List of Abstracts, By Session Name


Paper # 345 ; Session: BIM-1: Planning ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1221
BIM Maturity Assessment And Certification In Construction Project Team Selection
Authors:
Ali Alaghbandrad*, École de Technologie Supérieure
Alain April, École de Technologie Supérieure
Daniel Forgues, École de Technologie Supérieure
Michael Leonard, Pomerleau Company
Abstract
To implement BIM in a construction project successfully, all the project participants as BIM users must have minimum BIM capabilities. Before any project starts, assessing BIM capabilities of project stakeholders is a concern for construction clients. The main problem of public clients regarding BIM is that they have no mechanism to ensure that the key participants, they hire for a BIM project, have the minimum capabilities (i.e. BIM Infrastructure, processes and qualified resources) to participate in design and delivery of the project. The high variability of firms’ readiness to work with BIM may impose a high cost for the client and other mature members of the supply chain. Therefore, construction clients need a way to ensure minimum BIM maturity of participants, such as a maturity audit to assess BIM competency of potential project team members. From a client’s perspective, “minimum BIM qualification” means “minimum capability to use BIM”. The current BIM maturity models try to assess BIM capabilities level of firms, but lack BIM uses assessment. This research proposes a prototype that focuses on capability of firms in specific BIM uses, while measuring their general BIM capabilities. The research methodology is based on an iterative literature review followed by focus group discussions. Through literature review, the researchers propose BIM platform maturity model. Then, BIM experts discuss on possible improvements. It is expected that by using this model, construction clients may achieve more BIM benefits, i.e. reduced cost, time, and increased quality of project, through selection of BIM-qualified project team members.

Paper # 57 ; Session: BIM-1: Planning ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1221
Investigating model evolution in a collaborative BIM environment
Authors:
Erik Poirier*, University of British Columbia
Sheryl Staub-French, University of British Columbia
Daniel Forgues, École de Technologie Supérieure
Abstract
As the adoption and implementation of building information modeling (BIM) continues to gain momentum, the benefits and challenges of its implementation and use are becoming better defined. However, there still lacks an understanding into the reconfiguration of practice that is being induced by BIM within multi-disciplinary project teams. Part of this reconfiguration of practice involves the development of the model through the generation, authoring and exchange of project information. This paper presents the finding of a research project that investigated the evolution of a BIM developed by a vertically integrated project team on a large institutional project for design and construction purposes. The objective of the research project was to develop measures to investigate the evolution of a BIM in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary project setting. The research team analyzed the bi-weekly iterations of the models produced by the design team following a rigorous protocol. Timesheets were obtained for all project team members involved in the modeling process. The measures developed adopt both the product and the process perspective of BIM. These measures were tested to verify how they correlated to one another and to the overall time spent in the project and in BIM. Four categories of measure are developed: measures of information quantity, measures of information content, measures of information representation and measures of product evolution. These measures can serve as a benchmark to evaluate the efficiency of the modeling and ultimately the project delivery process.

Paper # 293 ; Session: BIM-1: Planning ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1221
Comparative Analysis of Existing Building Information Modelling (BIM) Guides
Authors:
Susan Keenliside*, S8 inc.
Abstract
The current approach to development of building information modelling (BIM) guides has catered to each specific client in a unique way. There has been no universal standard format or standardized content employed in the development of these guides from one organization to the next. Conversely, many organizations have pioneered the development of their guides to support the need for standardized methodologies in developing and deploying BIM capability within their organization and/or supported by industry deliverables. Further, published BIM guides around the world define similar or the same terms and concepts in unique ways (and vice versa). The BIM guides project is the first project to leverage existing publications within an open process of consensus standardization, in pursuit of harmonization of concepts, definitions, terms and the organization of how this content is delivered. It uses a review template to capture common metadata fields for comparative analysis within a database. A database of BIM guide information can inform on real-world procedures and requirements from industry. Guidelines are for the user, and this project gives insight and direction to those needing, using and creating BIM guidelines. It is hypothesized that this approach will deliver guides more efficiently, contribute to BIM adoption and standardized use within industry and provide a needed baseline from which the end-user can effectively build their knowledge, skills and abilities.

Paper # 340 ; Session: BIM-1: Planning ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1221
One relation to rule them all: the point-to-point precedence relation that substitutes the existing ones
Authors:
Miklos Hadju*, Budapest University
Abstract
Precedence Diagram Method (PDM) has gained the widest acceptance in the scheduling practice in the last decades due to its modeling flexibility over other existing techniques, and to the relative simplicity of its mathematical background. The four basic precedence relationships have been serving planners for more than half a century. However, even this model is not flexible enough; proper modeling of overlapped activities seems to be a never-ending debate. Different practical and theoretical solutions have been proposed during the years for better modeling overlapped activities. The most promising among them is the development of a new type of relation that can connect any two arbitrary points of the related activities. These relations can be called point-to-point relations. Different authors in various ways have proposed similar solutions. To the best of our knowledge, the literature on the mathematical model of PDM using this new relation is lacking. Main results of the paper are: 1) standardized discussion of the different approaches to point-to-point relations; 2) proper mathematical model of PDM with point-to-point relations; 3) introduction of the algorithm that can handle point-to-point relations with both minimal and maximal lag to define the earliest and latest feasible time policy.

Paper # 26 ; Session: BIM-2: Implementation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
BIM Obstacles in Industrial Projects: A Contractor Perspective
Authors:
Mostafa Ali*, University of Alberta
Yasser Mohamed, University of Alberta
Hosein Taghaddos, PCL
Rick Hermann, PCL
Abstract
Using BIM technology is well established in construction projects, especially in industrial projects where a maze of pipes and modules have to be installed in congested work areas under tight time schedule . BIM offers potential benefits (e.g. visualization, collaboration, alignment …etc.) that can be key for complex project success; however, these benefits have not been fully implemented in industrial projects. The authors worked last two years closely with a construction company -which specialized in oil and gas projects- trying to discover ways to maximize utilization of knowledge embedded in BIM models. Though the partner company has used BIM for long time, we noticed many obstacles that hinder reaping the full benefits of BIM for construction planning and control. These obstacles are related to the ability to extend a model by adding new attributes and to link the model to data from external sources (e.g. cost or schedule control information systems). This paper discusses these obstacles, illustrates implemented short-term solutions to work around and mitigate these obstacles, and finally concludes by proposing using semantic web as a long-term solution to overcome these obstacles and clear the path for gaining all potential benefits during industrial projects construction.

Paper # 329 ; Session: BIM-2: Implementation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
A Framework For Classifying BIM Design Coordination Issues
Authors:
Sarmad Mehrbod*, University of British Columbia
Sheryl Staub-French, University of British Columbia
Melanie Tory, University of Victoria
Narges Mahyar, University of British Columbia
Abstract
Design coordination and conflict detection are the most common and highly valued uses of Building Information Modeling (BIM). The process is essential as critical design decisions are often made in this stage. BIM promises to support automatic evaluation of building design, rather than the manual, iterative and time-consuming evaluation of CAD drawings. However, we have observed that current BIM tools are unable to identify many types of design coordination issues and that these issues are particularly challenging to manage and resolve. This research is based on ethnographic field studies of two building design coordination processes, examining how practitioners identify, resolve and document design issues during design coordination process. We coded and analyzed over 60 meetings to investigate the characteristics of BIM design coordination issues, and developed a framework based on prior research and our own observations to classify design coordination issues. We classified design coordination issues into seven categorize of spatial, clearance, physical, inquiry, systematic design errors and missing information. We also observed and analysed design issues’ frequency of occurrence, and investigated the resolution rate of design issues. We believe our characterization of design issues can help practitioners better identify, categorize, resolve, and document design issues, as well as re-using generated knowledge of resolving same type of issues throughout design coordination.

Paper # 59 ; Session: BIM-2: Implementation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Structuring The Adoption And Implementation Of BIM And Integrated Approaches To Project Delivery Across The Canadian AECO Industry: Key Drivers From Abroad
Authors:
Souha Tahrani, École de Technologie Supérieure
Erik Poirier*, University of British Columbia
Gulnaz Aksenova, École de Technologie Supérieure
Daniel Forgues, École de Technologie Supérieure
Abstract
The architecture, engineering, construction and owners (AECO) industry plays a vital role in a country’s economy, and has a great impact on its society and on the local and global environment. Focussing on the performance and the impact of their respective AECO industries, government bodies around the world are increasingly pushing to transform current practices to maximise the value generated by this industry. Recent innovative approaches, notably building information modeling (BIM), integrated approaches (either integrated project delivery (IPD) or integrated design processes (IDP)) and Lean construction, show promise in providing many improvements. However, many challenges and obstacles are hindering the deployment of these approaches; a lack of strong client demand chiefly among them. In response to this, many countries have developed strategies to encourage and accelerate the pace of adoption of these innovative approaches. This often is prompted by requirements for suppliers to implement one or more of these innovations on all their publicly procured projects. The various levels of governments in Canada however have yet to follow suit in this regard. As a consequence, the Canadian AECO industry is seen to be lagging in its adoption of BIM and integrated approaches to project delivery. While certain projects have emerged as beacons of enlightened practice in the Canadian context, it remains that the vast majority of projects are still being delivered in a traditional fashion, with the well-known limitations this entails. This paper investigates the contextual challenges in adoption and implementation of BIM and integrated approaches in the Canadian AECO industry. The objective is to identify challenges and opportunities to create favourable context that ensures that the Canadian AECO industry remain competitive in the face of increasing global competition by leveraging the potential significant benefits of these innovative approaches. This paper is based on a review of the literature of various initiatives around the world. The paper lays out six key factors, which are seen as drivers for the adoption and implementation of BIM and integrated approaches in other countries, and discusses their implication in the Canadian context. Notably, the need for a national policy that structures the adoption and implementation BIM and integrated approaches; the need for leadership from the public sector; the importance of constituent organizations acting as a voice for industry; and the need for investments in research and development

Paper # 190 ; Session: BIM-2: Implementation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Framing Construction Uses Of Virtual Information Models
Authors:
Li Jiang*, Penn State University
Robert M Leicht, Penn State University
John I Messner, Penn State University
Abstract
Digital models incorporating 3D geometry and information attributes are becoming a standard for industrial facility and commercial building design. Despite the advancements in technologies to develop design models there is an opportunity to better leverage models within facility construction processes. The current work aims to identify the breadth of construction needs for using information models, and develop an approach to improve information accessibility to support construction. With a thorough literature review, the current work identifies the state-of-art workflows in using design content to support construction tasks. The existing gaps of using models for construction uses have also been captured, indicating the opportunities of better leveraging model content throughout construction process. Discussion of how a planning approach and implementation guidelines will be developed to advance model uses in construction will help conclude the paper.

Paper # 48 ; Session: BIM-3: Implementation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Automated Production Planning in Panelized Construction Enabled by Integrating Discrete-Event Simulation and BIM
Authors:
Hexu Liu*, University of Alberta
Mohammed Sadiq Altaf, University of Alberta
Zhen Lei, University of Alberta
Ming Lu, University of Alberta
Mohamed Al-Hussein, University of Alberta
Abstract
Panelization, a form of off-site construction with origins in the manufacturing industry, has emerged as a popular, more efficient approach to constructing residential projects. This approach transfers some of the construction activities traditionally carried out on site into factory production tasks, and divides construction management into factory production management and on-site assembly management. This change poses some challenges to construction practitioners with respect to project planning and management, such as how to efficiently create work flow, balance the production line, and satisfy various panel requirements to ensure smooth on-site operations. This paper thus explores an automated approach for construction planning in the production plant with the objective of improving productivity and balancing the production line, which achieves a seamless integration of building information modelling (BIM) and discrete-event simulation (DES). Specifically, a BIM-based special-purpose simulation (SPS) template for the production line is developed in Simphony.NET in order to facilitate more efficient modelling of the production line. The new simulation template provides a BIM-based interface which permits enriched information exchange between the BIM model and the simulation model. A case study of a production line for light gauge steel panels is presented to demonstrate the methodology. The simulation results show that proper production sequencing improves production performance, and that the newly developed simulation template is a useful planning tool for the panelized construction system.

Paper # 72 ; Session: BIM-3: Implementation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Methodology for Automated Generation of 4D BIM
Authors:
Ali Montaser*, Concordia
Osama Moselhi, Concordia
Abstract
Lack of adequate visualization of project construction operations often causes project parties to struggle with large amount of data. 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a static model, built for representing the geometry of a constructed building and its respective information. However, construction processes are dynamic and require dynamic representation. 4D BIM is gaining more momentum in construction research and in industry. There are commercial packages that can generate 4D BIM and numerous researchers have used 4D BIM in their research. However, related literature does not disclose the methodology used or the know-how of creating 4D BIM. This paper presents an automated methodology and describes how to construct a 4D BIM. The automated methodology maps the 3D BIM objects to project schedule activities through a newly added attribute to each 3D BIM object. As such, different groups of objects within the 3D BIM are assigned to different activities. For each group, a series of decisions are made to classify whether it belongs to completed activity, activity in progress or activity to be executed in the future. The developed methodology was implemented in prototype software. Autodesk Revit has been customized so that the integration between 3D BIM and project schedule be applied using Revit Application Programming Interface (API). The developed automated methodology and software were applied to a construction project in Montreal area to demonstrate its use. The developed methodology is straightforward and easy to use. It is expected to facilitate the utilization of 4D BIM in research and in practice.

Paper # 187 ; Session: BIM-3: Implementation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
QR-Coded Clash-Free Drawings: An Integrated System of BIM and Augmented Reailty to Improve Construction Project Visualization
Authors:
Tarek M Zaki*, American University in Cairo
Cherif A Khalil, American University in Cairo
Abstract
Design coordination problems are considered as one of the causes of driving project delays. The current normal practice in the Egyptian construction industry is highly dependent on using the traditional 2D CAD software to design and issue construction drawings. The main problem with 2D drawings is that they fail to properly visualize the design intent of the project, hence consuming project time in resolving design coordination problems and in some cases may lead to abortive works. Therefore, this research proposes a workflow that integrates both Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Augmented Reality (AR) using commercially available software to address these problems. The proposed workflow integrates the use of BIM in the design process to produce fully coordinated clashes-free 3D models. Later, each exported 2D drawing from this model is imprinted with a unique Quick Response Code (QR-Code). An application reads the QR code using a smart device’s camera and then the clash-free model is displayed on its screen. Users can transform, manipulate or use section planes to easily visualize the design intent behind the produced drawings. A case study was conducted on a project originally designed using a BIM platform to test the applicability of the proposed workflow. Results demonstrated the potential features of integrating a system of BIM and AR to improve the visualization of the design intent after the production of 2D clash-free drawings and improve the design coordination/communication problems

Paper # 65 ; Session: BIM-3: Implementation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Tracking Construction Projects Progress Using Mobile Hand-Held Devices
Authors:
Mohamed Marzouk*, Cairo University
Mohamed Zaher
Abstract
Recent studies have attempted to automate monitoring progress of construction projects using 3D laser scanning or image based reconstruction methods. This paper presents a new methodology for monitoring using mobile hand-held devices such as smartphones and tablet computers. This is done by proposing a new developed android application called “BIM track” that the end-user can use to record the progress of activities (actual dates, percentage complete, and actual cost) from a remote location. BIM track is cloud-based which ads in speeding up the production of construction progress reports and improves data accuracy as it’s connected with Google drive using fusion tables that make the user able to combine/edit the data on the internet. As such, it is capable to collaborate, visualize, and share data through the internet to export the results into an Excel spreadsheet from the mobile application to a remote computer. In addition, the data can be imported to the Navisworks to update the project’s 5D model. Accordingly, time schedules, cost performance (CPI) and schedule performance index (SPI) can be calculated easily. In addition, such results can be shown in 5D model using Navisworks to compare actual progress versus the planned progress. BIM track android application can have an access to any uploaded project’s 3D model using Autodesk 360 as this application is integrated with BIM track. A case study is presented below to demonstrate the use of the proposed methods to track the project and to make a comparison between the actual and the planned progress of the project.

Paper # 109 ; Session: BIM-4: Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1221
Integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) With Sustainable Universal Design Strategies To Evaluate The Costs And Benefits Of Building Projects
Authors:
Bader T Alsayyar*, University of Ottawa
Ahmad Jrade, University of Ottawa
Abstract
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a well-known innovative approach in project design and construction. The use of BIM enables designers to control project cost from the early stage of its life cycle. The cost impact resulted from the construction of sustainable building is one of the main resources that designers should consider when designing such type of facilities. As the North American population is aging Universal Design requirements (design that accommodate the needs of human regardless of their ages and abilities) should be considered in conjunction with the sustainable design criteria to achieve sustainable universal design (SUD). The aim of this research is to investigate the benefits and costs associated with adopting the concept of sustainable universal design applied for building projects. Therefore, this paper proposes a methodology to develop a model that integrates BIM tools with SUD requirements and strategies (i.e. Energy, material, and indoor air quality and barrier free environment) and to evaluate the associated benefits and costs of proposed buildings at their conceptual design stage. The proposed model consists of three main modules. First, a database module, which is mainly devoted to illustrate items necessary toward SUD approach including: hand rails, entrance slope with its associated material and lighting shapes and specification. All of the mentioned items will be in accordance with the standards (i.e. Canadian National Building Code (CNBC), LEED, international standards). Second, a 3D design module will describe the design components and system used in the different areas in the 3D conceptual design (i.e. living room, toilet, and kitchen). Finally, a cost benefit analysis module that will evaluate the initial cost of each designated area that complies with the needs of aging people who have chronicle health conditions, where the total cost and benefits is calculated accordingly. The effective development of the integrated model will help owners, designers, and developers to evaluate the cost and benefits of adopting sustainable universal buildings. An actual case project is used to test the workability, capability and performance of the proposed model.

Paper # 346 ; Session: BIM-4: Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1221
Improve Communication Process On Construction Sites Using Mobile Technologies And Cloud Computing (Paper in French, Presentation in English)
Authors:
Sébastien Frenette*, École de Technologie Supérieure
Daniel Forgues, École de Technologie Supérieure
Abstract
L’industrie de la construction est un secteur dans lequel la circulation de l’information entre les diverses disciplines de projet impliquées est intense. Paradoxalement, on constate que le secteur de la construction repose sur un processus de communication s’appuyant sur un format papier ainsi que sur des moyens obsolètes, tels que le téléphone, le télécopieur ou le courriel, afin de partager et d’accéder aux données de projet. Pourtant, malgré le fait que les problématiques de circulation de l’information se répercutent sur l’ensemble des phases de construction, on observe que la phase de réalisation est de loin celle qui dépend le plus de l’information et qui, malheureusement, est la moins informatisée. En considérant le rythme avec lequel évoluent les tablettes et les téléphones intelligents, les technologies mobiles (TM) offrent désormais des moyens efficaces afin de remplacer la communication papier sur le chantier par des solutions numériques et infonuagiques. Cet article traite des résultats d’une recherche visant à comprendre comment le déploiement des TM et des technologies infonuagique peut améliorer l’accès à l’information et faciliter la communication entre les intervenants lors de la phase de réalisation. L’objectif principal de ce papier est de démontrer les bénéfices à employer ces technologies sur les chantiers. Les résultats de cette recherche s’appuient sur la réalisation de trois études de cas dans lesquelles un total de 58 intervenants ont participé aux diverses étapes de cette étude échelonnée sur une période de quinze mois. L’ensemble des données est issu de la réalisation d’observations in situ, d’entrevues ainsi que de l’envoi de questionnaires.

Paper # 156 ; Session: BIM-4: Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1221
A Semantic Similarity-Based Method for Semi-Automated IFC Extension
Authors:
Jiansong Zhang*, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Nora El-Gohary, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Abstract
The Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) schema was designed as a comprehensive data schema to cover information of all phases of a building project and all disciplines of the AEC industry. But due to its limited coverage of details in certain subdomains, the IFC schema needs to be extended for many information processing tasks such as information extraction for automated regulatory compliance checking. Previous IFC extension efforts typically extended IFC in an ad-hoc and subjective manner. A more objective, standardized, and application-independent method for extending IFC is, thus, needed. To address this gap, a new method for extending the IFC schema objectively and semi-automatically is proposed. The proposed method utilizes a semantic relation-based concept matching algorithm to find concepts – from domain documents – to incorporate into the current IFC schema class hierarchy. It utilizes the hypernymy, hyponymy, and synonymy semantic relations. This paper focuses on presenting the proposed semantic relation-based concept matching algorithm: the ZESeM (Zhang and El-Gohary Semantic Matching) algorithm. The ZESeM algorithm was tested on processing concepts from Chapter 12 of the International Building Code 2006. Different semantic similarity computation methods were tested in combination with the proposed ZESeM algorithm. The ZESeM algorithm was evaluated based on adoption rate, which is the number of concepts found by the ZESeM algorithm that are adopted divided by the total number of concepts found by the ZESeM algorithm. An adoption rate of 85.8% was achieved. The proposed semantic relation-based concept matching algorithm offers a more efficient concept matching method for semi-automatically extending the IFC schema.

Paper # 191 ; Session: BIM-4: Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1221
Design Change Management using BIM-based Visualization Model
Authors:
Valeh Moayeri*, Concordia
Osama Moselhi, Concordia
Zhenhua Zhu, Concordia
Abstract
: Building projects frequently experience a number of changes in design development to satisfy owners’ space and functional needs within allocated budgets. These iterative changes, while necessary, individually and collectively have ripple effect on what appears to be the unchanged scope of projects work, with varying impacts on project delivery time and cost. Efficient management of design changes requires scope rendition and minimization of time and cost impacts of these changes. This paper presents an automated model, developed to help design professionals and owners visualize the ripple effect of contemplated design changes. This visualization covers those design changes requested by owners after completion of the design phase and before commencement of the construction phase. The developed model is expected to help owners and their agents to better grasp the ripple effect of design changes and consequently, to make better decisions as to approving or rejecting contemplated changes. The model is also able to calculate the impact of changes on projects cost and time. The model is developed on the basis of comparing the original model of a building to its revised model, which incorporates the introduced changes. The changes included in the developed model encompass addition, deletion as well as changes in quantities and specifications of building components. The model is then integrated with Building Information Modeling (BIM) to provide visualization and documentation of the design changes. The use of BIM provides significant benefits in coordinating changes across different views in the model, thereby enabling users to study the ripple effect of a change from different views, such as plans, elevations and 3D views. The model is capable of illustrating the ripple effect in architectural, mechanical, electrical and HVAC systems. For evaluation purposes, the model has been applied to a case study.

Paper # 188 ; Session: BIM-5: Facility Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Integrating Building Information Modeling And Conceptual Design Towards Effective Facilities Management: A Framework Title
Authors:
Elaf T Al-Kattan*, University of Ottawa
Ahmad Jrade, University of Ottawa
Abstract
The engagement of Facilities Management (FM) during the conceptual design stage of building projects has been recently explored. Incorporating FM during the design stage through the concept of BIM has the potential to minimize the possible waste of project resources (time, money, materials, and sustainability impacts) especially during the operational stage while offering the essential tools to keep buildings running to the required living standards. This paper proposes a framework to develop an integrated conceptual design model towards effective FM. Based on an intense literature review and series of interviews with FM and design professionals, this innovative framework is created to fulfil the following basics attributes: (1) tackling the key factors that affect FM; (2) Identifying the most effective stage of design (conceptual design) to involve facility managers; and (3) Detecting the major aspects that will directly contribute in enhancing the quality of managing, operating and maintaining facilities at the early design stage of a project. The expected results of the integrated BIM-FM model should show the importance of facilities managers’ contribution during the conceptual design stage that leads in reducing the operating and maintenance costs, while providing 3D Integrated Design within Building Information Modeling (BIM) environment by generating list of design alternatives through design simulations. An actual case project is used to test the models’ capability and workability.

Paper # 251 ; Session: BIM-5: Facility Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Evaluation of Organisational Context and Requirements for Leveraging Building Information Models to Support Handover and Operations & Maintenance
Authors:
Hasan B Cavka*, University of British Columbia
Sheryl Staub-French, University of British Columbia
Rachel Pottinger, University of British Columbia
Abstract
The handover of building information upon completion of a project is a critical and challenging step for owners. It is at this stage that the owner gets all the relevant information about the facility to support operations and maintenance (O&M) over its lifecycle. However, experience has shown that this step is often given little attention and that the information that is obtained is often erroneous, incomplete or unstructured. The increasing use of Building Information Modeling by architects, engineers and contractors and the resulting models that are created during the design and construction phases are now starting to be handed over to the owner as part of the as-built facility information. While BIM has the potential to consistently represent systems and equipment with the required information to support O&M, traditional design and construction models need to be significantly reworked to make them useful for O&M tasks. In order to achieve a digital BIM-based handover process we need to understand how a model-based process aligns with a given organizational structure. This paper presents the findings from a retrospective study of a large public owner and the handover process for a high performance institutional building. On this project, we analyzed the owner’s technical guidelines, interviewed numerous O&M personnel, analyzed the software and systems used and the associated information flows, and analyzed the building handover artifacts. In particular, this paper focuses on the analysis of the handover BIM for mechanical systems and its compliance with the owner’s technical guidelines and user requirements with the intent of characterizing the model structure and content required to support the owner’s O&M activities. This analysis identifies the extensive processing required to configure design and construction BIM’s to satisfy owner’s O&M needs. For example, geometric and non-geometric content needs to be added, the models need to be re-structured to define space-equipment-system definitions and relationships, and equipment names and system definitions need to be aligned with the technology infrastructure within the organisation. The findings suggest that in order to have a consistent and useful BIM for O&M at handover, the model structure and content should comply with the owner/user requirements and they need to be in alignment with the organisational and technological processes and infrastructures of the owner organisation.

Paper # 342 ; Session: BIM-5: Facility Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Review Of BIM Quality Assessment Approaches For Facility Management
Authors:
Puyan Zadeh*, University of British Columbia
Sheryl Staub-French, University of British Columbia
Rachel Pottinger, University of British Columbia
Abstract
Assessing the quality of information in building information models (BIM) at the time of project handover is critical for owners. Lack of quality information in delivered BIMs can cause significant issues in using BIM for facility management purposes, potentially limiting or preventing their use in building operations. Our studies of numerous BIM projects and deliverables have found that most BIMs created for design and construction today contain significant quality issues including inaccurate, incomplete, or unnecessary information. To make these models useful for building operations requires significant adjustment to the models, which can be very time-consuming and costly. This paper describes different types of quality issues identified through numerous case studies of BIM projects and categorizes them according to different model perspectives (entity, model, and user level) and relevant facility management perspectives (assets, MEP systems, and spaces). We identify the different characteristics of each type of quality issue and then systematically analyze relevant literature in the AEC and computer science domains to put these issues in context. This analysis highlights the ambiguity in characterizing information quality issues in a BIM and demonstrates the need for a comprehensive and consistent formalization of BIM quality.

Paper # 52 ; Session: BIM-5: Facility Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Investigating Occupants’ Behaviour Using Emerging Building Information Modelling
Authors:
Henry F Abanda*, Oxford Brookes University
Luisa F Cabeza, GREA Innovació Concurrent Universitat de Lleida Pere de Cabrera
Abstract
According to the recent the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) globally, buildings were responsible for about 32% of energy consumption and emission of 19% of energy-related greenhouse gases in 2010. These shares impact negatively on the environment and communities. Many studies reveal that emerging Building Information Modelling (BIM) has a great potential to contribute to improving sustainable design practices that can lead to the mitigation of climate change impacts. Despite the wide use of BIM in performing sustainable building analysis, building occupants’ behaviour is hardly considered. Recent studies including the IPCC AR5 reveal that occupants’ behaviour contributes significantly to household energy consumption. The use of emerging BIM in modelling human behaviour and influences on energy efficiency of buildings is still very sketchy. This study aims to investigate the use of BIM in modelling household occupants’ behaviour and impacts on energy consumption. The research methods to be adopted are three-fold. First, in order to understand the nexus between occupants’ behaviour and energy simulation, a review of behavioural practices in homes and current BIM-energy simulation software packages is undertaken. Secondly, based on the first, suitable BIM-energy simulation software systems are identified and used for simulating occupants’ behaviour vis-à-vis energy consumption. Thirdly, a building with well-known and established characteristics is employed as a case study to investigate different behaviour options and impacts and results discussed.

Paper # 326 ; Session: BIM-6: Facility Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
SocioBIM: Bim-To-End User Interaction For Sustainable Building Operations And Facility Asset Management
Authors:
Amir Shoolestani*, University of British Columbia
Behzad Shoolestani, University of British Columbia
Thomas Froese, University of British Columbia
Dana Vanier, University of British Columbia
Abstract
Building and facility asset management is a strategic approach to optimal capital spending on assets to ensure control of operational cost and risk, prolong assets life, reliable performance, and grateful stakeholders. The decisions for sustainable building operations and infrastructure asset management ultimately rests on stakeholders and end-users in particular. This paper introduces SocoiBIM, an application for building occupants to be able to interact with their building and provide valuable feedback to the building management. Our research will take advantage of the state-of-the-art and the-state-of-practice Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies, sustainability assessment techniques, advanced analytics, decision support systems, and integrator platforms. The valuable insight derived from SocioBIM can solve important issues related to sustainable building operations and facility asset management. Furthermore, SocioBIM adds value and promises improved competitive advantage to any asset management organization.

Paper # 202 ; Session: BIM-6: Facility Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
A Decision-making Algorithm for Selecting Building Information Modeling Functions
Authors:
Sneha Bhoir, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Aimee Schwab, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Behzad Esmaeili*, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Paul M Goodrum, University of Colorado Boulder
Abstract
Due to a lack of common financial benchmarking for various BIM functions, decisions regarding adopting BIM functions are usually made based on market pressure or a manager’s intuition. While larger firms can afford such a trial and error process, the cost burden on small- to medium-sized firms is significant. Therefore, there is a need to assemble the tacit knowledge of BIM users into a simple algorithm that can aid new users in understanding the advantages and disadvantages of implementing BIM functions in a project. This study aims to develop a decision-making algorithm that helps practitioners choose BIM functions for their project to maximize success. Some of the independent variables that were considered are project category, project size, delivery method, and time of involvement of different parties. A questionnaire was developed to measure the importance of these variables on using different BIM functions. The survey was sent out to 3,017 owner representatives, architects, and project managers. In total, 119 individuals responded to the survey of which 81 were BIM users. The analysis of the data resulted in a decision matrix and an algorithm that provides guidance for decision makers regarding adopting different BIM functions. Most of the respondents worked in the building and commercial construction sector, which likely influenced the respondents. The findings of the study have contributions to both academia and practice. The results can be used by researchers as a benchmark for future studies and practitioners can use the decision-making algorithm to select an appropriate BIM function for their projects.

Paper # 66 ; Session: BIM-6: Facility Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Tracking Indoor Air Quality of Buildings using BIM
Authors:
Mohamed Marzouk*, Cairo University
Ibrahim Gamal
Khalid Al-Gahtani, King Saud University
Abstract
Today, the demand of sustainable buildings is getting higher. The main purpose of buildings is to provide a comfortable living environment to their occupants, considering different aspects including thermal, visual and acoustic comfort as well as Indoor Air Quality. Life cycle assessments are related to many issues such as environmental concerns. Decreasing carbon foot print and energy consumption rates and increasing comfort level for the building users can help to achieve environmental improvements. This comfort level is related highly to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). This research aims at improving environmental concerns using building information modeling. As-built BIM model is developed to act as a hub to allow transformation of information to an external database, extracted from the BIM Model in COBIE (Construction-Operations Building Information Exchange) format. The database is updated in a dynamic manner to reflect external environmental changes. The environmental changes are captured using sensors that can detect variations in temperature and humidity. Also, carbon emissions and energy consumption rates are reflected back on the model. A case study is presented to demonstrate the use of the proposed framework.

Paper # 258 ; Session: BIM-6: Facility Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
A Novel Framework For Bim Enabled Facility Energy Management – A Concept Paper
Authors:
Firas Al-Shalabi, Iowa State University
Yelda Turkan*, Iowa State University
Abstract
Building Information Modeling (BIM) enabled facility management has gained increased interest both in academia and industry. Previous research has shown the importance of having dynamic BIMs that can react and interact with real-time data obtained from building sensors. The other sought benefits of BIM such as improving workforce efficiency, proactive maintenance planning and improving maintenance records, which would lead to reduced energy and water consumption, are also acknowledged both by the academic community and the industry practitioners. However, BIM implementation for facility energy management activities, specifically for energy use monitoring, has not yet been explored, and one of the main reasons pertain to not having standards for BIM to be effectively used for facility energy management tasks. This paper provides a comprehensive literature review on BIM implementation and BIM requirements for facility management and facility energy management related tasks. Also, it proposes a conceptual framework that enables to achieve dynamic BIM for building energy use monitoring activities. The proposed framework connects BIM database with building energy management systems, while enabling BIM to act as a central data repository and a visualization tool to achieve energy use monitoring related tasks. Finally, it summarises the challenges to achieve dynamic BIM, and concludes with the expected benefits of implementing dynamic BIM for building energy management as well as recommendations for future research.

Paper # 350 ; Session: Bridges-Design, Constr. & Mgt.-1 ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1611
Ultimate And Fatigue Strength Of GFRP-Reinforced, Full-Depth, Precast Bridge Deck Panels With Zigzag-Shape Transverse Joints Filled With UHPFRC
Authors:
Mahmoud Sayed-Ahmed*, Ryerson University
Khaled Sennah, Ryerson University
Abstract
One of the prefabricated bridge system used to accelerate bridge construction is the full-depth, full-width, precast concrete deck slab with transverse joint placed over steel or concrete girders. In this system, grouted pockets are provided to accommodate clusters of shear connectors welded to steel girders or embedded in concrete girders. In this research, ultra-high performance fibre-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) and glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars are utilized in the closure strip between the adjacent precast for enhanced strength and durability. Two actual-size, GFRP-reinforced, precast concrete deck slabs were erected to perform fatigue tests using the foot print of the truck wheel loading specified in the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code (CHBDC). Each slab had 200 mm thickness, 2500 mm width and 3700 mm length in the direction of traffic and rest over braced twin-steel girder system. The transverse closure strip between connected precast slabs has a width of 100 mm with zigzag-shape from each side of the joint to increase moment capacity along the interface between the UHPFRC and the precast concrete along the joint. GFRP bars in the precast slabs project into the closure strip with a development length of 175 mm. Two types of fatigue tests were performed, namely: (i) constant amplitude cyclic loading, followed by loading the slab monotonically to-collapse; and (ii) accelerated variable amplitude cyclic loading. Overall, the test results demonstrated the excellent fatigue performance of the developed closure strip details. In addition, the ultimate load carrying capacity of the slab was far greater than the factored design wheel load specified in CHBDC.

