin’s reflections on spiritual identity in the context of space

Author(s): Monika Sidor / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023

Keywords: Space. Identity. Geopoetics. Kyivan Rus. Culture. Landscape. Evgenii Vodolazkin.

This article deals with cultural identification and perception of space in the novel Brisbane(2018, Eng. trans. 2022) by Evgenii/Eugene Vodolazkin. The writer presents controversialproblems of Russian and Ukrainian relations placing the question of cultural identificationof the hero in the centre of his reflections. Despite the fact that the novel depicts many importantevents from the history of today’s Ukraine, in some sense showing the author’s attitudeto them, the core of Vodolazkin’s narration is to expose the issue of particular cultural formation,created in the period of medieval Rus, whose spiritual capital was located in Kyiv. Employingthe methods of contemporary research in terms of the geopoetics of place, this article scrutinizesmany structural elements of the novel, which as an effect of reading in special code opensthe field for analyses of such problems as autobiographical place, symbol of the home, oppositionof space and place, and descriptions of the landscape. This study makes it possible to concludethat places depicted in Vodolazkin’s work define the hero not only in the geographical aspect butmainly in the spiritual one, as a man who belongs to the world of Kyivan Rus culture and whofinds signposts for understanding complicated questions of the present in the enduring medieval worldview.

The image of the Other as a reflection of cultural identity (a case study of Russian postmodern prose and dramaturgy)

The image of the Other as a reflection of cultural identity (a case study of Russian postmodern prose and dramaturgy)

Author(s): Ganna Merezhynska,Olena Vasylevych / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023

Keywords: Russian literature. Myth. Transitional artistic thinking. The image of the Other. Symbol. Modernism. Postmodernism.

This article examines the strategies for creation of the images of the Other and the One-of-Us asexemplified in postmodern prose and dramaturgy (Evgenii Grishkovets’ drama Zapiski russkogoputeshestvennika [Notes of a Russian traveler], 2011; Maria Arbatova’s dramatic traveloguePo doroge k sebe [Eng. trans. On the Road to Ourselves, 1998], [1992] 1999; Vladimir Tuchkov’shypertext novel “Russkii I Tszin” [Russian I Ching], 2009; Valerii Kislov’s comical treatise “Kratkiikurs u-vei” [A short course on wu wei], 2009). The close attention to the images of the East andthe West and emphasis placed on similarities and differences with the Russian worldview is drivenby the transitional character of Russian culture and its search for identity. The dominant strategyemerges in reviewing the outdated images of the Other and the One-of-Us. By creating theseimages, the authors employ a range of strategies: demythologization/mythologization, inversion,and apophatics. The common intention of the works lies in promoting cultural dialogue.

Transformations in the perception of Russian literature after February 24, 2022

Transformations in the perception of Russian literature after February 24, 2022

Author(s): Ivan Posokhin / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023

Keywords: Contemporary Russian literature. Discourse. Russian propaganda. Perception of Russian literature. Cancel culture. War in Ukraine.

This article explores the ongoing transformations in the way Russian literature has been representedand perceived outside Russia since the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022, basedon texts from Western and Central European media. It addresses several key topoi (the guilt andinnocence of Russian classical literature, the imperialism of Russian liberals, the “uselessness”of Russian literature in the context of war) and several narrative lines (cancelling, reconciling,defending). It then examines the perspectives of some of the most prominent contemporaryRussian writers, including Evgenii Vodolazkin, Mikhail Shishkin, Ludmila Ulitskaya, and MariaStepanova.

The Central European path to worldliness from the point of view of so-called small literatures

The Central European path to worldliness from the point of view of so-called small literatures

Author(s): Anna Zelenková,Agnieszka Janiec-Nyitrai / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023

Keywords: Central European literature. World literature. Global literature. Karel Čapek. Witold Gombrowicz. Ivan Horváth. Sándor Márai.

Although the acceptance of a text into world literature is directly related to the importanceof its country and language of origin, works from so-called small literatures can also become partof the global canon. They establish their “worldliness” not on the power of extraliterary moments,but on the ability to constitute the world using the aestheticization of national images. This articleanalyzes four literary-historical examples of authors (Ivan Horváth, Karel Čapek, SandorMárai, and Witold Gombrowicz) attempting to become world authors through their “CentralEuropeanism”. Horváth seeks artistic inspiration for his dreamlike visions in French culture,Čapek attracts readers with the universality of his humanistic ideas, Márai embodies intellectualthe nostalgia for the vanished Habsburg Empire, and Gombrowicz intuitively anticipatesthe postmodern grotesque. Despite their differences in genre and theme, these authors areconnected by their inclination towards the West. At the same time, they all demonstrate thatin this distinctive and indigenous (in terms of values) “interspace” between the West andthe East, there is no “pure” national literature that does not synthesize a diverse foreign element.It is obvious that the way of this aestheticization of local “peripherality” implies their possiblepaths to “worldliness”.

XXIII International Congress of the AILC-ICLA in Tbilisi

XXIII International Congress of the AILC-ICLA in Tbilisi

Author(s): Miloš Zelenka / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023

Keywords: Comparative literature. World literature. “Literature of the world.” Theory of translation. Postcolonialism. Intercultural studies.

This article is a report on the XXIII International Congress of the AILC-ICLA, a hybrid eventdedicated to researching various aspects of world literature that was held in Tbilisi in July 2022.It evaluates the keynote papers presented by Irma Ratiani (Georgia), Marko Juvan (Slovenia),Toshiko Ellis (Japan) and Jennifer Wallace (UK). The main lecture on Central and East Europeanliteratures, Juvan’s keynote “How to Think World Literature from its Edge?” examinedworldliness as both a global system based on international authorities and prestigious publishinghouses and as a capillary worlding that, due to its minority character, popularizes the activitiesof lesser-known writers. The Congress’s viewpoint not from the perspective of the Anglophone“centers”, but from its margins, enabled the reflection of a number of other subtopics suchas the issue of so-called minor literature, gender, postcolonialism, digital culture, intermediality,interculturality, etc. The general conclusions reached at the Congress can be formulatedas follows: 1. the reinterpretation of comparative literature from institutional and thematic perspectives,2. the point of view of so-called small literatures, and 3. the revitalization of the term “national literature”.

MICHAELA PEŠKOVÁ: Vladimir Sorokin: The Future of Russia

MICHAELA PEŠKOVÁ: Vladimir Sorokin: The Future of Russia

Author(s): Ivan Posokhin / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023

MARKÉTA KŘÍŽOVÁ – JITKA MALEČKOVÁ (eds.): Central Europe and the Non-European World in the Long 19th Century

MARKÉTA KŘÍŽOVÁ – JITKA MALEČKOVÁ (eds.): Central Europe and the Non-European World in the Long 19th Century

Author(s): Róbert Gáfrik / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023

MATTHIAS SCHWARTZ – NINA WELLER – HEIKE WINKEL (eds.): After Memory: World War II in Contemporary Eastern European Literatures

MATTHIAS SCHWARTZ – NINA WELLER – HEIKE WINKEL (eds.): After Memory: World War II in Contemporary Eastern European Literatures

Author(s): Dobrota Pucherová / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023

BERTRAND WESTPHAL: Atlas of bewilderment: geocritical studies

BERTRAND WESTPHAL: Atlas des égaraments: Études géocritiques

Author(s): Terézia Guimard / Language(s): English / Issue: 1/2023