Transforming Construction with Off-site Methods and Technologies
Proceedings for UNB's Off-site Construction Research Centre's (OCRC) biennial conference, 'Transforming Construction with Off-Site Methods and Technologies', where we're pushing the boundaries of traditional construction practices and embracing the future of building. This specialty conference features presentations of peer-reviewed papers and relevant case studies from the industry, engaging attendees in discussions about new and emerging technologies in the built environment.
UNB Offsite Construction Research Centre
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BUILDING OFFSITE RESILIENCE USING CAPABILITY-DRIVEN STAGE GATES
Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) organisations often operate in highly volatile/uncertain environments, with the only constant being that of ‘risk’. Given this, several organisations have now started to use offsite delivery platforms to mitigate some of the issues associated with ‘traditional’ construction challenges, particularly: cost overruns, delays, skills shortages, quality-control, waste (materials/resources), sustainability, health and safety etc. However, migration from ‘traditional’ thinking to ‘offsite’ thinking is uniquely beset with its own set of problems, most notably, what organisations need to have in place, ergo skills, resources, people, process, technology etc. Whilst the answers to these questions are not in themselves overly complex, having a detailed understanding of these can help organisations improve their organisational resilience. This research presents findings from three multinational AEC organisations based in Turkey. These organisations were going through offsite transition, and each faced bespoke challenges associated with ‘perception awareness’ and division in ‘stratified thinking’. To mitigate this, a cross-case study approach was used to evaluate awareness and thinking across three managerial levels (First Line Management; Middle Management; Top Management). Saturation analysis was used to secure representation and collective understanding to support theme discovery. Findings were then mapped into a hybrid offsite transition model, which was based on resilience metrics and capability-driven stage gates. This model provides organisations with clear directions on how to leverage resources, capabilities and intellectual capital - to not only underpin organisational responsiveness and resilience per se, but also the stage gates and evidence metrics needed to deliver future offsite exploitation.
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Review of Natural Language Processing (NLP) And Generative AI Applications in the Era of Construction 4.0
Artificial Intelligence plays a pivotal role in the era of Construction 4.0 to promote construction automation and digitalization. The construction industry produces a significant amount of textual data, most of which is unstructured and stored in various formats, such as construction specifications, reports, drawings, and contracts. The increasing volume of unstructured textual data requires the development of big data analytical and automatic information retrieval tools. Natural language processing (NLP) is a subfield of linguistics, computer science, and artificial intelligence that enables the automatic analysis and representation of human language. Recently, there have been significant breakthroughs in the literature on NLP and AI, especially with the introduction of state-of-the-art generative AI techniques such as large language models (LLMs). These techniques reduce manual intervention, accelerate processes, handle large volumes of data, and are adaptable to a wide range of applications. This paper aims to review and categorize the existing literature on the use of NLP and Generative AI techniques in building information modelling (BIM) data interoperability, compliance checks with building codes, and information management. We will analyze trends, identify research gaps, and evaluate the benefits and limitations of each method for the construction industry in the era of Construction 4.0.
Application of Off-Site Principles for Small-Scale Gold Mining Optimization in The Built Environment
This study explores the application of off-site principles for the optimization of small-scale gold mining within the built environment. Through a comprehensive analytical review of current mining practices and environmental considerations, the research identified innovative and adoptable off-site strategies for enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and minimizing the environmental impact of small-scale gold mining operations. Small-scale gold mining has been described widely as a destructive and unsafe mineral extraction practice that is largely unmechanized. Hence, concentrating on developing countries where small-scale mining significantly influences local economies, this study, which is although mainly analytical research, employed an initial partisan-systematic approach to narrow its study and a random selection of articles to enable it to present the identified solutions. These solutions were obtained by delving into off-site principles in construction, drawing parallels, and investigating their potential adaptability to the unique challenges presented by small-scale gold mining. By examining the integration of advanced technologies, community engagement, and environmental management, the research purely seeks to provide actionable insights for the development of a more sustainable and optimized approach to small-scale gold mining in the built environment.