Paper # 295 ; Session: Bridges-Design, Constr. & Mgt.-1 ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1611
Deconstruction and Maintenance of a Steel bridge using Fatigue data and BIM
Authors:
Christian O Wokem*, SAIT
Jishnu Subedi, SAIT
Abstract
Design for deconstruction is one of the emerging concepts for sustainability. For existing structures, the concept can be extended to optimize maintenance schedule for different components. Many existing steel bridges are at a stage in their lives where decisions need to be made to either continue in existing condition, to strengthen or to deconstruct them. This decision is highly dependent on the fatigue resistance of the steel connections which is a function of remaining structural strength, service load, expected future use and other environmental factors. Over the years a great deal of research work has been done in assessing the fatigue life of steel structures. This study utilizes these fatigue information to carry out a life cycle assessment of bridge elements and to layer and schedule maintenance or deconstruction of the system using building information modeling (BIM). As the BIM system will apply economic analysis for maintaining the bridge versus deconstructing and rebuilding of a new bridge, it will be instrumental to optimize the decision on any intervention in the bridge.

Paper # 183 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Demographic Influences On Construction Craft Shortages In The U.S. And Canada
Authors:
Mohammed A Albattah*, University of Colorado Boulder
Paul M Goodrum, University of Colorado Boulder
Timothy R Taylor, University of Kentucky
Abstract
The United States and Canadian construction markets are facing a shortfall of skilled craft workers in the face of increasing labor demands. There are initial indications that the shortages are already having a significant impact on project performance in the industrial construction sectors. While there are many demographic aspects of the shortage, the authors focus on the shift in aging of the United States and Canadian construction workforce and the effects this is having on the availability of craft workers, especially on highly skilled craft trades such as pipefitters and electricians. Also, the authors examine immigration policy and its influence on the qualifications of the construction workforce. The authors use multiple US and Canadian data sources to examine the trends on both sides of the border, including the US Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Current Population Survey, Statistic Canada, and the Build Force Canada datasets. The findings show that while both the US and Canadian construction markets are experiencing an aging workforce, the aging of the US workforce is occurring at a much faster rate.

Paper # 317 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Explaining The Influence Of Change Reasons On Cost And Schedule Performances
Authors:
David Grau*, Arizona State Univ.
Edward Back
Nahid Hossain, Arizona State Univ.
Abstract
This research aimed at revealing and characterizing the influence of change events or reasons on cost and schedule performances. The specific objectives were to assess the frequencies of various change reasons with respect to cost and schedule deviations, and to assess the impact intensities of such change events or reasons on performance. Initially, a team of industry experts identified a total of 36 change types and grouped them in 9 major change categories. Then, change log information for 135 completed projects was statistically analyzed to quantify the intensity, frequency, and impact of changes on cost and schedule performances. The most recurrent types of change events for both cost and schedule were associated with issues related to construction productivity; planning; supplier and subcontractor; scope errors and omissions; design or engineering errors and omissions; or engineering productivity issues. In addition, this study quantified the specific impact on cost and/or schedule from a change event or reason. Specifically, this study provides evidence that fairly infrequent change events tend to cause large impacts on performance. The results from this study are likely generalizable, since the retrospective project data was representative of multiple project types, sectors, and organizational roles, among other project facets.

Paper # 145 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Multi-Perspective Assessment Method For Measuring Leading Indicators In Capital Project Benchmarking
Authors:
Jiyong Choi, University of Texas at Austin
Sungmin Yun*, Construction Industry Institute
Stephen P Mulva, Construction Industry Institute
Daniel P Oliveira, Construction Industry Institute
Youngcheol Kang, University of Seoul
Abstract
This paper presents a new multi-perspective assessment method for measuring leading indicators deployed in the 10-10 Performance Assessment System that the Construction Industry Institute (CII) has recently launched. The CII 10-10 Performance Assessment System adopted a multi-perspective assessment approach for evaluating leading indicators that represent various management input measures throughout capital project delivery process. The leading indicators consist of 10 input measures, including four fundamental management functions such as planning, organizing, leading, and controlling as well as major management practices such as design efficiency, human resources, quality, sustainability, supply chain, and safety. This paper provides the theoretical background for the method through extensive review of existing benchmarking theories. Then it describes the development process for the assessment method. After this, it presents how the method was deployed to evaluate the system’s 10 leading indicators. Finally, this paper discusses how to practically utilize the input measure scores acquired from the method for performance improvement. The assessment method in the system will help project management teams to diagnose their project’s performances and thus allow them to set up proactive strategies for the subsequent phases of the project.

Paper # 134 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Overview of Construction Sustainability Research Products
Authors:
James T. O’Connor, University of Texas at Austin
Neftali Torres, Fluor Corporation
Jeyoung Woo*, University of Texas at Austin
Abstract
Much research has been conducted on capital project sustainability in the last two decades, but most of the findings only provide guidelines for its implementation during facility planning or design. This nearly exclusive focus on early project phases has left the industry with the need for more detailed guidance on implementing construction sustainability practices during jobsite execution. With this need in mind, the Construction Industry Institute (CII) chartered Research Team (RT) 304, “Sustainability Practices and Metrics for the Construction Phase of Capital Projects”, to develop this missing practical guidance. This paper overviews the findings and products of the research team. The team developed a catalog of 54 Construction Phase Sustainability Actions (CPSAs) for onsite implementation during the construction phase to increase overall project sustainability. Each CPSA is characterized in terms of corresponding construction functions, potential sustainability impact, influence on project performance (i.e., cost, schedule, quality, and safety), ease of implementation, barriers to implementation, conditions that leverage benefits, and output metrics. The research team also developed two spreadsheet-based tools—the CPSA Screening Tool and the CPSA Implementation Index—to facilitate CPSA implementation during construction. The screening tool enables users to prioritize the 54 CPSAs according to project characteristics, while the index tool assesses CPSA implementation levels. Through its validation efforts, the team determined that the current level of CPSA implementation across the industry is at approximately 60 percent, and that this rate should increase with the regular use of the CPSA catalog, screening tool, and implementation index.

Paper # 189 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Development and Utilization of the Project Definition Rating Index for Small Industrial Projects
Authors:
Wesley Collins*, Arizona State Univ.
Kristen Parrish, Arizona State Univ.
Edward Gibson, Jr., Arizona State Univ.
Abstract
Front end planning is arguably the most impactful activity in the management of construction projects. Organizations expend substantial effort in planning large projects, intending to minimize risk and promote project success. Small projects –typically classified as such based on their lower costs – often have minimal planning completed prior to the start of design and construction. To date, little research has been performed regarding the planning and management of small construction projects, especially those in the industrial sector. In 2013, the Construction Industry Institute (CII) set out to develop a Project Definition Rating Index (a front end planning tool) specifically for small industrial projects. CII Research Team 314 identified forty-one specific elements as most pertinent in assessing a small industrial project. Sixty-five industry practitioners reviewed and prioritized these elements through a series of focus group “weighting workshops.” The tool has been used to assess 12 separate small industrial projects to date, with positive results. This paper summarizes how the PDRI-Small Industrial Projects was developed, how the tool differs from the previously-developed PDRI-Industrial Projects, and how it has been utilized to date to assess small industrial projects. Future research opportunities are proposed, including use of the PDRI-Small Industrial Projects research methodology to develop similar tools for the infrastructure and building construction sectors.

Paper # 83 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
A Review of the Current Knowledge and Practice Related to Project Progress and Performance Assessment
Authors:
Resulali E Orgut*, North Carolina State University
Jin Zhu, Florida International University
Mostafa Batouli, Florida International University
Ali Mostafavi, Florida International University
Edward J Jaselskis, North Carolina State University
Abstract
Assessment of true project progress and performance is of critical importance in the successful delivery of construction projects. Major challenges related to measuring project progress and performance are the lack of consistent, reliable, and objective metrics and indicators. The objective of this paper is to provide a review of existing applied knowledge and practices pertaining to methods, metrics and indicators for progress measurement, performance assessment and forecasting, as well as performance influencing factors. Shortcomings of the current approaches are evaluated and recommendations for improvement are provided. The findings of this paper are primarily based on a comprehensive literature review and discussions with industry experts in the following areas: (1) methods and metrics used for progress measurement, (2) metrics and indicators used for performance assessment and forecasting, and (3) metrics that can influence project progress and performance (e.g., risk, safety, and quality). Several industry and academic publications are reviewed including the reports from the Construction Industry Institute (CII), guidelines developed by professional organizations (e.g. Project Management Institute, Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering International), and scholarly publications. Industry experts serving on the CII research team (RT-322) also provide their insights. Based on the extensive review of the relevant literature, this paper identifies limitations of various measures, metrics and indicators across different project control levels. A framework depicting the current project control process is provided along with a gap analysis related to the problems associated with this approach.

Paper # 96 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Development of an Operational Excellence Model to Improve Safety for Construction Organizations
Authors:
Huang Liu*, University of Kentucky
Elyas Jazayeri, University of Kentucky
Gabriel B Dadi, University of Kentucky
William F Maloney, University of Kentucky
Kristopher J Cravey, Day & Zimmermann
Abstract
Construction incidents have numerous root causes, but one of the most frequent is worker behavior. Therefore, construction safety management systems should be designed to maximize the number of safe behaviors by workers, and focus on the execution of construction safety management to achieve excellent safety performance. Operational excellence, a safety concept from the chemical processing industry, is defined as doing the right thing, the right way, every time – even when no one is watching. Good operational excellence results in effective reinforcement of appropriate safety systems, and significantly reduces the rate of unsafe behaviors. Researchers managed to embed the concept of operational excellence into construction safety management. Through an extensive literature review, discussions with industry experts on the topic, and subject matter expert validation, the researchers have developed an operational excellence model designed to evaluate and improve safety performance for construction organizations. This paper describes the model development process and the key elements included in the Operational Excellence Model (OEM). The primary contribution to the overall body of knowledge is developing a practical operational excellence model for practitioners to assess and improve safety performance through behavioral and cultural elements.

Paper # 38 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
State Of Practice In Portfolio Management: A Comprehensive Survey
Authors:
Reza Masoumi*, Northeastern University
Baabak Ashuri, Georgia Institute of Technology
R. Edward Minchin, University of Florida
Mohsen Shahandashti, Georgia Institute of Technology
Ali Touran, Northeastern University
Abstract
There has been an increase in the practice of managing multiple projects as the number of megaprojects has decreased and firms try to manage a larger number of smaller projects. The use of portfolio management is growing in the industry to allow firms to maximize the use of their limited resources. This paper reports on the outcome of a comprehensive survey, which was supported by the Construction Industry Institute (CII) and a team of 17 experts from various firms. The survey focused on identifying contemporary portfolio management practices by asking 28 questions on five topics: firm information, makeup of a portfolio, current practices, performance metrics, and implementation. The survey was designed to give an insight into what successful owners and contractors have done in implementing portfolio management. It was found that owners approach portfolio management differently from contractors. Owners generally establish strategic business objectives and select projects and form their portfolios using their available resources. On the other hand, contractors try to win projects and follow their clients’ regulations; however, they still need portfolio management to efficiently manage their projects. A major emphasis of this research effort was the list of performance metrics used in portfolio management. Owners who successfully implemented portfolio management within their firms have practiced the use of a formal project prioritization system in a portfolio. All of these firms use dashboards with performance metrics to show the performance of a portfolio. The Main indicators found on current dashboards include cost, schedule, safety, and overall success of the portfolio.

Paper # 214 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Energy-Based Safety Risk Management
Authors:
Dillon Alexander, University of Colorado
Matthew R Hallowell*, University of Colorado
John A Gambatese, Oregon State University
Abstract
Safety has long been problematic in the construction industry. To address this ongoing concern, recent research has focused on risk-based approaches to proactive safety management. Although the quantity and quality of safety risk data has improved in recent years, available data do not link directly to natural principles and are, therefore, limited in their application and scientific extension. This study offers a new explanation of safety risk using the concept of energy where the underlying proposition is that all hazards are truly defined by the exposure to one or more of ten distinct forms of energy (e.g., gravity, motion, electrical). This concept of safety energy was introduced by William Haddon, was operationalized in a past Construction Industry Institute (CII) research team, and is currently being tested by an active CII research team. The present study aims to link energy transfer to safety risk for the first time. Inspired by natural disaster modeling, the concept of energy is translated to risk by defining the severity of a potential event as the ratio of the magnitude of the energy to the resiliency of the impacted human body part. Additionally, the likelihood component of risk is defined by the combination of human, social, technological, and other factors that contribute to the chance that there is an unwanted transfer of energy. To test this proposition, energy-based risk data were extracted from approximately 7,250 injury reports obtained from 281 private construction organizations. For each report, a combination of manual and automated content analysis was used to extract the following data: the chief energy source(s) contributing to the incident, the quantity of energy involved, the part of the body affected, and the severity of the outcome. Generalized linear regression models show that the variability in the ratio of estimated energy quantity and the resiliency of the human body part affected explains over 80 percent of the variability in injury severity levels. Additionally, over 50 factors that relate to the probability of energy release were identified and include factors such as training, human error, fabrication reliability, network safety communication, design errors, and others. This research indicates that energy-based safety risk analysis is a promising line of scientific inquiry with predictive validity that has the potential to increase our understanding of the natural phenomena that contribute to injuries. This research corroborates previous hazard recognition research that introduced the energy principle of hazard classification but challenges the scientific merit of past safety risk data.

Paper # 197 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Motivation For Interface Management In Construction: A Project Complexity Perspective
Authors:
Seungjun Ahn*, University of Michigan
Samin Shokri, University of Waterloo
Sanghyun Lee, University of Michigan
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Ralph Haas, University of Waterloo
Abstract
Understanding project complexity is crucial for determining—or designing—the tools, methods, and skills required to effectively deal with interface issues in a construction project. However, understanding project complexity is not an easy undertaking; the concept of project complexity is composed of many interrelated sub-concepts, and thus is complex in itself. Given this background, this research aimed to define the dimensions of project complexity based on empirical data focusing on the variations in the project complexity factors between projects. To achieve this research objective, data for project complexity factors were collected via semi-structured interviews from 45 large-scale construction projects, and were analyzed using principal component analysis. As a result, 6 interpretable principal components were extracted from the dataset: ‘unclear scope of work for multiple stakeholders in the definition and design of projects with new technology’, ‘the uncertainty in boundaries and communication relative to other complexity factors’, ‘unfamiliarity with other project participants’, ‘the multiplicity of stakeholders relative to the amount of cost pressure and execution risks’, ‘the relative multitude of engineered items’, and ‘the high-level program/project administration’. These complexity dimensions can help with understanding sources of project complexity and determining the skills, tools, and systems to effectively cope with the sources of project complexity. Additionally, the analysis results hint that organizational interfaces should be effectively managed to prevent project failure in construction projects, and therefore support the need for advanced interface management in complex projects.

Paper # 230 ; Session: CII-Sponsored Research-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Advanced Work Packaging as emerging methodology to improve project performance in the industrial construction sector.
Authors:
Simone Ponticelli*, University of Texas at Austin
William J O’Brien, University of Texas at Austin
Fernanda L Leite, University of Texas at Austin
Abstract
Despite the progress made in the development of scheduling techniques and tools, the industrial construction sector is frequently characterized by informal and unstructured procedures during initial planning stages. This results in planning deliverables that are scarcely aligned across the different business divisions and poorly structured to support field operations. Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) methodology consists in an enhanced project breakdown structure that prescribes an organized planning approach, aiming at the alignment between construction, engineering, and procurement disciplines since the preliminary planning phase. AWP is an emerging planning approach in the industrial construction sector and the present article is aimed at exploring AWP impact on project performance. Research methodology is based on multiple case studies concerning two industrial construction projects. The case studies involved the construction of projects with identical scope, one with and one without AWP implementation. These case studies were performed at the same time, in neighboring sites, and by the same project participants, thus representing reliable units of analysis to investigate AWP impact. Findings show that AWP implementation is related to improved performance in terms of project cost, schedule, quality, and safety. The present article contributes to the validation of an emerging project planning methodology and highlights the criticality of the early planning phase, which systematic characterization represents a valuable and still under-explored research avenue.

Paper # 20 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-1: Cost & Estimation ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1005
Better Infrastructure Procurement for Public Private Partnerships: An Australian Perspective
Authors:
Jim Smith*, Bond University
Michael Regan, Bond university
Peter Love, Curtin University
Abstract
Introduction Public private partnerships (PPPs) are a method for the delivery of social and economic infrastructure services in over 80 countries worldwide. PPPs are a contractual arrangement between public and private entities through which the skills, assets and/or financial resources of both sectors are allocated in such a manner that provides optimal service delivery and good value to society. Central to the operation of public private partnerships is the systematic evaluation of the procurement options available to government, an output specification to encourage private design, risk transfer, construction and operational innovation, the detailed analysis of projects over their operational lifecycle, a rigorous and competitive bid process, and the selection of proposals that deliver value for money. Unlike traditional procurement, which is predominantly based on lowest cost to government, value for money (VFM) is a measure that takes into account both the quantitative and qualitative outcomes over the term of a contract. Objectives The international evidence suggests that public private partnership procurement methods using value for money evaluation criteria are delivering better infrastructure services at lower cost than traditional procurement methods. This paper reviews some of this evidence and presents the approach being used by one of the leading states (Victoria) in Australia. Methodology/ Approach This paper is based on a larger study for the Asia Development Bank which contained an international survey prepared by the authors. The Australian case study is included in this paper as an example of good procurement practice. Findings and Contribution The wider case studies and survey suggests that better procurement methods for infrastructure projects that adopt a rigorous and well governed process and which integrate a value for money framework into the evaluation of bids leads to a better opportunity for successful projects. The evidence also suggests explicit recognition of VFM as a PPP procurement objective together with the adoption of an output specification, risk allocation practices, and quantitative benchmarking enable PPP policies to better harness the benefits offered by the PPP procurement method.

Paper # 35 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-1: Cost & Estimation ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1005
Investigating the impact of defects on key stakeholders in the UK new housing sector
Authors:
Tony J Hopkin*, NHBC & University of Reading
Shu-Ling Lu
Phil Rogers
Martin Sexton
Abstract
The UK house building sector is facing dual pressures to expand supply, along with delivering against tougher Building Regulations’ requirements, predominantly in the areas of sustainability. A review of current literature has highlighted that the pressures the UK house building industry is currently under may be having a negative impact on build quality, causing an increase in defects. A review and synthesis of the current defect literature with respect to new-build housing and the wider construction sector has found that the prevailing emphasis is limited to the classification, causes, pathology and statistical analysis of defects. There is thus a need to better understand the overall impact of individual defects on key stakeholders within the new-build housing defect detection and remediation process. As part of ongoing research to develop and verify a defect impact assessment rating system, this paper seeks to contribute to our understanding of the impact of individual defects from a key stakeholder perspective by undertaking the literature review and synthesis phase. The literature review identifies the three distinct, but interrelated, dominant impact factors: cost, disruption, and health and safety. By pulling the strands of defect literature together the theoretical lens and key stakeholder sampling strategy is formed as the basis for the subsequent impact weighting development phase.

Paper # 7 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-1: Cost & Estimation ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1005
Modeling Early Payment Discounts and Late Payment Penalties with Singularity Functions
Authors:
Yi Su, Catholic University of America
Gunnar Lucko*, Catholic University of America
Abstract
Cash flow management is a vital concern of construction contractors. To break its vicious cycle of ‘pay as late as possible, get paid as early as possible’ in which the project participants may engage to their mutual detriment, potential incentives and disincentives that are used in financial transactions should be systematically investigated. Both are time-dependent functions that define a discount or surcharge based on whether a transaction is performed before or after a deadline. They can thus be expressed by so-called singularity functions, which are activated on said cutoff date. The new model expands prior research on cash flows by linking early (prompt) payment discounts – for which a practical nomograph is provided – directly with their counterpart of late payment fees. The values of both can be calculated from the individual financing interest of the participants to assess different scenarios based on their relative time value of money. They thus gain the ability to make financially informed decisions on offering a discount and imposing a fee appropriately, and accepting the discount or incurring a fee, respectively.

Paper # 34 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-1: Cost & Estimation ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1005
An investigation into current tendering process in Saudi construction projects
Authors:
Shabbab A Alhammadi*, Shaqra University
Abstract
Underachievement in project performance, lengthy delays and financial loss in construction projects in Saudi Arabia has been realised due to the approach of current tendering process. This research aims to investigate the current process adopted for tendering construction projects in Saudi Arabia. The study employs a qualitative study of three organisations utilising semi-structured interviews with managers to gauge clients, contractors and consultants’ perspectives on current tendering practice and associated challenges and impacts. Results revealed a number of challenges and impacts facing stakeholders to the adoption of a holistic approach to tender planning process. These include: stakeholders’ dissatisfaction, lack of effective strategic plan for tendering system; rigid, inappropriate and bureaucratic tendering process; complicated legalisations used for entering large international construction firms in Saudi construction markets; unscheduled tendering of huge number of projects by both public and private sectors; failed and breakdown projects; low quality of building and expected high expenditure on maintenance and operation. Solutions focus on formulating a strategic planning involved the key factors. The study is one of the few studies that have investigated Saudi tender process from a practical views and dynamic perspective. It reveals not only the challenges and impacts of current situation, but also draws a road map for a better solution.

Paper # 231 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-10: Health & Safety ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1001
Ergonomics and Physical demand analysis in a construction manufacturing facility
Authors:
Xinming Li*, University of Alberta
Gordon Fan, University of Alberta
Abdullah Abudan, University of Alberta
Majd Sukkarieh, University of windsor
Ndukeabasi Inyang, All Weather Windows
Mustafa Gul, University of Alberta
Marwan El-Rich, University of Alberta
Mohamed Al-Hussein, University of Alberta
Abstract
Poor workstation design in a manufacturing facility negatively impacts the health and safety of workers, which hampers productivity. A systematic tool, Physical Demand Analysis (PDA), is utilized in a case-study project to quantify and evaluate labor physical and body posture for various production line tasks in a window and door manufacturing company. This paper presents the implementation Physical Demand Analysis (PDA) focusing on the design of the PDA form template, plant observation, and ergonomic risk identification. The methodology of data collection and the implementation of time studies for plant observation are described. Four main ergonomic risks including static whole body posture, manual material handling, sensory problem and awkward body postures are identified. Detailed observation findings, risk assessment method, analysis results and suggested corresponding corrective measures with regard to these four risks are described in this paper.

Paper # 115 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-10: Health & Safety ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1001
A Conceptual Accident Causation Model Based on the Incident Root Causes
Authors:
Estacio Pereira, University of Alberta
Hosein Taghaddos, PCL
Rick Hermann, PCL
SangUk Han, University of Alberta
Simaan M AbouRizk*, University of Alberta
Abstract
The measurement and control of incident root causes allows for proactive actions to mitigate risk in advance. In practice, however, it is difficult to identify and collect data that represent the root causes due to the complexity of incident occurrence processes. Despite previous studies on incident causation modelling, the identification of root causes in practice still relies on the investigator’s subjective opinion. This research presents a conceptual model that explains the causal relationships between the root causes and the site unsafe level, and eventually assesses incident investigation processes. A case study was conducted to evaluate the 13 root causes in a company’s investigation practice. The causal relationship between the root causes was observed based on the company safety database, interviews, and literature review. Then, the detailed model, which explains the incident occurrence process, was explored. Additionally, a hypothetical simulation model that allows for evaluation of the influence of each root cause on the safety level was built and tested to discuss the potential use of the conceptual model. Based on the company database, this paper also suggests and discusses the types of data to measure the root causes in practice. The model demonstrates that not only do safety personal and safety strategies affect the site unsafe level, but other factors also do, such as procurement, engineering, human resources, etc. As a result, the proposed model can be used to help identify the root cause in incident investigation practice and to develop strategies to improve safety performance

Paper # 218 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-10: Health & Safety ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1001
Live safety demos: New method to enhance situational awareness and situational interest through emotional engagement.
Authors:
Siddharth Bhanbadri, University of Colorado
Matthew R Hallowell*, University of Colorado
Abstract
Safety training is a vital component of any construction organization’s safety program. Training offers an opportunity for the transfer of explicit and tacit knowledge of safe work practices. Often, safety training focuses on core issues faced by the specific organization and links to desired worker behavior. Unfortunately, the typical delivery modes involve PowerPoint presentations, written safety protocols, and classroom-style settings. Such teaching modes do not facilitate active, inductive, context-based learning that is essential for effective andragogy (i.e., adult learning) and, therefore, often fail to achieve their desired objectives. This study tests the hypotheses that a new method of risk-free safety training, Live Safety Demos, improves risk perception, increases engagement in training activities, and improves situational interest. The technique involves demonstrating the cause and effect of actual injuries to human hands, which are the most commonly injured body part in construction. The delivery of the demos include the following key components: (1) biologically-realistic replicas of human hands that include flesh, bones, and blood networks; (2) in-person demonstrations of common injuries to worker’s hands (e.g., pinch-points between sections of pipe); (3) videos showing injuries to the replicas recorded at over 100,000 frames per second to show detail; and (4) worker-led activities to design work practices that would prevent each injury type. The research was achieved with a team that included one faculty member, three students, a senior manager from the owner organization, four safety managers; and an English-to-Spanish translator. To test the aforementioned hypothesis, the research team used field-validated methods from experimental psychology to measure risk perception, situational interest, and emotional engagement. Using a longitudinal A+B experiment, the demos were tested over the course of a two-week period with approximately 1,200 workers who belonged to approximately 100 crews. The results indicate that all three performance metrics increased by at least 2.5 times baseline observations with extremely strong statistical significance (p less than 0.001). Thus, this research shows that live safety demos, although resource-intensive, has the potential to transform safety training in the construction industry. Future research is suggested to broaden the sample population and to test additional elements of situational awareness such as risk tolerance, retention, communication networks, and ability to respond ad hoc to new safety environments.

Paper # 127 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-10: Health & Safety ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1001
Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Tool Belt Loading Effects on the Postural Stability of Construction Workers
Authors:
Houtan Jebelli*, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Kanghyeok Yang, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Changbum R Ahn, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Terry L Stentz, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Abstract
Falls are a leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in construction. One of the most important steps in analytical research to prevent falls is to identify and measure the factors that can affect the construction workers’ fall risk. While several intrinsic and extrinsic factors can affect workers’ fall risk—such as the effects of aging, jobsite environments, posture and movement characteristics, workers’ experience, and workers’ equipment type and use— one unanticipated factor that can increase fall risk is the incorrect use of personal protective equipment—including full body safety harnesses and heavy tool belts—when safety harnesses and tool belts are not worn properly or body loading balanced they can cause unstable posture, changes in walking gait, and center of gravity problems. The objective of this study was to analyze the effects of the wearing full body safety harnesses and heavy tool belt loading symmetry on construction worker fall risk. Using the time-series quantitative kinematic measures obtained from Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) connected to the workers’ waistline, the postural stability of a group of subjects was measured by calculating the velocity of Center of Pressure (COPv) and the resultant Accelerometer (rAcc)—lower rAcc and COPv values mean lower fall risk for construction workers. The postural stability for each worker was calculated for two different postures (standing and squatting) and for three different configurations of the tools (without attaching tools to the full-body harness, symmetrical attachment configuration, and asymmetrical attachment configuration). T-test results for mean values of the calculated rAcc and COPv showed significant differences in the postural stability of subjects with different placement and loading balance configurations of tool belts connected to the fall protection harness. When tools were not placed in the tool belt connected to the fall protection harness, test subjects had the lowest rAcc and COPv values; asymmetrical tool loading configurations rAcc and COPv had higher values than symmetrical loading configurations. The higher risk values associated with asymmetrically connected tools to a full body safety harness suggests the importance of safety harness tool attachment to construction worker fall risk safety.

Paper # 107 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-11: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Scheduling Optimization of Linear Projects Considering Spatio-Temporal Constraints
Authors:
Nazila Roofigari Esfahan*, McMaster University
Saiedeh Razavi, McMaster University
Abstract
Overall schedule optimization, considering all temporal, spatial and precedence constraints is a difficult task due to the complexity which is inherent in construction projects. The difficulties associated with modeling all aspects combined become more considerable when optimizing linear type of projects with high activities’ inter-relations. The progress of these projects highly depends on the productivity achieved from their resources which is directly dependent upon the space and time available to these resources. As a result, in order to practically optimize linear schedules, not only their achieved productivities need to be managed well, but also the spatio-temporal flexibilities and constraints are to be integrated into the optimization process. This paper aims to fill the gap in the current literature by proposing a practical approach for modeling and optimization of linear schedules while taking into account all the project-dependent constraints. For this purpose, the methodology is built on the new concept of Space-Time float for explicit consideration of spatio-temporal constraints of activities. The developed method uses constraint-satisfaction optimization approach to minimize duration of the generated schedules. As such, by having Space-Time floats for different activities’ resources and using such constraints, the schedule is optimized to get the minimum achievable duration for the total project. A numerical example is analyzed to present the proposed and developed method as well as its added benefits. Key words: Schedule optimization; Spatio-temporal constraints; Constraint programming; Linear projects; Space-time float.

Paper # 125 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-11: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Optimizing Linear Schedules: Congestion-Minimization Approach
Authors:
Nazila Roofigari Esfahan*, McMaster University
Saiedeh Razavi, McMaster University
Abstract
Space is a strictly limited resource on a construction site. For linear type of construction projects, the importance of effectively managing space is crucial as their schedules is generated with due consideration to both time and space. As a result, spatio-temporal congestions between activities of these projects could substantially hinder the performance of interfering activities and cause deviations from planned schedules. The existence of such congestions decreases work productivity, and causes accidents to occur. The current literature focuses on minimizing the workspace conflicts in order to perform efficient work and increase productivity. However, the other side of this problem, i.e. the changes in productivities which give rise to such spatio-temporal congestions is overlooked. To tackle this limitation, this paper proposes a constraint satisfaction approach to quantify and minimize potential space-time congestions in the schedules of linear projects using space-time floats. The method is able to detect not only potential conflicts between each activity with its immediate successors, but also any possible conflict between resources of any activity with all other project activities’ throughout the life cycle of the project. In order to optimize the potentially congested schedules in the planning stage, either the range of productivities available to activities are narrowed down, or the overlapped activities are rescheduled to minimize the conflict. A numerical example is analyzed to demonstrate the added benefits of the proposed method.

Paper # 132 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-11: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Electronic Document Management Systems For Transportation Construction Industry
Authors:
Fangyu Guo*, Iowa State University
Charles Jahren, Iowa State University
Yelda Turkan, Iowa State University
Abstract
The concept of Civil Integrated Management (CIM) was developed to facilitate better utilization of data and information that would enable effective decisions for transportation agencies. It is important to select appropriate intelligent technologies or tools and use them efficiently. Moreover, data needs to be collected, stored, and managed wisely so that it could be used throughout the life cycle of a transportation facility and even for the next reconstruction cycle. This makes it necessary for agencies to have electronic document management (EDM) systems, so that they can manage and share their data with other stakeholders in an efficient manner. Though EDM systems have been implemented and their benefits are well understood in the building construction industry, they are not as common in the transportation design and construction industry, and there are only a few leader state DOTs implementing EDM at agency wide level. Since there are differences between the building and the transportation industry, it is desirable to analyze early examples of implementation from the transportation industry in order to achieve further progress. The purpose of this paper is to present and analyze current state of the EDM systems within the state DOTs that lead with regard to EDM implementation. During a United States National Cooperative Highway Research Project Domestic Scan effort, seven state DOTs and their contractors collaborated to present their extensive experience on CIM related practices and tools. Of these seven, four distinguished themselves with leadership in the area of EDM systems implementation while others were leaders in other areas. In this paper, those four agencies who are leaders with regard to the EDM systems implementation are analyzed and their practices are documented in detail.

Paper # 167 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-11: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Benefits Of Integrating Building Information Modeling And Geographical Information System In Construction Management And Control
Authors:
Ahmad A Al-Saggaf*, University of Ottawa
Ahmad Jrade, University of Ottawa
Abstract
Generally, a tremendous amount of waste and debris are generated by the demolition of existing buildings. Construction managers and site engineers are encountering difficulties in accurately calculating the volume of these materials, which have big influence on the duration and cost of projects. This paper describes the methodology used in developing a model that integrates Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Geographic Information System (GIS) to facilitate demolition waste management and control for megaprojects. The suggested model aims at facilitating the processes of estimating the quantities of waste by calculating the travel distance between the site, storages, and landfills and related time, as well as computing the number of trucks required for loading and hauling the waste from and to multiple sites. The main goal of this study is to demonstrate how this integrated model will provide construction managers with a comprehensive tool that could substantially benefit them in comparison to solely utilizing BIM. This paper will demonstrate how the model works and explain how it has the edge over using BIM only. The suggested BIM-GIS model will contribute to more green and efficient construction management. A hypothetical case project is given to test the workability of the model.

Paper # 166 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-12: Health & Safety ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Investigating The Barriers And Potentials Of Applying Lean Principles In The Egyptian Construction Industry: An Action Research Approach For Applying Value Stream Mapping
Authors:
Mohamed R Ali*, Cairo University
Ahmed Hamdy, Cairo University
Omar El-Anwar, Cairo University
Abstract
Lean construction principles are not yet well known to the Egyptian construction industry. Introducing lean principles is often reported to be faced with considerable resistance to change. In this research, the authors follow the action research methodology to apply some lean construction tools on an ongoing construction operation in Giza, Egypt. The operation at hand is the manufacturing and installation of steel fences and gates in a new residential complex. The operation involves material procurement, off site manufacturing, off-site finishing, transportation, installation and on-site finishing activities. The investigated sample includes four steel workshops, two painting workshops, and an on-site installation crew. The lean construction tool applied is value stream mapping. The main challenges faced by this operation are costumer’s demand fluctuation and a resisting crafts-men culture. The customer demand unforeseeable fluctuations (1) affect the subcontractors’ ability to order large quantities of materials from the suppliers with sufficient lead-time; (2) results in an unstable cash flow to the subcontractors; and (3) generates an unbalanced workload distribution among the on-site and off-site crews. The supervisors of the workshops and on-site crews attempted to adopt some operation plans that according to their experience is best suited for mass production. These plans incorporated many wastes and needed significant modifications to respond in time to the fluctuation of the customer’s demands. Hence, value stream mapping is investigated as a possible solution to the aforementioned challenges. The authors succeeded to change and improve the operations of some participants, cutting the response time to customer demands by half in some cases. However, the authors failed with other participants, mainly because the crafts-men and their supervisors showed a significant resistance to change their operations design. This paper describes the lean construction initiatives, their results, and the main barriers and potentials identified through this research project.

