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Article
Publication date: 9 July 2021

Anish Banerjee and R. Ramesh Nayaka

The purpose of this paper is to investigate building information modelling (BIM) integrated Internet of Things (IoT) architectures extensively and provide comparative evaluation…

1027

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate building information modelling (BIM) integrated Internet of Things (IoT) architectures extensively and provide comparative evaluation of those against deciding parameters pertaining to their characteristics and subsequent applications in construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper identifies BIM-integrated cyber physical system frameworks, specific to project objectives, comprising of sensors working as physical assets and BIM-based virtual models acting as the cyber component , connected via wired or wireless protocols (e.g. WiFi, Zigbee, near-field communication, mobile-to-mobile, Zwave, 3 G, 4 G, long-term evolution, 5 G and low-power wide-area networks) and their potential applications in decision-making, visual management, logistics and supply chain management, smart building system management and structural performance assessment, etc. Such proposed architectures are evaluated against deciding parameters such as availability, reliability, mobility, performance, management, scalability, interoperability and security and privacy to evaluate their respective efficiencies.

Findings

This study finds that the underlying aim of planned IoT frameworks is to integrate systems and processes for a better information flow and to initiate shift from silo solutions to a smart ecosystem. The efficiencies of such frameworks are completely subjective to their respective project natures, objectives and requirements.

Originality/value

This study is unique in its nature to identify requirements of an efficient BIM-integrated IoT architecture and provide comprehensive insights about potential applications in construction industry.

Article
Publication date: 10 December 2021

Tayibe Seyman Guray and Burcu Kismet

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a digitalization model (DM) for building construction courses in architectural education as a response to the recent emerging…

1018

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a digitalization model (DM) for building construction courses in architectural education as a response to the recent emerging technologies in the era of digital transformations. This DM is developed and applied through augmented reality (AR) technologies to boost perception, understandings and ability to solve building construction details.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a thorough review of recent technologies like AR, virtual reality (VR), building information modelling (BIM) and their applications in architectural education, the methodology involves the generation of a model, its application and evaluation. The model is based on the integration of BIM and AR which is applied into a third year “Building Construction Project” course. Each student has designed a residential building and accordingly prepared the construction drawings by adapting the DM. An online survey –based on Technology Acceptance Model – is conducted to evaluate the DM by quantitative data analysis from SPSS and Excel.

Findings

The key findings of the study include the following items: determination of the proper digital tools, the definition of the steps and workflow based on the building project phases to develop construction drawings and define precise details effectively. By the help of this, the DM is generated and applied. According to the survey and results, the DM which involves BIM-based AR is considered as beneficial, highly motivating and providing better perception on construction details.

Originality/value

Implication of AR/VR technologies is frequently seen in design studios, whereas building construction courses state its traditional approach. However, there is a huge potential in the digitalization of building construction education by increasing the perception of students together with the increased level of communication. The study aims to close the gap of digitalization by proposing a DM, which brings a systematic approach considering each phase of building construction project as conceptual, schematic, design development and construction documents by using BIM integrated AR. Moreover, the novel model specifically brings a new approach by generation of QR codes for construction details to embed videos or simulations into the two-dimensional drawing sheets. Furthermore, the DM proposes a new approach to satisfy emerging needs and requirements of the Architecture Engineering Construction industry.

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 2 March 2022

Mergen Kor, Ibrahim Yitmen and Sepehr Alizadehsalehi

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential integration of deep learning (DL) and digital twins (DT), referred to as (DDT), to facilitate Construction 4.0 through an…

8102

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential integration of deep learning (DL) and digital twins (DT), referred to as (DDT), to facilitate Construction 4.0 through an exploratory analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed approach involving qualitative and quantitative analysis was applied to collect data from global industry experts via interviews, focus groups and a questionnaire survey, with an emphasis on the practicality and interoperability of DDT with decision-support capabilities for process optimization.