Development of an Intuitive Mixed Reality Human Robot Interaction Interface for Construction Applications
The main challenges faced in the construction industry are low productivity rates and the lack of priority given to worker safety. Robotics solutions have been proven to improve task efficiency, product quality, and workplace safety in many industries, though it has posed a challenge to be integrated into the dynamic and unstructured construction environment. This research aims to provide a mode to adopt robotics into the construction industry through an intuitive Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) system that integrates the precision, strength, and deployability of robots while leveraging the decision-making, experience, and creativity of on-site workers. The methodology consists of mounting the ZEDM stereo vision camera, attached on a 2-axis servo actuated gimbal, to the end effector of a 6-axis robot arm. The stereo images are streamed to the Meta Quest 2 virtual reality (VR) head-mounted display (HMD), providing a First-Person View (FPV), with human-like vision, of the end effector. Hand tracking libraries are used to track and map the operator’s hands into the FPV view. Localizing the tracked hand models with the end effector enables omnidirectional motion control and gripper controls, via gesture recognition, of the manipulator. In-situ data is spatially mapped to the stereoscopic view, constructing a mixed-reality (MR) HRI interface. The results demonstrate a higher depth and situational awareness of the robot’s workspace, with increased efficiency, relative to traditional keyboard teleoperation methods. This MR HRI interface facilitates the use of robotics in construction, enabling workers to safely complete hazardous tasks remotely using HMDs and hand gestures.
Barriers to Offsite Construction Adoption in Jordan: An Exploratory Factor Analysis
This research investigated the barriers to Offsite Construction (OSC) adoption in Jordan. Four hypothesised groups, with their associated items, were used to develop a questionnaire survey to gather data. Twenty-three survey items were finalised through an extensive literature review and a pilot study. The questionnaire was used to collect data from 208 construction professionals in Jordan. An exploratory factor analysis revealed that the OSC adoption is affected by three groups of barriers: economic, social, and environmental. The analysis assists in developing evaluation frameworks for continuous and process improvements. Understanding the barriers to OSC adoption is essential so that decision-makers and practitioners can effectively plan and implement effective strategies and development plans, thriving the adoption of OSC in Jordan.
The Role of Human Dimension to Safe Working Condition in the Construction Industry: A conceptual framework
This study aims to introduce the concept of human aspects in safe working conditions for the construction industry and identify application domains. Although human dimension is a field that has been around for a while in most safety-critical industries, it is still relatively new to many developing countries' construction industries. The primary goal of this study was to determine how important human variables are to safe working conditions in the construction industry. The framework of human aspects to safe working conditions in the construction sector was developed through a survey of the literature. The contribution of human dimensions to safety in the construction industry was measured using factors such as physical aging, knowledge of safety, forbidding drinking habits, influence of marital status and number of dependents, educational level and status, attitude of the individual, and communication. Results showed that safe and productive work environments can provide several advantages for both companies and employees. These findings contribute to the development of a more sustainable, productive, and healthy work environment. The construction industry in developing nations should be able to produce safer projects using this framework in accordance with Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 9 (SDGs), which translates into a workable solution to the industry's hazardous character.
A Comparative Analysis of Design for Manufacturing And Assembly (DFMA) Implementation Challenges In On-Site Construction (ONSC) and Off-Site Construction (OSC)
Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) offers a transformative approach to enhance productivity in the construction industry. Although the benefits of DfMA are widely recognized, challenges remain in the integration of its principles throughout the different stages of construction projects, which include both off-site construction (OSC) and on-site construction (OnSC). This paper presents a focused analysis of the challenges encountered in integrating DfMA into construction projects, with a particular emphasis on OnSC projects. Through a qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) approach and by using the literature review and expert interviews, this study conducts a comparative analysis between the identified challenges in OnSC and those common in OSC. By identifying the complexities of DfMA implementation in OnSC projects and conducting a comparative assessment with DfMA challenges in OSC, this study illuminates the evolving nature of DfMA practices. It sheds light on how these practices are adapting in response to the unique demands and characteristics of both OSC and OnSC. The results of this study have the potential to provide organizations with guidance for the successful implementation of DfMA strategies across all project phases, resulting in increased productivity. In doing so, the research contributes insights to the fields of construction management and innovation
Analyzing Deformations in As-Found Buildings for Accommodation In Panelized Retrofit
