Search results

1 – 10 of over 105000
Article
Publication date: 23 August 2021

Xiao Fang, Yajie Zeng, Feng Xiong, Jiang Chen and Fei Cheng

Seepage of the dam is an important safety problem, which may cause internal erosion of the structure. In the field of seepage monitoring in civil engineering, the distributed…

Abstract

Purpose

Seepage of the dam is an important safety problem, which may cause internal erosion of the structure. In the field of seepage monitoring in civil engineering, the distributed optical fiber sensing technology based on the temperature tracing method has been paid more attention due to its unique advantages of high sensitivity, good stability and high resolution. The purpose of this paper is to make a review of the existing related research, so as to facilitate the later scholars to understand and further study more systematically.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, three kinds of commonly used distributed fiber temperature measurement technologies are introduced. Based on the working principle, monitoring system, theoretical analysis, experimental research and engineering application of the fiber seepage monitoring technology, the present situation of dam seepage monitoring based on distributed fiber is reviewed in detail and their advantages and disadvantages are compared.

Findings

The thermal monitoring technology of seepage measurement depends on the accuracy of optical fiber temperature measurement (including the accuracy of the system and the rationality of the discrimination method), the correct installation of optical fiber and the quantitative analysis of temperature data. The accuracy of the current monitoring system can basically meet the existing measurement requirements, but the correct installation of optical fiber and the calibration of temperature data need to be further studied for different discrimination methods, and this field has great research value.

Originality/value

At present, there are many applications and research studies of optical fiber sensing in the field of structural health monitoring, and there are also reviews of related aspects. However, there is little or no review only in the field of seepage monitoring. This paper summarizes the research and application of optical fiber sensing in the field of seepage monitoring. The possibility of the gradient method to find its new prospect with the development of monitoring systems and the improvement of temperature resolution is discussed. The idea of extending the seepage monitoring method based on distributed optical fiber thermal monitoring technology to other monitoring fields is also given in the paper.

Article
Publication date: 16 April 2024

Shilong Zhang, Changyong Liu, Kailun Feng, Chunlai Xia, Yuyin Wang and Qinghe Wang

The swivel construction method is a specially designed process used to build bridges that cross rivers, valleys, railroads and other obstacles. To carry out this construction…

Abstract

Purpose

The swivel construction method is a specially designed process used to build bridges that cross rivers, valleys, railroads and other obstacles. To carry out this construction method safely, real-time monitoring of the bridge rotation process is required to ensure a smooth swivel operation without collisions. However, the traditional means of monitoring using Electronic Total Station tools cannot realize real-time monitoring, and monitoring using motion sensors or GPS is cumbersome to use.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes a monitoring method based on a series of computer vision (CV) technologies, which can monitor the rotation angle, velocity and inclination angle of the swivel construction in real-time. First, three proposed CV algorithms was developed in a laboratory environment. The experimental tests were carried out on a bridge scale model to select the outperformed algorithms for rotation, velocity and inclination monitor, respectively, as the final monitoring method in proposed method. Then, the selected method was implemented to monitor an actual bridge during its swivel construction to verify the applicability.

Findings

In the laboratory study, the monitoring data measured with the selected monitoring algorithms was compared with those measured by an Electronic Total Station and the errors in terms of rotation angle, velocity and inclination angle, were 0.040%, 0.040%, and −0.454%, respectively, thus validating the accuracy of the proposed method. In the pilot actual application, the method was shown to be feasible in a real construction application.