Findings

Based on the analysis of results, a conceptual model of the framework has been developed. The research findings validate that DL integrated DT model facilitating Construction 4.0 will incorporate cognitive abilities to detect complex and unpredictable actions and reasoning about dynamic process optimization strategies to support decision-making.

Practical implications

The DL integrated DT model will establish an interoperable functionality and develop typologies of models described for autonomous real-time interpretation and decision-making support of complex building systems development based on cognitive capabilities of DT.

Originality/value

The research explores how the technologies work collaboratively to integrate data from different environments in real-time through the interplay of the optimization and simulation during planning and construction. The framework model is a step for the next level of DT involving process automation and control towards Construction 4.0 to be implemented for different phases of the project lifecycle (design–planning–construction).

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 12 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 January 2015

Sepehr Abrishami, Jack Goulding, Farzad Pour Rahimian and Abdul Ganah

The purpose of this paper is to find optimal solutions for conceptual design automation, which can be integrated with Building Information Modelling (BIM) support for construction…

1679

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find optimal solutions for conceptual design automation, which can be integrated with Building Information Modelling (BIM) support for construction automation. Problems relating ostensibly to failures in computational support for the conceptual design stage are well-documented in extant literature. These failures are multifarious and significant, with several deficiencies being acknowledged in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Whilst acknowledging this, extant literature has highlighted the importance of computational design in the AEC industry; and failures in this area include the need to strengthen the congruent links and support mechanisms in order to exploit the opportunities presented by new computational design methods. Given this, it is postulated that the application of generative design could enhance the design experience by assisting designers with the iterative generation of alternatives and parameterisation (change management) processes. Moreover, as BIM applications are increasingly providing comprehensive support for modelling and management, then additional synergies could be examined for further exploitation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper focusses on the potential for developing an interactive BIM environment that purposefully adopts generative design as a method of computational design for the early design stages. This research facilitates the automation of the conceptual architectural design process, using BIM as the central conduit for enhancing the integration of the whole building design process (including design interfaces). This approach is designed to improve designers’ cognition and collaboration during the conceptual architectural design process.

Findings

This paper evaluates the existing methods and decision support mechanisms, and it introduces the potential of combining different concepts into a single environment (generative design/BIM).

Originality/value

This research is novel, in that it critically appraises virtual generative workspaces using BIM as the central conduit. The outcome and intervention of this research forms a theoretical basis for the development of a “proof of concept” prototype, which actively engages generative design into a single dynamic BIM environment to support the early conceptual design process.

Details

Construction Innovation, vol. 15 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 30 April 2021

Sepehr Alizadehsalehi and Ibrahim Yitmen

The purpose of this research is to develop a generic framework of a digital twin (DT)-based automated construction progress monitoring through reality capture to extended reality…

9907

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop a generic framework of a digital twin (DT)-based automated construction progress monitoring through reality capture to extended reality (RC-to-XR).

Design/methodology/approach

IDEF0 data modeling method has been designed to establish an integration of reality capturing technologies by using BIM, DTs and XR for automated construction progress monitoring. Structural equation modeling (SEM) method has been used to test the proposed hypotheses and develop the skill model to examine the reliability, validity and contribution of the framework to understand the DRX model's effectiveness if implemented in real practice.

Findings

The research findings validate the positive impact and importance of utilizing technology integration in a logical framework such as DRX, which provides trustable, real-time, transparent and digital construction progress monitoring.

Practical implications

DRX system captures accurate, real-time and comprehensive data at construction stage, analyses data and information precisely and quickly, visualizes information and reports in a real scale environment, facilitates information flows and communication, learns from itself, historical data and accessible online data to predict future actions, provides semantic and digitalize construction information with analytical capabilities and optimizes decision-making process.