A significant aspect of deep-energy retrofits involves the recording and modelling of existing conditions. This paper discusses proposed best practices and ongoing challenges. Our discussion draws on the work of the Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS) over the past decade in the context of heritage documentation and Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM). In contrast to recording and modelling for heritage—which demands a high level of correspondence between the physical asset, the data from the documentation process, and the HBIM—the retrofitting of non-heritage buildings for energy performance has little or no imperative to preserve the character of the original building. Rather, deep energy retrofits typically look to reconcile generalized construction solutions with unique as-built conditions. In comparing techniques for recording architectural heritage with techniques for capturing as-built conditions for deep energy retrofits, questions of levels of detail, information, and accuracy become paramount. Recognizing the differences but drawing on our experience in HBIM, we argue that accurate modelling from point clouds in a BIM environment can allow for a better understanding of the deformations of a building prior to fabrication—allowing designers to better understand how the building has deformed in non-uniform ways. The paper will examine the processes of building capture and modelling in a BIM environment for a deep energy retrofit of a commercial building constructed in the 1970’s. Similarities and differences in scan-to-BIM best practices for heritage and rehabilitation will be discussed
Offsite Manufacturing for Housing In Emerging Economies: An Evaluation Of Current Implementation Levels
Housing supply is at critical limits globally despite being enshrined as a fundamental human right. The implication of this remains nearly oblivious to fostering adequate supply. Compounding that is the added quality requirement for housing to be climate resilient. Offsite manufacturing has been identified as a viable solution to increase the supply of climate-resilient housing; however, there is a contextual gap as implementation in Emerging Economies (EE) where population growth and urbanization are rapidly occurring is less represented in literature. Additionally, while offsite manufacturing is rooted in prefabrication, an evolution of its use in EE is less documented. This study employs a quantitative methodology through a survey questionnaire of 68 construction professionals operating as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the housing sector in a typified EE. Participants were selected using stratified random sampling across demographic variables. The study provides insights into technology adoption and design for manufacturing, which show limited adoption of contextual offsite-enhancing technologies. However, other vital aspects crucial to the increased adoption of offsite processes, such as supply chain relations between stakeholders, are established, albeit with room for improvement to attain strategic partnerships. This study's findings suggest a pragmatic approach - leveraging current practices as a starting point and formulating a roadmap for gradually integrating more sophisticated OMPs over time. Further, it contributes to a deeper understanding of how offsite manufacturing can be harnessed to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of housing construction in EE, thereby advancing climate-responsive housing development in these regions.
Integrating Design and Fabrication For Sustainable Housing: Insights From The Kopps Prototype
In the face of escalating housing challenges in Canada, including the urgent need for affordable, sustainable, and resilient living spaces, innovative solutions are critically needed. This paper aims to address these challenges by introducing the "Kit-of-Parts Platform System" (KOPPS), a pioneering approach that integrates design and fabrication processes. KOPPS represents a significant departure from traditional construction methods, promising to revolutionize the housing industry by enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impacts. Through a comprehensive platform that combines upstream design activities through a web-based configurator with downstream construction production using digital fabrication technologies, KOPPS facilitates stakeholder collaboration, streamlines project management, and fosters the production of housing that is not only cost-effective but also environmentally sustainable and resilient. This paper also showcases the innovative aspects and scalability of KOPPS across various housing types, highlighting its contributions to sustainability and social equity. Ultimately, this exploration calls for broader collaboration among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers to adopt and further develop technologies like KOPPS, paving the way for a future where sustainable and affordable housing is accessible to all.
Benefits of Integrating Advanced Composite Materials Into Modular Construction For Enhanced Structural Performance
Building projects in a variety of industries can now be completed more quickly and affordably with the use of modular construction. Nonetheless, there are still difficulties in keeping the benefits of modular construction while guaranteeing sustainability, durability, and structural integrity. To overcome these issues and open up fresh possibilities for modular building innovation, this study suggests looking at the integration of modern composite materials. High-performance concrete mixes, carbon fibre composites, and fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) are examples of advanced composite materials that offer special qualities such high strength-to-weight ratios, corrosion resistance, and design flexibility. Modular building has the potential to outperform traditional materials in terms of structural performance, longevity, and sustainability by using these attributes. In order to attain data saturation, this study performed seven virtual interview sessions to examine the integration. Those who participated in the interviews included project managers, modular building experts, senior managers from building-related firms, and officials from government construction agencies. A thematic approach was used to conduct a detailed analysis of the data gathered from these interviews. The findings of the study will further the comprehension of the benefits of using cutting-edge composite materials into modular buildings. The results will also influence industry standards, regulatory frameworks, and design guidelines in order to facilitate the broad use of composite-modular building systems.