Paper # 222 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-12: Health & Safety ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Measuring Construction Workers’ Attention Using Eye-Tracking Technology
Authors:
Sneha Bhoir, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Sogand Hasanzadeh, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Behzad Esmaeili*, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Michael D Dodd, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Moahmma Sadra Fard Hosseini, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Abstract
Although there are several studies that have highlighted the importance of attention in reducing the number of injures in the construction industry, few studies have attempted to empirically measure the attention of construction workers. One of the techniques that can be used to measure workers’ attention is eye-tracking. Eye-tracking is widely accepted as the most direct and continuous measure of attention given that where one looks is highly correlated with where a person is focusing his/her attention. Thus, with the fundamental objective of investigating hazard identification abilities and the visual attention of construction workers, this study pioneers the application of eye-tracking technology to the realm of construction-safety practices. The study conducts a pilot test to examine the pattern of participants’ eye movement and attention distribution when shown a hazardous situation in a construction site. To achieve this objective, thirty-five pictures that include multiple areas of interest were shown to ten participants, and their eye movements were recorded using a head mounted EyeLink-II system (SR Research). Then, the absolute duration heat maps were generated and the fixation/gaze-related and saccade-related metrics were calculated for each area of interest. The results of the analysis revealed that some people failed to fixate on hidden hazards or even a danger sign. The findings of the study exhibit the immense potential of using eye-tracking technology for improving construction site safety.

Paper # 238 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-12: Health & Safety ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Sensor-Based Factorial Experimental Study On Low Back Disorder Risk Factors Among Roofers
Authors:
Di Wang, West Virginia University
Boyi Hu, West Virginia University
Fei Dai*, West Virginia University
Xiaopeng Ning, West Virginia University
Abstract
Roofers have long suffered from low back disorders (LBDs), which is a primary non-fatal injury in construction. Until present, most of the research on roofing safety is mainly focused on fatal injury risks such as falls from height, leaving much to be desired in the risk assessment of non-fatal, cumulative musculoskeletal disorders among roofers. Ergonomics studies have identified several physical risk factors associated with LBDs in workplaces and applied selective ones to develop predictive models for general LBD risk assessments. However, these models cannot be used for roofing assessments in that they are designed for general tasks without considering different roofer working postures and the effect of working on uneven rooftops. To understand the relationship between the risk factors (i.e., slope angle, posture, facing direction, and working pace) and LBD incidence in roofing shingle installation, a factorial in-lab experiment is conducted with the aid of the Vicon camera system and Electromyography (EMG) sensors. The bending angles and muscle strengths in the low back, which are measured by the two sensor systems, are analyzed as facts that indicate the LBD risk. The proposed experiment finds out the risk factors with significant effect on the LBD injury and interaction between the studied factors. The findings may be used to study the detailed ergonomic safety guidelines for roofing contractors, which will be useful for eliminating LBD risk factors on the roofing sites.

Paper # 275 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-12: Health & Safety ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Real-Time Accident Detection Using UWB Tracking
Authors:
Carlo Andolfo*, University of Calgary
Farnaz Sadeghpour, University of Calgary
Abstract
Construction industry has one of the highest numbers of fatalities among Canadian industries. Despite ongoing efforts to improve safety through trainings and promoting personal protective equipment (PPE), the number of construction fatalities in Canada is actually on the rise. Studies show that systematically monitoring construction sites and providing immediate feedback to workers are instrumental in improving safety. In particular, close monitoring of the real-time status of moving objects has been shown to improve the safety, productivity and performance on construction sites. Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and automation techniques have shown strong potentials for identifying hazards. As a result, automated data collection to monitor the status of the construction sites has received researchers’ attention in recent decades. The objective of this study is to develop a model that prevents the accidents on construction sites using automated real-time location estimations. A model is developed to detect situations that can lead to fall or colliding with moving objects based on proximity of workers to these situations. The system will use the readings from UWB tracking and generates a visualization of the moving objects on the job site in real time. When the possibility of an accident is detected, the system will send an alarm to warn the involved personnel. The functionality and efficiency of the model in detecting accidents is examined. The results of these experiments shed light on the importance of addressing the time delays caused by UWB tracking in actual real-time applications.

Paper # 339 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-14: Construction methods ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
A Typology for Space Usage on Construction Sites
Authors:
Adam Gordon*, EllisDon
Farnaz Sadeghpour, University of Calgary
Abstract
Site layout planning is one of the important processes for effective management of construction projects. A site layout defines where the optimum location for objects such as materials, temporary facilities and equipment on a given construction site are. When properly planned, site layout can improve efficiency, cut down time wasted, and ensure occupational health and safety. Site layout planning includes the three steps of 1) identifying the different objects required on the site to support construction activities; 2) determining the spatial relationships between the objects; and 3) optimizing the location of objects based on the defined relationships and constraints of the site and project. Previous studies on site planning have mainly focused on the third step, the optimization methods, often without giving sufficient attention to the first two steps. The objective of this study is to determine whether the construction site objects and the relationship between them can be classified into a number of generic typologies, in an effort to standardize object and relationship definitions for future studies. The study was conducted using nine (9) case studies of construction sites in Alberta, Canada. Observations on the existing objects and their location on the site were recorded. Interviews with the site managers were conducted to determine the logic used in situating objects on their current location, and more importantly, to identify the spatial relationships with other objects on the site. Comparing the collected information from all projects, the study found that in the context of site layout planning, objects from the construction sites can be classified into eight (8) generic types with four (4) generic relationships between them. These typologies can be used in the development of future models for site layout planning and other related areas of construction site management.

Paper # 150 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-14: Construction methods ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Predictive Modeling of Prefabrication Feasibility for the United States Electrical Contracting Firms
Authors:
Hisham Said*, Santa Clara University
Abstract
Electrical contractors have promoted offsite prefabrication after experiencing its potential in improving their operations. However, prefabrication is not a one solution that fits all. Accordingly, there is a need to develop better understanding of prefabrication feasibility for electrical contractors by analyzing its operational requirements and surrounding industry factors. The objective of this paper is to identify and model the determinants of electrical contractors’ prefabrication feasibility within the U.S. industry context, which can be used to predict the viability of prefabrication as a production approach for individual electrical contracting firms. The methodology of this study included four main phases. First, a qualitative analysis was performed to initially understand current prefabrication operations and practices of electrical contractors through a set of semi-structured interviews, site visits of prefabrication facilities, and prefabrication case studies. Second, a quantitative data collection task was performed by: 1) acquiring the internal business variables of a sample of electrical contractors using an online questionnaire; 2) complementing the questionnaire data with location-based economic data to represent external industry-related variables. Third, the collected data was used to develop and validate a binary logistic regression model that relates the prefabrication feasibility to its significant determinants. Fourth, a sensitivity analysis was performed for the developed model to provide a larger understanding of electrical construction prefabrication feasibility beyond the collected data. The developed predictive model provides useful insights about prefabrication feasibility dependency on union relations, labor conditions, market competition, supply chain relations, and building information modeling.

Paper # 290 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-14: Construction methods ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Development Of A Cost Normalization Procedure For National Health Care Facility Benchmarking
Authors:
Vivek Sharma*, University of Texas at Austin
Sungmin Yun, Construction Industry Institute
Daniel P Oliveira, Construction Industry Institute
Stephen P Mulva, Construction Industry Institute
Carlos Caldas, University of Texas at Austin
Abstract
This paper presents a cost normalization framework for the National Health Care Facilities Benchmarking program developed by Construction Industry Institute (CII). Since 2009, The CII has been engaged in developing this benchmarking program with government and industry participants. In the effort, the methodology and process were developed to measure health care capital project performance in terms of cost, schedule, change, space, and best practice. Hospitals are complex building systems that are becoming more challenging with ever changing codes and regulations. Reliable comparison of hospitals built in different regions requires unique normalization approach tailored specifically for health care facilities. A single cost index had not achieved the desired results; therefore a combination of indices was employed to normalize various factors for proper benchmarking. In addition to location, time and currency, space was included for proper benchmarking and performance assessment. This paper covers the issues and challenges of normalizing the costs and spaces associated with health care capital projects, and present a practical example on how cost normalization is applied to a health care capital project. Challenges and considerations which are associated with cost indices applicable to cost normalization are also discussed. This study contributes to a better understanding of cost normalization amongst health care capital projects.

Paper # 349 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-14: Construction methods ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Role of Formwork Systems In High-Rise Construction
Authors:
Hisham A Abou Ibrahim, American University of Beirut
Farook R Hamzeh*, American University of Beirut
Abstract
The selection of formwork systems in high-rise buildings is often governed by their competence in optimizing concrete activities in an isolated manner, without relating this choice to the entire construction workflow. This paper studies the role of advanced formwork systems in high-rise construction and analyzes this role in shaping not only the progress of concrete activities, but the entire construction sequence. In this context, known research efforts do not address this important aspect in analyzing high-rise formwork technologies, and formwork selection is usually left to constructors’ experience, and corresponding organizational knowledge. Employing process models, the paper investigates advanced high-rise formwork technologies versus regular ones to better advise scholars and practitioners. Results highlight the importance of advanced high-rise formwork systems in streamlining the workflow of concrete and other downstream activities, allowing for better resource allocation, more waste reduction, smaller work batches, less inventory, and safer working environment.

Paper # 228 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-2: Procurement, Contracting & Legal Affairs ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1001
Preliminary Investigation of the Impact of Project Delivery Method on Dispute Resolution Method Choice in Public Highway Projects
Authors:
Ghada M Gad*, Bowling Green State University
Ayodeji K Momoh , Bowling Green State University
Behzad Esmaeili, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Douglas D Gransberg, Iowa State University
Abstract
The use of alternative project delivery methods (PDMs) is perceived to create collaborative environments that result in less adversarial relationships between construction parties, which consequently leads to less disputes. While many research studies investigated the alternative PDMs’ impact on cost, schedule, quality, and sustainability, there is limited research to empirically investigate the impact of the PDM on the dispute resolution process choice. This aim of this paper is to conduct a preliminary investigation on how PDMs’ choice has affected Department of Transportation (DOTs) selection of the dispute resolution method (DRM). To achieve this objective, the researchers conducted content analysis of three State DOTs’ specification documents, both for Design-Bid-Build (DBB) and Design-Build (DB) PDMs. Results show that a stepped process is used in all three states with some form alternative DRM being used before resorting to litigation to provide opportunity for prevention and early resolution of disputes. In terms of PDM effect on the DRM, one state used an amicable dispute resolution process that fosters partnerships in DB and not in DBB projects, while another used partnering efforts regardless of the PDM employed. Also, the use of non-binding DRBs in another DOTs’ DB specifications before resorting to binding DRM provide opportunity for amicable ADR methods to be used before being escalated to litigation. This study serves as a preliminary investigation of how PDM choice could affect the way disputes are handled and results show that there is no consistent manner on which the dispute resolution process is selected based on PDM.

Paper # 227 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-2: Procurement, Contracting & Legal Affairs ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1001
Best Value Procurement For Highway Design-Bid-Build Projects
Authors:
Bharath R Kolli*, University of Kansas
Dan Tran, University of Kansas
Abstract
Best value procurement is the process in which factors additional to price are considered in the selection of a contractor. Time, operation and maintenance, technical and managerial merit, and past performance are the other key factors considered along with price in best value projects. Compared to the low-bid procurement, best value procurement offers several advantages, including opportunities to improve project quality, promote innovation, and enhance project performance. Best value procurement, while commonplace in highway design-build (D-B) projects, is limited in use for design-bid-build (D-B-B) projects. This paper explores the procedure and existing practices of D-B-B best value contracts for highway projects. Data was collected from a survey questionnaire, structured interviews, and case studies. The survey questionnaire was nationwide distributed to 52 state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) to identify the practices of using best value procurement in transportation projects. The seven structured interviews and four case studies were conducted in detail to investigate the opportunities and challenges of evaluation criteria, selection methodologies, and evaluation committee structure in D-B-B best value projects. The results indicate that evaluation criteria and selection methods are established on a project-by-project basis. The owner agency should develop selection criteria and establish evaluation committees that are most beneficial to a given project. This paper provides some guidance for state DOTs to use best value procurement for their D-B-B projects.

Paper # 335 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-2: Procurement, Contracting & Legal Affairs ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1001
Factors Impacting Selection of Construction Subcontractors
Authors:
Maryam Ghaffari*, University of Calgary
Farnaz Sadeghpour, University of Calgary
Abstract
A considerable portion of the work in construction projects is carried out by subcontractors. The current lowest bid practice, in which the main contractor offers a subcontract to the bidder who submits the lowest price, is considered to leave subcontractors with very low profit margins, and with a lack of motivation to provide high quality work. Selecting appropriate subcontractors is consequently seen as contributing significantly to a project’s success. Although subcontractors are mainly selected by the main contractor, as one of the influential contributors to the project, the choice of subcontractor will also affect other project stakeholders such as owners and consultants. The goal of this study is to identify the factors that different project stakeholders consider important when selecting subcontractors, and the extent to which their professional background affects the way they view selection factors used for subcontractors. To this end a questionnaire was designed and distributed among construction industry experts in Alberta, Canada, from three groups of general contractors, owners, and consultants with various professional backgrounds. The survey results verified that the factors identified in the survey were in fact those that were considered in the selection of subcontractors. Based on statistical analysis of the survey results in most cases, respondents from the contractor group associated a different degree of importance to each selection factor compared with consultants and clients. The level of importance associated to each selection factor was found to be more similar among the latter two groups. Interestingly the lowest bid price was not necessarily ranked highest by professionals within all background groups.

Paper # 352 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-2: Procurement, Contracting & Legal Affairs ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1001
Canam Group BuildMaster Building Construction Innovation
Authors:
Tony Bégin*, Canam Group
Abstract
BuildMasterTM is redefining the project delivery process in the construction industry. BuildMasterTM combines Canam’s extensive builder experience with the latest advances in technology to deliver unprecedented levels of connectivity, predictability, and efficiency. BuildMasterTM is a powerful and innovative way of thinking about the way buildings are designed and built. BuildMasterTM began with a simple premise: if we make the erector’s job easier, the entire steel construction process becomes safer, faster and collaborative. Over 100 of projects have been delivered in accordance with this collaborative approach in Canada and in United States. Lessons learned, best practices and highlights will be presented and explained during the presentation.

Paper # 74 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-3: Equipment ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1003
Challenges in Vertical Delivery for High-rise Building Construction
Authors:
Yufeng Wei*, University of Toronto
Andre F Pinheiro, University of Toronto
David Pedraza, University of Toronto
Bowen Wu, University of Toronto
Brenda Y McCabe, University of Toronto
Abstract
As buildings continue to be designed much taller than before, the increasing height of buildings produces problems of vertical delivery in efficiency, safety and cost. To address these challenges, researchers and engineers are applying new technologies and management strategies to improve vertical transportation of resources. This paper discusses state-of-the-art solutions to problems and successful examples of implementation in three selected areas: temporary hoists, concrete pumps, and tower cranes.

Paper # 32 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-3: Equipment ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1003
A Rapid Lift Study Generation System for Heavy Industrial Projects
Authors:
Zhen Lei, University of Alberta
Brian D Ofrim*, University of Alberta
Mohamed Al-Hussein, University of Alberta
Ahmed Bouferguène, University of Alberta
Tarequl Hasan, University of Alberta
Abstract
The process of creating mobile crane lift studies for heavy industrial projects can be long and tedious. A large portion of the lift studies required for such projects involve modules that have been prefabricated and transported to the site. Composing these lift studies currently requires a considerable amount of time and manual work. Due to the complex nature of these projects the lift studies also often require significant revisions to accommodate changes to the initial plans. This paper introduces a rapid lift study generation program to assist in the planning stage by accelerating the drafting process. The program utilizes Autodesk’s AutoCAD program, which is one of the most widely used drafting software applications in North America. A custom plug-in to AutoCAD written in the Visual Basic programming language is used to create the graphic portion of the lift study. A separate windows form application is used to produce a table of the crane and lift information, such as lifting capacity, ground bearing pressure calculations, and mat design. This application is supported by a database of specifications for various crawler cranes and configurations as well as capacity information. The application allows the user to input information such as the module’s weight, rigging weight, and lift radius in order to obtain a table of relevant information for each lift. This rapid lift study generation program has been tested for validation on a heavy industry project for which the lift studies had already been prepared using the traditional method.

Paper # 175 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-3: Equipment ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1003
Optimize Earthwork Hauling Plan with Minimum Cost Flow Network
Authors:
Duanshun Li, University of Alberta
Chang Liu, University of Alberta
Ming Lu*, University of Alberta
Abstract
Linear programming is commonly used in earthwork hauling plan. However special expertise in forming and solving linear equations, along with considerable efforts in interpreting results, is required to apply these methods in practice. Moreover, previous methods mainly focus on cost estimation and thus largely ignore the constructability issues; this makes earthwork hauling plan impractical for construction planning. We aim to address these problems by introducing an intuitive graph based approach which optimizes the earthwork hauling plan using the minimum cost flow network. We choose the total traveling time as the objective function to be minimized in order to separate the earthwork hauling plan from other factors such as fleet combination. Our method directly connects adjacent sections allowing accessibility between them, instead of connecting the centers of cut and fill cells as potential haul routes as in previous methods. As a result, the proposed method is capable to handle constructability issues caused by “soft blocks” -which cannot be eliminated in establishing the standard flow network as their existence impose constraints on the grading plan. The graphic earth flow network can be used to guide the execution of the earthwork project and generate multiple grading plans, providing more flexibility compared to traditional methods. We present an earthmoving example with a reserved soft area and show that the proposed method is graphically intuitive, easy to establish and able to handle soft blocks.

Paper # 128 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-3: Equipment ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1003
An Automated Model for Selecting the Optimum Mobile Crane Model and On-Site Position Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors:
Tarek M Zaki*, American University in Cairo
Osama Hosny, American University in Cairo
Khaled Nassar , American University in Cairo
Abstract
Selecting both the optimum mobile crane model for a lift job and identifying collision-free position on site can result in productivity and safety improvements. Planning for lift operations is a task carried out by experienced lift engineers who examine each mobile crane’s lift-capacity specifications as provided by the cranes manufacturer to determine the most suitable mobile crane, configuration settings and a collision-free placing location. In this paper, an automated model was developed that follows a four-stepped algorithm process. First, is an algorithm that acquires the user defined lift requirements and calculates the required crane configuration settings using non-linear trigonometric equations. Second, is an algorithm that selects a crane model from the database of mobile crane models which mostly fits the calculated configuration in terms of crane safety and operation. Third, an algorithm that provides safety and clearance checks for the selected configuration. Finally, Genetic Algorithms are applied to optimize the process and to select the optimum crane model that has the safest configuration settings to use as well as its optimum placing location on site. The model was designed to generate a site layout plan as an output with a Cartesian coordinate system in order to assist the lift engineers in their planning for lift operations. The model was validated through its implementation on a working construction project in Cairo, Egypt. The outcomes highlighted the potential benefit of the model in assisting lift engineers in the planning of lift operations on construction sites and demonstrated its essential features.

Paper # 211 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-4: Scheduling ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Progress Tracking Of Multiple Projects Using Email And Voice
Authors:
Mohamed Abdel-Monem, University of Waterloo
Zinab Abuwarda, University of Waterloo
Tarek Hegazy*, University of Waterloo
Abstract
This paper introduces a framework developed to automatically track the daily progress details of multiple small/medium construction projects, simultaneously. The framework has been designed with several features: Geographic Information System (GIS); cloud-based email/IVR services; activity-initiated communication to relevant supervisors; flexible user-revised email/IVR surveys; multi-project status reporting; and input/output to Microsoft Project scheduling software. The paper discusses the components of the proposed framework and comments on the performance of a prototype system on multiple simultaneous projects. A case study was used to demonstrate the usefulness of the timely collected data to improve the visualization of progress status and schedule updates, as well as project control decisions. The system can also collect data about the worker-related factors (e.g., morale) on projects. The developed framework supports efficient management of multiple projects for small/medium contractors. The proposed framework facilitates efficient communication between site and head office, to help construction companies work more cost effectively within the competitive business of construction.

Paper # 116 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-4: Scheduling ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Assessing the Management Practices for Small to Medium Sized Canadian General Contractor Organizations
Authors:
Jeff Rankin*, University of New Brunswick
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Hassan Nasir, University of Waterloo
Mohamed Issa, University of Manitoba
Rhoda Quaigrain, University of Manitoba
Thomas Froese, University of British Columbia
Abstract
This paper describes a research study entitled Enhancing the Performance and Productivity of the Canadian Construction Industry through Appropriate Digital Technology Adoption. The study was completed by researchers from four regions across Canada over the period of August 2013 to March 2014. The underlying purpose of the study was to assist in the development of decision-making tools to support the construction industry in the successfully adoption and implementation of new technologies. The study was accomplished by completion of the following steps: (1) an existing framework for the assessment of management practices at the project level for general contractors in the construction industry was refined and extended; (2) a standard assessment tool was developed and administered to 25 small to medium sized commercial/institutional building general contractor organizations, resulting in the identification of potential opportunities for improvement; (3) opportunities for improvement were validated with organizations; and (4) the assessment results were aggregated to provide an initial benchmark of the level of implementation of management practices. The assessment included 117 practices, across nine practice areas, and grouped as planning and control. The aggregated assessment results are indicating that at an industry level, the management practices in need of improvement that relate more directly to digital technologies are becoming clearer and include: Time – better utilization of the capabilities of existing scheduling software; Cost – improve the integration between time management and cost management software; Scope – improve the capture of as-built information and the management of warranty and operation and maintenance information; Quality – capture and categorize rework and non-conforming work; Materials – implement materials tracking and on-site management; and Information and Communication – implement processes to assess the performance of information and communication processes and use structured forms for information capture. The study built on previous work and extended it with respect to gaining insight on practices from the perspectives of the level of implementation and the consistency with which a practice is employed. To further extend this work, partnerships are being developed with national industry organizations to broaden the application of the assessment framework, thereby expanding the benchmarking data set.

Paper # 209 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-4: Scheduling ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Multi-Objective Schedule Optimization Using Constraint Programming
Authors:
Wail Menesi, University of Waterloo
Zinab Abuwarda, University of Waterloo
Mohamed Abdel-Monem, University of Waterloo
Tarek Hegazy*, University of Waterloo
Abstract
This paper describes the development of a constraint programming (CP) model for schedule optimization to satisfy both deadline and resource constraints in large-scale construction projects. Unlike many meta-heuristic methods in the literature, the CP model is fast and provides near-optimum solutions to projects with hundreds of activities. The IBM ILOG modeling software and its CPLEX-CP solver engine have been used to develop the proposed CP optimization model for solving the multi-mode resource-constrained project scheduling problem. The model takes many constraints into account, including project deadline, penalty (liquidated damages), incentive, and multiple resource constraints. The paper compares the CP results with the results of other methods, such as heuristic and genetic algorithm optimization, on case studies from the literature to prove the practicality and usefulness of the CP model. The paper also reports the results of CP optimization on larger projects of 1,000 to 2000 activities, which is common in construction practice, and is too large to be solvable by other methods. This research contributes to developing a practical decision support system for resolving real-life constraints in construction projects.

Paper # 200 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-4: Scheduling ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Construction Space Float Definition, Quantification, and Analysis
Authors:
Hisham Said*, Santa Clara University
Gunnar Lucko, Catholic University of America
Abstract
Schedule float is a fundamental concept in construction planning and control that refers to the flexibility of delaying project activities. However, traditional schedule floats offer limited help in congested construction sites and cannot answer a common field question of ‘how much time is available to use this space to stage material?’ This paper therefore presents the development of new theory and metrics of space float for construction activities based on a previously developed spatial scheduling model. It is structured into three main sections. First, it presents a review of a previously developed spatial scheduling model that utilizes singularity functions to represent and schedule activities as interdependent and overlapping workspaces. Second, it presents the different possible activity float types and the detailed calculation of activities shift float. Third, it describes the new space float algorithm to generate dynamic position float contours that change over the project time. The calculation of proposed activity and space floats are illustrated with an example of a small construction jobsite. The proposed concept has the potential to strengthen the relation between construction scheduling and other management functions, such as e.g. lean operations and material layout planning.

Paper # 86 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-5: Procurement, Contracting & Legal Affairs ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Challenges and Obstacles Facing Tenderers Adopting E-Tendering in the Public Sector of the Construction Industry in Egypt
Authors:
Cherif A Khalil*, American University in Cairo
Ahmed F Waly, American University in Cairo
Abstract
The construction public sector in Egypt, like most countries in the world, is tendering its projects through the traditional paper-based tendering procedure, which has many weaknesses including bureaucracy and lack of transparency. Due to the considerable volume of projects tendered each year, it was essential to study the possibility of implementing another more efficient mechanism “E-Tendering” that overcomes the drawbacks of the paper-based tendering procedure. This on-going research examines the readiness of the construction industry in Egypt to adopt E-Tendering for public tenders and provides recommendations to improve its uptake. This paper provides a model of the barriers, challenges and concerns of the Egyptian tenderers towards accepting and adopting E-Tendering. This is accomplished through extensive review of the literature together with expert identification and analysis. 19 challenges are highlighted and categorized into 4 categories: security challenges, user acceptance and staff resistance, accessibility issues and legal barriers. These challenges are then examined and ranked with respect to their importance by a panel of academic and industry experts to reflect the Egyptian public tendering context. The most important highlighted barriers are the SMEs access difficulties, the expected technical malfunctioning of the portal, the reluctance/resistance to change and the breach of confidentiality of information. These findings present a cornerstone in the development of a framework that presents practical solutions to the success of E-Tendering for the construction public projects in Egypt.

Paper # 265 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-5: Procurement, Contracting & Legal Affairs ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Closing the Contractual Circle: Investigating Emergent Subcontracting Approaches
Authors:
Salvatore Antonio Biancardo*, University of Naples Federico II
Natasha Osmanbhoy, University of Washington
Jeff Ottesen, University of Washington
Giovanni Migliaccio, University of Washington
Caroline M Clevenger, University of Colorado Boulder
Abstract
The Architecture-Engineering-Construction (AEC) industry is shifting away from the traditional paradigm, one that places users, planners, designers, and contractors in different silos during professional practice. Other contractual schemes, which rely on contractual integration at lower contractual tiers, are emerging. These schemes close the contractual framework at lower tiers by having multiple upper-tier contractors subcontracting work to the same lower-tier entity. In these instances, subcontractors have contractual relationships with more than one other upper-tier party in the same project. A previous study on Building Information Modeling (BIM)-enabled projects revealed the emergence of these types of contractual relationships. To date, however little is known on these emergent approaches, their diffusion, criteria for adoption, or expected utilities. This research proposes a methodology to analyze the benefits of these emergent models, then applies this methodology to recent projects to quantify outcomes, and finally develops a holistic framework of integrated contracting to assess its impacts on project efficiency. The specific objective of this research is to identify and delineate new lower tier organizational relationships in today’s construction practice. Preliminary results are included in the paper. Use of these emergent models for building contractors was assessed using a survey instrument. Data collection involved contractors in Washington State. After initial screening, several contractors were selected and interviewed regarding the nature of the adopted emergent subcontracting practices, the purpose for using them, and their perceived outcomes. This research contributes to a greater understanding of the occurrence, reasons, and advantages and disadvantages of these emergent contractual schemes. A discussion of their impact on overall project performance is included.

Paper # 351 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-5: Procurement, Contracting & Legal Affairs ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Quality Assurance and Risk Management – A Regulator’s Perspective
Authors:
Gilbert Larocque*, Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC
Abstract
In 2012, the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC) launched its Organizational Quality Management (OQM) Program. As the regulator of the professions of engineering and geoscience, APEGBC offers the OQM Program to organizations that employ APEGBC professionals to assist them in dealing with the quality assurance and risk management issues that arise out of the practice of engineering and geoscience. In addition to the seven quality management requirements of the OQM Program, APEGBC has also developed other tools to deal with more specific practice needs. Participants will learn about the APEGBC Quality Management By-law and the associated Quality Management Guidelines; the OQM Program and the APEGBC Practice Guidelines.

Paper # 14 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-6: Construction methods ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Constructability: Capabilities, Implementation, and Barriers
Authors:
Mubarak K Al-Alawi*, University of Alberta
Mostafa Ali, University of Alberta
Simon Johnson, JV Driver
SangUk Han, University of Alberta
Yasser Mohamed, University of Alberta
Simaan M AbouRizk, University of Alberta
Abstract
Constructability means finding ways to construct effectively. It minimises disputes, cost overrun, and schedule delays. However, constructability program adoption in construction projects differs from one corporation to another, and the level of implementation (measured in two levels: corporate and project level) extends from highly sophisticated to none at all. Despite its benefits, many construction companies are reluctant to fully implement it due to many barriers (e.g. complacency with status quo and lack of expertise for design firms). In order to improve the effectiveness of constructability programs in construction projects, identification and mitigation of constructability program barriers using gap analysis techniques should be done. This paper illustrates research done with a partner company to measure degree of implementation of constructability in the company. We used CII constructability evaluation matrix to evaluate the degree of implementation of constructability program in both corporate and project levels. ASCE survey and two case studies of existing projects were also used to provide a clear picture of current practices of constructability in the company. The analysis showed that the company constructability program ranged from informal to formal and the percentages of implementation of the program in planning and execution phases were 63% and 67%, respectively. We introduced recommendations for the six missing concepts in the partner company practice.

Paper # 277 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-6: Construction methods ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Comparing Performance of Construction Projects Delivered through Different Delivery Methods
Authors:
Enrico Rigotti, Polytechnic of Turin
Giovanni Migliaccio*, University of Washington
Alberto De Marco, Polytechnic of Turin
Abstract
When in 1996 the U.S. Congress passed the “Clinger Cohen Act” authorising public agencies to use the Design-Build (DB) project delivery method, the uncontested predominance of the traditional Design-Bid-Build (DBB) method was brought into question. Encouraged by results obtained on projects delivered through DB, a growing number of states has passed legislation to allow other delivery methods including Construction Management at Risk (CMR), Design Build Operate (DBO), and Public-Private-Partnership (PPP). Early on, analysing and comparing the performance of newly introduced delivery systems was required to allow public owners to assess their choice. Therefore, many early studies compared performance of different project delivery systems, and often developed decision support tools to help owners follow a structured path in measuring performance and consequently, choose the most appropriate project delivery method. However, the measurement process adopted by these studies was mostly specific to the dataset to be analyzed, only rarely took into account differences deriving from varying project characteristics, such as location and size, and , therefore was not generalizable. Building upon these earlier studies, the objective of this study is to develop and present a general framework for comparing cost, time and quality performance of projects delivered through different delivery methods. A discussion of how the framework can also be adapted to every type and size of project, in any state, and under different legislations is included in the paper. The goal is to guide owners in choosing a set of metrics to evaluate and compare the performance of project portfolios delivered with more than one delivery method. The framework is developed through a critical analysis of previous studies. Moreover, following a meta-analytical approach, we combine results from previous studies to identify patterns and sources of disagreement among results, or other interesting relationships that may help us formulate a general framework for evaluating the performance of a diverse project portfolio. A small set of projects is also used to narrate the application of the framework. This paper enhances understanding on how to perform internal benchmarking for delivery-diverse project portfolios.

Paper # 11 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-6: Construction methods ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Identifying Factors Affecting Motivation of Construction Crew Workers
Authors:
Mohammad Raoufi, University of Alberta
Aminah Robinson Fayek*, University of Alberta
Abstract
Motivation is a critical factor affecting construction crew performance. Motivation arises from various internal and external factors such as self-efficacy, assigned goals, and other sources. On construction and industrial projects, workers usually work in crews; thus, performance factors such as productivity are mostly measurable at the crew level. Crew motivation is one factor impacting crew performance. However, it is difficult to define and measure crew motivation in construction, due to the uniqueness and dynamism of the construction environment. Additionally, motivational factors may be described in the form of subjective or objective data. Therefore, a method of measurement is required to systematically and explicitly measure each factor affecting crew motivation and therefore performance. This paper reviews theories and models of motivation that have been developed in research domains other than construction. Next, it overviews motivation literature within the construction domain, and discusses shortcomings of these current approaches. From the literature review, the key factors affecting crew motivation are identified. Finally, the paper proposes a method of measuring crew motivation. The findings and methods presented in this paper will help to define and measure construction crew motivation which will contribute to better predictions of performance.

Paper # 271 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-6: Construction methods ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
A Systematic Progress Model for Construction Method Innovation
Authors:
Fangyu Guo*, Iowa State University
Charles Jahren, Iowa State University
Yelda Turkan, Iowa State University
Abstract
The rapid development of Construction Method has posed a challenge to the construction industry. This article utilizes current Technological Innovation Method to accelerate the development of Construction Method. First of all, the Rapid Innovation Model is established on the basis of the traditional technology innovation, and this model contains four parts and night steps : definition of problem、basic reason analysis、selection of target technique、functional model analysis、scheme evaluation、experiment method、effect evaluation、summary and further application. Secondly, this paper introduces the process of SPIP Method which contains three parts: interpreting the problem according to basic reason、seeking the answer by patent analysis and construction model、getting the solution by TRIZ and invention principle. In a word, the rapid innovation model meets the speed and quality requirements of Construction model development, and its point out a new way of developing construction model.

Paper # 270 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-7: Health & Safety ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Lessons Learned From Using Bio- And Environmental Sensing In Construction: A Field Implementation
Authors:
Wonil Lee*, University of Washington
Giovanni Migliaccio, University of Washington
Ken-Yu Lin, University of Washington
Francesca Russo, University of Naples Federico II
Abstract
Both physiological status and jobsite environmental stressors influence workforce behavior and performance. Understanding these relationships at the individual worker level is paramount for sustainably managing the construction industry workforce. Astonishing improvements in sensing technology can benefit field research by providing ways to validate occupational performance models based on data that measure workers’ physiological variables and environmental stressors. However, only a few studies have taken advantage of these technological improvements to conduct construction field studies. This paper describes a field monitoring study hosted at a mid-rise, mixed-use building construction site in Seattle, WA. This study was valuable in term of its breadth and period of the observations because it used some of the latest off-shelf wearable biosensors to collect 339 hours of workers’ biosignal data from five subjects, during summer and fall, for a total of up to three weeks per subject. This research empirically validated that the heart rate is a good predictor of a worker’s physical strain. Descriptive statistics and a time series plot were used to analyze the heart rate pattern as a predictor of worker’s physical strain level. Correlation analysis was used to analyze the association between the workers’ heart rate and jobsite environmental stressors. Also, analyzing video recordings and questionnaires helped interpreting the analytical results. This paper reports the lessons learned and the challenges of implementing a selected combination of wearable biosensor and environmental sensing technologies. These research findings are preparatory to validating a demand and capability model to be used for predicting construction workers’ performance.

