GIS-Based Simulation of Engineering Construction Schedule

For its complexity, engineering construction schedule design is limited by various factors.Simulation-based engineering construction schedule takes critical path method (CPM) network as frame and calls complex cyclic operation network (CYCLONE) simulation model enclosed in advance for its simulation nodes. CYCLONE simulation model takes charge of simulating stochastic duration of activity and efficiency of resources, while CPM model performs project scheduling. This combination avoids the shortcomings of both models. Furthermore, geographic information system (GIS) technique is utilized to visualize the construction processes which are otherwise difficult to be understood by static results described. Application in practical project verifies the feasibility and advantage of the technique.

Comparative analysis of cast-in-place post-tensioned and steel-concrete composite bridge bent caps

The complexity of the IH-635 Managed Lanes Project, located in Dallas County, Texas, posed several technical and constructive challenges, leading to the adoption of solutions different from the traditional. Two alternative solutions for the pier cap on one of the bridge crossings over IH-35E in the IH-635 project were analyzed in this case study, a cast-in-place post-tensioned concrete cap and an innovative prefabricated steel-concrete com- posite cap. The approach was to use an estimation of direct costs for material and labor and consideration of con- struction time schedules. A supplementary numerical modeling confirmed that both alternatives behave elasti- cally under imposed loads. The direct cost of material and labor for the two alternatives were close. However, the composite alternative required 13 days less construction time, resulting in substantial cost savings from traffic closing in the very busy traffic corridor. Traffic closing costs were substantially higher than the direct costs, especially for the post-tensioned cap. The quantification of the benefits allows more confidence in the utilization of the composites caps, leading to faster completion of bridge projects and substantial economic savings.

Buffer Sizing Method for Constructing Stable Schedules with Duration Constraints

The assumption of static and deterministic conditions is common in the practice of construction project planning. However, at the construction phase, projects are subject to uncertainty. This may lead to serious schedule disruptions and, as a consequence, serious revisions oft.he schedule baseline. The aim of the paper is developing a method for constructing robust project schedules with a proactive procedure. Robust project scheduling allows for constructing stable schedules with time buffers introduced to cope with multiple disruptions during project execution. The method proposed by the authors, based on Monte Carlo simulation technique and mathematical programming for buffer sizing optimization, was applied to scheduling an example project. The results were compared, in terms of schedule stability, to those of the float factor heuristic procedttre.

Robustness analysis of underground powerhouse construction simulation based on Markov Chain Monte Carlo method

Scheduling is a major concern in construction planning and management, and current construction simulation research typically targets the shortest total duration. However, uncertainties are inevitable in actual construction, which may lead to discrepancies between the actual and planned schedules and increase the risk of total duration delay. Therefore, developing a robust construction scheduling technique is of vital importance for mitigating disturbance and improving completion probability. In the present study, the authors propose a robustness analysis method that involves underground powerhouse construction simulation based on the Markov Chain Monte Carlo(MCMC) method. Specifically, the MCMC method samples construction disturbances by considering the interrelationship between the states of parameters through a Markov state transition probability matrix, which is more robust and efficient than traditional sampling methods such as the Monte Carlo(MC) method. Additionally, a hierarchical simulation model coupling critical path method(CPM) and a cycle operation network(CYCLONE) is built, using which construction duration and robustness criteria can be calculated. Furthermore, a detailed measurement method is presented to quantize the robustness of underground powerhouse construction, and the setting model of the time buffer is proposed based on the MCMC method. The application of this methodology not only considers duration but also robustness, providing scientific guidance for engineering decision making. We analyzed a case study project to demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed methodology.

Integration of Radio-Frequency Identification and 4D CAD in Construction Management

In order to increase the productivity of construction industry, emerging technologies have been constantly introduced and applied in this traditional industry by pilot researchers. This paper provides an integrated model of radio-frequency identification (RFID) and four-dimensional Computer-Aided Design (4D CAD) in construction management. RFID involves the use of tags that collect data and transmit data. RFID can collect data by radio waves instead of light waves. RFID technology is surpassing barcode technology where light waves are easily blocked and barcode labels are easy to fall off or become unreadable due to dust, dirt, or other contaminants. 4D CAD which involves 3D construction models and construction schedules presents visualized construction process. Integration of RFID and 4D CAD in this paper built a dynamic construction management and control system which would reduce the time of capturing data on site and control quality of construction materials efficiently. Pilot test result shows that a construction manager can easily understand how and what a complicated construction project will be accomplished. Although further analysis is necessary, RFID and 4D CAD show promises of being a beneficial technology in construction management.