Self-Aligning Structural Connection for Precast Concrete Wall Panels
Due to the rise in modular construction in recent years, precast concrete construction has become increasingly common and as a result there has been a focus on improving the process. It has become popular as it can reduce construction times, be higher quality, and be more cost effective for large-scale projects; however, the industry has identified the lack of available connections for precast elements as a significant area for improvement, as well as the overall efficiency of the construction process. To address these issues, a bolted connection for use in total precast construction projects between wall panels was designed. The new connection is self-aligning and aims to reduce the accumulation of tolerance errors that can occur in precast construction. To do this, the connection uses a perforated steel frame within the wall panels that u-shaped inserts are bolted to. The frame is responsible for maintaining squareness and alignment rather than the surrounding concrete and the improved accuracy may allow for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components to be installed in the wall framing in the plant and further reduce on-site construction times. For the horizontal connection between adjacent wall panels, a z-plate is used between u-shaped inserts, while for the vertical connections that span across floor slabs, a long flat bar connects the u-shaped inserts. This examined the fit of the connections and tested this by assembling three concrete wall panels, two lower panels and one upper panel, to assess the constructability of both the connection types.
An Energy-Efficient Variable Frequency Suction System for Floor-Tiling Robots Using A Fuzzy Logic Controller
Appraising Time Performance of Higher Education Institutions Building Projects To Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4
Higher educational institutions (HEIs) worldwide frequently embark on building projects to expand infrastructure, enhance facilities, and accommodate growing student populations. However, time performance has been very poor over the years due to several factors. There is urgent need to improve the time performance of HEIs building projects to achieve Sustainable Development Goals 4. Recognizing the pivotal role of educational infrastructure in advancing inclusive, equitable, and quality education, the paper underscores the need for a strategic alignment of time management practices with the principles of SDG 4. This study aimed at identifying factors influencing project duration and the impact of time performance on HEI projects. It employed a sequential explanatory mixed-methods research design in Edo State, Nigeria. Twenty projects were selected, and their time performance was assessed to draw inferences for this research. Face-to-face interviews were conducted among 12 professionals in the physical planning department that showed interest in participating in the study and were interviewed. The result revealed that the time performance of tertiary educational building projects is very poor, as most projects extend beyond the initial construction time. The causes of this time overrun were attributed to payment delay, lack of planning, and bureaucracy involved in the approval of payments by client. It is therefore recommended that adequate planning and stakeholders management be encouraged to improve the time performance of HEI buildings.
Awareness of Health and Safety Practices Among Construction Workers: A Case Study of Ondo State, Nigeria
Over the years, the construction industry has been regarded as one of the major industries, having transcended to using modern techniques such as off-site construction. However, accidents still occur in the Nigerian construction industry due to the lack of intense adoption of off-site construction and also the lack of knowledge about health and safety (H&S) practices. Therefore, this study aimed to assess construction workers’ awareness of health and safety (H&S) practices in Akure, Ondo State. To achieve this, a well-structured questionnaire was developed as a data collection tool to retrieve respondents' information on the construction workers' level of awareness about various H&S practices. One hundred and fifty questionnaires were administered to the non-professionals involved in construction activities in Akure, Ondo-State. However, 93 questionnaires were retrieved. Mean Score, frequency and percentage were used to analyse the retrieved data. The study revealed a high level of awareness of H&S measures, especially the use of safety boots, helmets, reflective clothing/vests, first aid and hand gloves. Therefore, imbibing positive attitudinal behaviour to H&S practices will reduce accidents, deaths and property damages on construction sites.
