Post simulation visualization model for effective scheduling of modular building construction1This paper is one of a selection of papers in this Special Issue on Construction Engineering and Management.

Abstract

The factory-based modular construction process has proven to increase the speed of construction, and improve quality and safety, while providing value to the customer and a rapid return on investment to the builder and owner. However, onsite module assembly creates new schedule demands, as activities are scheduled on a minute-by-minute basis; therefore simulation of the process becomes essential at early stages of a project. Although simulation proves to be an effective tool for project engineers to assess complex construction operations, it remains a symbolic base model with no visual link to the actual physical shape and look of the project’s activities. This paper presents the application of integrated simulation and post simulation visualization as a tool to assist the modular construction industry in scheduling onsite installation of prefabricated modules. The proposed methodology uses simulation model output as an ASCII file in a binary format and imports this ASCII file to 3D Studio Max to perform the animation. The output from the high level simulation model is transformed into frames/second in 3D Studio Max. The proposed methodology was tested on the planned construction of a 34-storey building in Brooklyn, New York, USA. Simulation visualization of the process proved to be effective in communicating the value and simplicity of a minute-by-minute schedule. Based on the output information, the most efficient solutions were generated. The use of post simulation visualization was effective in analyzing the construction methods of the case study which consisted of 950 structural steel modules. Issues related to construction activities’ productivity were synchronized to achieve onsite installation of the project in only 56 working days.