Paper # 106 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-7: Health & Safety ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
A Strategic Safety-Risk Management Plan For Recovery After Disaster Operations
Authors:
Moahmma Sadra Fard Hosseini*, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Behzad Esmaeili, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Richard Wood, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Abstract
One of the early activities in any post-disaster management plan is to remove debris, clean the area, and reconstruct the damaged properties. However, a major focus of workers involved in cleaning operations after a disaster are concerned about construction safety because there are several unknown hazards that differ from hazards in a typical construction project. The risk can be compounded by the fact that construction activities after a disaster are usually conducted by small companies or even property owners with limited knowledge of safety. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a safety-risk management plan for recovery after disasters. The objective was achieved in two distinct phases. The first phase of the study focused on risk identification. An extensive literature review was conducted to identify hazards in post-disasters operations. The primary list of hazards was identified and classified into seven major groups: (1) physical; (2) chemical; (3) biological; (4) weather and temperature; (5) ergonomic (6) psychological; and (7) other (e.g., natural hazards and noise). During the second phase of the study, risk assessment was conducted to quantify the safety risk of the hazards identified in the previous phase. Fourteen safety professionals with an average 18 years of experience participated in the risk assessment. It was found that being caught-in/between a trench, getting electrocuted while using cranes or boomed vehicles near energized power lines, and getting electrocuted while using conductive tools, ladders, or scaffolds near energized power line are the hazards that cause the most severe injuries. Concurrently, working in cold or windy weather is the most frequent and risky hazard in post-disaster recovery operations. A risk matrix was developed for post-disaster operations by determining the likelihood and consequence of potential accidents using a 5-point Likert scale. It is expected that the results of this study will transform the current safety practices in post disaster recovery operations by providing an easy-to-use safety-risk management tool.

Paper # 126 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-7: Health & Safety ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
An Integrated Framework to Prevent Unsafe Proximity Hazards in Construction by Optimizing Spatio-Temporal Constraints
Authors:
Nazila Roofigari Esfahan*, McMaster University
Jun Wang, McMaster University
Saiedeh Razavi, McMaster University
Abstract
Hazardous proximity of construction resources, such as construction equipment, materials, and workers-on-foot has been identified as a distinct safety issue on construction jobsites. Spatial and temporal limits are practical constraints that coexist in movement of construction resources. Space and time conflicts could substantially hinder the productivity of ongoing activities as well as causing safety issues. Therefore, the spatial and temporal constraints and the state of construction resources need to be considered to prevent space-time conflicts and unsafe proximities. The state of a moving construction resource includes its position, moving direction/heading, speed, orientation, and other safety-related information. The area around each resource is divided into alert and warning areas which are quantified for them according to their corresponding spatial or proximity constraints. By integrating the states of resources, their warning/alert areas, and proximity constraints, as well as by visualizing them in time-integrated 2D space, a more precise understanding of potential hazardous situations can be achieved and therefore prevented. This paper presents a visual support tool aiming to reduce safety hazards in project planning stage by optimizing spatio-temporal proximities of resources. For this purpose, the developed method first optimizes potential movements of the resources by minimizing intersection of their warning areas and avoiding overlap of their alert areas. Thereafter, it visualizes the optimized locations of resources in time-integrated 2D space throughout the duration of their corresponding activities. In this way, the integrated visualization framework enables managers to make more judicious decisions and take corrective actions pertinent to safety hazards prevention. A numerical example with different scenarios and proximity measures is analyzed to test and validate the proposed framework.

Paper # 322 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-7: Health & Safety ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Hazardous Proximity Zone Design for Heavy Construction Equipment
Authors:
Ibukun Alwolusi, University of Alabama
Eric Marks*, University of Alabama
Nipesh Pradhananga , Florida International University
Tao Cheng, ExxonMobile Upstream Research Company
Abstract
The construction industry continues to be among the leading industries for workplace fatalities in the U.S. After experiencing 824 fatal injuries in 2013, the construction industry continues to rank as one of the most dangerous work environments when compared to other private industrial sectors in the U.S. Conditions of construction sites often produce hazardous proximity situations by requiring ground workers and heavy equipment to operator at close proximity. The gathered injury and fatality statistics indicate that current safety practices of construction workers have proven inadequate. The objective is to design hazard zone around pieces of heavy construction equipment in which ground personnel should not enter during construction operations. The scope is limited to construction sites and equipment at a horizontal grade and hazards between heavy construction equipment and workers-on-foot. A framework for creating the hazard zone around any piece of construction equipment is presented including detailed methodology discussions for each step. The hazard zone for a dump truck, excavator, and backhoe are shown using the created framework. Construction resource tracking data was used to validate the created hazard zone around a dump truck. Results indicate that hazard zones for ground workers can be created around construction equipment to increase hazard awareness for workers. Furthermore, additional safety standards can be formulated based on the ability to design and eventually implement hazard zones on construction equipment.

Paper # 40 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-7: Health & Safety ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
A statistical safety control model for construction sites using location systems
Authors:
Tsah Edrei
Shabtai Isaac*, Ben Gurion University
Abstract
A statistical safety control model is presented that utilizes data from a Real Time Location System of relatively low accuracy, to alert of unsafe situations at construction sites. Based on the Statistical Process Control methodology, predefined statistical rules are used to detect trends of increasing exposure to hazards, and provide proactive alerts before a critical exposure takes place. An initial verification of the performance of the model was carried out through extensive laboratory tests.

Paper # 173 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-8: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Culture And Organizational Culture In The Construction Industry: A Literature Review
Authors:
Jin Ouk Choi*, Iowa State University
Ghada M Gad, Bowling Green State University
Jennifer S Shane, Iowa State University
Kelly Strong, Colorado State University
Abstract
The effectiveness and competitive advantage of an organization/project can be enhanced when its members possess an understanding, respect, acceptance, and capacity to manage cross-cultural differences. Ignoring or failing to manage such differences may lead to many problems in the project (e.g., project delays and productivity decrease). In fact, international/transnational projects involving participants from diverse political, legal, economic, and cultural backgrounds are on the rise. Hence, firms should be cross-culturally competent and capable of managing in contrasting cultural factors. However, a recent study conducted in 2013 by the Construction Industry Institute (CII) reported that one of the major concerns of construction professionals is a widespread lack of understanding of foreign cultures, ethnicities, and languages. The aim of this paper is to present a comprehensive review of the literature on cultural aspects in the construction industry so as to identify the knowledge gaps and to suggest recommendations for future research. To do so, the authors have identified and compared major studies on cultural factors. From the comparison, the authors have identified the categories that are considered the most central to understanding cultural differences; they are, “group attachment and relations,” “authority and status,” “uncertainty and rules,” “gender roles and assertiveness,” and “time and future orientation.” The authors also summarize the current research topics in culture in construction and recommend ideas for future research into culture as it pertains to a construction context.

Paper # 287 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-8: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Exploring The Behavioral Pattern Of Stakeholders In Construction Projects Which Used Best-Value Selection
Authors:
Sogand Hasanzadeh*, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Behzad Esmaeili, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Keith R Molenaar, University of Colorado Boulder
Abstract
Best-value is a procurement method that combine price and non-price factors when selecting a contractor or design-builder. While, several researchers have evaluated the impact of best-value selection on project outcomes—such as cost, schedule, and quality—there are a limited number of studies that qualitatively evaluate the experience of different parties on projects that have been procured through best-value. To address this knowledge gap, this study aims to explore project stakeholders’ experience, team interactions, and behavioral patterns during best-value project execution. To achieve these objectives, three healthcare-construction case studies were selected and in-depth phone interviews were conducted with representatives of owners and contractors. The interviews were transcribed and a content analysis was implemented to explore the relationship between the procurement method and the team’s behavior in those projects. Three themes of team behavior emerged from the study, including innovation, partnering, and problem solving. The results of the interviews indicate that best-value selection encourages innovation, enhances partnering, and facilitates problem solving. The results also demonstrate that the time required to go through contractor selection and project scope development are major challenges of projects procured using best-value selection. To achieve successful completion of a project, one should: provide early project planning that includes clear definition of each party’s responsibilities; provide proper training; involve end users; and provide proper details in request-for-proposals. This research makes a cross comparison between the findings of this study and the existing literature related to best-value. The results of the study provide new insights regarding the team-building process through best-value selection. Furthermore, this study provides a basis for future data collection and quantitative analysis to compare various procurement methods and provides a foundation for exploring team integration in construction projects.

Paper # 76 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-8: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Quantifying the Socioeconomic Disruptions Caused by Construction in Densely Populated Areas
Authors:
Amir A El-Sayed*, Cairo University
Omar El-Anwar, Cairo University
Abstract
Executing construction projects in densely populated areas can have significant impacts on the residents’ quality of life during the construction phase. The social and economic impacts of dense-urban construction are reported for projects undertaken in planned areas as well as unplanned areas (such as slums and squatters). These impacts include residents’ relocation, roads closure, businesses loss of income, high noise levels, and temporary disruptions to essential services. On the other hand, socioeconomic disruptions resulting from poorly planned projects in densely populated areas generate resistance among residents to the executed projects, which in turn affects the success of the these projects. This resistance is translated into project delays and higher costs. The objective of this paper is to present an assessment model capable of estimating and quantifying the level of socioeconomic disruptions expected to be experienced by residents of densely populated areas. This assessment model utilized GIS capabilities and can evaluate candidate construction plans in order to support decision makers in planning for such challenging projects. To this end, this model incorporates four newly developed socioeconomic metrics that are designed to assess (1) the travel delays due to roads closure and detours; (2) number of relocated residents due to buildings closure; (3) loss of income due to businesses closure or reduced accessibility; and (4) inconvenience due to high noise levels. When computing these metrics, the proposed model takes into account the urban and transportation network characteristics of the project site and its surrounding areas, the construction phases, and the associated construction methods. In order to demonstrate the model capabilities, its assumptions, and underlying computations, a case study of an upgrading project in a densely populated area in Giza, Egypt is presented. In this case study, it was found that the most significant impacts on residents are attributed to roads closure and noise. Applying the model to the case study also shows that investigating the relationships between socioeconomic impacts, project phasing, and construction methods can help to minimize disruptions experienced by residents.

Paper # 160 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-8: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1005
Social Capital in Construction Projects: An Exploration
Authors:
Tas Yong Koh*, University of Hong Kong
Steve Rowlinson, University of Hong Kong
Martin M Tuuli, Loughborough University, UK
Abstract
The concept and phenomenon of social capital has been identified as an organizing logic that can add value to project organizations. In this respect, social capital is conceptualized as both personal and impersonal linkages between individuals in project organization, the quality of these linkages, and the shared representations embedded within these linkages. Social capital provides a means of coordination and collaboration among project participants. However, given the novelty of the concept in construction settings and peculiarities of construction projects, key questions arise as to what represents and are the forms of social capital in project settings? We adopt a mixed methods approach to answer these questions. Data from a survey of 376 respondents and a case project converge into forming a coherent conceptualization of social capital in construction projects. The findings confirm the multi-faceted nature of social capital and reveal the mechanisms by which social capital facilitates project organizing. Social capital appears to be more acutely needed in construction projects. While structural capital provides the platform for information and influence transfer, relational capital provides psychological safety upon which cognitive capital is translated into task performance. We conclude by discussing both the theoretical and practical contributions of the study to the relational governance discourse in project management

Paper # 311 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-9: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1005
Exploring The Relationship Between Project Integration And Safety Performance
Authors:
Behzad Esmaeili*, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Eugenio Pellicer, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia
Sogand Hasanzadeh, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Keith R Molenaar, University of Colorado Boulder
Amalia Sanz, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia
Abstract
While recent studies suggest that there is a relationship between indicators of project integration—such as early involvement of constructors—and the quality of project health and safety outcomes, there is no study that empirically investigates this relationship. To address this limitation in the current body of knowledge, the purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between several characteristics of the integrated projects and construction safety performance. To achieve this objective, the following activities were conducted. First, to collect detailed information regarding recently completed building projects, a survey questionnaire was developed in which, safety performance metrics—such as the number of accidents—were considered as dependent variables, and project organization, team integration, and using emerging processes and technologies were included in the questionnaire as independent variables. Second, the questionnaire was distributed to reach a diverse set of respondents, and a database of 204 building projects was created. The collected data was validated by conducting follow-up phone interviews with respondents. Finally, the database was analyzed using various statistical techniques to investigate the relationship between project integration indicators and safety performance. The results of this study provide preliminary evidence that early decisions of owners and contractors to move towards more integrated projects can impact the safety performance of projects.

Paper # 17 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-9: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1005
Comparison of Construction Equipment Emissions for Seven Construction Projects
Authors:
William Rasdorf, North Carolina State University
Joseph Hummer, Wayne State University
Ingrid Arocho*, North Carolina State University
Abstract
This paper reports on the results of field studies of seven transportation infrastructure projects. The results of two road projects are compared to four street and utility projects and to a commercial building project. The study results show that road construction emits a much higher quantity of emissions than building construction; that the emissions calculated with published data are higher than those from field data; and that backhoes, motor graders, and bulldozers produce the highest total emissions. This paper adds to our understanding of emissions estimates from multiple project types and data sources.

Paper # 198 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-9: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1005
Investigation On Construction Workers’ Social Norms And Managers’ Desired Norms Regarding Absence: Preliminary Results From A Norm Elicitation Study
Authors:
Seungjun Ahn*, University of Michigan
Byungjoo Choi, University of Michigan
Sanghyun Lee, University of Michigan
Abstract
Researchers have found that construction workers’ absence behavior is under the influence of social norms existing in work groups. Although the previous research efforts on social absence norms in construction have significantly expand our understanding of how they might develop in work groups and exert on workers’ absence behavior, we have limited knowledge about what the absence norms actually existing in construction work groups are. Given this background, the objective of this research is to measure the absence norms shared by construction workers in their work groups as well as the norms desired by construction managers. To achieve this, a novel approach to elicit norms in organizations that were developed by Krupka and Weber (2013) has been used in this research. In this approach, experiment participants are asked to evaluate several hypothetical actions plausible in a given situation using their understanding of what a typical member of their team would think about the actions as well as their own opinions on the actions. The elicitation of social norms is facilitated by a coordination game structure and monetary incentives in the experiment. Using this method, construction workers’ social norms and personal standards, managers’ belief about workers’ social norms, and managers’ desired norms, regarding worker absence behavior were elicited at a construction site. Analyses on the differences between workers’ social norms and managers’ desired norms reveal that there is a general pattern of alignment, but also a measurable difference, between workers’ social norms and managers’ desired norms regarding absence at the site.

Paper # 239 ; Session: Constr Eng & Mgt-9: Productivity, benchmarking and workforce issues ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1005
Measuring High-Level Project Productivity for Alberta Capital Projects
Authors:
Sungmin Yun*, Construction Industry Institute
Stephen P Mulva, Construction Industry Institute
Dae Y Kim, Dongeui University
Abstract
This paper contemplates the development of a single high-level productivity metric for Alberta capital projects in order to represent overall improvement over time. The Industry Leaders Roundtable would use this metric to challenge the status quo, and formulate “out of the box” thinking to improve Alberta Megaproject productivity. The measure would be most relevant for the owner; however, owners and industry need to be supportive to make it successful. For this purpose, the proposed study includes comparisons with data held by the Construction Industry Institute (CII) such as COAA (Construction Owner’s Association of Alberta) and CII Performance Assessment Database. This paper establishes selection criteria for input/output variables for the high-level productivity metrics based on the comprehensive review of existing productivity metrics and create a high-level productivity metric. Data are collected from COAA and CII Performance Assessment Database. Descriptive and statistical inferential analyses are conducted for comparison of high-level project productivity between Alberta and U.S. capital projects. The results of this study are anticipated to provide a single high-level productivity metrics with informative quantitative analyses for Alberta projects.

Paper # 9 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
An Empirical Study on the Sustainability of Panelized Residential Building Construction
Authors:
Hong Xian Li*, University of Alberta
Haitao Yu
Mustafa Gul, University of Alberta
Mohamed Al-Hussein, University of Alberta
Dawid Chmiel
Abstract
Panelized construction offers benefits to the construction industry including energy savings and reductions in carbon emissions and waste. This research addresses the sustainability of panelized residential construction during the framing phase, which consists of panel fabrication in the plant, transportation to the site, and on-site assembly. This study is conducted in collaboration with Landmark Building Solutions (LBS), a panel manufacturing plant in Edmonton, Canada. Two tasks with respect to assessing the sustainability of panelized construction are carried out in this research: (1) Evaluate the positive impact of panelized construction on the construction schedule by utilizing archived schedule data from LBS. The cycle time of framing for panelized construction is investigated; the results are compared with those of conventional stick-built construction, and the impact of framing cycle time on on-site winter heating is addressed. (2) Measure the benefit of panelized construction in terms of reduced construction waste by quantifying the recyclable and non-recyclable waste generated at LBS. The results are compared with those of the stick-built method, and the impact on embodied emissions in material waste is addressed. The primary source data is archived from LBS’s operations, e.g. accounting records and construction records. The preliminary results support the sustainability of panelized construction compared with the conventional stick-built method.

Paper # 252 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
Characterizing Bottlenecks in Building Design Coordination Meetings
Authors:
Hasan B Cavka*, University of British Columbia
Sheryl Staub-French, University of British Columbia
Melanie Tory, University of Victoria
Abstract
We conducted an ethnographic study of design coordination meetings to better understand the challenges faced by project teams as they coordinate designs in multi-disciplinary meeting environments. This ethnographic study involved observation and analysis of twenty-seven design coordination meetings from the design development phase of a high performance institutional research building. Design coordination and conflict detection are two of the most common and highly valued uses of Building Information Modeling (BIM). However, in our observations of these meetings, we found that BIM tools were extremely under-utilized. This research identified and characterized the bottlenecks encountered during these in-person design coordination meetings. We observed meeting bottlenecks when meeting activities were performed inefficiently, when the meeting process was slowed down, when meeting workflow was interrupted, or when decision-making was hindered. We identified and characterized meeting bottlenecks in a framework that illustrates the nature of each bottleneck and the frequency of its occurrence. According to our observations, we identified five types of bottlenecks that hindered the efficiency of design coordination meetings: people, meeting environment, drawings, interaction/access and information. We anticipate that these findings will help to inform the development of better meeting processes, the design of new interaction, visualization, and integration technologies that better support the meeting processes of design teams.

Paper # 269 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
Effectiveness of Automated Machine Guidance Technology in Productivity Improvement: Case Study
Authors:
Ehsan Rezazadeh Azar*, Lakehead University
Gabriel Agnew, Lakehead University
Andrew Parker, Lakehead University
Abstract
Automated machine guidance (AMG) systems are a relatively new solution to enhance the precision and improve the productivity of heavy civil operations. These systems process 3D computer models of the earthwork together with the spatial information of the end-effector of the machine, and display the relative location of the end-effector and design levels in real-time for the operator. This paper presents a case study of two large earthmoving projects to compare the performance of equipped bulldozers and excavators with non-equipped machines under similar conditions. The studied operations were summer reclamation and highway excavation for bulldozers and excavators, respectively. The results show that the automated machine guidance technology improved the productivity by 6% to 34% for bulldozers and 19% to 23% for excavators. The variation in improvement rates for bulldozers were due to different site conditions, because unstable soil conditions negatively affect the operation regardless of using automated machine guidance system. In addition to productivity improvement, application of automated machine guidance could reduce the need for surveying; the surveyor team was present 21% to 30% of the working hours for conventional operation of excavators whereas this figure was only 5% for the equipped machines.

Paper # 119 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
A Smart Mobile App for Site Inspection and Documentation
Authors:
Long D Nguyen*, Florida Gulf Coast University
Anna Koufakou
Colin Mitchell
Abstract
Extensive time and effort are spent on inspecting and documenting construction defects for facilities under construction or in use. The goal of this study is to provide construction engineers and experts with a smart mobile application to efficiently record and document construction defects. This study first investigated typical inspection processes, data, and reports which were used in site inspections in practice. An Android-based mobile application called InSite Inspector (Intelligent Site Inspector) was then developed to facilitate site inspection and documentation. This smart app is able to: (i) take images and catalog details of construction defects such as defect types, construction trades, building components, and date and time; (ii) automatically locate defects using the global positioning system (GPS); and (iii) produce various types of reports for different inspection purposes such as punch lists and defect reports. The inspectors are allowed to customize the app features such as text entries, type of data to be recorded and/or reported to meet their specific inspection requirements. Additionally, the InSite Inspector allows engineers and experts to manage different construction sites, inspections, and to keep track of past and ongoing inspections. Finally, the app can be used to save, email, or upload the resulting reports to cloud-based repositories. An inspection case study was used to demonstrate the application and utilities of this development. The InSite Inspector is expected to significantly streamline site inspection and documentation processes.

Paper # 146 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
Shifting Logics Of Constructability And Design: A Study Of Emerging AEC Integrated Practices For Energy Performance
Authors:
Christopher Monson*, University of Washington
Laura Osburn, University of Washington
Carrie Dossick, University of Washington
Heather Burpee, University of Washington
Gina Neff, University of Washington
Abstract
In this paper, we analyze the practices of translation and synthesis for energy performance in building design. We use grounded theory method to collect and analyze qualitative interview and observation data to examine the difficulties of knowledge sharing and problem solving between builders and architectural and engineering designers. Extending the theory of disciplinary specific “institutional logics,” we show that designers and builders integrate their work in three ways: 1) by addressing gaps in their own knowledge that require information from a knowledge domain different from their own, 2) by synthesizing design and construction issues holistically, and 3) through integrating construction and design work practices. These insights offer evidence of shifts in the institutional logics that structure the construction and design disciplines.

Paper # 94 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
Expediting Emergency Construction Procurements: Case Studies in Success
Authors:
Douglas D Gransberg*, Iowa State University
Jorge Rueda-Benavides, Iowa State University
Abstract
While law allows state transportation officials to do what it takes to resolve the emergency, they are expected to maintain an extremely careful balancing act between expeditiously resolving the crisis and abusing their authority to circumvent the routine full and open competition process using the emergency as justification. The ability to waive standard procedures comes with the requirement to use that authority both sparingly and wisely. This paper presents analysis case studies of expedited emergency projects from nine states that range from a $550,000 landslide repair to a $234 million interstate highway bridge replacement. The cases also cover emergency projects delivered by design-bid-build, construction manager/general contractor, design-build and indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contracts. The paper finds that the major factor for successful emergency procurement is for the owner to utilize procurement processes with which it is familiar. It also finds that owners need to allow as much competition as time and circumstances permit to reduce the probability of a substantive protest. Finally, it recommends anticipating an emergency and making advance preparations is the fasted way to react to an emergency and the surest method for avoiding protest.

Paper # 10 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
Implementing Alternative Technical Concepts in Design-Bid-Build Projects
Authors:
Douglas D Gransberg*, Iowa State University
Ghada M Gad, Bowling Green State University
Jorge Rueda-Benavides, Iowa State University
Abstract
This paper details the results of two in-depth case studies conducted on agencies that implemented Alternative Technical Concepts (ATC) in conjunction with the procurement of low bid Design-Bid-Build (DBB) construction projects. The Missouri and Michigan Departments of Transportation (DOT) each chose to pursue early contractor involvement in DBB projects but used two completely different approaches. Missouri allowed ATCs to be proposed virtually without limitation on seven DBB projects; whereas, Michigan chose to only consider ATCs on the Maintenance of Traffic Plan for two DBB projects. The paper found both approaches to be successful, generating tangible cost and/or time savings for each DOT. It also proposes two frameworks for developing ATC procurements using either a limited or full scope approach. The paper’s primary finding is that ATCs can be implemented at any level if the agency thoughtfully develops the project’s solicitation documents. It also finds that limited scope ATCs, like the MOT ones in Michigan provide a mechanism to experiment with the DBB ATC process and gain the required understanding of the mechanics of the procurement without increasing the risk the agency must assume.

Paper # 135 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
A Case Study on the Use of LED Temporary Construction Lighting System
Authors:
Yi Jie Huang, University of Washington
Ken-Yu Lin*, University of Washington
Jeff Angeley, University of Washington
Abstract
Adequate lighting is a necessity on construction sites not just for work completion, but also for the work quality, worker safety, and project productivity. This paper discusses the problems associated with traditional temporary lighting on construction sites and presents a case study on using LED temporary construction lighting as a potential solution. Various studies have shown that the traditional methods of providing temporary lighting are inadequate due to their non-compliance with OSHA requirements; visual discomfort; constant maintenance; and impacts to productivity, safety and health. On the other hand, studies have shown that using LED as a source of temporary construction lighting provides benefits over the traditional lighting system, even though such uses are still rare within the industry. Using LED for temporary construction lighting, however, is subject to the high initial materials cost and other drawbacks. To this end, the objective of the research is to provide a deeper understanding of LED temporary construction lighting and ascertain its benefits and limitations through a case study. The study involves the University of Washington’s Bothell Science and Academic Building Project. The study involves interviews with both the lighting system vendor and onsite project personnel; survey questionnaire distributed to the field workers; and cost analysis of the LED temporary lighting system. The case study concluded that the benefits of using LED temporary construction lighting outweighed its limitations, but the individual cost savings may belong to different parties and may not necessarily be passed on to the owner depending on the contractual arrangements.

Paper # 64 ; Session: Construction Case Studies-2 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
Identifying The Sources Of Complexity In The Urban Train Project In Puerto Rico
Authors:
Antonio A Gonzalez Quevedo, University of Puerto Rico – Mayaguez
Carla Lopez del Puerto*, University of Puerto Rico – Mayaguez
Abstract
The metropolitan area of San Juan in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico has the highest concentration of vehicles per mile of paved road in the world. In order to improve the public transit system and decrease automobile dependency, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico decided to embark on a major infrastructure project, which consisted on the design and construction of a heavy rail train to serve the Metropolitan Area of San Juan. The first phase of the project consisted of a 10.69 mile segment with 16 stations. This paper uses a five dimensional project management (5DPM) model and develops a complexity map to identify the sources of complexity in the project. The 5DPM model includes the following dimensions: cost, schedule, technical, context and finance. The results indicate that the major source of complexity in this project was the technical dimension which was complex due to variable site conditions and the owner’s the lack of experience managing a project of this magnitude. Due to its scope and significance, the Urban Train project (Tren Urbano) provided an opportunity to train a group of young professionals who would later assume leadership positions in public projects in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. A structured professional development program was created in a partnership between the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The professional development program consisted of 6 key elements: (1) MIT short course in public transportation in Boston, (2) UPR Winter short course on the Urban Train and Transportation in Puerto Rico, (3) Student research project, (4) Professional Practicum (summer work internship) (5) Site visit to an operating transit system, and (6) Possible employment opportunities with contractor or consultant. The paper concludes that including a professional development component in the project benefited the students and faculty who were involved. It also concludes that the professional development program contributed to managing complexity in the technical dimension for future projects and in the context dimension for this project by increasing public support to the project through marketing and dissemination efforts. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by increasing our understanding on how to manage complexity in large transit projects and how to develop and implement a professional development program that contributes to project success.

Paper # 121 ; Session: Construction Education-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Exploring Knowledge Areas Offered in Project Management Programs in Construction
Authors:
Long D Nguyen*, Florida Gulf Coast University
Ying-Yi Chih, Australian National University
Borja García de Soto, ETH Zürich
Abstract
Construction project management requires various knowledge, skills, techniques, and applications. Therefore, project management (PM) degree programs have to equip future project engineers and managers accordingly. However, literature has provided limited understanding about how extensive these knowledge areas (KAs) have been offered in these degree programs. The goal of this paper is to explore to what extent different KAs are taught in PM Master’s degree programs with emphasis in the construction industry. A survey was conducted with respondents who were academic staff responsible for these programs. Most of these programs under the current study were at institutions located in the U.K. and the U.S.A. Six KAs that had high percentage (50% or more) of construction programs offering more than ten teaching hours were time management and risk management (65%), procurement management, sustainability, and legal and ethical aspects (55%), and cost management (50%). In terms of relative teaching priority within a program, time management, risk management, sustainability, and cost management were frequently the top focus in these programs. Project scope, quality, and stakeholder management had the least teaching priorities among the PM KAs. While relative teaching priorities of many KAs were anticipated, the lowest teaching hours and priorities of project scope and quality management, and occupational safety and health were not expected as they were identified as major competencies for construction graduates.

Paper # 324 ; Session: Construction Education-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Teaching Engineering Literacy To Non-Engineering Students In Formal Learning Environments
Authors:
Mounir El Asmar, Arizona State Univ.
Abbas Chokor, Arizona State Univ.
David Grau*, Arizona State Univ.
Abstract
Since enrollment rates in American college engineering programs have been constantly dropping, formal and informal processes to teach and learn engineering are on the rise. An opportunity actually exists to formally teach engineering to construction students in US colleges and universities. If non-engineers understand how science and technology work, they can better interact with scientists and engineers in the workforce and make informed decisions about when technology can be a solution to a problem, or when other solutions maybe more adequate. To this date, higher engineering education has been repeatedly investigated through the lenses of engineering programs and degrees. This paper investigates engineering literacy for non-engineering students, by comparing the performance of engineering and non-engineering students when gaining engineering literacy. The methodology of this study consists of analyzing the performance of construction management (CON) and civil and environmental engineering (CEE) students in comparable courses taught in both programs: introduction to geotechnical engineering and geotechnical applications. Data is collected over four distinct semesters. The results reveal that CON students scored significantly higher grades when the course was offered from a non-engineering perspective rather than from an engineering perspective. The results of the study highlight the need to develop clear and consistent teaching methods and techniques that take non-engineering students’ diverse backgrounds into consideration.

Paper # 186 ; Session: Construction Education-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Understanding the implications of augmented reality out of context in engineering education
Authors:
Steven K Ayer*, Arizona State Univ.
John I Messner, Penn State University
Chimay J Anumba, Penn State University
Abstract
Educating building design and construction students about sustainability is critical to the development of a future workforce that is capable of making a positive impact on future sustainable buildings. Prior research has leveraged emerging computing technologies to remove some of the educational hurdles that are common among new engineering students, related to visualization and design assessment. In this prior work, an augmented reality (AR) based simulation game, called ecoCampus, was developed to allow students to design an exterior wall for an existing building on their campus to improve sustainable performance. After users created designs in ecoCampus, they were able to view a virtual mock-up of their design at full-scale with AR and then assess the performance of that concept using the basic simulation game interface. Using this technological approach to design, students were able to resist the tendency toward design fixation as compared to students who were not provided with the computerized ecoCampus interface. This paper further explores the AR component of ecoCampus to understand how students’ learning is affected when the design activity is completed out of the context of the physical building. In this work, students who used ecoCampus to design a new exterior wall concept for an existing building did so in a lab space where they were not able to physically explore the existing building for which they were designing the concept. Instead, they could only view the existing building through a single photograph that was projected on a screen. Students completed the same assessments as prior student cohorts and were allotted the same amount of time. After analyzing the collected data it was observed that, while students still employed beneficial design behaviours as compared to prior cohorts using paper-based design strategies, the process that they employed to arrive at their final design concept included fewer considerations of different design alternatives than students who used ecoCampus in the existing building. This suggests that there may be additional value in using AR in the physical context of a space for building design and assessment learning tasks, especially when design creativity is advantageous.

Paper # 219 ; Session: Construction Education-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
A Case Study of Hybrid Learning Implementation in Construction Engineering
Authors:
Aliye Karabulut Ilgu, Iowa State University
Charles Jahren*, Iowa State University
David Jeong, Iowa State University
Larry Cormicle, Iowa State University
Abstract
Hybrid learning is an educational approach that combines the elements of online and traditional face-to-face instruction. When planned and implemented well, hybrid learning provide benefits at the student, faculty, and institutional level. The experience of a major Midwestern university in implementing hybrid learning is reported in this paper. Included are six semesters of experience and incremental improvement with a construction equipment course, three semesters of experience with a construction scheduling course, and two semesters of experience with a cost estimating course. The three courses were led by three different faculty members with various expectations, preferences, and approaches. The case study discussion reported here demonstrates the robustness of the hybrid learning approach. Workflow and effort in developing the hybrid classes, online and computer software application tools, best practices and lessons learned are presented.

Paper # 95 ; Session: Construction Education-1 ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Scheduling Refresher-based Rescue and Evacuation Training for Wind Turbine Technicians
Authors:
Kenneth Lawani*, Glasgow Caledonian University
Billy Hare, Glasgow Caledonian University
Iain Cameron, Glasgow Caledonian University
Abstract
The adage “once trained, always trained” is a recognized myth. A look at the refresher skill training of wind technicians show that rescue and evacuation skills deteriorate over a period of time of non-practice. Therefore, the importance of safe and efficient rescue and evacuation of wind turbine technicians working at height cannot be over emphasized. An evaluation of the wind technicians’ skill and knowledge proficiency in the use of rescue and evacuation devices after acquisition indicates that poor retention of technician skill in the safe and procedural execution of a rescue during an emergency is a potential problem that is yet to be addressed. This can compromise the effectiveness of a safe system of rescue and endanger the personnel being rescued. The objective of this study is to investigate and quantitatively assess if wind turbine technicians are capable of retaining knowledge and skills learned over a 24 months period. Based on pre-acquisition, acquisition and follow-up primary measurements at retention intervals of one and three months (30 and 90 days), it was observed that the rate of skill decline of wind technicians over these periods has been relatively significant. Initial analysis of the different skill components also reveal remarkable inconsistencies in the performance of refresher (returning trainees) and fresher (first time trainees) participants and their differential rates of skill decay over these periods. Currently, wind technicians have a 24 month “skill retention window” before undergoing the wind turbine rescue and evacuation refresher training course. However, due to the infrequent nature of practically carrying out on-the-job rescue and evacuation roles, there is a likelihood of skill and knowledge decay in time of significant emergencies except where there is a support system available to the technicians. Possible solutions to overturn these problems will be discussed based on the data obtained during the research. Draft results will be used to propose a refresher timeframe and benchmark performance that can maximize the proficiency of technicians to an acceptable level as guidelines for scheduling safe wind turbine rescue and evacuation training.

Paper # 205 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-1: Decision-making tools ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Infrastructure Rehabilitation Planning: Combined System Dynamics And Optimization Methods
Authors:
Roozbeh Rashedi*, University of Waterloo
Dina A Saad
Tarek Hegazy, University of Waterloo
Abstract
To improve the performance of the increasingly deteriorating infrastructure, effective strategic policies must be combined with optimum tactical rehabilitation plans. In the literature, limited efforts have focused on strategic policy analysis and its integration with tactical/operational planning. This paper; therefore, presents a framework that combines the strategic and tactical dimensions of infrastructure rehabilitation. At the strategic level, the System Dynamics (SD) modeling technique has been used to simulate the long-term effect of different policy scenarios on physical performance and backlog accumulation. The optimum policies are then used as inputs to a detailed tactical planning model. The objective of such model is to provide detailed fund allocation plans for the assets that need rehabilitation on a yearly basis. The proposed tactical model deals with large number of asset components over a 5-year plan to determine the best possible combination of repair types and timings. The paper compares the processing time and solution quality of three models that use different optimization approaches: Genetic Algorithms (GA); mathematical mixed integer programming; and Microeconomic-based heuristics. The paper discusses the conceptual formulation of the proposed integrated framework, the developments made so far, present limitations, and future enhancements.

