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A Constraint-Based Graphical Approach to Modelling Construction Systems: An alternative to discrete-event simulation

Authors:
Ian Flood

Keywords: interactive modeling, discrete-event simulation, process modeling, graphical constraint-based modeling, visualization

Abstract:
An essential part of the planning and control of any construction system is the development of a model of the project’s key processes. The Critical Path Method (CPM) is the most widely used process modelling method in construction since it is simple to use and reasonably versatile. Most other modelling techniques have limited scope being aimed at specialized types of project. Linear scheduling, for example, provides excellent visual insight into the performance of a system but is limited to modelling construction processes that progress along a line, such as tunnels and highways. Discrete-event simulation is the most versatile of all modelling methods, but it lacks the simplicity in use of CPM and for this reason has not been widely adopted in practice. This paper demonstrates an alternative modelling approach designed to provide the visual insight of linear scheduling, the modelling versatility of simulation, and yet be relatively simple to use and understand. The principles and use of the approach are demonstrated in application to three example construction industry projects.

Pages: 168 to 174

Copyright: Copyright (c) IARIA, 2014

Publication date: July 20, 2014

Published in: conference

ISSN: 2308-3484

ISBN: 978-1-61208-365-0

Location: Paris, France

Dates: from July 20, 2014 to July 24, 2014