Originality/value

In a well-controlled laboratory the optimal algorithms for bridge swivel construction are identified and in an actual project the proposed method is verified. The proposed CV method is complementary to the use of Electronic Total Station tools, motion sensors, and GPS for safety monitoring of swivel construction of bridges. It also contributes to being a possible approach without data-driven model training. Its principal advantages are that it both provides real-time monitoring and is easy to deploy in real construction applications.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 June 2022

Junguang Zhang and Qing Han

The activities using drum resources restrict the operation of multi-project systems. However, existing monitoring methods are not suitable for the characteristics of drum…

Abstract

Purpose

The activities using drum resources restrict the operation of multi-project systems. However, existing monitoring methods are not suitable for the characteristics of drum activities in the multi-project system. The authors therefore propose an adaptive capacity constraint buffer monitoring model based on the attributes of drum activities, aiming to build a high-efficiency progress control framework for multiple projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the attributes and the interrelationship of drum activities, the monitoring reference points are determined on the basis of decentralized buffers. The authors next set action thresholds according to the relationship between the drum activities' interval margin and buffer consumption, and then the corresponding monitoring measures are taken.

Findings

The empirical results show that, compared to the classic methods, the proposed approach can effectively monitor the progress of the drum plan and realize the dual optimization of multi-project duration and cost.

Research limitations/implications

The buffer consumption at the follow-up monitoring time point is neglected when determining the action thresholds. Prediction methods can be introduced to present more all-sided monitoring.

Practical implications

This paper fulfils the dual optimization of multi-project duration and cost. It provides a reference guide for project managers.

Originality/value

A capacity constraint buffer monitoring method suitable for a multi-project environment is produced.

Details

Kybernetes, vol. 52 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0368-492X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 August 2012

Haiying Liu, Weisong Ye and Huinan Wang

The purpose of this paper is to develop an integrity monitoring method using ERAIM (Extended Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring) for the integrated GNSS/Inertial (Global…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an integrity monitoring method using ERAIM (Extended Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring) for the integrated GNSS/Inertial (Global Navigation Satellite System and inertial navigation system) of general aviation aircraft.

Design/methodology/approach

First the tightly integrated GNSS with Strapdown Inertial Navigation System (GNSS/SINS) and the Kalman filter is designed. Then the processing of ERAIM is presented, in which the least‐squares theory is used to calculate the best estimators by integrating the predicted states with measurement states of Kalman filter. Based on the new measurement model, the integrity monitoring for GNSS/inertial system is carried out, including the fault detection, identification, reliability and separability. Lastly, the simulation and analysis for ERAIM vs RAIM are performed to validate the proposed method.

Findings

Simulation results show that the ERAIM method is able to detect and identify effectively any type of failure including step failure and ramp failure. Compared to the RAIM method for only GNSS, the ERAIM increases the redundant information and reduces the correlation of test statistics, as well as enhancing the reliability and thus can significantly improve the performance of integrity monitoring.

Practical implications

In safety critical sectors such as aviation, stringent integrity performance requirements must be met. The ERAIM method cannot only be used in integrity monitoring for the integrated GNSS/Inertial system, but also can be applied to only GNSS or other integrated navigation systems for general aviation aircraft.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new integrity monitoring method of ERAIM, which is able to improve the fault detection and identification capabilities significantly by extending GNSS‐used RAIM method into the GNSS/Inertial integrated system.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 84 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 July 2019

Yinhua Liu, Rui Sun and Sun Jin

Driven by the development in sensing techniques and information and communications technology, and their applications in the manufacturing system, data-driven quality control…

Abstract

Purpose

Driven by the development in sensing techniques and information and communications technology, and their applications in the manufacturing system, data-driven quality control methods play an essential role in the quality improvement of assembly products. This paper aims to review the development of data-driven modeling methods for process monitoring and fault diagnosis in multi-station assembly systems. Furthermore, the authors discuss the applications of the methods proposed and present suggestions for future studies in data mining for quality control in product assembly.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides an outline of data-driven process monitoring and fault diagnosis methods for reduction in variation. The development of statistical process monitoring techniques and diagnosis methods, such as pattern matching, estimation-based analysis and artificial intelligence-based diagnostics, is introduced.

Findings

A classification structure for data-driven process control techniques and the limitations of their applications in multi-station assembly processes are discussed. From the perspective of the engineering requirements of real, dynamic, nonlinear and uncertain assembly systems, future trends in sensing system location, data mining and data fusion techniques for variation reduction are suggested.