Quantifying “Softer” Benefits from Modularization in Capital Projects: Literature Review
The surge in modular construction’s prevalence has prompted a revaluation of its benefits in capital projects. While previous studies excel in quantifying cost and schedule advantages, criticisms have emerged due to their oversight of softer benefits. Safety, improved quality, standardization, risk mitigation, reduced site footprint, and environmental and social gains are often neglected due to their intangibility. The existing literature focuses on the tangible benefits, leaving a critical gap in understanding these subtler advantages. To address this gap, this study proposes a qualitative framework and methods to systematically assess and assign value to these softer benefits, drawing insights from past research, industry reports, and case studies. The research aims to develop a framework to quantify the softer benefits, facilitating a more accurate comparison between modular and stick-built project options. The methodology involves utilizing secondary data on safety metrics, quality, and case studies from published journals and reports. This research provides valuable insights into refining the theoretical framework, enriching scholarly discussions, and establishing a robust foundation for future studies. The research aids industry practitioners by offering a structured approach to include softer benefits in modularization decisions, potentially promoting wider adoption of modular construction through a holistic understanding of its overall value.
Analysis and Mitigation Strategies of Installation Work Interruptions in Precast Concrete Columns: A Case Study in Korean Logistics Facility
This study observes and quantitatively analyzes work interruptions during the installation of precast concrete (PC) columns at a logistics facility center construction project in Korea, identifying the causes, frequency, and duration of interruptions. Work interruptions were categorized into pre-installation and during-installation based on when they occurred, the causes were classified into eight flows, and the probability of work interruptions was calculated for each work step. Common causes include labor issues, materials delays, and equipment malfunctions, impacting project time and cost. The research suggests mitigation strategies such as increasing the number of labors, preparing equipment and materials, conducting crane maintenance, and training in equipment usage to enhance work efficiency and manage interruptions effectively. This study provides valuable baseline data for improving PC project management, serving as a reference for future projects to reduce time and costs and contributing to overall project success. Future research should expand data collection across various sites and component types to refine interruption probability calculations and develop more sophisticated installation planning and resource management strategies
Smart Technologies for Modular Construction: A Review Of Current Applications
Modular construction has been around for a while, but it has been limited in its application. Recently, it has gained momentum due to the emergence of smart technologies that address technical and management challenges, enhance quality and safety, and save time and money. This study reviews and highlights the existing smart technologies used in modular construction throughout a modular project’s lifecycle to understand the application areas, benefits, impediments, and research regarding smart technologies in the modular construction field. The review involved a three-step procedure for selecting smart technologies applicable to the modular construction industry. First, a list of smart technologies related to modular construction was selected from the Modular Building Institute’s industrial magazines and from the Autodesk company site. Second, a literature review was conducted using specific keywords. Finally, articles were screened based on relevance. The smart technologies identified include blockchain, computer vision, digital twin, generative design, VR, 4D BIM schedule, and robotic arms. The findings will help researchers and practitioners interested in modular construction to 1) better understand how smart technologies are used and help modular construction and 2) further use or develop them to improve the modular construction industry sector.
A Framework to Evaluate Regional Construction Hubs Establishment
The establishment of Construction Hubs is pivotal to catalyzing regional development, providing avenues for economic growth and job creation, and supporting expanding populations. Despite their significance, a comprehensive framework for systematically evaluating these hubs remains absent in scholarly and industry dialogues. This paper aims to bridge this gap by proposing a framework that integrates insights from a broad spectrum of sources, including academic literature and industry reports. This framework is enriched by a series of stakeholder’s workshops, encompassing industry professionals, government officials, and academics. The framework outlines key factors- sustainability, infrastructure, resource management, and market dynamics - accompanied by specific sub-criteria tailored to the nuanced needs of regional areas development. The framework aids policymakers, industry stakeholders, and investors in making informed decisions that not only spur economic development but also enhance local employment prospects and address demographic changes. Accordingly, this contribution equips stakeholders in the construction sector with a strategic instrument to enhance the establishment and operational efficacy of Construction Hubs, fostering a more resilient and sustainable regional development paradigm.