Originality/value

The research presents a framework of an automated construction progress monitoring system that integrates BIM, various reality capturing technologies, DT and XR technologies (VR, AR and MR), arraying the steps on how these technologies work collaboratively to create, capture, generate, analyze, manage and visualize construction progress data, information and reports.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 12 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 August 2022

Gulden Gumusburun Ayalp and Tülay Çivici

The construction industry is a crucial industry for national development worldwide. Because the construction industry is tied to national and international economic activities…

1013

Abstract

Purpose

The construction industry is a crucial industry for national development worldwide. Because the construction industry is tied to national and international economic activities, the COVID-19 outbreak has limited construction projects. Therefore, this study investigates the most influential factors regarding COVID-19 and their effects on the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The potential impacts of COVID-19 on the construction industry were identified through a realistic literature review and interviews with professionals. A questionnaire was distributed via e-mail to architects, civil engineers and contractors who play vital roles during the construction processes. The data were analysed using SPSS 22 and LISREL 8.7 software to quantify the most influential pandemic-related factors faced by the construction industry.

Findings

Ten influential pandemic factors affecting the construction industry in Turkey were identified. Among them, “increased costs and price escalations due to shortage of raw materials and supply chain disruption” and “challenges with payment and cash flows” were determined as the most influential pandemic factors.

Research limitations/implications

This research aims to advance comprehension of pandemic impacts and contributes an incipient assessment framework based on 10 determined pandemic factors. Therefore, contractors, architects and civil engineers may analyse their weaknesses and organise precise priorities so that their firms may remain competitive, thus minimising the adverse impact of COVID-19 and possible forthcoming waves.

Originality/value

Few studies have identified the effect of pandemics on the construction industry qualitatively, forcing management to make projections to the current situation. Moreover, no study has provided insights into the influential factors of pandemics using quantitative methods. Therefore, this study comprehensively and quantitatively determines the relevant COVID-19 pandemic factors using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and utilises confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling to present a structural model of how pandemic factors affect the Turkish construction industry.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 February 2023

Sochea Khan, Kriengsak Panuwatwanich and Sasiporn Usanavasin

This paper presents a developed BIMxAR application, an integration of building information modeling (BIM) with augmented reality (AR) linked with real-time online database to…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper presents a developed BIMxAR application, an integration of building information modeling (BIM) with augmented reality (AR) linked with real-time online database to support the building facility management work. The primary aim of this research was to develop and empirically examine the applicability of a BIM-based AR (BIMxAR) application in building facility management.

Design/methodology/approach

The BIMxAR application was developed and experimented with maintenance work of a university laboratory building. The experiment consisted of a comparison of supportive maintenance tasks performed using the traditional approach and the BIMxAR approach by 38 university students. The time taken to complete each task was recorded and analyzed using statistical analyses to compare the performance between the tasks completed using each approach.

Findings

The results indicated that the group using the BIMxAR application approach completed the tasks correctly in a significantly shorter time compared to that using the traditional approach. The findings supported the applicability of the developed BIMxAR application and the improvement of the building facility management tasks when using the proposed approach.

Originality/value

This paper presents a methodological approach in developing a mobile application that integrates BIM with AR for facility management work, leveraging real-time information exchange through a cloud-based platform. The paper also provides empirical evidence that demonstrates how the integration between BIM and AR could be achieved and implemented to help facilitate building maintenance tasks.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 August 2024

Yanqing Fang and Shang Gao

This study aims to explore the level of adoption of Construction 4.0 (C4.0) technologies and of Lean Construction (LC) ambidexterity capability in China’s construction industry…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the level of adoption of Construction 4.0 (C4.0) technologies and of Lean Construction (LC) ambidexterity capability in China’s construction industry. By incorporating C4.0 and LC ambidexterity into a sociotechnical systems (STS) framework, this research provides practical insights for construction practitioners and companies seeking C4.0 and LC.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts the questionnaire survey method. Data was obtained from Chinese construction professionals working on projects using C4.0 technologies. The data were analysed using mean score ranking and three nonparametric techniques, including the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Spearman rank correlation.

Findings

According to the ranking analysis, building information modelling and offsite construction have the highest adoption level, while additive manufacturing and blockchain rank lowest. Digital technology is more widely used in China’s construction industry than in physical technology. Many C4.0 technologies are significantly correlated with LC ambidexterity. Based on the STS perspective, we propose a holistic approach that incorporates C4.0 technologies and LC ambidexterity.