Originality/value

This paper reveals the development of process monitoring and fault diagnosis techniques, and their applications in variation reduction in multi-station assembly.

Details

Assembly Automation, vol. 39 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-5154

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 January 2013

Jianghong Yu, Daping Wang and Chengwu Hu

The purpose of the paper is to propose a novel approach, based on grey clustering decision, to fill in an omission of quantitative monitoring parameter selection methods.

243

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to propose a novel approach, based on grey clustering decision, to fill in an omission of quantitative monitoring parameter selection methods.

Design/methodology/approach

The basic monitoring parameter selection criteria and the corresponding calculation methods are presented. Then, the grey clustering decision model for monitoring parameter optimization selection is constructed, and an integrated weight determination method based on analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and information entropy is provided.

Findings

Basic principle for monitoring parameter selection is proposed and quantitative description is carried out for selection principle in engineering application. Grey clustering decision‐making model for monitoring parameter optimization selection is established. Comprehensive weight ascertainment method based on AHP and information entropy is provided to make the index weight more scientific.

Practical implications

At system design stage, it is of significance to carry out selection and optimization of monitoring parameters. After the optimization of monitoring parameters is confirmed, measurability analysis and design in parallel are carried out for convenience of timely information feedback and system design revision. Therefore, the system integration efficiency is improved and the cost of research and manufacturing is reduced.

Originality/value

Monitoring parameter optimization selection process based on grey clustering decision‐making model is described and the analysis result shows that the proposed method has certain degree of effectiveness, rationality and universality.

Article
Publication date: 4 July 2023

Muhammad Sami Ur Rehman, Muhammad Tariq Shafiq, Fahim Ullah and Khaled Galal Ahmed

The purpose of this study is to investigate the current construction progress monitoring (CPM) process in relation to the contractual obligations, how project management teams…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the current construction progress monitoring (CPM) process in relation to the contractual obligations, how project management teams carry out this activity in the field and why teams continue to adopt the current method. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current monitoring process and its effectiveness, identify any shortcomings and propose recommendations for improvements that can lead to better project outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted semi-structured interviews with 28 construction management practitioners to explore their views on contractual requirements, traditional progress monitoring practices and advanced monitoring methods. Thematic analysis was used to identify existing processes, practices and incentives for advanced monitoring.

Findings

Standard construction contracts mandate current progress monitoring practices, which often rely on manual, document-centric and labor-intensive methods, leading to slow and erroneous progress reporting and project delays. Key barriers to adopting advanced tools include rigid contractual clauses, lack of incentives and the absence of reliable automated tools. A holistic automated approach that covers the entire CPM process, from planning to claim management, is needed as a viable alternative to traditional practices.

Research limitations/implications

The study's findings can inform researchers, stakeholders and decision-makers about the existing monitoring practices and contribute to enhancing project management practices.

Originality/value

The study identified contractually mandated progress monitoring processes, traditional methods of collecting, transferring, analyzing and dispensing progress-related information and potential incentives and points of departure towards technologically advanced methods.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. 13 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 February 2023

Martha Rodríguez-Villalobos, Jessica Fernandez-Garza and Yolanda Heredia-Escorza

The objective of this study was to compare three distinct methods of test monitoring in the context of distance education—non-proctored remote or online tests, traditional…

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this study was to compare three distinct methods of test monitoring in the context of distance education—non-proctored remote or online tests, traditional face-to-face proctored tests and remotely proctored tests using software—to analyze if the method in which tests are monitored influences the obtained grades.

Design/methodology/approach

The experiment was carried out at the postgraduate level in the Master's Degree in Administration program in the modality of distance education, with a total of 296 students during three terms wherein the monitoring method of the final exam varied, keeping the other variables constant. This study used a quantitative method in which the distribution of grades was analyzed; and the grades from each method were tested. Finally, using a multiple linear regression model with dichotomous variables, the impact on students' academic performance with each method was quantified.