Enhancing Efficiency in Light-Gauge Steel (LGS) Prefabrication: A Strategic Workflow Optimization
The Light-Gauge Steel (LGS) system is a construction technology that employs cold-formed steel as its primary material. This technique involves pressing the steel at extremely low temperatures to create thicknesses ranging from 0.5 to 3 mm. It can be carried out in a controlled factory environment with greater feasibility. However, the lack of streamlined processes for its implementation poses significant challenges in realizing its full potential. This study aims to both develop an optimized prefabrication workflow for LGS components and select the most suitable software solutions to support and enhance this workflow. The initiative represents a significant step forward in the efficient use of LGS, focusing on the integration of cutting-edge design and manufacturing technologies. A mixed-method research methodology was employed that included conducting on-site machinery observation, meetings with industry experts, exploration of software options, evaluation of software solutions, and model testing. Two leading software solutions, FrameBuilder-MRD and StrucSoft's MWF Pro Metal, were identified for their exceptional capabilities in LGS design and fabrication. These tools stood out for their automated design features, material optimization, and comprehensive integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM), addressing the critical needs of the prefabrication process. The implementation of this software is expected to significantly refine production processes, enhance operational efficiency, and solidify the role of advanced prefabrication methods in the construction sector. This paper details the selection process for software solutions, emphasizes the synergy between technological innovation and practical application, and outlines strategic recommendations for adopting an effective LGS prefabrication workflow. It highlights the important role of technology in advancing construction practices, offering insights into achieving greater efficiency and sustainability in the industry.
Robotic Cell Design and Simulation System for Cross-Laminated Timber Panel Post-Construction Operations
Mass timber, especially cross-laminated timber (CLT), is a sustainable and environmentally friendly construction material, that is attracting the attention of architects and engineers. Construction 4.0 is transforming the construction industry by integrating offsite methods and advanced technologies such as robotics and virtual simulation environments. Despite the current automation and use of machinery such as CNCs in construction sites, limitations arise due to the variability of construction projects. To address the gap in the precise cutting of CLT panels in the rapid offsite construction environment, this research explores the design process of a multi-robot cell using scaled components that mimic real-world construction scenarios within a controlled laboratory environment. To further ensure the efficacy of the design, this paper presents 3D models and simulations using © 2024 RoboDK software to validate the motion of the robotic cell in a virtual environment. Presented In this paper are the specifications of robotic cell development, along with a detailed analysis of the execution time the developed cell would take for real-time panel cutting.
Structural Performance Assessment of PACE Modular Precast Slab Structure Systems
PACE building technology is an accelerated construction system involving prefabricated modular reinforced concrete elements of regular size, shape, and geometry, which are fabricated off-site and adjoined on-site using post-tensioned tendons. Due to the modularity and prefabrication of the building components, reductions in terms of project costs, construction times, and material requirements are achievable. Field experiences involving similar systems have demonstrated outstanding structural performance, making them a viable off-site construction alternative to cast-in-place slab systems employed in North America. However, the detailing of these modular connections is atypical to common building practice in that they rely on friction for transferring forces at connection interfaces. This paper presents numerical results from a series of nonlinear finite element analyses done to characterize modular connection gravity load resisting performance, lateral load/deformation resistance, and influences associated with connection detailing parameters. It was found that the friction-based connections do not control the gravity load resisting performance of the modular slab system. Under lateral loading scenarios that would arise from ground motions, the connections comprising the PACE system were estimated to provide sustained gravity load resistances that meet existing codified requirements. The system was also analyzed under extreme tendon loss (i.e., fault) conditions and comparatively assessed with more conventional reinforced concrete flat plate construction. It was shown that the connections provide redundancy to accommodate fault scenarios and are also highly efficient in terms of their load carrying capabilities. In comparison to conventional flat plates, the modular system was estimated to provide greater gravity load resistance, while utilizing significantly less concrete.
Technology Application in Enhancing Safe Working Condition in the Construction Industry
The construction industry is widely recognized for being very vulnerable to many risks, particularly those pertaining to health and safety. Despite the many efforts undertaken by all major industry players to increase awareness and raise the bar for health and safety in construction schemes, especially in developing countries, accidents still happen on construction sites. On both on- and off-site construction activities, safety processes, policies, and regulations may already be in place, but it is still up for debate how effective they are. This study, which is based on a traditional review, provides a review of several technology variables that have been investigated, proposed, and researched by many researchers globally. These variables are appropriate for creative and efficient use in working conditions on construction sites. These variables include safety inspection software, task-specific apps, digital safety auditing tools, and effortless wearable tech. It has been demonstrated that using technology can enhance overall construction safety management and lower the frequency of incidents that happen on construction sites. The information gathered can be utilized to pinpoint several of the applications which are applicable in developing nations' construction industries to guarantee secure working conditions. The proposed technology holds promise for drastically reducing the number of accidents that happen during on- and off-site construction operations, thereby enhancing working conditions and catapulting the construction industry in emerging nations to unprecedented heights.