Paper # 246 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-1: Decision-making tools ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
A Process for the Assessment of Infrastructure Related Risk due to Natural Hazards
Authors:
Jürgen Hackl*, Institute for Construction Engineering and Management, ETH Zurich
Bryan T Adey, Institute for Construction Engineering and Management, ETH Zurich
Magnus Heitzler, Institute of Cartography and Geoinformation, ETH Zurich
Ionut Iosifescu-Enescu, Institute of Cartography and Geoinformation, ETH Zurich
Lorenz Hurni, Institute of Cartography and Geoinformation, ETH Zurich
Abstract
The determination of network related risks for transport infrastructure systems, such as road or railway networks, is a challenging task. Due to such complex systems, it is generally impossible to abstract the global behavior from the analysis of single components, especially under conditions such as failures or damages. People who manage infrastructure have to handle these risks. The proposed overarching risk assessment process is constructed in a way so that computational support can be constructed in modules. This allows to couple the process with detailed sub-processes to achieve varying levels of detail in the risk assessment. The use of the overarching risk assessment process is demonstrated by using it to evaluate infrastructure related risk due to natural hazards for an example region in Switzerland.

Paper # 225 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-1: Decision-making tools ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Modeling Subway Risk Assessment Using Fuzzy Logic
Authors:
Mona M Abouhamad*, Concordia
Tarek Zayed, Concordia
Abstract
Subway systems play a dynamic role connecting thousands of people to their jobs, vital, recreational, or residential locations on a daily basis. The 2013 report card for America’s infrastructure assigned a grade D to transit systems indicating they are in a poor condition with strong risk of failure. A possible solution proposed by the report card is adopting a comprehensive asset management system to maximize investments in light of the fund scarcity dilemma. The current practice adopted by transit authorities is ranking stations for rehabilitation based on visual structural assessment. The literature demonstrates subway condition assessment model, none of which addresses the subway network from a functional perspective. Moreover, the literature is vacant from any subway risk assessment models. This research develops risk-based asset management tools for subway networks. A generic subway hierarchy is proposed and risk is assessed using three sub-models to measure probability of failure, consequences of failure and functional importance of subway stations. Probability of failure is predicted for different structural elements using inspection reports and Weibull reliability function. Consequences of failure are assessed based on seven criteria along financial, social, and, operational perspectives. A criticality index is introduced to the classical risk equation to assess the functional importance a station plays in its location using seven attributes along three main criteria; station location, size, and, nature of use. The topic subjectivity prompted using the fuzzy inference engine to integrate the three sub-models into a global risk index. Consequences of failure and criticality sub-models are developed using experts’ feedback and the Fuzzy Analytical Network Process. The proposed model is used to assess six interconnecting stations in a sub network of Montreal subway. The model revealed two stations to have high risk of failure and results are confirmed by the current rehabilitation actions undergoing one of the stations. In addition to the common structural analysis, the proposed risk index considers functional intangible factors as well as network components’ diversity. This model provides a generic and comprehensive, yet easy to follow, scheme to assess authorities in providing an informed rehabilitation decision.

Paper # 240 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-1: Decision-making tools ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Developing a System of Systems Framework for Public Transportation Infrastructure Planning Using System Dynamics
Authors:
Sayanti Mukhopadhyay*, Purdue University
Mohamed E Hassan, Purdue University
Ali Shafaat, Purdue University
Abstract
Demand forecasting plays an integral role both in planning and managing urban transportation infrastructure. Analyzing travel demand is an integral part of any transportation system. Different types of demand forecasting models are being used by transportation industries not only to plan for renovation and expansion but also to evaluate several policy scenarios associated with the particular infrastructure system. The traditional demand forecasting models that exist mostly focus on individual transportation sectors such as air-transportation, highways, etc. and not much attention is given to consider the interdependencies and complexities among the various components and thus many-a-times ignore the emergent behaviors. To overcome this deficiency, the research study applied a system-of-systems approach to forecast the overall public transport demand considering all the different sectors of the transportation network of an integrated public transport system. However, forecasting the public demand for each transportation mode is a major challenge as it depends on several uncertain factors such as population growth, GDP growth of the country, traffic congestion on roads, average annual income of population, ticket prices, travel types and others. System dynamics modeling approach was adopted to represent the information and physical flows among the different components / entities within a system at an aggregate level with high degree of accuracy. These types of models would help the decision makers in evaluating several policy scenarios by altering the model variables and developing investment strategies for future transportation infrastructure planning. This research paper developed a conceptual framework to assess the public demand for individual transportation modes in an integrated transportation network using Abu Dhabi’s surface transport expansion and integration project as a case study.

Paper # 296 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-2: Decision-making tools ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
A Data Analysis Framework for Optimizing Occupant Energy Use while Sustaining Indoor Environmental Quality
Authors:
Tanzia Sharmin*, University of Alberta
Mustafa Gul, University of Alberta
Mohamed Al-Hussein, University of Alberta
Abstract
Sustaining standard indoor environmental quality (IEQ) is a crucial factor in promoting occupant health and comfort, and a significant proportion of a facility’s energy use is directed toward indoor climate control. Meanwhile, because operation of facilities accounts for a large share of the world’s energy consumption, it has warranted increased interest in efforts to design facility energy management systems that reduce energy consumption. In this context, facility managers aim to achieve the optimal balance between occupant comfort and overall energy consumption. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate a framework that assists facility managers in identifying residential occupant activities that influence energy consumption and also ascertaining any correlation or sequential activities patterns and their association with respect to IEQ. This work is facilitated by the installation of various sensors in a case study, the “Stony Mountain Plaza” project in Fort McMurray, Canada. It is expected that the extracted information and strategies acquired from the framework can be implemented within the facility management system to achieve financial, environmental, and health benefits.

Paper # 49 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-2: Decision-making tools ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Optimizing Environmental Sustainability and Public Benefits of Transportation Network Programs
Authors:
Charinee Limsawasd*, Florida International University
Wallied Orabi, Florida International University
Abstract
Transportation is among the highest energy-consuming economy sectors. Therefore, new national priorities and laws passed in the United States in an effort to control the environmental impacts of highway rehabilitation efforts. This created new challenges to planners and decision makers in transportation agencies to optimize, under budget constraints, rehabilitation efforts of aging networks in order to maximize net public benefits while minimizing network energy consumption. This mandates a substantial change in existing ad-hoc and need-based decision-making practices in order to add new criteria to evaluate and measure network energy consumption. Accordingly, this paper presents a new model for planning highway rehabilitation efforts that is capable of identifying near optimal program(s) in terms of maximizing net public benefits while minimizing energy consumption of transportation networks. The new model is designed to: (1) evaluating and measuring the impact of decision making in highway rehabilitation programs on network energy consumption; (2) evaluating the impact of rehabilitation decisions on the cost of travel delays due to highway construction work; (3) estimating the expected savings in road user costs due to the completed rehabilitation efforts; (4) estimating the lifecycle public costs and benefits associated with highway rehabilitation decisions; and (5) optimizing rehabilitation decisions in order to search for and identify the highway construction program(s) that simultaneously maximize public benefits and minimize energy consumption under budget constraints. An application example for a transportation network in South Florida is analyzed to demonstrate the model capabilities and examine the relationship between lifecycle net public benefits and total network energy consumption. The analysis of the application example showed that there is a trade-off between the expected net public benefits and network energy consumption. The new model should prove useful to transportation agencies in identifying rehabilitation program(s) that satisfy public expectations while minimizing energy consumption in transportation networks.

Paper # 344 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-2: Decision-making tools ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Topic Modeling for Infrastructure-related Discussions in Online Social Media
Authors:
Mazdak NikBakht*, University of Toronto
Tamer El-Diraby, University of Toronto
Abstract
Decision making for construction of modern civil infrastructure not only involves internal stakeholders, but also aims to include interests of as many external stakeholders as possible. In mega-projects, complexity and diversity of stakeholders call for more advanced communication tools and channels. Extensive prevalence of social web as a two-way communication channel during the last decade has caused a paradigm shift in communication among the e-society, and this has attracted the attention of decision makers in the domain of urban infrastructure among other domains. Although having a wide public outreach, the open and unstructured nature of inputs from the e-society results in chaos and makes it difficult to distil knowledge from the contents communicated by the public. This paper presents tools from topic modeling to process such an unstructured data collected from online social media into information which can be plugged into the process of decision making. We use k-means clustering to cluster followers of an infrastructure project on micro-blogging website Twitter based on semantic similarity among their user profile descriptions. This helps profiling the main groups of followers of the infrastructure project and can provide decision makers with valuable hints regarding typology of external stakeholders. We also extend our analysis to project-related tweets through Latent Semantic Indexing, and find the main topics discussed. The latter guide help decision makers understand the public’s major vested interests in the project. We have applied the proposed method to a Light Rail Transit (LRT) mega-project in Toronto, Ontario and have discussed the results.

Paper # 310 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-2: Decision-making tools ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
The Interface between Building Information Models and the Public
Authors:
Raghav Grover, University of British Columbia
Peixian Li, University of British Columbia
Thomas Froese*, University of British Columbia
Abstract
Almost all work to date in the field of Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools has developed software for building professionals: designers, constructors, and operators. However, another important group of potential users is the public. Use cases fall into two broad categories. Pre-construction applications span the design phase and all forms of public engagement during design development, from traditional user-feedback/community engagement processes to innovative applications such as crowd-source design. Post-construction application include a variety of occupant-centric scenarios, including building dashboards, occupancy-assessments, etc. The relevant technology spans both BIM and social media. The Green 2.0 project aims to develop a middle-ware platform to support a range of BIM-to-public applications, with an emphasis on building energy performance and related “Green” applications. By analogy, if Facebook is conceived as a platform for a public-to-public interaction, and Google Maps as a platform for public-to-geospatial interaction, then the Green 2.0 project aims to provide a platform for public-to-building interactions. This paper describes the problem domain and preliminary work to develop the pre-construction and post-construction application areas for the Green 2.0, BIM-to-Public platform.

Paper # 301 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-3: LCC/PPP ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Public-Private Partnerships – Analysis of Government Implementation Units
Authors:
Ahmed M Abdel Aziz*, University of Washington
Amr Elmahdy, University of Washington
Abstract
In the international Public-private partnerships (PPP) market, there is a common use of PPP units for the initiation and management of PPPs. The common examples include Partnerships BC, Partnerships UK, and Partnerships Victoria. A PPP unit could be a policy unit, implementation unit, or both. In the United States PPPs have been implemented through the same offices that manage the conventional design-bid-build projects. Content analysis and a case study approach have been used in this research to examine the use of PPP units in the United States. The analysis shows that PPP transportation projects are delivered in the PPP-enabled states through the internal resources of the departments of transportation without centralized government office. Around fourteen states have internal PPP offices that provide partial/full policy formulation/guidance, coordination, and promotion. Only five states have expanded the functions to the real PPP procurement management work, and that those states are also the leading states in PPP implementation. Having a unit that carries only policy guidance might not be as effective as a unit that does both PPP policy and procurement management. Without centralized units, the implementation of PPP would not be effectively streamlined and implemented in government. The analysis also shows that Florida and Texas are expanding their PPP toward more public facilities and infrastructure; this signifies that the more a state became familiar with PPP, the more it used it for the delivery of projects. The research provides insights to public agencies on the use of PPP units.

Paper # 179 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-3: LCC/PPP ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
The Influence of Public-Private Partnerships on Design Flexibility and Downstream Design Feedback in the Presidio Parkway
Authors:
Eric I Antillon*, University of Colorado
Amy Javernick-Will, University of Colorado Boulder
Keith R Molenaar, University of Colorado Boulder
Abstract
Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) offer the opportunity to improve integration among project stakeholders throughout a project’s life cycle. Stakeholder integration, in turn, can enhance design decision-making process by focusing on the project’s life cycle cost. The objective of this paper is to compare and contrast design decision-making in a P3 and design-bid-build (DBB) process to explore if life cycle considerations are better optimized under a P3 delivery method. To do this, we analyzed a project that included both P3 and DBB project delivery strategies—the Presidio Parkway. We collected data through 16 open-ended, semi-structured interviews with key project participants. We analyzed the data for design decision-making processes and found mixed evidence supporting the proposition that life cycle considerations can be better optimized under a P3 delivery method. Specifically, we found that the ability of the P3 contractor to influence project outcomes depends on the timing of the integration of the designer in a P3 and the degree of design criteria and flexibility allowed. In the case study analyzed, the P3 designer was able to influence downstream life cycle considerations, such as the operations and maintenance of the project; however, given the degree of definition of the design and the timing of integration of the P3 designer, it was not possible to influence the upstream design decisions. These findings allow researchers to better understand how P3s are being integrated from a design perspective and allow the public sector to realize how the timing and degree of definition of the design in P3s influences a concessionaire’s ability to make life cycle design choices.

Paper # 102 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-3: LCC/PPP ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Assessment of Network-level Environmental Sustainability in Infrastructure Systems using Service and Performance Adjusted Life Cycle Analysis
Authors:
Mostafa Batouli*, Florida International University
Ali Mostafavi, Florida International University
Abstract
Managing environmental impacts of civil infrastructure systems is critical for fostering sustainable development. However, despite the growing body of literature, an integrated methodology that captures the specific traits of infrastructure systems for a network-level environmental impact assessment is still missing. The objective of this paper is to propose a novel methodology [called Service and Performance Adjusted Life Cycle Assessment (SPA-LCA)] for addressing the limitations of the traditional LCA in environmental assessment of infrastructure networks. The SPA-LCA methodology adopts a service-based accounting approach to enable aggregation of the impacts pertaining to assets with different functions and service life expectancies at the network level. In the proposed SPA-LCA methodology, first, through conducting traditional asset-level LCA, life cycle inventories for the assets are determined. Second, the life cycle inventories are disaggregated to performance-sensitive and none-sensitive impacts. Then, using a hybrid mathematical/agent-based simulation model, the levels of service and performance are simulated for different assets in the network across the analysis horizon. Finally, the environmental impacts are determined for each year based on the levels of service and performance. The application of the proposed SPA-LCA method is demonstrated in environmental assessment of a road network. The results highlight the capabilities of SPA-LCA in providing better insight regarding environmental performance of infrastructure networks.

Paper # 263 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-3: LCC/PPP ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Reliability Analysis Of Water Distribution Networks Using Minimum Cut Set Approach
Authors:
Azhar Uddin Mohammed*, Concordia
Tarek Zayed, Concordia
Osama Moselhi, Concordia
Alaa AlHawari
Abstract
Canadian Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) estimated the cost to replace 112,000 km of water mains in Canada to be 34 billion Canadian Dollars. Reliability analysis of water distribution networks (WDNs) is an important aspect in planning and operation of a WDN and hence plays an important role in the efficient use of allocated budget. In general, reliability analysis is classified into mechanical reliability and hydraulic reliability. Mechanical reliability is defined as the ability to function even when some components are out of service or there is any mechanical break. Hydraulic reliability is concerned with delivery of the specified quantity of water to a specific location at the required time under the desired pressure. This paper introduces a methodology for evaluating mechanical reliability of WDNs using the minimum cut set approach. The methodology involves the computation of mechanical reliability at the component (pipe, hydrant etc.), segment (collection of pipes and components) and network levels. An illustrative example is worked out to demonstrate the use of the developed methodology.

Paper # 201 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-4: Performance Mgt ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Forecasting breakage rate in water distribution networks using Evolutionary Polynomial Regression
Authors:
Farzad Karimian*, Concordia
Hany Elsawah
Tarek Zayed, Concordia
Osama Moselhi, Concordia
Alaa AlHawari
Abstract
The economic, social and environmental impact of water main failures impose great pressure on utility managers and municipalities to develop reliable rehabilitation/replacement plans. The annual number of breaks or breakage rate of each pipe segment is known as one of the most important criteria in condition assessment of these pipelines. A model is developed in this research to predict the annual number of breaks in water pipes. The developed model utilizes Evolutionary Polynomial Regression (EPR), which is intuitive data mining technique. The model is applied to a case study to test its effectiveness. The case considers the water distribution networks of in the cities of Doha in Qatar; Montréal, Moncton and Hamilton in Canada. The results indicated that the developed models successfully estimated the breakage rate for the city of Montréal and the number of breaks for the city of Doha with a maximum coefficient of determination of 88.51% and 96.27% respectively. This demonstrates the accuracy and robustness of the developed models in forecasting the number of breaks and breakage rate in water distribution networks.

Paper # 195 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-4: Performance Mgt ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Condition Diagnostics of Steel Water Tanks Using Correlated Visual Patterns
Authors:
Vamsi S Kalasapudi*, Arizona State Univ.
Pingbo Tang, Arizona State Univ.
Abstract
Insufficient, unreliable, and delayed condition assessment of steel water tanks is causing poor maintenance planning, wastes of maintenance resources, and unexpected structure failures. Visual inspection of water tanks heavily relies on engineers’ experiences for achieving comprehensive and reliable condition assessments. Recent studies reveal the potential of using imaging technology for improving the efficiency and comprehensiveness of capturing visual conditions of large civil infrastructures, but manual interpretation of imagery data still impedes engineers from reliable awareness of structural conditions. On the other hand, some studies show that deteriorations of structures result in correlated visual patterns that can assist engineers in structural diagnosis. The objective of the research presented in this paper is to examine correlated deformation patterns of a steel tank based on analyzing 3D laser-scanned point clouds collected in the field. Specifically, the authors aim at identifying correlated shape change patterns of a water tank through various 3D data analysis algorithms, and synthesize these 3D data patterns as knowledge for guiding data-driven condition assessment of the water tank. The authors examined two 3D data analysis approaches for revealing the deformation patterns of the studied tank. The first approach calculates the deviations of the 3D data points from as-designed shapes of the water tank for identifying structural deformation and defects. The second approach visualized anomalous variations in local shape descriptors, such as curvature, for identifying defects of structures. Correlations between the patterns could then reveal systematic changes of the tank for helping engineers conduct more reliable condition assessments.

Paper # 199 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-4: Performance Mgt ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Infrastructure Condition Assessment Based on Low-cost Hyper-Spatial Resolution Multispectral Digital Aerial Photography
Authors:
Su Zhang*, University of New Mexico
Susan M Bogus, University of New Mexico
Christopher D Lippitt, University of New Mexico
Abstract
Infrastructure condition information is critical for effective asset management. Infrastructure managers are tasked with regularly assessing asset conditions to make effective maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation decisions. Currently there are two types of methods broadly adopted for infrastructure condition assessment, including on-site evaluation methods and airplane-based observation methods. On-site evaluation methods are expensive, labor-intensive, time-consuming, potentially dangerous to inspectors, inconsistent, and requiring specialized staff on a regular basis. Airplane-based observation methods can provide reliable overall condition information for ground infrastructure assets such as roadways, bridges, dams, or buildings, but the spatial resolutions of 0.075-meter (3-inch) to 1-meter are insufficient to examine detailed asset conditions such as individual cracks on a pavement surface or on a bridge. Using roadway pavement assets as an example, this research explored the utility of hyper-spatial resolution (3-milimeter) multispectral digital aerial photography acquired from a low-altitude unmanned remote sensing system to permit characterization of detailed surface distress conditions. With the help of orthogonal regression analysis, detailed pavement surface distress rates manually estimated from hyper-spatial resolution multispectral digital aerial photography were compared to reference pavement distress rates manually collected on the ground. The results show that the hyper-high spatial resolution imaging techniques provide detailed and reliable data suitable for informing infrastructure system management decisions. These results open the way for the future application of low-cost hyper-spatial resolution digital aerial photography for automated assessment of detailed infrastructure system condition.

Paper # 308 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-4: Performance Mgt ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Assessment Of The Level Of Service (LOS) Of Public Recreational Centre Buildings: An Uncertainty Based Approach
Authors:
Rajeev J Ruparathna*, University of British Columbia
Kasun Hewage, University of British Columbia
Rehan Ssadiq, University of British Columbia
Abstract
The federal sustainable development strategy (FSDS) for Canada highlighted that public sector operations should aim at shrinking the environmental footprint while enhancing social benefits. In this quest, improving the sustainability performance of public buildings becomes a key constituent since buildings are responsible for the highest portion of the corporate GHG emission and energy usage of public entities. Moreover, public buildings are an important constituent of the socio-economic environment of a local region. Hence, there is an absolute need to improve the sustainability performance of the future and existing public buildings. Currently, various innovative methods are used by federal, provincial and municipal entities to improve the sustainability performance of public buildings. However, asset management of building has been an overlooked area from the above studies. There is a lack of comprehensive methods to assess the level of service of a building that is crucial for life cycle asset management. For that reason, this technical paper proposes an approach to calculate the level of service (LOS) of a recreational centre building operated by municipal government. Firstly, a LOS framework is formulated for recreational centre building by considering key aspects. Secondly, a fuzzy synthetic evaluation method is used to assess the building performance. Thirdly, a case study was conducted to validate the proposed methodology. Results from approach provide detailed information about the performance of the building asset. Furthermore, dimensions that need immediate improvement could be easily identified. This study provides a novel approach to life cycle asset management of public sector buildings.

Paper # 274 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-4: Performance Mgt ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Energy Loss Modeling of Water Main Breaks: A Hybrid System Dynamics Agent-Based Modeling Approach
Authors:
Hamed Zamenian*, Purdue University
Dulcy M Abraham, Purdue University
Kasey M Faust, Purdue University
Abstract
According to the United States Government Accountability Office Energy-Water Nexus Report, the water pipeline infrastructure system is nearing the end of its service life. Up to 50 percent of water is lost, as evidenced by the 240,000 water main breaks that occur each year, estimated by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Water loss in the distribution system leads to additional expenditures for extracting water from natural resources, treatment, pumping, and transporting water into the distribution pipeline network system. Minimizing water losses has the potential to curb the increase in operating costs throughout the distribution system. This paper describes a conceptual System of Systems (SoS) framework for estimating the energy footprint resulting from water main breaks that considers the full cycle of providing drinking water to customers. The paper focuses on the interactions between the water loss in the distribution system and the energy-intensive operational components of the water infrastructure. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge and practice by developing a methodology to quantify the impact of water main breaks on energy consumption and by creating a tool that assists the water utilities as decision-makers in their assessment of the effects of water main breaks on the satisfaction of customers and the revenue loss of water utilities.

Paper # 220 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-5: Bridges & Pipelines ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Comparitive Study Of Current Practice In Bridge Condition Assessment
Authors:
Marwa H Ahmed*, Concordia
Anjan Bhowmick
Osama Moselhi, Concordia
Abstract
Bridges play a vital role in road infrastructure networks. According to Statistics Canada, bridges and overpasses accounted for 8% of total public assets in 2007.. Ontario ranked as the third among provinces in terms of having old bridges. In 2007, Bridges in Ontario accounted for 7% of its public infrastructure, while in Alberta, bridges account for 9% of total public infrastructure. Bridge condition assessment is conducted to determine load rating capacity for bridge elements. The identification of current condition of each element provides early warning of necessary maintenance. Condition rating is performed during the inspection process. This paper provides a comparative study of current practices in bridge condition rating worldwide, with emphasis on the United States and Canada. The study includes 4 main criteria: inspection levels, inspection principles, inspection frequencies and numerical ratings for 4 provinces in North America: Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and state of Oregon and 5 countries outside North America: United Kingdom, Denmark, Portugal, Sweden and Australia. The Limitations of current practices are discussed and recommendations for improved inspection are provided. The study is expected to assist professionals and inspectors in selecting feasible method/s for effective bridge condition assessment.

Paper # 320 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-5: Bridges & Pipelines ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Research For Generating 2D-Drawings of Superstructure in Highway Bridge
Authors:
Wenyuan Jiang*, Kansai University
Shigenori Tanaka, Kansai University
Abstract
Maintenance of highway bridges built during the high economic growth period is performed based on their design drawings and as-built drawings. For these elevated highway bridges, however, drawings were produced on paper media at the times of design and completion; therefore, in many cases they have already been disposed, making it difficult to perform maintenance. In such a case, regenerating the detail design of the current status is required, but it takes huge cost. For this problem, a large number of researches have been made on automatic generation of three-dimensional models for maintenance of highway bridges from point cloud data obtained through MMS (Mobile Mapping System). However, it is hard to use the models generated in these researches because engineers do not consider the original geometric information of highways. Thus in this research, we aim to regenerate the CAD drawings of the superstructure of an elevated highway bridge, and propose a method for extracting alignment information of the elevated highway bridge from point cloud data of MMS. We verify the usability of our method and system by comparing the experimental data with surveyed drawings in our experiments.

Paper # 285 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-5: Bridges & Pipelines ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Developing Failure Age Prediction Model of Hazardous Liquid Pipelines
Authors:
Laya Parvizsedghy*, Concordia
Tarek Zayed, Concordia
Abstract
Pipelines are the most common way of transporting the hazardous materials. They are considered to be the safest way of transporting petroleum products; however, there have been several failures with considerable consequences. As a result, the importance of studying failure of pipelines is not covert to anybody. Failure prediction of pipelines has been the subject of some studies from different perspectives. Estimation of failure age has also been studied from the specific points of view. Most of the studies have focused on producing models with data from inspection tools. These tools are very expensive; although, they are considerably accurate. This research aims to develop a model based on the basic attributes of pipelines without data from the inspection tools to predict the probability of failure. The model predicts the age of failure considering the historical data that was gathered on pipelines’ failures. The effect of several variables on the frequency of failures in different age classes is studied in order to identify the effective variables on pipelines’ failure. Then, a regression model is developed to estimate the age of failure. Pipe manufacture year, maximum operating pressure (MOP), specified minimum yield strength (SMYS) and pipe diameter over pipe wall thickness are the variables that are considered in the developed model after significant number of modeling iterations. Statistical parameters of the developed regression model prove its soundness. Validation results prove the accuracy of the model with over 80 percent.

Paper # 262 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-5: Bridges & Pipelines ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
BrIM Implementation for Documentation of Bridge Element Condition for Inspections
Authors:
Firas Al-Shalabi, Iowa State University
Yelda Turkan*, Iowa State University
Abstract
Bridge condition inspection data provide critical and rich information for assessing structural condition. Currently, the majority of bridge inspection methods use printed checklists, and their interpretation is labor intensive, subject to personal judgment, and prone to error. To realize the full benefits of bridge inspections, there is a need to automate the data management process. This study implements Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) technology for bridge inspections and compare it to the conventional approach of paper checklists. The environment combines a 3D representation of the infrastructure, and allows the integration of inspection data, such as the presence, type, severity, and localization of damage and previous maintenance decisions. In this paper, we use the acronym BrIM to refer to the database that integrates a 3D bridge model and bridge element condition data. In order to validate our approach, we obtained 2D drawings and previous inspection and maintenance data from two bridges located in Ames, Iowa, and modeled them using Revit. We then synced both models using cloud-based solutions so that we could access them from tablet computers on-site. Then, we tested the BrIM based inspection methodology with Iowa DOT engineers and bridge inspectors, who confirmed that BrIM can be used to automatically query, sort, evaluate and send information to decision makers. Furthermore, we conducted a short survey with several DOT engineers and bridge inspectors regarding with possible expected benefits of using 3D BrIM based solutions for inspections. It is concluded that this methodology will substantially improve bridge assessment and maintenance operations, resulting in reduction of costs associated with bridge assessment, and improvement structural resiliency by enabling more effective maintenance and repair operations.

Paper # 245 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-6: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
An Image-Based Data Model For Subway Condition Assessment
Authors:
Thikra Dawood*, Concordia
Tarek Zayed, Concordia
Zhenhua Zhu, Concordia
Abstract
The Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) estimated that transit infrastructure needed a total of 53 Billion Canadian Dollars in 2013. Subway networks form an essential part of the public transportation infrastructure. Several surface defects may develop on subway infrastructure facilities, of which the most commonly identified are cracks, scaling, spalling, delamination, moisture marks, and efflorescence. These distresses participate not only in degrading the structure aesthetically, but in increasing the deterioration mechanisms of its components, taking into account the severe environmental conditions and continuous heavy loads that the structure is subjected to during its service life. High deterioration rates may cause the closure of subway system, therefore condition assessment of subway networks represents a crucial yet challenging task in the sustainability of a sound concrete infrastructure. Visual inspection techniques are considered the principal methods used in the condition evaluation of civil infrastructure. These methods are time-consuming, expensive, and depend inherently on subjective criteria. Several models have been proposed by previous researchers to assess the condition of subway systems. However, all of the developed methods were dependent on the visual inspection reports, hence they lacked the objectivity in quantifying and estimating the severity of defects. Therefore, a robust model that can detect the distresses and compute their severity needs to be developed. This paper defines the details of the recently introduced procedure based on image processing and assessment techniques. A five phased process is presented for accurate condition assessment of subway networks. The developed methodology utilizes data acquisition tools for collecting images of different elements in subway networks. Multiple algorithms are utilized to detect, interpret and measure surface defects, such as binary transformation, histogram equalization, image dilation, and hole filling. A case study from Montreal subway system was used to exemplify the application of the developed method. The results prove the potential benefits of the proposed methodology in identifying and quantifying surface defects. This research concludes the reliability of image-based data model in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and ease of analysis.

Paper # 276 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-6: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
A State-Of-The-Art Competency Model For Advanced Commercial Building Workforce
Authors:
David Riley
Maureen Roskoski
Mahsa Safari
Aileen G Zaballero
Melissa Kazemi Rad
Somayeh Asadi*, Penn State University
Abstract
Retrofitting existing buildings has received significant attention due to the potential opportunities that it can offer for energy saving. This, in turn, has increased the demand for building a better workforce for advanced energy retrofit industry to successfully support planning, designing, and implementing energy improvement projects. Recently, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, in conjunction with the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) and the U.S. Department of Energy convened a study to identify the critical duties and tasks required for four of the advanced commercial energy job titles including Building Operations Professional, Energy Auditor, Building Commissioning Professional, and Energy Manager. In the present study, a competency model is developed for these four job titles, based on the job task analyses and best practices. In addition, focus groups and individual interviews were conducted to supplement and corroborate the findings. The goal of the competency model is to help articulate and classify the competencies required for engagement and advancement of talented individuals needed to complete energy retrofit projects. The model will also help to match job requirements with industry-recognized skills and reveal gaps in competencies in the industry to enhance the expansion of the energy retrofit market. It will also support the growth of the energy retrofit workforce by guiding the development of new education and training programs or modifying the existing programs to address the missing parts. The methodology followed through this research also informs future efforts to identify key competencies and associated work products in new and emerging fields in the building industry.

Paper # 318 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-6: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Road Maintenance Information Management System Based on Product Data Model Considering Disaster Use
Authors:
Satoshi Kubota*, Kansai University
Abstract
Maintenance management is an essential operation that should be carried out effectively for maintaining, repairing, and rehabilitating highways and roads. It is necessary to accumulate information produced during the entire life cycle of roads in order to analyze problems and find solutions within a temporal sequence and to maintain them strategically and effectively. In road maintenance site, the administrators and engineers want to refer and utilize the road ledger and its drawings. It is difficult to carry and use the ledgers, because they are paper based documents. The primary objective of this study is to develop the product data models, which systematic information is defined for accumulating, exchanging, and sharing in civil infrastructure. And, this paper proposed a road maintenance information management system to collect, accumulate, share, and utilize the information considering disaster use. The system consists of a spatial data infrastructure, road data models, a model library, a common system interface, common functions, a road database, and a road application system. It is used in maintenance and disaster site by tablet PC. Road data models are effective for building an environment where the various data generated in a construction enterprise are used in an integrated manner. The constructed road data model has structural and work information. Structural information includes road structures such as bridges, carriageways, sidewalks, and road furniture. Inspections, repair judgments, repair of pavement, and construction of pavement are defined as work information. And, disaster information was added in structural information. The location-based expressions ‘GM_Point’, ‘GM_Surface’, and ‘GM_Polygon’ are defined to connect the road data model to spatial information. The proposed system was evaluated the usability and capability under crowd computing environment.

Paper # 29 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-6: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Using Game Theory for Creating Evolutionary Stable Strategy for Post Disaster Insurance
Authors:
Mohamed Eid, University of Tennessee
Islam El-Adaway*, University of Tennessee
Kalyn Coatney, Mississippi State University
Abstract
Natural disasters leave the impacted regions with financial burdens both on the individual and governmental levels. Thus, the goal of the associated stakeholders is to maximize the host communities’ welfare through minimizing their post-disaster financial burdens. Accordingly, this paper attempts to find a post-disaster insurance plans equilibrium so as to mitigate the financial impacts associated with the natural disasters. Utilizing an evolutionary game theory approach, the equilibrium is investigated between three different players including: resident families purchasing insurance plans; insurance companies offering different insurance plans; and the government agency that implements post disaster relief financial plans. The authors determined a set of decision actions as well as utility functions for the aforementioned stakeholders. Moreover, the authors created a hypothetical sample of 1,000 heterogeneous income level resident families, three insurance companies offering three unique and different insurance plans per company and two post disaster financial relief plans to be utilized by the government agency. The proposed model was implemented on NetBeans IDE 7.4 platform using JAVA programming language on the hypothetical case study simulating resident family evolutionary learning process in reaching an equilibrium. The results indicate that: (1) resident families tend to prefer insurance plans with the least premium value and coverage; (2) insurance plans with the most comprehensive coverage received the least demand; and (3) the evolutionary stable strategy path oscillates between chosen plans and insurers over time as a result of the stochastic and dynamics nature of the factors associated with disaster management. Currently, the authors are working to develop the model further to better account for simultaneous actions by all stakeholders (not only resident families), population growth and changes in financial and income standards. Ultimately, this evolutionary game theory model will be tested on real post natural disasters data representing physical damages in coastal Mississippi Counties post Katrina, so as to determine the significant increase in the host community welfare.

Paper # 299 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-7: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Integrated Asset Management of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Systems – Borrowing from Industry Foundation Classes
Authors:
Amin Ganjidoost*, University of Waterloo
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Mark Knight, University of Waterloo
Andre Unger, University of Waterloo
Abstract
Viewing water and wastewater infrastructure systems from a network or functional viewpoint down to an individual component goes hand in hand with life-cycle management. Therefore, three concepts are incorporated: (1) Strategic Planning; (2) Tactical Planning; and (3) Operational Planning. The data relevant to each of these areas are generated and managed by software applications that operate in isolation. A multi-level integration can link and share data among strategic, tactical, and operational asset management plans. The Industry Foundation Classes schema concept is used to develop a framework to support efficient sharing and management of data and planning information among strategic, tactical and operational asset management plans of the water and wastewater infrastructure systems. The proposed multi-level integration framework is comprised of a comprehensive database of water and wastewater infrastructure physical asset inventory, financial and consumer sectors that stores and manages flow of information through strategic, tactical, and operational asset management plans. Data are identified by reference of time and date (temporal) and by physical relation of data to the location of a facility in the water and wastewater infrastructure networks (spatial). The proposed framework enables the integration and interoperation of various domain-specific software applications through developing and maintaining a multi-level integration of strategic, tactical and operational asset management plans based upon the Industry Foundation Classes data model concept. Municipalities and water utilities can use the findings to make optimized asset management decisions.