Originality/value

Conceptually, the study incorporates C4.0 and LC ambidexterity into the STS framework. Empirically, this study fills the gap in the current literature by exploring the level of C4.0 technology adoption in the Chinese construction industry, as well as the level of LC ambidexterity capabilities. Construction companies can use this framework to make strategic decisions regarding investments in LC practices and the adoption of C4.0 technologies, such as investing in staff skill training and new technology deployment to adapt to the ever-changing environment.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 21 March 2023

Matthew Ikuabe, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Chimay Anumba and Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke

The quest for improved facilities management (FM) delivery is receiving immense focus through the incorporation of innovative technologies such as cyber-physical systems (CPS)…

1288

Abstract

Purpose

The quest for improved facilities management (FM) delivery is receiving immense focus through the incorporation of innovative technologies such as cyber-physical systems (CPS). The system’s high computational capabilities can aid in the abatement of some of the challenges plaguing FM functions. However, the requisite ingredients for the uptake of the system for FM have still not gained scholarly attention. Because performance measurement is a vital index in determining the outcome of FM methods, this study aims to investigate the influence of performance measurement indicators that are influential to the uptake of CPS for delivering FM functions.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative technique was adopted using the Delphi technique. The panel of experts for the study was selected through a well-defined process based on stipulated criteria. The experts gave their opinions in two rounds before consensus was attained on the identified performance measurement indicators, whereas methods of data analysis were measures of central tendency, inter-quartile deviation and Mann–Whitney U test.

Findings

Results from this study showed that 11 of the performance indicators were of very high significance in the determination of the uptake of CPS for FM functions, whereas 5 of the indicators were proven to be of high significance. Furthermore, there was no statistical difference in the opinions of the experts based on their affiliation with academic institutions and professional practice.

Practical implications

The findings of this study contribute practically by aiding policymakers, facility managers and relevant stakeholders with the vital knowledge of delivery mandates for efficient FM services that can spur the uptake of digital technologies such as CPS.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the body of knowledge as it unveils a roadmap of the expected performance output and its accompanying evaluation that would drive the adoption of a promising technology such as CPS in the delivery of FM tasks.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. 24 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 January 2024

Dilan Weerasooriya, K.A.T.O Ranadewa and B.A.K.S Perera

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) enable the synergistic integration of virtual models with the physical environment. This integration is gaining recognition for its potential to…

Abstract

Purpose

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) enable the synergistic integration of virtual models with the physical environment. This integration is gaining recognition for its potential to enhance construction project information management, thereby contributing to improved cost management in construction. Similarly, quantity surveyor (QS) plays a key role in construction projects by estimating and monitoring construction costs. Consequently, this research aims to explore redefining the role of QSs by integrating CPS.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted an interpretivism stance to collect and analyse data. Two rounds of 21 and 19 semi-structured interviews were conducted, with experts selected through heterogeneous purposive sampling. Code-based content analysis was used to analyse the data using NVivo12. MS Visio data visualisation tool was used to present the findings.

Findings

It is empirically proven the potential of CPS to facilitate nine key roles of QSs in all stages of the RIBA plan of work through the identification of 15 CPS applications and technologies. Nine key roles of QSs that CPS can facilitate were identified as preliminary estimation, measurement and quantification, contract administration, preparation of BOQ, interim valuation and payments, tender and contract documentation, cost planning, cost control and procurement advice. The study explored how adopting CPS technologies can transform traditional quantity surveying practices and enhance their value within the construction industry.

Originality/value

The findings add to the body of knowledge by redefining the role of QS through the integration of CPS for the first time and then by highlighting the usages of CPS in the construction industry rather than limiting it to a specific sector of the construction industry, as previous studies have done. This research uncovers several other research arenas on CPS as being the very first research to evaluate CPS to facilitate key roles of QSs. The findings can enhance the awareness and the practical implementation of CPS by intervening to form more partnerships among application developers and industry leaders.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

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