A Review of Scan-To-BIM Technologies in Assisting Project Coordination and Management
Scan-to-BIM technologies are the process of scanning a project, facility, or building site to generate a 3D point cloud of the site’s information. Then, manipulating the scan into a 3D model compatible with software packages, like Autodesk, allows for a single BIM model for decision-making and analysis of the site. This growing technology assists the architecture, engineering, construction, and facility management (AEC/FM) industry. Scan-to-BIM has many applications. A few examples are as-built models, progress monitoring, defect detection, and more. The purpose of this study is to review how project coordinators and project managers can use scan-to-BIM. This will be complemented by using the current applications on a small case study. The case study is a new entrance to Head Hall, the engineering building, on the University of New Brunswick Fredericton campus. This new entrance is a mass timber expansion project. A 3D Laser scanner (Leica RTC360) completed the scanning and pano images. The scanning process started from the basement and worked upwards, scanning on each floor level. Each scan was shown as a ‘setup’ in the whole point cloud model; those setups were linked as a bundle on-site during scanning using the Cyclone Field app on a tablet. Then, after scanning, the point cloud model was uploaded into Cyclone Register for preliminary modification, including fixing errors, checking links between setups, and removing noise points such as passersby and reflection points. Lastly, the scan was imported to Cyclone 3DR for further modification and analysis. Once the model is completed, it can be used in Autodesk programs like Navisworks and Revit to analyze the current application that the project coordinator and manager use.
Integrated Framework and Impact Assessment of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) In Modular Home Manufacturing Facilities: A Case Study
The growing demand for sustainable and efficient construction practices has led to an increased interest in modular construction, with Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) emerging as a pivotal approach to enhance efficiency in the production process. Despite its potential, the integration of DfMA in modular home construction faces significant challenges, including the lack of a structured methodology for its implementation and the need for alignment between design, manufacturing, and assembly processes. This paper introduces methodologies for data collection to inform the re-engineering of the design process. By including design considerations, manufacturing processes, and assembly methodologies, the methodologies aim to optimize the entire production lifecycle with the implementation of DfMA principles as the core focus. Key elements include modular design standardization and streamline assembly processes to achieve improved efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality. The methodology is partially validated through an industry case study with a modular home manufacturer in New Brunswick, Canada, and real-world implementation to understand the effectiveness and practicality, as well as the challenges encountered to inform continuing research efforts. This paper contributes to the evolving field of modular construction by presenting a novel assessment approach that integrates DfMA principles into modular home production facilities. The proposed methods not only serve as a guide for industry practitioners but also provides a basis for further research and development in advancing sustainable and efficient construction practices.
Double-Sided STS-CLT Connection for a Modularized Building System
Cross laminated timber (CLT) is a lumber-based engineered wood product characterized by supreme mechanical performance, CNC fabrication capability, and panelized building system, making CLT a good building material for volumetric modular construction. However, most of the connections used in the CLT are transferred from the light- or heavy-frame wood construction with deficient stiffness and strength characteristics which can only provide vertical or horizontal connectivity. This study focused on the development of a CLT connection comprised of self-tapping screw (STS), and steel plate that could offer both vertical and horizontal connectivity. Three types of double-sided STS arrangement were investigated: Type 1 was the traditional 45° inserted STS parallel-to-grain, Type 2 was the 45° horizontally inserted perpendicular-to-grain on the opposite direction of each side of the steel plate, and Type 3 was a combination of Type 1 and Type 2. It was found the Type 3 was the most efficient connection in terms of strength and ductility. Type 3 resulted in an increase in the peak load and ductility by 28% and 33%, respectively compared to Type 1. It was concluded that the proposed connection arrangement was promising for both vertical and horizontal connectivity with adequate stiffness and strength.