Paper # 255 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-7: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
A comparison of geographic intervention grouping methods for infrastructure intervention planning across multiple networks
Authors:
Clemens Kielhauser*, ETH Zurich
Bryan T Adey, Institute for Construction Engineering and Management, ETH Zurich
Nam Lethanh, ETH Zurich
Abstract
Interventions on infrastructure networks in municipalities cause disruptions to the service provided by the network that requires the intervention. They also cause disruptions to the service provided by other networks that have to be at least partially shut down so that the intervention can be executed. Due to these effects, there is substantial benefit to be obtained by grouping interventions on all networks that are spatially close to one another, i.e. work programs for spatially close networks should be developed together. This benefit is principally due to reduced interruption to services and reduced costs of intervention. The challenge of determining such combined optimal work programs is made more difficult as it requires quantification of the value of lost services, which depends on how different stakeholders value the services as well as how the services are interrupted. In this paper the difference between two methodologies to be used to develop work programs on spatially close infrastructure networks is shown: 1) a traditional methodology based on a grid-cell based grouping method, and 2) a methodology based on a combined topology / Voronoi cell / density based clustering of interventions. Both methodologies exploit recent developments in the area of critical infrastructures and GISs. The differences are illustrated by using both methodologies to determine combined work programs for five spatially close infrastructure networks (electricity, gas, water, sewage, roads) in a municipality with approximately 1’500 inhabitants. The advantages and disadvantages of each are discussed.

Paper # 348 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-7: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Application Of FAHP And Shannon Entropy In Evaluating Criteria Significance In Pipeline Deterioration
Authors:
Zahra Zangenehmadar*, Concordia
Osama Moselhi, Concordia
Abstract
Water Distribution Networks (WDNs) are the most important element in water supply systems. According to the Canadian Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA), there are more than 112,000 kilometers of water mains in Canada and their replacement cost is estimated to be $34 billion. Another $12 billion is required to service the projected growth. It is important to assess the long-term condition of WDNs to find their respective rate of deterioration in order to prevent disastrous failures and/or sudden shutdowns. Due to the limited data about water mains, condition of pipeline should be estimated based on available data. Therefore, to predict the pipeline condition, importance of each factor should be known. This study aims to calculate the weight of importance of factors that affect deterioration of pipelines. For this purpose, Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and Entropy Shannon are employed to prioritize the selected factors and calculate their relative weights based on their individual importance. Results show that pipe installation, age and material are the most effective parameters in modeling deterioration. These weights will be used in condition rating models to find the condition of pipelines based on their pipe characteristics, soil and water properties in order to estimate deterioration rate and expected remaining useful life.

Paper # 223 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-8: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Axiology-based Value Quantification Modeling for Buildings
Authors:
Lu Zhang*, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Nora El-Gohary, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Abstract
A report published by the National Research Council of the National Academies identified the research on understanding and quantifying the value of our infrastructure systems to their stakeholders and how this value is impacted by the various planning, design, construction, and operation decisions as a “national imperative”. However, there is still a lack of understanding and formalized modeling of what different stakeholders value (e.g., energy conservation, safety, economic growth) in our infrastructure systems and how to valuate (i.e., quantify the worth) our infrastructure systems based on these values. This paper presents the authors’ work in the area of axiology-based valuation modeling of buildings. “Axiology” is a theory of value (worth) that explores questions such as what are the objects that we value and how to measure the value of these objects. In this paper, the authors propose a mathematical value quantification model for quantifying the degree that a building (and its objects) fulfills stakeholder values based on its properties. The proposed model is primarily theoretically grounded in axiology. It builds on two key notions in Hartman’s formal axiology that (1) object valuation depends on its properties, and (2) valuation has systemic, extrinsic, and intrinsic dimensions. The model was initially validated through a case study. The model offers a way to assess the value of our built infrastructure based on stakeholder values; it could facilitate value-sensitive decision making by embodying stakeholder values into project planning and design towards better synergy between human values and the built environment.

Paper # 221 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-8: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
Statistical Modeling of Public Attitudes Towards Water Infrastructure Management Alternatives in Shrinking Cities
Authors:
Kasey M Faust*, Purdue University
Dulcy M Abraham, Purdue University
Hamed Zamenian, Purdue University
Abstract
Many US cities, such as Gary, Indiana and Detroit, Michigan, have and continue to experience substantial population decline. The footprint of the built infrastructure in these cities does not contract with urban decline, but remains relatively unchanged, consequentially resulting in underfunded and underutilized infrastructure. Right sizing the physical footprint for the current and projected population needs has the potential to stabilize or reduce the rising per capita cost of services. While unilateral infrastructure decisions may save time and money, they pose risks, such as inefficient or unsuccessful implementation or unsustainable infrastructure projects, due to public opposition. The objective of this paper is to assess the public attitude concerning water infrastructure management alternatives. In November 2013, a voluntary survey was deployed to residents of 21 medium or large US shrinking cities. Binary probit models were estimated to determine the demographic and geographic variables influencing the support (or opposition) of five water infrastructure management alternatives. The statistical models indicated that different alternatives have different probabilities of support (or opposition) in varied geographic locations. Demographic variables, such as age, employment status, and income, have a propensity towards (or against) select management alternatives. This study demonstrates a method for understanding and incorporating public opinion into the pre-planning process for potentially reducing public opposition. Potential opposition regarding infrastructure management decisions may be alleviated through participatory processes and targeting identified demographic groups for involvement in new infrastructure projects and decisions.

Paper # 261 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-8: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
A routing algorithm to construct candidate work zones with distance constraints
Authors:
Charel Eicher
Nam Lethanh*, ETH Zurich
Bryan T Adey, Institute for Construction Engineering and Management, ETH Zurich
Abstract
As highways deteriorate over time, it is necessary to execute preventive interventions to ensure that they continue to provide an adequate level of service. As the execution of interventions on highways almost invariably results in the interruption to traffic flow, it is often beneficial to group interventions. By grouping interventions into work zones, there is, for example, less lane changing required by vehicles travelling on the highway and, therefore, perhaps fewer accidents. The objects included in the optimal work zones depend on many factors, such as the condition / performance of the objects, the length of the work zone, the traffic configuration within the work zone, the length of time required to execute the interventions, and the budget available. Recent research by Hajdin and Lindenmann (2007) [1] and Lethanh et al. (2014) [2] has developed optimization models to solve such problems. One difficulty with them though is the construction of the set of possible combinations, which was done manually. Once large networks are to be analyzed this is no longer possible. This paper presents a routing algorithm that can be used together with these optimization models to automatically establish the combination matrix, taking into consideration constraints on the length of the work zone and the distance between work zones. The algorithm is developed in Matlab and empirically tested on a real world road network, with 671 km of roads and 567 objects including bridges, tunnels, and road sections. The state of each object is classified on a discrete scale of 5, with 1 being the best and 5 being the worst. Several scenarios based on setting constraints on maximum work zone length, and minimum distance between two adjacent work zones are used to verify the robustness of the algorithm. It is found that the algorithm is both efficient and fast for all scenarios investigated. The development potential, in particular with respect to integration in GISs, is discussed. [1]R. Hajdin and H. P. Lindenmann, “Algorithm for the Planning of Optimum Highway Work Zones,” J. Infrastruct. Syst., vol. 13, no. 3, pp. 202–214, 2007. [2]N. Lethanh, B. T. Adey, and M. Sigrist, “A Mixed-Integer Linear Model for Determining Optimal Work Zones on a Road Network,” in Proceeding of the International Conference on Engineering and Applied Sciences Optimization, 2014.

Paper # 247 ; Session: Infra & Asset Mgt-8: Decision-making tools ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 1012
An Ontology-Supported Transaction Formalism Protocol in Infrastructure Management
Authors:
Jehan Zeb*, University of British Columbia
Thomas Froese, University of British Columbia
Abstract
Infrastructure organizations use diversified information systems to exchange data (transaction). Presently, data exchange in the area of infrastructure management is accomplished in a manual and ad hoc basis. The growing trend is to transform these manual data exchanges to a computer-to-computer based exchange of information. “How to formalize these data exchanges or transactions?” is the core research question, which was dealt with developing and applying an ontology-supported Transaction Formalism Protocol (TFP). The proposed solution is composed of two parts: ontology and protocol. Two ontologies, the Transaction Domain Ontology and Tangible Capital Asset ontology, were developed using an eleven-step methodology to represent transaction knowledge and Tangible Capital Asset knowledge respectively to support the design and implementation of transactions in infrastructure management. The proposed TFP is an eight-step procedure developed using a four-step methodology from two perspectives: the TFP Specification modelled each step of the protocol as a function for which inputs, controls, mechanisms, tools/techniques, and outputs were defined, whereas the TFP Tool includes a set of forms and guidance developed for specific steps of the protocol. The TFP was applied to develop transaction specifications for the Asset Inventory and Condition Assessment Reporting/Tangible Capital Asset (AI&CAR/TCA) Reporting, which was implemented in the Asset Information Integrator System for the exchange of Tangible Capital Asset information between the municipal and provincial governments. The main contributions of this research work include the development of the two ontologies, protocol, and Asset Integrator Information System.

Paper # 50 ; Session: IT-1: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Application of Fuzzy Logic Integrated with System Dynamics in Construction Modeling
Authors:
Nima Gerami Seresht, University of Alberta
Aminah Robinson Fayek*, University of Alberta
Abstract
Construction projects are complex systems and their behaviors are extremely dynamic throughout their life cycles. This complexity and dynamism makes them perfect candidates for system dynamics modeling for management purposes. However, ill-known variables, a lack of historical data, uncertainties, subjectivity, and the use of linguistic terms in defining construction variables all complicate the application of system dynamics in construction. Fuzzy logic is an artificial intelligence technique that has the ability to model vague, incomplete, linguistically-expressed, and subjective data in a precise way. Since the quality of system dynamics modeling relies significantly on the accuracy of the data, integrating system dynamics with fuzzy logic makes for a powerful construction project simulation tool. Integrated fuzzy system dynamics models can effectively capture the dynamic characteristics of construction projects and simulate them more precisely by using fuzzy logic to capture subjective and linguistically-expressed information. In this paper, we illustrate how fuzzy logic and system dynamics can be integrated for use in construction project simulation. Moreover, we present a review of potential applications of integrated fuzzy system dynamics models in construction. Finally, we compare the performance of system dynamics with integrated fuzzy system dynamics for a construction-related problem adopted from the literature, and discuss how integrating fuzzy logic can enhance system dynamics capabilities for construction modeling.

Paper # 105 ; Session: IT-1: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Hybrid Object Detection and Marker Recognition System to Monitor Performance of the Hauling Dump Trucks
Authors:
Ehsan Rezazadeh Azar*, Lakehead University
Abstract
Various sensing technologies have been developed for real-time monitoring of the earthmoving fleet on construction and surface mining jobsites. Computer vision-based methods are among the most recent techniques employed to track earthmoving machines in a construction field. All the research efforts in this area investigated computer vision algorithms to detect and track different types of equipment, but they were unable to identify individual machines within the fleet. This paper introduces a hybrid system which uses a combination of an object detection method and a marker recognition algorithm to identify individual dump trucks using specific markers attached on them. Background subtraction and Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG) algorithm were used to detect candidates in the video frames and then the system zooms on the detected bounding boxes to obtain a better resolution for marker detection. Next, the marker recognition module searches the zoomed frame for a marker and in case of successful identification; it verifies the detection and records a trip for that individual truck. The results showed promising performance, in which the system identified 83% of the hauling trips made by the marked machines without producing any false positives.

Paper # 148 ; Session: IT-1: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Analytical and simulation modeling of bulldozer’s workflows
Authors:
Alexey Bulgakov*, SWSU Kursk, Russia
Georgy Tokmakov, South Russian State Polytechnic University, Novocherkassk, Russia
Thomas Bock, TU Munich
Abstract
The most important task for bulldozer’s traction mode control is to use its traction capacity in full by means of its end-effectors control. To keep traction mode at maximum or at a given resistance value applied to end-effectors automatically is difficult due to a great number of stochastic factors affecting the bulldozer. Bulldozer is taken as a mechatronic system [1, 2]. The study presents analytic dependences for the sub-processes where analytic modeling based on bulldozer’s parameters correlation knowledge is applicable. Models of the sub-processes are included into the general structure of bulldozer’s workflow simulation model. Simulation technique is demonstrated through model development of the bulldozer as a universal machine operating in modes of soil movement and subgrade surfacing. In developing the models mathematical apparatus of the theory of random processes, transfer functions, table interpolation, numerical solution of algebraic equations and ordinary differential equations in the Cauchy form was used. A dynamic model of the drawing prism formation was developed describing the dependence of the volume of prism on the variable digging depth and variable bulldozer speed. A general structure of the model of bulldozer’s workflows due to the working process control objectives was developed. REFERENCES [1] Krapivin D.M., Nefedov V.V., Tokmakov G.E. Mathematical model for the movement of mechatronischen devices for the intelligent building site, Mechatronik, Lik, Nowotscherkassk, 2010.- S. 50-54. [2] Min-Yuan Cheng, Hsing-Chih Tsai, Erick Sudjono. Evolutionary fuzzy hybrid neural network for construction industry. Automation in Construction 21 (2012) S. 46-51.

Paper # 100 ; Session: IT-1: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Morning ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
A Simulation Framework for Ex-Ante Analysis of Safety Hazards in Construction Projects
Authors:
Amin Alvanchi*, Sharif University of Technology
Farshid Baniassadi , Sharif University of Technology
Ali Mostafavi, Florida International University
Abstract
Safety hazards are one of the major challenges facing construction industry across the globe. Despite a growing literature on assessment of construction safety, the majority of the existing studies are descriptive in nature, do not capture specific conditions of construction operations and provide one-size-fits-all strategies for enhancing the safety of construction projects. On the other hand productivity improvement is also a main concern in construction projects. However, the research effort addressing both safety and productivity improvement concerns is still missed in the construction industry. Among different tools used for construction project planning and productivity improvement, discrete event simulation is a well-known tool which has been widely used for analyzing and improving complex construction operations. In this research, for the first time, we are proposing a simulation based framework which concurrently follows safety and productivity improvement in construction projects.

Paper # 60 ; Session: IT-2: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Integration of Predetermined Motion Time Systems into Simulation Modeling of Manual Construction Operations
Authors:
Alireza Golabchi*, University of Alberta
SangUk Han, University of Alberta
Simaan M AbouRizk, University of Alberta
Abstract
Simulation modeling is a powerful tool widely used for designing construction processes and improving the efficiency of operations. However, there is often difficulty in estimating the duration of manual tasks for simulation purposes due to its dependence on the physical attributes of the worker performing the task. When designing a new process, there is usually a lack of sufficient data regarding the required duration for manual tasks, and in the case of evaluating and improving existing processes, there is no benchmark data for workers’ performance to enable comparison of the efficiency of the existing process. This study attempts to address this issue by exploring micro-motion-level simulation modeling in order to provide standard motion time required to perform a manual task for effective workplace design. The research method involves integrating a Predetermined Motion Time System (PMTS) into discrete event simulation, which provides the production planner with a standard task duration within which a worker must complete the task without delays or idling. As a case study, a manual task taking place in the production line of a construction steel fabrication company has been modeled using the developed automation tool in order to verify the feasibility of the proposed approach. The results show high correlation between the simulation model output and the actual time data from the jobsite and confirm the validity of the approach and its effectiveness in evaluating the productivity of the existing operations and providing detailed information for process improvement.

Paper # 81 ; Session: IT-2: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
An Exploration Of Image-Based Walk Through Technologies
Authors:
David Cody Bradley, O’Kane Consultants Inc. Fredericton, NB, Canada
Sara Rankohi*, University of New Brunswick
Jeff Rankin, University of New Brunswick
Lloyd Waugh, University of New Brunswick
Abstract
Construction sites contain vast amounts of information. Recent advances in image-based visualization techniques enable monitoring construction progress using interactive and visual approaches. Photographs capture construction information in great detail while allowing the user to absorb as much information as they need. Construction as-built images captures great detail yet excludes portions of the site which may become of interest to the project participants. To overcome limitations of existing image-based monitoring techniques, this research focuses on an image-based virtual walk-through visualization approach to monitor construction sites. The use of a 3D model to create a virtual walk-through enables a comprehensive record and delivers the information in an intuitive manner. A pilot study is conducted to create several as-built 3D models from construction photographs. Then these 3D models are visualized in a 3D walk-through model. Within such an environment, the as-built construction objects are visualized to generate the status of construction progress. The study shows that this 3D image-based walk-through system introduces an advanced model that enables the user to have a realistic understanding of the construction progress.

Paper # 47 ; Session: IT-2: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
An Image-based Framework for Automated Discrepancy Quantification and Realignment of Industrial Assemblies
Authors:
Mohammad Nahangi*, University of Waterloo
Thomas A Czerniawski, University of Waterloo
Jamie Yeung, University of Waterloo
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Scott Walbridge, University of Waterloo
Jeffrey West, University of Waterloo
Abstract
Image-based frameworks for automated as-built modeling and infrastructure reconstruction are increasingly being used in the construction industry. The increasing use of image-based technologies in the construction processes is due to the ease of application, cheap cost of enhancement, time effectiveness and high level of accuracy and automation. Automating the tasks involved in the inspection, quality control and quality assurance (QA/QC) processes are the potential avenues for utilizing such frameworks. This paper presents an image-based approach for acquiring the built status of fabricated assemblies and conducts a framework for realigning the defective segments by borrowing concepts from robotics and forward kinematics. A laboratory set of experiments is then conducted to measure the accuracy and performance of the proposed framework for realignment of industrial facilities, in general, and pipe spools, in particular. Results demonstrate that it can be utilized in real cases providing the required level of accuracy as well.

Paper # 242 ; Session: IT-2: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Improved Localization of Construction Workers in Video Frames by Integrating Detection and Tracking
Authors:
Man-Woo Park*, Myongji University
Ioannis Brilakis, University of Cambridge
Abstract
Tracking of construction site resources from on-site cameras using vision trackers has been proposed as a means to efficiently track a large number of objects operating in a congested environment. The systems proposed so far use first either a less accurate/faster motion detection approach or a more sophisticated object detection approach to mark the moving entities of interest in the camera view. The marked entities are then passed on to a vision tracker, who follows the entities in all subsequent frames. The major drawback of this two-step process is that the resulting tracking systems are very sensitive to changes and, in most cases, deteriorate and stop tracking effectively after only a few seconds/minutes. The reason is that it is common for construction resources to frequently a) enter/leave the field of view, b) be temporarily occluded, or c) significantly change their pose. To resolve this issue, this paper presents a hybrid method for locating construction workers that interchangeably fuses the methods of tracking and object detection. Specifically, the proposed approach continuously detects construction workers, and tracks them. Continuous detection allows a) for the detection of workers that enter the view or reappear after being occluded at any given time, b) for the effective termination of tracking when workers leave the view or become occluded, and c) for relocating the marked area and detection confidence to fit all object poses. On the other hand, continuous tracking allows for seamless tracking across time and smoothing of the temporal detection variations. The proposed approach was implemented into a C# prototype and tested on videos taken from construction sites in Atlanta, GA. The method could detect and track all workers, preserving stability under occlusions. It enhanced accuracy by 9.6% when compared to the use of a detection method only. This indicates that the proposed approach is a significant improvement over prior work and has the potential to effectively monitor the location of construction workers.

Paper # 260 ; Session: IT-3: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Implementation of Construction Industry Best Practices into Workflow Management Systems
Authors:
Behrooz Golzarpoor*, University of Waterloo
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Abstract
Several research studies have confirmed that identification and adoption of industry best practices drive performance improvements in terms of cost, schedule, and productivity. Best practices specifications facilitate the reuse of experience within a domain. However, they typically offer abstract suggestions and recommendations that include not only explicit, but also tacit knowledge. Key approaches of adopting and promoting best practices include socialization and face to face interactions, such as meetings, workshops, and training. These approaches, however, are not easily scalable to large capital projects, to provide systematic and consistent adoption of best practices throughout different phases of a project or among different projects. An alternative solution is to transform best practices into processes implementable into workflow management systems. In this paper, well-known best practices in the domain of the construction industry and their common characteristics are investigated. A framework is then established for transforming best practices into structured processes implementable into workflow management systems. Only parts of a best practice can be transformed into a structured process. The proposed framework describes which components of a best practice are more suitable for this transformation. The result is a process with the essence of a best practice that can be embedded into and automated through workflow management systems. This approach of integrating construction industry best practices into workflow management systems, not only facilitates consistent implementation of best practices throughout the project lifecycle and within projects, but also improves conformance to those practices, with the end result of improved capital project performance.

Paper # 130 ; Session: IT-3: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Self- Calibrated WSN For Indoor Tracking And Control Of Construction Operations
Authors:
Magdy Ibrahim*, Concordia
Osama Moselhi, Concordia
Abstract
Effective tracking and timely progress reporting are essential for successful delivery of construction projects. In this respect, several research attempts have been made to identify and track the locations of material, equipment and labor on construction Jobsites using wireless sensing technologies. Such developed methods utilize radio signal propagation models to estimate location based on measured received signal strength (RSSI). However, radio signal propagation models are highly dependent on the surrounding environment. As well, these methods are susceptible to interferences caused by metallic structures and obstacles, which are continually changing location on highly dynamic construction jobsites. This paper presents fundamental research work, designed to study the beneficial effect of self-calibrated wireless sensor network (SC-WSN) for higher accuracy of indoor localization. The developed SC-WSN hardware consists of fixed gateway unites mounted at predefined locations and mobile unites mounted on tracked objects. The designed network estimates a tagged object location based on its measured signal strength, which is then converted to corresponding distance using a dynamic signal propagation model. The developed dynamic model calibrates its parameters periodically to minimize errors in its estimated locations using particle swarm optimization algorithm. Experimental results are presented to illustrate the relative effectiveness of the developed system in comparison to commonly used fixed propagation systems.

Paper # 307 ; Session: IT-3: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Construction Productivity Model Using Fuzzy Approach
Authors:
Emad Elwakil*, Purdue University
Tarek Zayed, Concordia
Tarek Attia, HBNRC
Abstract
Uncertainty is an entrenched characteristic of most construction projects. Most research works in simulating construction productivity have focused predominantly on modeling and have neglected to study the effect of subjective variables on productivity of construction process . The unique nature of construction projects and uncertainty of the construction processes lead to a need of new generation of models that utilizes the historical data. The presented research develops, using Fuzzy approach, a model to utilize, analyze, extract and find the hidden patterns of the project data sets to predict the construction process productivity. The engine depends on finding the relation between quantitative and qualitative variables, which affect the construction processes, and productivity. The methodology of this research consists of six steps: (1) Investigate the factors affecting the productivity (2) select the critical factors that affect the productivity; (3) build Fuzzy sets; (4) generate Fuzzy rules and models; (5) build Fuzzy knowledge base; and (6) validate the effectiveness of the built model to predict the construction process productivity. The developed model is validated and verified using case study with sound and satisfactory results, 89 % average validity percent. The developed research/engine benefits both researchers and practitioners because it provides robust model for construction processes and a tool to predict the productivity of construction processes.

Paper # 68 ; Session: IT-3: Modeling & Simulation ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Earth Sciences 2012
Robotization Of Slip Form For Monolithic Construction Of Tall Buildings
Authors:
Alexey Bulgakov*, SWSU Kursk, Russia
Dmitry Parshin, Don State Technical University, Rostov on Don, Russia
Natalia Buzalo, South Russian State Polytechnic University, Novocherkassk, Russia
Abstract
The paper considers technological features of erecting monolith objects with a variable cross-section, presents the formulated requirements to the robotic complex and the principles of its construction and gives the complex structure. It has been shown that for the control of slip form it is advisable to use a two-level structure; the upper level tasks of which are planning the complex hoisting and synchronization of control mechanisms operation, and the tasks of the lower level incorporate development of control signals having been formed in the previous level. Great attention is paid to the problems of the robotic complex movements planning taking into account restrictions on control and disturbing influences affecting the structure being erected. In order to remove the complex deviation from the designed location we suggest the method of the planning of movements with due account of limitations for control and effects of disturbing influences to the structure being erected. In conclusion the paper deals with the problems of forming adaptive laws of for controlling joint coordinates ensuring development of the planned trajectory.

Paper # 312 ; Session: IT-4: Computer Applications ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Development of an Automated 3D/4D As-built Model Generation System for Construction Progress Monitoring and Quality Control
Authors:
Reza Maalek*, University of Calgary
Janaka Y Ruwanpura, University of Calgary
Derek Lichti, University of Calgary
Abstract
Automating the progress monitoring and control process is of great interest to industry practitioners to help improve the limitations associated with the current manual data collection and analysis practices. Two remote sensing technologies, namely, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and digital camera, are widely used to acquire 3D point clouds as a means of measuring the “scope of the work performed” of structural elements. However, to assign the collected 3D point clouds to their corresponding structural element, current object-based recognition models use the as-planned 4D model, which may not be reliable in cases where the locations of the as-built structure differ from those of the planned, and/or the planned 4D model is not available with sufficient detail. Here, a novel method is proposed to eliminate the dependency on the as-planned data by automatically generating the 3D/4D as-built model through a robust Principal Component Analysis-based (PCA) segmentation algorithm. The proposed system is also independent of the technology used to capture the 3D point clouds. To evaluate the reliability of the proposed automated as-built model generation procedure, two sets of LiDAR data from the “Mechanics of Materials” laboratory and the “Graduate Student Hall of Residence” construction site at the University of Calgary were collected. A novel method of automated registration of the as-built model to the planned model coordinate system is also proposed through which the compliance of the planned vs. actual dimensions of corresponding structural elements are examined. The results of the two experiments demonstrate the applicability of the proposed methods for the automatic generation of the 3D/4D as-built model and the dimension compliance control of structural elements.

Paper # 67 ; Session: IT-4: Computer Applications ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Maintaining Vertical Gardens Using Quadrotor Aerial Inspection
Authors:
Alexey Bulgakov*, SWSU Kursk, Russia
Rainer Schach, Technical University Dresden
Sergei Emelianov, SWSU Kursk, Russia
Daher Sayfeddine, South Russian State Polytechnic University, Novocherkassk, Russia
Vladimir Erofeev, State University Mordovia, Saransk, Russia
Abstract
1. Introduction Recently unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are used to perform several civil tasks. Particularly, in construction fields, the idea of aerial robot is directly related to photogrammetry. Nowadays, UAVs are used to take videos and images needed to generate 3D model of buildings and mobile maps applications, to inspect bridges, building facades and municipality lights and quantifying forest fire impact. 2. Aim In this paper, we offer to use a vertical take-off and landing aerial robot to perform visual inspection for vertical gardens. This can improve the application of the insecticide and the irrigation system by controlling the quantity of water supplied to a certain areas. This can be of a great importance when considering megalopolis with limited green surfaces. 3. Methodology Nowadays, the technology being used to sense the location of the gardens is based on satellite feedback. UAVs are more cost effective, can reach difficult scanning corners and provide more accurate visual information, as they can be equipped with high definition cameras. Having analyzed the pro and cons of aerial inspection, the optimization problem can be divided into two subtasks: 1. Coverage control problem consisting of path planning and control of the UAV; 2. Geo-reference problem and consists of registration of each acquired pixel from the aerial images including temporal and spatial information (time and location). The first subtask is achieved using HSV algorithm. It allows to detect the green color on the wall. The acquired coordinates will be used as desired trajectory. We suggest to control the positioning of the quadrotor optimized fuzzy logic controllers optimized using particle swarm method. To avoid the inconvenience of using GPS, the second subtask is a performed based on visual odometry algorithm that correlate the identified green pixels with the current position of the quadrotor and generate metric desired coordinates. 4. Results The proposed algorithms were tested in real-time indoor by tracking a green surface. The contribution of the paper consists of substituting the GPS in path planning task, achieving total flight autonomy and wising the application of insecticides for vertical gardens.

Paper # 88 ; Session: IT-4: Computer Applications ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Outdoor Automated Data Acquisition for Progress Reporting
Authors:
Ali Montaser*, Concordia
Osama Moselhi, Concordia
Abstract
Tracking and control of construction projects depend primarily on the accuracy, frequency and time required to collect actual onsite data of construction operations. Automated site data acquisition has received considerable attention in recent years to circumvent the limitations of manual data collection. Outdoor operations represent significant portion of construction operations, particularly in heavy civil engineering. This paper presents an automated methodology to track outdoor activities in near real time through 4D Building Information Modeling (BIM), Global Positioning System (GPS) and Tablet PC. The integration of 4D BIM, GPS and tablet PC provides platform that supports visualization, localization and automated data acquisition respectively to capture project progress. The developed methodology was applied to a construction project in Montreal area to demonstrate its use. NavisWorks Autodesk was used to generate 4D BIM model through linking project schedule with the 3D BIM model objects. The tablet PC used in the developed methodology was rugged Panasonic Toughbook®H2 handheld tablet PC. The tablet PC has barcode reader, RFID reader, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a camera for images and videos and a speaker microphone for voice recording, which add more automated data acquisition capabilities. The used tablet did not have GPS. So, Trimbel GeoXT mobile GPS was acquired for outdoor localization. The tablet PC and the mobile GPS communicate and exchange data via Bluetooth standard communication protocol. Near-real-time automated data acquisition of onsite operations facilitates early detection of discrepancies between actual and planned performances and supports project managers in taking timely corrective measures. This methodology is expected to enhance traditional tracking and progress reporting procedures and makes it more objective, less time consuming and less costly.

Paper # 331 ; Session: IT-4: Computer Applications ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
An Integrated Process-based Simulation Platform For Construction Project Planning
Authors:
Raimar Scherer, Technical University Dresden
Ali Ismail*, Technical University Dresden
Abstract
The application of simulation technique for construction project planning is a very promising but also a challenging field of research. Creating reliable and reusable simulation models is very complex, combined with high costs. This paper presents the development of Construction Simulation Toolkit “CST” and a collaborative simulation portal “ProSIM”, which supports the planning of construction project using discrete-event simulation method. The objective of this research is promoting a wider adoption of simulation in construction industry and support planning of real project using simulation technique through providing a construction-specific simulation toolkit allowing the rapid development of simulation models and an online collaborative platform in order to facilitate the integration of complex construction projects data. CST aims to support planning of production and logistic operations of construction projects in one unified simulation models and running “what if” scenarios in order to support decision making and improve planning quality, while ProSIM aims at enabling the collaboration among the simulation experts and other project design and planning teams.The paper presents the latest research work and the prototype implementation through study cases

Paper # 37 ; Session: IT-4: Computer Applications ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Using Simulations to better train future and existing Construction Engineers
Authors:
Thomas M Korman*, Cal Poly State University
Abstract
In the construction industry, there is a continued need for training current employees as well as future employees. Such training opportunities that exist include safety, technical, and project management. Historically training has included lectures from subject matter experts by those considered to be experts in a particular subject or field. However, this has required removing personnel from projects to allow time for training or by requiring employees to invest time outside the normal working hours for training. With the advent of the internet, on-site lectures have been replaced with webinars and/or telecast to allow personnel to remain in one location and receiving training; however, many educators cite that student engagement is often limited and learning is not as in-depth when compared to in-person training sessions. One new training technology that is developing is the use of virtual simulations that are designed to allow for specialized training while engaging them in the educational process. One such simulation, the COnstruction INdustry Simulation (COINS), has been developed to train students in the management of a construction company managing multiple projects simultaneously. COINS engages students in the decision making of heavy civil construction and commercial building sector. This simulation has been used in the classroom and now is just available to construction firms to use with personnel. This paper describes the development and use of COINS simulation designed and developed to educate future and existing construction management personnel.

Paper # 303 ; Session: IT-5: Modeling & Simulation ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Building a sustainable occupant’s performance based model for institutional buildings
Authors:
Dalia I Salem*, Purdue University
Emad Elwakil, Purdue University
Amr Kandil, Purdue University
Abstract
The Sustainable buildings main objectives are to reduce, or avoid, depletion of resources like energy, water, and materials; prevent environmental degradation caused by facilities during the life cycle of the building. Lighting is one of the major energy consumption in institutional buildings. At 2012, the commercial sector, which includes commercial and institutional buildings, and Public Street and highway lighting, consumed about 274 billion kWh for lighting or about 7 % of the USA consumption. Most of the research works have focused predominantly on the environmental and physical factors and have neglected the daily activities of the occupants. This study examines the effects of environmental, Physical, and daily activities on occupants performance in the institutional buildings as well as develops a model to predict the occupants’ performance using Regression analysis technique. The data was collected from the institutional buildings occupants and building facility experts using questionnaire. The developed research /model benefits both architects and practitioners to choose the appropriate workplace design due to the occupants’ preferences to enhance performance, and energy efficiency.

Paper # 289 ; Session: IT-5: Modeling & Simulation ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
A Relative Energy Prediction Methodology To Support Decision Making In Deep Retrofits
Authors:
Pelin Gultekin*, PSU
Chimay J Anumba, Penn State University
Robert M Leicht, Penn State University
Abstract
Various energy prediction tools and methods are widely used in the design process to reduce the energy consumption of buildings. It is also well known that not only the system selection but also the synergies of these critical system selection decisions have impact on building energy performance. However, these decisions are incorporated into simulations without synergies are considered early in design process. These late evaluations cannot go beyond the projection of energy performance that is already selected for design. Thus, this is a need for a decision support system that stimulates the integration of decisions to achieve higher levels of energy efficiency compared to considering individual measures. In the light of these indicators, this paper presents a critical review of energy conservation measures (ECM) used in retrofit project case studies. The individual impact of changes to these critical ECMs is modeled in EnergyPlus and eQuest. A simplified energy prediction methodology fed by a process model, and the possible synergies are presented. The prediction range is tested in three case studies with different energy performance levels. The calculation algorithm relies on determining individual system performance relative to the ASHRAE standard. This relative system performance evaluation is also useful in defining the scope of system retrofit by comparing options with the standard baseline. It assists collaborative design teams to evaluate the individual impact of system decisions and overall energy saving prediction rate earlier in the design of a variety of deep retrofit projects.