Findings

The results indicated that the remotely proctored online test grades were seven points lower with respect to the traditional method. This result does not mean that the lower scores in the remote proctored condition were due to better adherence to academic honesty, maybe this could be due to test anxiety, technology interference or a number of other factors that would confound the validity of the final test score.

Practical implications

The results indicated that the non-proctored online test favored the grade in four points with respect to the traditional method.

Social implications

The authors conclude to support recommending non-proctored online test, this can be a closer substitute to the traditional method than remote application with software monitoring.

Originality/value

Not exist another paper to compare three distinct methods of test monitoring in the context of distance education.

Details

The International Journal of Information and Learning Technology, vol. 40 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-4880

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 July 2020

Siim Koppel and Shing Chang

Modern production facilities produce large amounts of data. The computational framework often referred to as big data analytics has greatly improved the capabilities of analyses…

Abstract

Purpose

Modern production facilities produce large amounts of data. The computational framework often referred to as big data analytics has greatly improved the capabilities of analyses of large data sets. Many manufacturing companies can now seize this opportunity to leverage their data to gain competitive advantages for continuous improvement. Six Sigma has been among the most popular approaches for continuous improvement. The data-driven nature of Six Sigma applied in a big data environment can provide competitive advantages. In the traditional Six Sigma implementation – define, measure, analyze, improve and control (DMAIC) problem-solving strategy where a human team defines a project ahead of data collection. This paper aims to propose a new Six Sigma approach that uses massive data generated to identify opportunities for continuous improvement projects in a manufacturing environment in addition to human input in a measure, define, analyze, improve and control (MDAIC) format.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed Six Sigma strategy called MDAIC starts with data collection and process monitoring in a manufacturing environment using system-wide monitoring that standardizes continuous, attribute and profile data into comparable metrics in terms of “traffic lights.” The classifications into green, yellow and red lights are based on pre-control charts depending on how far a measurement is from its target. The proposed method monitors both process parameters and product quality data throughout a hierarchical production system over time. An attribute control chart is used to monitor system performances. As the proposed method is capable of identifying changed variables with both spatial and temporal spaces, Six Sigma teams can easily pinpoint the areas in need to initiate Six Sigma projects.

Findings

Based on a simulation study, the proposed method is capable of identifying variables that exhibit the biggest deviations from the target in the Measure step of a Six Sigma project. This provides suggestions of the candidates for the improvement section of the proposed MDAIC methodology.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a new approach for the identifications of projects for continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment. The proposed framework aims to monitor the entire production system that integrates all types of production variables and the product quality characteristics.

Details

International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, vol. 12 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-4166

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 June 2021

Wesam Salah Alaloul, Khalid M. Alzubi, Ahmad B. Malkawi, Marsail Al Salaheen and Muhammad Ali Musarat

The unique nature of the construction sector makes it fall behind other sectors in terms of productivity. Monitoring construction productivity is crucial for the construction…

1724

Abstract

Purpose

The unique nature of the construction sector makes it fall behind other sectors in terms of productivity. Monitoring construction productivity is crucial for the construction project's success. Current practices for construction productivity monitoring are time-consuming, manned and error prone. Although previous studies have been implemented toward reducing these limitations, a gap still exists in the automated monitoring of construction productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

This study aims to investigate and assess the different techniques used for monitoring productivity in building construction projects. Therefore, a mixed review methodology (bibliometric analysis and systematic review) was adopted. All the related publications were collected from different databases, which were further screened to get the most relevant based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria.

Findings

A detailed review was performed, and it was found that traditional methods, computer vision-based and photogrammetry are the most adopted data acquisition for productivity monitoring of building projects, respectively. Machine learning algorithms (ANN, SVM) and BIM were integrated with monitoring tools and technologies to enhance the automated monitoring performance in construction productivity. Also, it was observed that current studies did not cover all the complex construction job sites and they were applied based on a small sample of construction workers and machines separately.

Originality/value

This review paper contributes to the literature on construction management by providing insight into different productivity monitoring techniques.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 29 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 105000