GIS Based Solutions for Management Of Public Building and Infrastructure Assets: A Review of State of the Art and Emerging Technologies
Building asset management is a complex endeavor that involves development, operation, maintenance, and disposal of large-scale costly assets that serve one or more significant functions. Recent and continuing developments in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) offer solutions to the significant challenges of integrating and visualizing asset management data, choosing development proposals, cost assessment, risk assessment, and maintenance strategies. Furthermore, GIS data is a common element among many types of projects; buildings and infrastructure assets, thus GIS technologies can have a significant and broad impact. Navigating the developments in GIS and how these developments can be leveraged by public authorities for asset management (AM) can be difficult and unclear. To this end this study performs a literature review on state of the art and emerging GIS technologies as they apply to public asset management. The aim is to provide public authorities with a means to understand the potential and the challenges of these GIS technologies in order to support more informed decision making. The main opportunities that these technologies provide to AM are examined. These include data integration, optimization of resource use, risk assessment, and improving decision making from reactive to proactive. This study will help make adoption choices of GIS technologies more informed and coherent which will allow the reduction benefits in cost, energy, and environmental impacts, to be more easily leveraged.
Enhancing Built Environment Management: A Vision-Based Approach Unified with Fiducial Markers and Omnidirectional Camera Pose Estimation
Construction jobsites are characterized by their dynamically changing environment driving the need for improved managerial methods, such as automated progress tracking and quality inspection. These applications rely on detecting physical changes, which necessitate accurate data capturing technologies and analysis of as-is against the as-planned status. Vision-based methods have emerged as promising tools for localizing the real-time query thanks to the availability of low-cost data capturing, transferring, storing, and computing systems. However, they should overcome certain challenges to reliably detect and locate construction resources and building elements in frames, especially in complex indoor environments. Despite significant advancements, recent approaches still require considerable effort to perform reliably, such as creating comprehensive 3D point clouds through frequent 3D reconstruction using overlapping images. This paper proposes a new approach inspired by recent innovations in computer science which can reduce the data capturing efforts needed in other approaches. The method proposes the use of omnidirectional images and detecting the fiducial markers in the generated visualizations to capture the asis status and further retrieve the relative pose in the as-planned status through Building Information Modeling (BIM). This approach facilitates comparative analysis through state-of-the-art computer visionbased object detection and classification methods for change detection between the as-is query and the as-planned status across a wide view. Additionally, it moderates camera pose estimation efforts, enhancing efficiency for various built environment management applications, including construction progress tracking.
Structural Performance of Light-Weight Precast Concrete Wall Panels
Precast concrete is a method of construction involving the use of concrete structural members that have been formed, mixed, and cured off site. The advantages of precast concrete construction are numerous including: consistency, better vibration procedures, increased speed of construction, controlled curing, and enhanced quality control. One of the more common structural components made from precast concrete are wall panels. This research is focused on the design, construction, and testing of light-weight precast concrete wall panels against hurricane loading for housing applications. For this study two methods were used to reduce the overall wall panel weight: designing the walls as waffle panels to minimize volume and replacing 30% of the volume of concrete with expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads to minimize concrete self-weight. While each of these methods of creating light-weight concrete are well researched and documented on their own, little research has been completed on the performance of concrete wall panels when combining the two. To validate the efficacy of the wall panels, a testing program was devised to test the wall panels under flexural and combined axial and flexural loading. Eight concrete wall panels were constructed and tested until failure at the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton. Load cells and spring extensometers were used to track the loads and deflections during testing. This paper will explore the results of the testing and draw conclusions on the constructability and adequacy of these wall panels.
Economic Factors Influencing the Adoption Of Modularity Methodology in The Built Environment
In the built environment, modularity methodology has become a viable substitute for traditional building techniques, with possible cost, efficiency, and sustainability advantages. The varying degrees to which modular building techniques are widely adopted across different locations and industries indicate the existence of economic considerations that impact decision-making processes. This study aims to understand better the many economic factors influencing the built environment's adoption of modularity methodology. The study employed a quantitative survey approach using a questionnaire to gather data from architects, civil engineers, quantity surveyors, mechanical and electrical engineers, construction managers, and project managers. The data were examined using SPSS, and inferential statistics and the appropriate measure of dispersion were applied. The research findings will aid in developing a thorough grasp of the economic factors influencing the use of modular construction, educating decision-makers in government, business, and investment, as well as developers about the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. Ultimately, the results will support sustainable economic development and innovation in the construction sector by facilitating the creation of evidence-based strategies and interventions to encourage a broader acceptance and integration of modular construction solutions in the built environment