Paper # 18 ; Session: IT-5: Modeling & Simulation ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
The Feasibility Of Plug-Load Monitoring And Energy-Saving Interventions In Residential And Office Buildings On The University Of Washington Campus
Authors:
Heta Kosonen*, University of Washington
Amy A Kim, University of Washington
Abstract
The University of Washington (UW) is aiming to reduce the overall electricity consumption on campus as part of its Climate Action Plan launched in 2009. To achieve this goal, UW installed 216 smart grid meters and automatic heating, ventilation, and cooling control systems across the entire campus and acquired over 200 sets of plug-load monitoring equipment. The university used the smart grid data and the monitored plug-load data to test how occupants in selected residence halls responded to receiving detailed information about their energy usage patterns, its environmental impacts, and associated costs. The experiment demonstrated that in residence halls, plug-load monitoring did not have any significant impact on the occupants’ electricity consumption. Hence, there is still a need to further assess which strategies are effective in achieving long-term electricity reduction goals for the university. The goal of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis by replicating the plug-load analysis conducted in residence halls in a faculty/staff office setting. The study entailed interviewing university administrators that were involved in the residence hall plug-load study. Interviewees were asked questions about the findings, shortcomings, and recommendations for future studies. Also, this study characterized the load profiles of the faculty/staff offices by monitoring the plug-load consumption in four offices for nine weeks and explored plug-load reduction interventions applicable to office settings. The study found that the unreliable network connection caused frequent disruptions in data collection and strong bias in the individual electricity consumption data. The inventory of electronic appliances in the monitored offices revealed a high variability in the number of devices which lead to variations in base consumption and peak plug loads between faculty offices, and lack of occupant engagement was found to be the main challenge in the implementation of plug load monitoring campaigns. The results provide universities around the country with valuable information and insights on how to design and implement an on campus plug-load reduction intervention with quantifiable energy-saving potential.

Paper # 110 ; Session: IT-5: Modeling & Simulation ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1221
Data Collection Framework for Construction Safety Research
Authors:
Yuting Chen*, University of Toronto
Emilie Alderman, University of Toronto
Brenda Y McCabe, University of Toronto
Douglas Hyatt, Rotman School of Management
Abstract
Engaging workers from construction companies of various sizes and ensuring their participation in construction safety research is often very difficult. Voluntary participation is typically limited by industry-specific recruitment challenges such as the transient nature of the workforce, industry perception of safety research, schedule limitations, and economic constraints. This paper uses the lessons learned and best practices from several years of data collection experience to present a data collection framework for research within the construction industry. The framework includes organizational support, research instruments, data collection processes, and measures of data collection efficiency. The framework was developed following an intensive six-month data collection period, resulting in 370 completed surveys. A 95% survey completion rate following survey site visits was observed, however the overall recruitment time per survey was 3.8 hours. It is clear that data collection itself is often one of the most challenging and time consuming activities related to construction safety research. Clear communication protocols, strict confidentiality measures, and effective incentive strategies are discussed. Methods of engagement are also provided; often a hybrid of a top-down and bottom-up approach is required ensuring participation and worker/company buy-in. The data collection framework in this paper provides a point of departure for researchers to improve their data collection processes and in turn, work toward improving safety performance more efficiently in the construction industry.

Paper # 138 ; Session: IT-6: Computer Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1003
Automated Monitoring of Hardhats Wearing for Onsite Safety Enhancement
Authors:
Zhenhua Zhu*, Concordia
Man-Woo Park, Myongji University
Nehad Elsafty
Abstract
In order to provide healthy and safe working environments for construction workers, several onsite safety policies and procedures have been established. One of them is to require that any person on a construction site shall wear a certified hardhat. The hardhats could protect construction workers from impact and penetration hazards as well as from electrical shock and burn hazards. Despite the importance of hardhats for head protection, the workers might still be careless about wearing them on the site. This paper proposes a novel vision-based method to monitor the wearing of hardhats by construction workers. The method mainly includes three components. First, two object detection algorithms are used to detect construction workers and hardhats. Then, the pairs of the detected workers and hardhats are matched. Based on the matching, the method is expected to locate those workers without wearing hardhats for the safety inspectors’ attentions. The proposed method has been tested on on-site videos to validate its effectiveness. The test results show that the method could simultaneously monitor multiple construction workers. The precision and recall for the monitoring of wearing hardhats could reach 94.3% and 89.4% respectively.

Paper # 315 ; Session: IT-6: Computer Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1003
Multi-agent System for Improved Safety and Productivity of Earthwork Equipment Using Real-time Location Systems
Authors:
Faridaddin Vahdatikhaki, Concordia
Amin Hammad*, Concordia
Seied Mohammad Langari, Concordia
Abstract
The growing complexity and scope of construction projects is making productivity and safety of earthwork of a great concern for project and site managers. In earthwork operations, where heavy machines are being used, various safety and risk issues put the timely completion of a project at stake. Additionally, the construction working environment is heavily susceptible to unforeseen changes and circumstances that could impact the project, both cost and schedule wise. As a response to the looming safety threats or unforeseen changes of working conditions, re-planning is almost always required. In order for re-planning to yield the optimum results, real-time information gathering and processing is a must. GPS and other Real-time Location Systems (RTLSs) have been used for the purpose of real-time data gathering and decision-making in recent years. Similarly, Location-based Guidance Systems (LGSs), e.g., Automated Machine Control/Guidance (AMC/G), are introduced and have been employed mainly for the purpose of high-precision earthwork operations. However, the current application of LGS is limited to the machine-level productivity optimization, which is not sufficient to address the project-level monitoring and decision-making needs. In the context of complex earthwork operations where several teams are concurrently working towards different ends, the globally optimized operations should coordinate the actions of multiple teams of equipment to eliminate the productivity lost by organizational, logistics and operational management. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to develop a Multi-agent System (MAS) structure to orchestrate the machine-level information (i.e. states and poses) induced based on RTLSs to a coherent project-level system committed to support operations towards the enhanced productivity and safety of the overall project. In the proposed MAS, several layers of agents are processing and managing the huge amount of collected sensory data into useful information that can be used in decision making at different operational levels. The proposed MAS has a semi-distributed structure to strike a balance between the optimality of the outputs and the required computational efforts. A case study is developed to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed MAS. Also, a two-layer safety mechanism is proposed based on which near real-time collision-free path planning and real-time collision avoidance can be performed. In the light of the results of the case study, it is found that the the proposed MAS structure is able to effectively address the team-level coordination of different pieces of equipment and improve the safety of construction site using the proposed two-layer safety mechanism.

Paper # 149 ; Session: IT-6: Computer Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1003
Telematics Data-Driven Prognostics System for Construction Heavy Equipment Health Monitoring and Assessment
Authors:
Hisham Said*, Santa Clara University
Tony Nicoletti, DPL America
Abstract
Construction heavy equipment is a valuable asset for construction and equipment rental companies, which requires continuous monitoring and assessment for potential failures. Predictive maintenance has recently been proposed to as an alternative to preventive maintenance strategy by scheduling maintenance tasks just before a predicted failure of the equipment. Such predictive approach is dependent on the existence of a data collection and analysis system that monitors the equipment performance, compares it to the previous history, and predicts the failure events before their occurrence. This paper presents the development and validation efforts of a data-driven prognostics system that utilizes timely collected telematics data to monitor the equipment health condition and predict its failure hazard. The system is designed to utilize equipment telematics data to develop regression-based Cox’s proportional hazards functions. Regression analyses are performed for the historical telematics data to develop time-varying hazard functions for the successive life intervals of the equipment to generate dynamic predictions of its failure events. Accordingly, the outcome of the system would be the predicted probability of the equipment failure event considering the timely collected telematics data. The proposed prognostics system was validated by developing the hazard functions of two fleets of dozers and backhoes that provided high fit to the observed data and high prediction accuracy for the testing data. For both analyzed fleets, higher predictive and data fitting performance were achieved for later life intervals due the increased reliability of failure prediction for equipment with longer survival lives.

Paper # 161 ; Session: IT-6: Computer Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1003
Enhancing The Construction Safety Training By Using Virtual Environment: V-Safe
Authors:
David Riley
Maureen Roskoski
Mahsa Safari
Aileen G Zaballero
Melissa Kazemi Rad
Somayeh Asadi*, Penn State University
Abstract
Construction is one of the most high-risk industries in the world. The safety records of the construction sector report that, construction workers are approximately over three times more likely to be exposed to serious accidents comparing to other industries. In addition to these injuries and fatalities, work-related accidents also cause financial damage, conflictual cases and pecuniary penalties for the construction companies. Therefore, the significance of the safety management process has been increasing in the construction industry. However, since the majority of the construction activities are complex and require collaboration between the workers, the provision of the safety has become one of the challenging tasks. So, the behavior-based skills of the workers play a crucial role in the safety management. Traditional safety training methods have been merely focusing on information-based techniques such as lectures, videos, written materials, etc. On the other hand, previous research has indicated that adequate safety training should also involve behavioral modeling and hands-on training, together with traditional learning methods. Due to the nature of the construction projects, hands-on training in the construction field is not practicable. In this sense, using virtual environments is an effective method that enables a safe environment for the users without being exposed to adverse effects of the failed tasks. Thus, virtual environments allow visual simulation that is helpful for the improvement of the trainees’ behavior-based skills. Therefore, virtual environments provide an important opportunity to advance the level of safety training. The main aim of the study is to describe the developed virtual safety training environment called V-SAFE (Virtual Safety Analysis For Engineering applications), which involves methods to simulate, and visualize construction operation scenarios. V-SAFE is based on the Unreal game engine for the visualization of the environment, and USARSim is used for the high-fidelity simulation of the robot behavior and environment mapping. V-SAFE is projected to establish a base to identify construction-specific safety risks and to improve the behavior-based skills of the construction project participants. In brief, V-SAFE has high potential to improve the risk recognition capability, and situational awareness of the construction managers, workers, safety managers, field engineers. So, V-SAFE could be beneficial for the construction organizations aim to advance the effectiveness of the safety training.

Paper # 196 ; Session: IT-7: Computer Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
A Divide-and-Conquer Algorithm for 3D Imaging Planning in Dynamic Construction Environments
Authors:
Cheng Zhang*, Arizona State Univ.
Pingbo Tang, Arizona State Univ.
Abstract
On construction sites, engineers need real-time geometries of workspaces for reducing spatial conflicts between construction activities, monitoring construction progress, and controlling construction quality. The dynamic nature of construction environments, however, poses challenges to collecting sufficient and high-quality geometric data to support such needs. Effective uses of advanced 3D-imaging technologies also rely on engineers’ experiences. Manual imagery data collection often results in missing or low-quality data or unnecessary over-detailed inspection and exponentially long computation time, which may bring extra cost to construction project. To overcome these challenges of 3D data collection, the study presented in this paper proposes a new automatic 3D imaging planning method for guiding efficient and effective 3D imagery (e.g., LiDAR) data collection in dynamic environments. This method first establishes a sensor model of laser scanners, and then establishes a divide-and-conquer algorithm for achieving rapid and precise 3D imaging planning for dynamic construction site. For a given jobsite, this algorithm creates a graph that represent objects or features having specific data quality requirements (e.g., level of accuracy, and level of detail) as nodes, and spatial relationships between these objects as edges (e.g., distance, line-of-sight). A graph-coloring algorithm decomposes such a graph into sub-graphs for finding their “local” optimal 3D imaging plans. A solution aggregation algorithm then combines those “local” optimal data collection plans into a complete 3D imaging plan for the complete graph representing the scene. Testing results indicate that the divide-and-conquer algorithm can improve the performance and computational efficiency of 3D imaging planning and producing better results than the conventional 3D imaging planning methods.

Paper # 163 ; Session: IT-7: Computer Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Automated dimensional compliance assessment with incomplete point cloud
Authors:
Thomas A Czerniawski*, University of Waterloo
Mohammad Nahangi, University of Waterloo
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Scott Walbridge, University of Waterloo
Abstract
Dimensional compliance assessment of prefabricated assemblies is a critical part of mitigating rework on heavy industrial construction projects. As assemblies become more complex, manual direct contact metrology becomes ineffective at detecting fabrication error and so automated alternatives that offer objective, fast, and continuous data collection must be explored. Nahangi and Haas (2014) developed an automated method for assessing pipe spools through an algorithm that compares as-built laser scans to 3D design files. The tool is capable of automatic and continual monitoring of prefabricated assemblies throughout their lifecycle and enables timely detection and quantification of dimensional non-compliance. In the original publication, the tool was validated using ideal input data. In this paper, the tool is tested for robustness when processing incomplete point cloud input data. Non-ideal input data is a risk associated with unfavorable conditions in the fabrication environment such as random assembly occlusions causing blind spots in sensing setup, budgetary constraints limiting the purchase of sensing equipment/viewpoints, and random hardware or software failures resulting in corrupt data. The tool was found to reliably detect dimensional non-compliance so long as the non-compliance indicator (pipe spool feature distinguishing the non-compliant state from the design state) was not fully occluded. Accuracy of non-compliance quantification was predominantly high, however, loosely proportional to the input point cloud’s coverage of the assembly’s surface area.

Paper # 319 ; Session: IT-7: Computer Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Research for Generating 3D Model from Laser Scanner Data Removed Noise
Authors:
Shigenori Tanaka*, Kansai University
Ryuichi Imai, National Institute for Land and Infrastructure Management
Kenji Nakamura, Osaka University of Economic
Kouhei Kawano, Kansai University
Satoshi Kubota, Kansai University
Abstract
Construction CALS/EC is introduced in public works projects over the whole life cycle for the purpose of reduction of the construction period, quality guarantee, and cost reduction. Especially recently, environmental improvement of the information-oriented construction using 3D data attracts attention for engineering works stage. In the construction site, it is expected to create 3D model from the point cloud data obtained by surveying the site with the total station or the laser scanner. However, it is necessary to solve the problem of how to handle the great amount of point cloud data obtained at the survey based on their characteristics, as well as the problem of required accuracy for the information-oriented construction. The authors have devised a technique to make 3D model of the river embankment, which satisfy the required accuracy of the information-oriented construction from a large quantity of point cloud data. This technique used the point cloud data of the river embankment measured with the laser scanner and DM data of it. Then, the boundary line (breakline) between the crown surface and the slope face of the river embankment is extracted automatically to create 3D model on CAD. However, the following problems were revealed; the freshness depending on the update cycle of DM data, and wrong extraction of a breakline due to the noise such as the vegetation between the crown surface and the slope face of the river embankment. In this research, we devised a method for automatically extracting a breakline by inferring the crown surface area of the river embankment from the point cloud data, and a method for removing any point cloud data that are the noise such as the vegetation on the crown surface of the embankment. Then we performed evaluation experiments and proved the usability of the devised solution.

Paper # 321 ; Session: IT-7: Computer Applications ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Design and Development of 3D-CAD Engine
Authors:
Shigenori Tanaka*, Kansai University
Thomas Froese, University of British Columbia
Satoshi Kubota, Kansai University
Kenji Nakamura
Kantaro Monobe, Miyagi University
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to spread 3D-CAD rapidly and at low cost throughout the construction industry in Japan. To achieve this purpose, we designed and developed a 3D-CAD engine. Research and Development made progress step by step with Research, Outline design, Primary design, and detailed design. To verify the designed algorithm, we developed a prototype. After this we developed a 3D-CAD engine, and also simple 3D-CAD software equipped with this engine. Using the CAD engine that we developed, we create 3D geometric shapes by parametric modeling. The 3D model is composed of a sketch, modeling operational histories, and 3D geometric shapes. Connecting them with each other allows a 3D model to be generated. The 3D model also maintains diverse attributes. We also design data structure in conformity with ISO10303 (STEP). Sketch conforms to Part 108, Modeling Operational Histories to Part 55 and 111 (a hundred eleven), 3D Geometric Shapes to AP203 (two hundred three) and Part 42, and Attributes to Part 41. In addition, settings of diverse attributes such as Time Terms were realized. Spread of 3D information by using the developed 3D-CAD engine is expected to contribute to the exchange, linking, sharing, and reuse of 3D information. For example, using GIS data for Road database, you can make 3D evaluation with digital topographic maps. Using this, you can work out a design, and use the design data to perform structural modification or estimation. Then you can create execution data through the Work progress control system and Information-oriented construction, which you can add to GIS data. Finally you can deliver the GIS data to the Road database. It is possible to realize such a cycle. We are also considering its use in CIM, that is, Construction Information Modeling. We believe that the life cycle realized by 3D models can contribute to productivity improvement for overall construction projects.

Paper # 104 ; Session: PM-1: Planning, Scheduling & Control ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Design and validation of the first phase of the new Chronographical Standard Protocol for construction project scheduling
Authors:
Fabian Ardila, École de Technologie Supérieure
Adel Francis*, École de Technologie Supérieure
Abstract
Graphical modeling is considered to be a suitable approach for displaying project data because of its ability to communicate information clearly and effectively through graphical means such as shapes, connectors, colors and textures. Current methods and software do not propose a standard protocol for the graphical representation of the scheduling. Little research has been undertaken in this area and therefore, it has been up to the individual planner to set his or her own standard. We have developed a new standard protocol for construction project scheduling compatible with Chronographical Modeling. The present paper discusses the first validation phase of this protocol. Its main objective is to validate a repertoire of colors and textures that represent the activities, resources and location. This validation was performed through several tests and a case study with the participation of 17 planners, and graduate students. The results of the case study were used to assess the suitability of the protocol and its visual clarity while simultaneously seeking to diminish the mental effort necessary for finding information. The validated protocol was tested in a case study showing the timing of a proposed building. Future phases are designed to integrate other design elements to the protocol, such as shapes, symbols and codes.

Paper # 101 ; Session: PM-1: Planning, Scheduling & Control ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Applying the Chronographical Approach for Modelling Different Types of Projects
Authors:
Adel Francis*, École de Technologie Supérieure
Abstract
Graphical modeling is considered to be a suitable approach for displaying project data because of its ability to effectively communicate information. To meet this objective, the Chronographic Approach analyses the layout of the user interface in the spatial dimension and discusses the suitable visual parameters and their associated values. The main goal is to communicate information clearly and effectively through a visual graphical representation of the schedule. The present paper discusses the application of the Chronographical Approach to modeling different types of projects, such as, buildings and infrastructure. The graphical approach describes how the schedule information can be communicated using tabular and graphical interfaces, in order to manage specialties, locations, means, processes and constraints on different strata and show them either separately or combined using layering, sheeting, juxtaposition, alterations and permutations while allowing for groupings, hierarchies and the classification of project information. The result is the presentation of the same project schedule through different compatible approaches. The planner has the ability to switch from one approach to another by changing the graphical parameters. In this way, graphic representation becomes a living, transformable image, thus assisting planners in solving problems of a variable nature, and simplifying site management while simultaneously utilizing the visual space as efficiently as possible.

Paper # 181 ; Session: PM-1: Planning, Scheduling & Control ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Characterizing Coordination In Both Loose And Very Tightly Coupled Utility Reconstruction Processes
Authors:
Leon L Olde Scholtenhuis*, University of Twente
Timo Hartmann, University of Twente
Andre Doree
Abstract
Privatization of the utilities sector created a fragmented multi-client, multi-contractor system in which reconstruction works are, in fact, a constellation of multiple smaller projects. During planning stages, these projects are loosely coupled, since stakeholders limitedly align construction plans. Consequently, coordination of unresolved issues moves toward construction stages, creating very tight on-site couplings. This paper focuses on the coordination activities that balance these loose and very tight couplings in the planning and execution stages of utility reconstruction. To this end, we identified seven well-performing ‘utility coordinators’ and conducted ethnographic interviews to explore their work practices. To better characterize these different practices, we introduce level of involvement and moment of involvement as two dimensions for coordination within loose and tightly coupled systems. Based on this, we distinguish two dominant approaches for coordination in utility coordination practice: pro-active involvement in early planning stages, and reactive approaches during execution stages. Findings complement to literature by providing dimensions for coordination of loosely coupled systems. Consecutive research efforts should aim at validating these findings and at identifying contextual factors that drive various distinctive coordination approaches.

Paper # 279 ; Session: PM-1: Planning, Scheduling & Control ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Development of Mechanisms by Using Conceptual System Dynamics Models to Resolve Delay in Construction Projects
Authors:
Dillip K Das*, CUT, Free State, South Africa
Abstract
A major concern in the construction industry remains with the non understanding of the mechanisms that cause delay in construction. Therefore, the objective of the paper is to evolve mechanisms, which could assist in identifying activities and events, comprehend and foresee the causal feedback relations among the variables that cause delay, and take appropriate actions to resolve the challenges of delay. A survey was conducted among 120 stakeholders from various construction projects in India. Evaluation of the major control parameters were done by using Likert scale. Subsequently, conceptual models were developed by using System Dynamics modelling principles. The important causal feedback relations from the conceptual models were used to evolve mechanisms to understand the events and chain of actions that lead to delay; which could assist in evolving policy/strategic interventions to resolve the challenges. It was observed that most of the client, contractor, consultant and design related variables are the major causes of occurrence of delay. However, policy/strategic interventions based on the four dynamic hypotheses; such as, the causal feedback relationships among (1) communication, decision-making, progress in payment and construction delay; (2) effective planning and scheduling, planning for finance and budget ahead, adoption of construction methods, contingencies in planning for rework and exigencies by the contractor and construction delay; (3) appointment of highly competent consultant and design team, delay in producing the design documents and delay in construction; and (4) provision of effective communication mechanism, conflict resolution and delay in construction, would able to assist in resolving delay in construction.

Paper # 244 ; Session: PM-2: Project performance ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
A Time-Cost-Quality Trade-Off Model For Nuclear-Type Projects
Authors:
Maryam Shahtaheri*, University of Waterloo
Hassan Nasir, King Abdulaziz University
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Tabassom Salimi, University of Waterloo
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to introduce a generalized multi-dimensional joint confidence level model for nuclear refurbishment planning, using the Darlington retube and feeder replacement (RFR) project (which is a multi-billion dollar effort) as a research platform. The intentions of this model are twofold: (1) determining the best set(s) of cost, schedule, and proxies for quality such as radiation expenditures by incorporating the variations of work-shift models on both the activity duration distributions and the logic of the work flow, (2) improve the expected reliability and predictability involved in the resource allocation system (schedule), by “efficiently” integrating the influential project factors, constraints, and labour shift models associated with the schedule. An effective Monte Carlo based time-cost-quality trade-off model is contributed for examining the performance and risk impacts of various work-shift designs and thus supports the choice of an optimal work-shift design.

Paper # 316 ; Session: PM-2: Project performance ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Principles, Characteristics, and Methodology to Develop a Project Management Assessment Tool at the Construction Project Level
Authors:
Antonio G Sanjuan*, University of British Columbia
Thomas Froese, University of British Columbia
Abstract
This paper describes the principles, characteristics, and methodology to develop a preliminary project management assessment tool based on an integrated framework of international PM standards and construction projects success factors. Previous project management assessment tools have been designed to measure what an organization practices in terms of project management, and what an individual knows about project management. The Boston University Corporate Education Center (BUCEC, bucec.com), the Atlantic Management Center Inc. (AMCI, amciweb.com), the Business Improvement Architects (BIA, bia.ca), the Enterprise Information (EII, eiicorp.com), Harold Kerzner’s project management maturity model, and the PM/ROI Assessment by Ibbs Consulting are assessment tools designed to measure project management technical competencies, personal competencies, leadership and business competencies, or project management maturity levels. After completing these assessment tools, individuals or organizations would identify their strengths, weaknesses and training needs. These tools, although very powerful and reputable sources of organizational project management and individual knowledge assessment, do not assess what is actually implemented in a specific project. The intention is to develop an assessment tool that diagnoses an organization and an individual project manager by what was actually implemented in a specific project. By assessing what was actually implemented in a specific project and comparing with the project results, it would be possible determine the strengths and weaknesses of project management in a construction organization, as well as to explore the value of project management. Three types of questions will be used to evaluate the latent variables: context questions, project management implementation questions, and project results questions. Each question will have a reference to one or more of the international PM standards used. Each question will evaluate the quality or the frequency of the PM implementation. In addition, each question will address the type of PM implementation: competence, knowledge, tool, technique, process, or practice. There are five types of answers combining the Thurstone and Guttman model: Likert scale, nominal-polytomous, ordinal-polytomous, binary options, and open-ended. The majority of the questions will use a Likert-type scale of answer in order to improve the number of respondents and the statistical analysis. This paper describes how these standards are integrated into the project management assessment tool. It discusses the theoretical foundations for the project management assessment tool and the methodologies used for developing the tool and for applying the tool to specific project situations. Finally, the assessment tool is tested with 18 construction projects executed by different organizations.

Paper # 25 ; Session: PM-2: Project performance ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Simulated Schedule Delay Mitigation via Float Allocation
Authors:
Gunnar Lucko*, Catholic University of America
Richard C Thompson, Catholic University of America
Abstract
As delays in construction project schedules are widely documented, new approaches to manage this problem are needed. Previous studies have explored float as an inherent ability of schedules to absorb delays. However, all ignore the critical path; some recommendations as to float ownership directly contradict the inherently unfair ‘first come first serve’ principle; and none have derived testable methods to fairly allocate float to multiple participants. This study therefore employs the mathematical analogy of decision-making among a group of unequally sized individuals to explicitly allocate project float a priori to those most vulnerable – the critical path. While intuition might indicate allocation proportional to activity duration, or perhaps equal shares, it is demonstrated that neither is truly fair and a mathematical compromise can be found. The performance of this approach is tested quantitatively by simulating a case example of project schedules with and without such protection. Delays are modeled as probabilistic events that affect activities. It is found that even a relatively small amount of project float allocated along the critical path provides significant delay mitigation.

Paper # 325 ; Session: PM-2: Project performance ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
How well did a multi-stakeholder management framework for remote sites model the realities on and off-site of a scottish highlands infrastructure marine project- reflective case study
Authors:
Linda Kestle*, UNITEC Institute of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
Abstract
The next 20 years will see inward investment of up to £100 billion in construction (and energy) projects in northern Scotland, particularly in the Highlands and Islands. The majority of these projects will take place in locations which are, to a greater or lesser extent, remote. However the performance of many remotely-sited projects across the world highlight the need for more effective management strategies and models. The multi-stakeholder management framework for remote site projects, developed by Kestle (2009), synthesised production and sociological design and management approaches, and has already been tested and validated on Antarctic, humanitarian aid and post-disaster reconstruction projects globally. Participants for this research were designers, construction, and project managers involved on a commercial scale marine infrastructure project in the Scottish Highlands. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and the findings analysed to establish and reflect on whether the framework modelled the realities on this remote site project, and actually provided the value-added sought by the multi-stakeholders involved. The findings suggested that the stakeholders’ value criteria expectations were indeed met, and that the management framework did reflect the realities of designing and managing this particular remote site project.

Paper # 54 ; Session: PM-3: Project performance ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1611
Application of Prospect Theory to management decisions under risk on construction projects
Authors:
Jean-Charles Fiolet*, University of Waterloo
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Abstract
Working on a construction project requires making important decisions quickly and frequently. Most of these decisions are made under risk in that the outcomes are not known, but their probabilities and impacts can be estimated, however imprecisely. Deciding to pave, given temperature predictions, is an example of such a decision. When the impacts are aggregated, they can represent a non-negligible amount compared to project budgets. Understanding project leaders’ behaviour when they make such decisions under risks may create opportunities to avoid future losses that result from suboptimal choices. As those decisions are numerous on a construction project, it might be difficult for the project leaders to always make the best choice. By using a questionnaire referring to potential construction project situations, this study shows how some behavioural tendencies can influence the choices of construction leaders. This paper mainly focuses on one aspect of the study, which is the impact of the certainty effect on projects leaders’ decision making. It demonstrates how project leaders are sensitive to the behavioural tendency associated with the certainty effect. This observation leads to the question of how to detect those problems and, how to correct them so as to avoid non-negligible loss of money for construction projects.

Paper # 70 ; Session: PM-3: Project performance ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1611
Ex-Ante Assessment of Vulnerability to Uncertainty in Complex Construction Project Organizations
Authors:
Jin Zhu*, Florida International University
Ali Mostafavi, Florida International University
Abstract
Modern construction projects are operated in extremely uncertain environments. Uncertainties affect the performance of projects. Despite an extensive body of literature in the area of performance assessment, there is a gap in knowledge pertaining to an integrated methodology for ex-ante evaluation of vulnerability of project organizations to the impacts of uncertainties. The objective of this paper is to address this gap in knowledge by creating a framework for ex-ante assessment of vulnerability in construction project organizations. In the proposed framework, construction project organizations are conceptualized as complex meta-networks and analyzed using dynamic network analysis. Accordingly, the impacts of the uncertain events (e.g., late design deliverables, equipment breakdown, safety accident and injury, and severe weather conditions) are translated into perturbations in different node entities (i.e., human agent, information, resource and task) and the corresponding links in project meta-networks. These uncertainty-induced perturbations cause transformations in the project topological structure, and thus, negatively affect the efficiency of project organizations’ meta-networks. The extent of the variation in the efficiency is used as an indicator of a project organization’s vulnerability to uncertainties. The application of the proposed framework is shown in a numerical example related to a tunneling project. Various scenarios related to different uncertain events were simulated to quantitatively investigate the vulnerability of the project and evaluate the impacts of different planning strategies on mitigating vulnerability. The results demonstrate the capability of the proposed framework for quantitative assessment of vulnerability and evaluation of planning strategies in construction projects. Hence, it provides a tool for proactive evaluation and mitigation of vulnerability in construction project organizations.

Paper # 291 ; Session: PM-3: Project performance ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1611
A Framework for Organizations Performance Assessment Using Fuzzy Approach
Authors:
Emad Elwakil*, Purdue University
Zenith Rathore, Purdue University
Abstract
Organizations have been trying to increase their efficiency and improve their performance in order to achieve their goals. The organizational success is determined by various factors that impact organization’s performance. The ability to predict construction organization performance will enable practitioners to identify the weak points and in searching solutions to improve, thus leading to better efficiency and increase profit. Previous research works have focused on measuring project success and in the process the importance and evaluation of organization’s performance in non-financial aspects has received little attention. Uncertainty and uniqueness of projects are inherent characteristics of this industry. Hence, developing an effective construction performance assessment model has been very difficult. Therefore, the objective of the present research is to identify and study the success factors and to propose a performance prediction model(s) for construction organizations. The potential success factors are collected from literature and shortlisted based on construction expert’s opinion. A questionnaire is prepared and sent to evaluate the effect of these potential success factors on organizational performance. The collected data will be analyzed using Fuzzy modelling approach to build a prediction model, which will show robust results when verified and tested. The proposed research/model will benefit both researcher and practitioners to predict accurate company performance.

Paper # 28 ; Session: PM-3: Project performance ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1611
A neural network based model for cost estimation of industrial buildings at the project’s definition phase
Authors:
Amin Alvanchi*, Sharif University of Technology
AliReza Shafiee, Sharif University of Technology
Siamak Biglari, Sharif University of Technology – Kish campus
Abstract
Annually there are many small-scale industry projects implemented in Iran, most of which are financed by local financial institutes. The financing agreements between project owners and financial institutes are usually formed and finalized during the initiation phase and are based on feasibility studies done at the early stages; before project design and construction begin. However, in many cases actual costs of projects exceed the costs estimated in feasibility studies which have been approved by financial institutes. Limited financial resources in the country, from one side, and the lengthy process of increasing the project financing limit, from another side, cause delays in the project completion. In many cases the cost increase and the delay make the entire project unfeasible; projects stop forever; a big waste of money is the result. To respond to this issue and improve accuracy of cost estimation prior to the design and construction phases, in this research we have developed a new cost estimation model based on neural network method. At this stage of the research the model is implemented and tested for the main industrial building, which usually has a portal frame structure. Results indicate a reasonable improvement in accuracy for the estimated costs.

Paper # 176 ; Session: PM-4: Organizational Leadership and Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Comparative study of relationship management in design-bid-build and design-build project delivery methods in infrastructure projects
Authors:
James Kereri*, Bowling Green State University
Ghada M Gad, Bowling Green State University
Abstract
Supply chain management (SCM) concepts suggest that high fragmentation of roles on projects causes significant negative impacts such as lower processes integration and higher transaction volumes. Within the scope of construction SCM, relationship management (RM) is regarded as one of the most important aspects for achieving efficient SCM. The use of RM in construction projects administration worldwide is manifest on alternative procurement methods, drifting away from traditional systems to ones that are relationship-based. Despite the significance of relationships for project delivery, there were no previous studies that investigated the influence of supply chain RM on construction projects utilizing different project delivery methods (PDMs). The aim of this paper is thus, to determine how RM among parties may be influenced by the PDM utilized. This is achieved through conducting case studies to compare RM in multi-prime design-bid-build versus design-build projects. The researchers adopted the core values developed by Meng’s 2011 RM maturity model to assess RM on projects utilizing different PDMs. Based on the two case studies, the total project RM score was seen to be lower in DBB projects compared to DB projects suggesting that the PDM employed influences RM on construction projects. Such findings can serve as a preliminary evidence of PDM choice effect on project RM and can help project parties gain a better understanding of PDM association to effective supply chain RM implementation. This study could be further extended to encompass more projects to provide statistical evidence of the influence of PDM on RM.

Paper # 229 ; Session: PM-4: Organizational Leadership and Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Do Strong Or Weak Ties Matter In Knowledge Networks?
Authors:
Cristina Poleacovschi*, University of Colorado Boulder
Amy Javernick-Will, University of Colorado Boulder
Abstract
Construction and engineering organizations have increasingly implemented knowledge exchange strategies with the goal to facilitate knowledge exchange across the organization. However, despite these efforts, many knowledge strategies fail in practice, as it is not well known when knowledge access is most beneficial. This research analyzes the correlation between group level knowledge exchange and perceived individual benefits. Specifically, we focus on the time saved (in hours per month) on work tasks as a result of accessing knowledge with others in the department. To conduct this research, we used social network analysis and a modularity optimization algorithm to identify the existing knowledge-based subgroups (KBS)—subgroups that share more knowledge internally then externally—within a large engineering and construction organization. To identify whether these knowledge based subgroups offer time benefits, we compared the time benefits from receiving knowledge within these subgroups and outside these subgroups. Results found that individuals are more likely to perceive saving time on work tasks as a result of receiving knowledge within their subgroups. As a result, our results indicate that the type of benefit received matters to determine whether weak ties or strong ties are important.

Paper # 27 ; Session: PM-4: Organizational Leadership and Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Culture and Construction
Authors:
Leigh Allison*, University of Washington
Jessica Kaminsky, University of Washington
Abstract
The idea of culture has become a hot topic in construction engineering research. However, this term is used with many meanings. As such, the objective of this paper is to present a content analysis of the online record of ASCE Journal of Construction Engineering and Management (JCEM). A 2014 keyword search for “culture” in JCEM returned 557 articles. The authors reviewed the abstracts of each paper to categorize them according to the theme of the purpose statement. International markets (70 articles), safety (63 articles), and collaborative working arrangements (40 articles) emerged as the most frequent themes of the articles. The identified papers were then downloaded in full text form and imported into QSR NVivo, a qualitative coding software package. These articles were then searched for use of the word culture in conventional content analysis. Definitions of culture were extracted from the articles presenting a wide array of interpretations with respect to culture. Finally, this paper reviews the various theoretical bases for culture used in each category, and makes recommendations for future research in culture and construction based on the findings.

