Integrated information-based construction simulation system

This study investigates the requirements needed to represent construction simulation components in an integrated and simple manner. With the proliferation of simulation languages and engines in construction, more areas of construction decision support are using simulation. Unfortunately, the specialized simulation models are often unable to exchange useful information directly, appearing like islands, separate and distinct from one another. The models are also complicated create, inconsistent, and their elements can seldom be combined.

State-of-the-art for simulation and information models in construction was reviewed and analysed, and the construction management information element was defined. The element serves as a common denominator between the varieties of traditional views of construction management data. Generic elements of project data were also developed to function as reusable simulation components. These elements can be assembled automatically to represent a specific area at any data abstract level for various construction management end-users.

This dissertation demonstrates the proposed solution to data unification in simulation models at both the conceptual level and in the implementation of simulation. The data representation scheme serves as a homogenizing framework for further research, and promotes the reuse and exchange of construction simulation knowledge in terms of these elements. The scheme allows researchers to work independently, while making it possible to produce parts of a modular whole. It addresses many of the most difficult issues in the integration of project information, and forms the basis of a practical and unified real-world simulation system. The approach proposed here uses several techniques to develop a new Integrated Construction Simulation System (ICSS), which includes functions for image processing, information models, Ontology, High Level Architecture (HLA) distributed simulation system, and discovering similarities with natural laws. As a related study for enhancing the literature review for the research, surveys for broad applications of information technology in the construction research discipline were collected and analysed. As well a new automated data acquisition system has been developed to be used in the future as data input system for this integrated simulation approach. The automated data acquisition system has its limitations and may be applied only in certain circumstances and for specific construction processes.