Paper # 51 ; Session: PM-4: Organizational Leadership and Management ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Analysing Parties’ Behaviours on Mediating Building Management Cases
Authors:
Sai On Cheung*, City University of Hong Kong
Tsz Yeung Chan, City University of Hong Kong
Kenneth T.W. You, University of Auckland
Abstract
Researches into the mediation of building management disputes still remain little n academic community. This study was designed in response to the marked increase of building management disputes settled by mediation, and aims to examine the behaviours adopted by the mediators and disputants in mediating these disputes. To achieve this, a questionnaire survey has been conducted. Relative Importance Indices (RIIs) were used to rank the significance of their behaviours. The findings reveal that disputants tend to adopt an aggressive approach to push their counterpart by defending himself and arguing the issue, while mediators tend to demonstrate a behaviour of being well-connected with the disputant that manifested as heartfelt feeling and rational understanding. Furthermore, it is found that mediators seldom criticise and challenge disputant’s point and argument. They attempt to establish a harmonious environment whereby he would not be pushed to respond inappropriately to the pressing behaviours of disputants. The parties’ behaviours during the course of the mediation would influence the outcome. The research findings establish the basis for further research in resolving building management disputes, and provide insight for the public at large to understand how building management disputes settled by mediation.

Paper # 123 ; Session: PM-5: Risk and Project Controls ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
A Model to Evaluate the Maturity of Construction Organizations’ Disability Management Practices
Authors:
Rhoda Quaigrain*, University of Manitoba
Mohamed Issa, University of Manitoba
Abstract
Evidence exists as to what constitutes successful disability management (DM), with many describing recent upsurge in the area as a major paradigm shift. Despite the benefits of return-to-work (RTW) programs in reducing costs and improving workplace morale, many workplaces appear unwilling or unable to develop and implement successful RTW programs. A review of the literature reveals a lack of coherent theoretical frameworks for implementing DM. This paper presents a model developed to assess the maturity of DM practices in construction organizations. The model is part of an overall research project aiming to evaluate DM in the Manitoban construction industry and its relation to health and safety performance. This project is conducted by the University of Manitoba Construction Engineering and Management Group and funded by the Workers’ Compensation Board of Manitoba. The proposed model is based on existing construction industry maturity models and the concept of process improvement and relies on leading and lagging indicators of performance at the organizational level, thus enabling a thorough evaluation of it. Once validated, the model should help construction organizations evaluate their DM practices against best practices, identify and address areas where improvements are needed, and assess and benchmark DM performance on a regular basis, thus providing a framework to guide the advancement of DM. Similarly, the model can be used by Worker’s Compensation Boards, safety associations and other regulatory bodies across Canada and elsewhere for auditing purposes.

Paper # 56 ; Session: PM-5: Risk and Project Controls ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Identifying Influential Factors for Capital Construction Project Planning Strategies
Authors:
Mahdi Safa*, University of Waterloo
Sandra MacGillivray, Valency Inc.,
Mike Davidson, Ontario Power Generation
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Edward Gibson, Jr., Arizona State Univ.
Kevin Kaczmarczyk, OPG
Abstract
Construction companies devote significant resources to front end planning (FEP). The potential substantial benefits of the strategic implementation of FEP practices across an entire portfolio have made FEP evaluation an important issue for both project leaders and scholars. The primary objective of this study is the use of multiple regression analysis for the identification of factors for use in predicting the gaps in project definition and for evaluating the FEP. FEP data from 59 North American capital construction projects from the same industry segment have been examined in order to establish such indicators and to enable the monitoring of project resources throughout the project lifecycle. When employed as a proactive approach during FEP, the results of this analysis have the potential to guide project managers in their search for important potential project definition gaps, and to prioritize there definition efforts. Its contribution to the body of knowledge is a methodology for understanding how to focus project definition efforts most effectively.

Paper # 142 ; Session: PM-5: Risk and Project Controls ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Guideline To Apply Hedging To Mitigate The Risk Of Construction Materials Price Escalation
Authors:
Mohammad Ammar Al-Zarrad*, University of Alabama
Gary P Moynihan, University of Alabama
Stephanie Vereen, University of Alabama
Abstract
Accurately forecasting cost is vital to the success of any construction project. Cost estimation encompasses uncertainty, since construction projects are exposed to many forms and degrees of risk. Materials price volatility and shocks constitute one aspect. Most current approaches for material risk assessment are deterministic and do not take into consideration material price fluctuation. The application of hedging, to mitigate the risk of construction material price fluctuations, is proposed in this research. Although it is known that using hedging as a risk management tool adds value to a financial firm, limited knowledge has been established about using hedging for construction material price risk mitigation. Hedging has also been a practice applied in the airline industry for a long time, and substantive research has been completed in the field of airline fuel hedging. The objective of this research is to identify best practices in the area of airline fuel hedging to provide an outline for implementation in the construction industry, and to develop a step-by-step guideline to applying materials hedging in the construction industry. This is considered to be the first attempt to match construction material hedging with the airline fuel hedging application. The guideline presented herein helps construction companies to apply hedging to mitigate the risk of construction material price fluctuations. This guideline improves construction companies’ ability to submit a very competitive bid on a specific project.

Paper # 192 ; Session: PM-5: Risk and Project Controls ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1611
Management of Construction Risk through Contractor’s All Risk Insurance Policy – A South Africa case study
Authors:
Suwisai Musundire, University of Johannesburg
Clinton O Aigbavboa*, University of Johannesburg
Abstract
Contractors’ All Risks (CAR) is an special insurance cover, which insurances those losses not covered by an ‘excluded peril’ in a construction contract. The benefit to the insured under this type of policy is that the burden is shifted to the insurer who, to resist the claim, is required to show that the cause of the loss falls within an exclusion. The objective of the current research is to study the efficiency of CAR in mitigating construction risk and to determine the factors which affect the use of CAR insurance policy in South Africa. The data for the study were derived from both primary and secondary sources. The primary data was obtained through the survey method, while the secondary data was derived from the review of literature. The primary data for the study was collected through a structured questionnaire survey distributed to a sample of 67 contracting firms who had taken CAR insurance and are currently using CAR in mitigating construction risk and 6 insurance companies who insure contractors under this policy. Findings from the study revealed that CAR Effectively covers work in progress, CAR protects the contractor’s interest effectively, CAR policy also protect the client’s interests effectively and that CAR assist the contractor in risk management by recognising potential risks and reducing the probability of such risks. Whilst the factors which affect the use of CAR insurance policy in the South Africa construction industry include: stipulation of the adopted conditions of standard construction contract, client’s requirement, cost and contractor’s own interest. The study adds to the body of knowledge on the use of CAR in the management of construction risk in the South Africa construction industry.

Paper # 185 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-1: LEED/Energy ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
A Methodology to Evaluate the Effects of School Buildings’ Occupancy and Usage on their Energy Consumption
Authors:
Mohamed M Ouf*, University of Manitoba
Phil Merkel, Manitoba Hydro
Mohamed Issa, University of Manitoba
Panos Polyzois, University of Manitoba
Abstract
Buildings contribute 20 to 40% of the world’s energy consumption, making the need to regulate and minimize their energy use a priority. Although several parameters can have an impact on buildings’ energy use, the impact of buildings’ occupancy and usage seems to have been rarely investigated in the literature. This paper presents a methodology for the detailed assessment of building occupancy and usage, focusing on school buildings specifically. The methodology is part of an ongoing study aiming to evaluate the effects of school buildings’ occupancy and usage on their energy consumption, focusing on Manitoba school buildings. It is being conducted by the University of Manitoba Construction Engineering and Management Group in collaboration with the Government of Manitoba Public Schools Finance Board and Manitoba Hydro’s Customer Engineering Department. An extensive literature review was carried out to identify relevant methods used to evaluate occupants’ behaviour and energy use. The review showed how the few studies that have developed such methods focused on commercial or residential buildings, with little emphasis on school buildings specifically. The methodology and study aim to investigate overall building occupancy, as well as real-time usage of specific indoor spaces using surveys, interviews, visual observations and document analysis. The methodology focuses on 1) comparing building occupancy and usage across old, middle-aged, and new green schools 2) evaluating the effects of overall building occupancy on overall energy consumption, and 3) evaluating the effects of occupants’ behaviour and usage on space-level electricity consumption. It complements a previously developed methodology aiming to evaluate historical energy data and real-time electricity consumption in specific school spaces. The two methodologies will be validated by applying them at the building level to a sample of thirty-one schools in Manitoba and at the space-level to three representative schools. Once complete, the study is expected to provide a tool that researchers and industry practitioners can use to improve their schools’ energy efficiency and thus improve their schools’ design, construction, operation and maintenance.

Paper # 13 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-1: LEED/Energy ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Thermal Comfort Assessment Through Measurements In A Naturally Ventilated Leed Gold Building
Authors:
Amy A Kim*, University of Washington
Shuoqi (Stanley) Wang, University of Washington
Dorothy Reed, University of Washington
Abstract
Reductions in electric power consumption at the University of Washington are an established sustainability performance target. In order to meet this target, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certification of buildings on campus is part of a long term plan for the University. It has been assumed that LEED certification will result in less power usage by occupants while improving indoor environmental quality. However, the related indoor environmental quality for these certified buildings has not been evaluated in situ. The primary objective of our study was to investigate the indoor quality assessment, more specifically in this paper, we discuss the thermal comfort of a LEED Gold building through both in-situ measurements of temperature, humidity, and occupant comfort surveys. Three measurement stations have been implemented in a low-rise retrofitted Student Union Building starting April of 2014: two in a food court or commercial kitchen environment and the other in a small office. Surveys to assess the comfort levels of both populations have been undertaken. The resulting data set is rich in terms of providing technical and nontechnical feedback on the thermal comfort of a LEED certified building. Preliminary findings indicate that thermal comfort parameters employed for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems control were not optimum in practice.

Paper # 78 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-1: LEED/Energy ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Development and Validation of Regression Models to Predict Annual Energy Consumption of Office Buildings in Different Climate Regions in the United States
Authors:
Shideh Shams Amiri
Mohammad Mottahedi
Somayeh Asadi*, Penn State University
David Riley
Abstract
Energy consumption in commercial buildings has been growing substantially in recent years. Recently, building energy consumption estimation tools have been used to calculate energy savings and emissions reduction. Energy performance of building is complicated since it depends on multiple variables associated to building characteristics, equipment and systems, weather, occupants, and sociological influences. Therefore, the objective of this study is to develop the multi-linear regression models to predict energy consumption of an office building in five different climate regions in the United States. In order to achieve this objective, a typical commercial building was selected and the effect of 17 key building design parameters on its energy performance was investigated. To quantify building energy consumption, eQuest and DOE-2, which are building energy simulation software programs, were used to develop the building profile and perform annual energy simulation. In addition, Monte Carlo simulation technique was used to create a ten thousands comprehensive dataset covering the full range of design parameters for each studied climate region. An in-house computer program was developed to implement the Monte Carlo simulation. Statistical analysis was performed using R statistical analysis program to develop a set of linear regression equations predicting energy consumption of each design scenario. The difference between obtained results from regression model and DOE-2 are largely within 5%. In addition, standardized regression coefficient was calculated to assess the sensitivity of heating, cooling, and total energy loads to different building design parameters across five climate zones. It is believed that the developed regression models can be used to estimate the energy consumption of office buildings in different climate regions when designers and engineers consider various building envelope designs in the early stages of the design.

Paper # 226 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-1: LEED/Energy ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Discovering The Values Of Residential Building Occupants For Value-Sensitive Improvement Of Building Energy Efficiency
Authors:
Kadir Amasyali*, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Nora El-Gohary, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Abstract
Improving building energy efficiency is one of the best strategies to reduce building energy consumption. Recent studies emphasized the importance of occupant behavior as key means of enhancing building energy efficiency. It is critical that while we strive to improve the energy efficiency of buildings through the understanding of energy use behavior that we also understand the values (such as thermal comfort, indoor air quality, productivity) of building occupants, how these values may impact energy use behavior, and how we can improve energy efficiency without negatively impacting these values (i.e., while maintaining the satisfaction levels with these values). This paper focuses on presenting the authors work in (1) identifying potential occupant values that may impact energy use behavior and energy consumption in residential buildings, (2) discovering actual building occupant values and the importance levels of these values to residential building occupants, and (3) discovering the current satisfaction levels of residential building occupants with these values. The discovery of actual occupant values and current satisfaction levels was conducted using an online survey. A randomly selected set of 310 residential building occupants in Arizona (AZ), Illinois (IL), and Pennsylvania (PA) were surveyed using an online questionnaire. The paper discusses the value discovery, questionnaire design, survey results, results analysis, and conclusions. The results showed similarities and differences across occupants in AZ, IL, and PA in terms of what they value in buildings as well as their current satisfaction levels with these values.

Paper # 212 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-2: LEED/Energy ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Brazilian and Canadian Oil & Gas Industries – Similarities, Differences, Challenges and Perspectives for a Sustainable Industry
Authors:
Rodrigo R Aragao*, University of Toronto
Tamer El-Diraby, University of Toronto
Abstract
The Brazilian and the Canadian Oil and Gas industries are facing similar challenges now: both countries are developing huge oil fields; as a result, companies, governments and policy makers have started to invest escalating resources in projects and regulations. These efforts have provided both countries with a significant increase in their oil production. Brazil discovered the Pre-Salt field, located off its Southeastern coast, what resulted in complex technical researches whose outcome will guarantee a safer and more environmentally friendly production. The oil sands in the western Canada, along with the shale formations, despite the abundance, have been utterly criticized by environmentalists who report the possible impacts of the methods used to extract the oil. This paper aims to analyze the similarities, differences and challenges that both countries have to confront. In addition, as many companies in other sectors, the oil and gas industry has taken the initiative to demonstrate that their activities are in accordance with the best practices of sustainability by seeking the optimal efficiency in water consumption, energy and waste management; as well as minimizing carbon emissions to reduce the greenhouse effect. Nevertheless, the oil and gas industry still has to face the common sense that their activities cannot be innovated to reduce environmental impacts and therefore be aligned with the best sustainable practices. Analogous to the movement that has led the AEC industry to create the “green buildings”, two proposals on how to address the sustainability of these projects is presented.

Paper # 16 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-2: LEED/Energy ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Comparative Evaluation of LEED and QSAS Credits using Life Cycle Analysis: Case Study from Qatar
Authors:
Sherif O Attallah*, Ball State University
Amr Kandil, Purdue University
Ahmed Senouci, Qatar University
Hassan Alderham, Qatar University
Karim Abdelwarith, Purdue University
Abstract
Implementation of sustainability rating systems for buildings had a recognized effect on the increased level of sustainability adoption in the construction industry. However, there is still a need for objective quantifiable evidence that the concepts adopted by the sustainability rating systems and implemented in projects lead to optimum positive impacts on resource consumption and the environment. The objective of this paper is to present research conducted to assess the actual environmental impact saved by implementing credits of both LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) and QSAS (Qatar Sustainability Assessment System) using Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) approach. The impact of implementing LEED and QSAS credits under the categories of energy, water and urban connectivity on a selected project in Qatar was analyzed using LCA. The results of this analysis manifest the objective quantifiable benefits behind applying the respective sustainability credits and how the impact of an international rating system differs from that of a system developed for the specific region where the project is located. The relative weights allocated to these credits were also analyzed in light of the corresponding LCA results in order to evaluate the significance of such weights and how they can be reconsidered to achieve optimum savings of environmental impacts.

Paper # 323 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-2: LEED/Energy ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
Minimizing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Water Consumption of Existing Buildings
Authors:
Moatassem Abdallah*, University of Colorado Boulder
Khaled El-Rayes, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Caroline M Clevenger, University of Colorado Boulder
Abstract
Buildings are responsible for 38% of all carbon emissions and 14% of water consumption in the United States. These negative environmental impacts can significantly be reduced by implementing green upgrade measures such as energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, motion sensors, photovoltaic systems, and water-saving plumbing fixtures. Building owners in the public and private sectors often search for an optimal set of upgrade measures that is capable of minimizing the negative environmental impacts of their buildings. This paper presents the development of an optimization model that is capable of identifying optimal selection of building upgrade measures to minimize greenhouse gas emission and water consumption of existing buildings while complying with limited upgrade budgets. The model is developed in four main development steps: metrics identification step that quantifies greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption of existing buildings; model formulation step that formulates the model decision variables, objective function, and constraints; implementation step that executes the model computations and specifies the model input and output data; and validation step that evaluates the model performance using a case study of an existing building. The results of the model illustrate its new and unique capabilities in providing detailed results, which include specifications for the recommended upgrade measures, their location in the building, and required upgrade cost to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption of existing buildings.

Paper # 208 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-2: LEED/Energy ; Monday, June 8, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1003
ENERGY STAR Windows’ Performance and Orientation
Authors:
Maral Jalili, Colorado State University
Caroline M Clevenger*, University of Colorado Boulder
Mehmet Ozbek, Colorado State University
Moatassem Abdallah, University of Colorado Boulder
Abstract
In 2012 and 2013, ten building product categories were eligible for United States ENERGY STAR Federal Tax Credits. High performance windows that meet certain energy efficiency criteria are one of the qualifying products. The ENERGY STAR Tax Credit program sets U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) standards for these windows according to four climate zones. Research demonstrates that buildings with well-designed and constructed fenestration systems can lower requirements for heating, cooling and lighting during operation. However, previous research and energy modeling also demonstrates that, in addition to energy efficiency characteristics, orientation impacts the energy performance of windows. The ENERGY STAR tax program makes no distinction regarding window orientation or placement when evaluating tax credit eligibility. This research studies the potential impact of orientation on performance for qualifying ENERGY STAR window products. Using TRNSYS energy modeling comparisons, findings suggest that the performance of qualifying windows may vary up to 14 percent for different orientations depending on climate zone.

Paper # 63 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-3: Design and construction for the future ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
System Dynamics Modelling For An Urban Water System: Net-Zero Water Analysis For Peachland (BC)
Authors:
Gyan K Chhipi Shrestha*, University of British Columbia Okanagan
Kasun Hewage, University of British Columbia
Rehan Ssadiq, University of British Columbia
Abstract
A Net-zero water (NZW) community limits the consumption of freshwater resources and returns water back to the same watershed, so as not to deplete the groundwater and surface water resources of that region in quantity and quality over the course of a year. A NZW study includes the analysis of various combinations of water supply sources, water conservation, and reuse over time. Such dynamics can be modelled by using system dynamics. This article aims to develop a system dynamics model (SDM) to achieve NZW at the urban community level. The SDM was developed by including all life cycle stages of urban water using STELLA® software. The developed SDM was validated using the historical data of Peachland water consumption (BC). Moreover, the model was applied to analyze NZW of the Peachland community during 2015-34 by considering six different scenarios. In the base case scenario, two thirds of the supplied water will be used for irrigation and will not be directly available to the community for reuse. As the community is in a semi-arid region, the Peachland community can only achieve NZW or even net-plus water for the initial five years by considering Peachland as a typical urban community without agriculture, and by implementing various water efficiency improvement measures. However, due to the projected increase in water demand, the NZW cannot be achieved after 2019.

Paper # 302 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-3: Design and construction for the future ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Performance Indicators For Sustainability Assessment Of Buildings
Authors:
Mohammad Kamali, University of British Columbia
Kasun Hewage*, University of British Columbia
Abstract
During the past few decades, the construction industry has been exposed to “sustainable construction” processes, which address the triple bottom line (TBL) that is the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of sustainability, during the entire life cycle of a building. Due to the importance of sustainable construction, it is imperative to comprehensively assess the sustainability of the built environment, such as buildings. A significant step to evaluate the sustainability of buildings is investigating the existing building sustainability performance indicators (SPIs). In this paper, a list of building SPIs, including environmental, economic, and social, has been developed through conducting a content‐analysis based literature review. The literature includes sustainable building rating systems such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Green Globes, Living Building Challenge (LBC), among others. In addition, other published literature related to sustainable construction is reviewed. Similar SPIs or those which have some overlaps are combined or modified. Finally, refined TBL SPI sets are created, which can be used for sustainability assessment of buildings. The results of this study indicate that among various environmental performance criteria used in different publications, 16 SPIs are the most significant ones. In addition, a total number of 9 SPIs and 12 SPIs are identified as the most commonly used criteria related to the life cycle economic and social performance of buildings, respectively.

Paper # 92 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-3: Design and construction for the future ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Optimization Of An Office Building Envelope For Environmental Impact Minimization
Authors:
Rahman Azari*, University of Texas at San Antonio
Samira Garshasbi
Pegah Amini
Yousef Mohammadi
Hazem Rashed-Ali, University of Texas at San Antonio
Abstract
ABSTRACT The key objective of the present article is to use artificial neural network and genetic algorithm optimization techniques along with environmental Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to find the optimum building envelope design in an office building for minimization of life-cycle impacts on the environment. Insulation material type, glazing type, window frame material, wall R-value, and window-to-wall ratio (WWR) are the design characteristics of interest. Global warming potential (GWP), acidification potential (AP), eutrophication potential (EP), smog formation potential (SFP), and ozone depletion potential (ODP) are the environmental impact categories of interest. We use eQuest 3.65 and Athena Impact Estimator to simulate the energy and environmental performance of 89 combinations of building envelope design. The results are then used in a hybrid neural network and genetic algorithm approach to find the combination with the least environmental impacts. Because of significant impacts of buildings on the environment – e.g., about 40% contribution of buildings to fossil-fuel energy use and CO2 emissions -, the results could raise design teams’ awareness about the impact of their decisions on natural environment. Keywords: environmental LCA, optimization, building envelope, energy use

Paper # 77 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-3: Design and construction for the future ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
The Effect of Shading Design and Materials on Building Energy Demand
Authors:
Nasim Haghighi, Texas A&M-kingsville
Somayeh Asadi*, Penn State University
Hamed Babaizadeh
Abstract
Building sector in most countries around the world requires large amounts of heating and cooling energy. Indeed, building cooling loads due to solar gains are responsible for approximately half of global cooling load. In addition, windows are considered as one of the important sources of energy loss in buildings. In order to minimize this loss, shading devices can be installed in the exterior part of the window to reduce solar heat. The objective of this study is to investigate the simultaneous effect of glazing, shading materials, and configuration of shading devices on total building energy consumption in different climate regions in the United States. To achieve this objective, a typical residential building was selected to assess the effect of the aforementioned parameters on total energy consumption in five main climate regions. A series of simulations were conducted using EnergyPlus simulation program to quantify energy consumption in each scenario and determine the most energy efficient glazing and shading materials as well as configuration of the shading device. Different types of window glazing (including clear, Low-Iron, Ref-B tint, Low-E clear and Low-E tint with 6 mm thickness) as well as different materials for shading devices (including PVC, aluminum and wood) were considered in this study. Moreover, the effect of five different shading device configurations, including horizontal and oriented overhang, vertical fin and combination of them were investigated. Results showed installing vertical fins and horizontal overhang shading devices in buildings located in Miami and Atlanta do not have a significant effect on annual energy consumption. However, combining these two overhang shading configurations will reduce energy consumption. In addition to shading configurations, it was found that Ref-B tint glazing material along with wood shading material reduced annual energy consumption by approximately 11.6% in Miami. However in Atlanta, total energy consumption was reduced by approximately 7% in the case of using Low-E tint glazing material along with wood shading material. No significant decrease in energy consumption was observed in cold climates.

Paper # 264 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-3: Design and construction for the future ; Tuesday, June 9, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1001
Value – Oriented Approach to Home Energy Audit Process Design
Authors:
Fuju Wu*, Penn State University
David Riley
Robert M Leicht, Penn State University
Abstract
While significant investments have been made to advance energy auditing methods to reduce energy consumption in the residential sector, homeowners are still challenged to take action and realize energy savings on their utility bills. Key challenges facing homeowners in need of energy efficiency improvements were found to be: 1) lack of information, 2) lack of financing, and, 3) lack of skilled workforce (2009 CEQ report). Recent research examining home energy auditing has revealed significant process waste, including audits that do not lead to energy upgrades; distrust between auditors and homeowners; a tendency for audits to lead only to one time improvements as opposed to continuous improvement. In response, variable types of home energy audit practices and strategies are emerging, including standardization of training and rating programs, as well as alternative methods to lower the costs of audits through partial “assessments.” This research takes a value-oriented approach to study the energy audit process of residential homes, and seeks to elevate the effectiveness and efficiency of home energy assessments through process design. The objectives of this research are: 1) To characterize “on-site” value delivery during a 90 minute home energy assessment, 2) to present relationships between building trust and deliver value via a model, and 3) to explore how these trust-value relationships influence homeowners’ decision making to take action in a manner of home improvements. In addition to home energy audit sectors, elevation of value distribution and trust relationship in a productive process, not only enhance distributing characterized value during operation, but also increase identification of linkages between specific tasks and the accumulation of trust leading to action on behalf of participants in the design and construction industry.

Paper # 234 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-4: Design and construction for the future ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1613
Risk Of Wildfires With Known Ignition Points: Case Of Residential Buildings
Authors:
Elmira Kalhor*, University of New Mexico
Vanessa Valentin, University of New Mexico
Abstract
Wildfire is considered the dominant disaster in many regions of the world including the United States, Australia, Canada and parts of Europe. However, unlike other natural disasters, such as flooding, earthquakes and hurricanes, the risk of wildfire to the built environment is not vigorously studied. Most of the research in the wildfire risk management area is limited to the study and management of wildfire within the wildland. On the other hand, there is an increasing progress of housing projects towards the natural lands. The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) is where the developed and undeveloped areas meet. Because of high vulnerability of the WUIs to wildfires, there is a need to identify, quantify and manage the expected damage of wildfires to the WUIs. This study calculates the risk of wildfires to residential buildings considering a specific ignition point. The model inputs include the spatial distribution of the buildings, an absolute or proxy value for the damage from wildfire, and atmospheric and landscape attributes needed to simulate the fire propagation on a specific land. The model outputs are the distribution of damage at each time interval from the initial ignition and total risk of a fire with a given ignition point.

Paper # 147 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-4: Design and construction for the future ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1613
Testing The Correlation Between Indoor Environmental Quality And Productive Time
Authors:
Wissam Khoury, American University of Beirut
Issam M Srour*, American University of Beirut
Ali Yassine, American University of Beirut
Abstract
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), being one of the main pillars of sustainability, stretches its effect far beyond ensuring a pleasant environment for the occupants to live in. In fact, IEQ plays a major role in defining the level of productivity within organizations. Recent studies acknowledge the link between IEQ and employees’ overall satisfaction at work, and in turn, productivity. The ultimate goal of an ongoing research project is to propose and validate a decision making tool that optimizes office buildings renovation projects based on maximizing occupants’ satisfaction with the IEQ conditions at their workplace, and in turn, maximizing their productive time. The first step in this direction requires an understanding of the relationship between IEQ and productivity. This is achieved in this paper through a survey of corporate employees, which provides a correlation between the level of IEQ in an office setting and the overall level of satisfaction with the workplace. The latter is, in turn, correlated with the level of occupant productivity at work, as measured by the amount of productive time. The paper concludes with an empirical model based on statistical regression analysis, depicting the relationship between IEQ satisfaction and productive time.

Paper # 203 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-4: Design and construction for the future ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1613
Photobiological Treatment Plants Which Are Integrated with Building’s Architectural Shell
Authors:
Natalia Buzalo*, South Russian State Polytechnic University, Novocherkassk, Russia
Pavel Ermachenko, Platov South-Russian State Polytechnic University (NPI)
Alexey Bulgakov, SWSU Kursk, Russia
Rainer Schach, Technical University Dresden
Abstract
The article deals with issues of the use of photoreactors with growing algae as an element of urban construction. Using microalgae photobioreactors can solve multiple tasks: getting a third-generation biofuels, carbon dioxide recycling, wastewater disinfection, oxygen regeneration, and water purification from nutrients. The paper considers a wastewater purification plant where the major element is such a photoreactor. As examples of such a kind of facilities, we could mention as follows: BIQ House, Hamburg International Building Exhibition; Urban Algae Canopy Module by ecologic Studio; photoreactors at the incineration plant, Alcéade Nantes, France; etc. Unlike the existing projects, we study all the system as a whole. Considered treatment facility includes an algae photobioreactor, a bacterium mineralizer and a desilter as well as a control system that regulates concentration of biogens, oxygen, and carbon dioxide by governing flow between devices. The article investigates the opportunity of incorporation of the photobiological treatment facilities into a building’s architectural shell. Structurally, we propose to make the main technological nodes from the translucent membrane of Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). Photoreactors with algae are placed on the building facade. That location significantly reduces the required area and provides optimal natural lighting. It also allows using solar radiation for heating and adaptive lighting. The construction form is optimized with using a genetic algorithm. The engineering solution which is given in this article can be used for already existing treatment plants as well as for urban structure directly.

Paper # 273 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-4: Design and construction for the future ; Wednesday, June 10, Morning ; Room: Forestry 1613
Governmental Dust Control in Construction Industry: A study of policies
Authors:
Wang Shibei*, Chongqing University
Ye Kunhui, Chongqing University
Abstract
Construction dust emission has become an outstanding issue in the construction industry. As a key content of green construction, governments around the world have the responsibility of mitigating the adverse effects of dust emission on the environment. However, little has been known of how governments can sharpen their efforts in this area. Using literature survey and content analysis, this study aims to identify the main roles of governments in construction dust control. Considerable policies were collected for analysis. It is found that governments have three characters in the dust control, namely opinion leaders, policy makers and technical supporters. As policy makers, governmental measures for dust emission control span widely, which include technology, economy, management and organizational governance. The results shed some lights on the measurement of governmental policies in the dust control.

Paper # 120 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-5: Design and construction for the future ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
Life Cycle Analysis Of Reused Steel Using The Economic Input-Output Method
Authors:
Jamie Yeung*, University of Waterloo
Scott Walbridge, University of Waterloo
Carl T Haas, University of Waterloo
Abstract
Reuse of structural steel is not a new concept in civil engineering. Even though members, and assemblies of members, have been reused for decades, reuse of steel is not a widely implemented practice. Approximately 90% of demolished steel is recycled and only 10% of steel is reused in its current state. The steel that is reused is due to the reuse of very large members or from specialty projects. The reason for these low levels of reuse is because the cost of reusing structural steel is too high. Unfortunately, many decision makers are coming to con-clusions without a comprehensive knowledge of the true cost of reuse and recycling. In order to fully understand the additional cost, or savings, associated with steel reuse, a life cycle analysis needs to be incorporated into an economic analysis. In this study, the economic input-output method was used to perform a life cycle analysis of reused steel as it compares to current practices. The economic input-output method provides the benefit of being able to perform a quick analysis but is limited by only being able to perform a generalized analysis across the entire industry. The analysis was performed for several metrics but these can be grouped into four categories: greenhouse gases, energy usage, water usage, and hazardous waste generation. Results from the analysis showed that there was a significant decrease, upwards of 65%, across each category. In order to remedy the limitations of the economic input-output method, it is recommended to perform a similar analysis using a process model approach.

Paper # 5 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-5: Design and construction for the future ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
Reducing heat island effect by using Recycled Glass Cullet in Asphalt Shingles
Authors:
Micah Kiletico
Marwa Hassan*, Louisiana State University
Louay Mohammad, Louisiana State University
Abstract
As an approach to mitigate the harmful effects of Urban Heat Island (UHI), the use of glass cullet in the production of asphalt roof shingles has the potential to be employed as a cool roof strategy. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that the use of recycled glass cullet increases the solar reflectance index (SRI) without affecting the performance of asphalt roof shingles. In order to evaluate the feasibility of using recycled glass cullet in this new application, the engineering properties of glass cullet were investigated and compared to conventional aggregates used in the production of asphalt roof shingles. Laboratory shingle specimens were then prepared in order to measure solar reflectance properties and strength characteristics of conventional and recycled glass roof shingles. Results show that while the use of recycled glass cullet as a replacement to standard ceramic coated black roofing granules on the top surface of asphalt shingles increased the SRI, the addition of white pigment powder (anatase ultra-fine titanium dioxide [TiO2] particles passing mesh #320) to the surface granules greatly improves the reflectance properties of the roof to a level that meets the cool roof threshold.

Paper # 6 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-5: Design and construction for the future ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
3D Finite Element Modeling of Recycled Glass Cullets in Asphalt shingles
Authors:
Marwa Hassan*, Louisiana State University
Somayeh Asadi, Penn State University
Ali Beheshti, Louisiana State University
Abstract
Recycled glass cullets in asphalt shingles may be utilized as a cool roof strategy to reduce the harmful effects of Urban Heat Island (UHI). A Three-Dimensional (3D) transient Finite Element (FE) model was developed and validated to quantify energy savings provided by the proposed recycling process under various climatic conditions. Simulations were carried out for three cities located in three climate regions in the United States representing different climatic conditions. The three cities representing each region were Kansas City (Missouri) for Zone 3, Charlotte (North Carolina) for Zone 4, and Miami (Florida) for Zone 5. Results for each of the climatic zones were quantified. Results showed that the annual energy savings ranged from $35.37 in cold climatic regions to $ 92.58 in hot climates.

Paper # 75 ; Session: Sustainable Construction-5: Design and construction for the future ; Wednesday, June 10, Afternoon ; Room: Forestry 1613
An exploratory study to investigate the influence of cement properties on the durability of concrete made with fly ash
Authors:
Ambar Rosario-Lugaro, Universidad de Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
Omar I Molina-Bas*, Universidad de Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
Encarnacion Reyes-Pozo, Universidad Politécnica De Madrid
Abstract
Concrete made with Portland cement is one of the most used construction material in the world. Engineers and scientists are always looking to improve its sustainable properties. The durability of concrete is a determining factor in the service life of a structure. The durability of cement based materials is strongly influenced by its porous structure. Previous research has shown that the use of fly ash in concrete mixtures as partial substitution of Portland cement produces a pozzolanic reaction that changes concrete’s micro-structure. As a concrete mineral admixture, fly ash improves concrete’s mechanical properties and durability while providing economic and environmental benefits. The objective of this paper is to present the results of a study that investigated the influence of fly ash on the durability of concrete mixed with ASTM C 150: Type I cements. The methodology included mixing three different ASTM C 150: Type I cements with three different percentages of fly ash each for a total of 9 different combinations. Durability, physical, and mechanical properties tests were performed on the concrete samples from each mix. The results indicate that the performance of concrete with fly ash varies based on the characteristics of the cement used and the amount of fly ash used in the mixture. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the best result for experimental concrete with 25 % fly ash substitution were obtained with concrete Y (C3S = 55.31%), while with 50% fly ash substitution the best results were obtained with cement Z (C3S = 77.04%). These combinations increase the concrete’s durability while reducing costs and providing environmental benefits. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by increasing the understanding of the influence of cement properties in fly ash on the durability of concrete.