TECHNICAL PAPERS
Oct 1, 2004

Geographic Information System-Based Visual Simulation Methodology and Its Application in Concrete Dam Construction Processes

Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 130, Issue 5

Abstract

System simulation has proved to be an effective tool for planning and improving the performance of a construction process in many successful case studies. However, with the aid of a three dimensional (3D) visualization system, simulation technology will be engaged to its farthest-reaching potential. This paper presents a geographic information system (GIS)-based visual simulation method, in which system simulation techniques are integrated with visualization techniques. The GIS-based visual simulation system (GVSS) was developed by the authors. The GVSS is a simulation tool offering powerful planning, visualizing, and querying capabilities that facilitate the detection of logic errors in simulation models. The software also helps to understand the comprehensively complex modeled construction process, and is capable of organizing vast amounts of spatial and nonspatial data involved in simulation. A hydroelectric project, which will take place on the Yellow River in the northwest of China, is used as an example. An optimum equipment set scheme is determined by simulating a variety of scenarios taking place under different construction conditions. Likewise, other parameters, such as the construction sequence of dam blocks, the monthly intensity of the concrete process, and the construction appearance at the middle and end of each year, are obtained. Meanwhile, the complex processes of dam construction are demonstrated dynamically using 3D animation, which provides a powerful tool for quickly and comprehensively understanding the whole construction process. The GVSS has proven to be a helpful and useful tool for the design and management of concrete dams.

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Go to Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 130Issue 5October 2004
Pages: 742 - 750

History

Published online: Oct 1, 2004
Published in print: Oct 2004

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Authors

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Denghua Zhong
Professor, School of Civil Engineering, Tianjin Univ., Tianjin 300072, P. R. China, E-mail: [email protected]
Jingru Li
Instructor, College of Architecture and Civil Enginerring, Shenzhen Univ., Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China, formerly, PhD Candidate, School of Civil Engineering, Tianjin Univ., Tianjin 300072, P. R. China. E-mail:[email protected]
Huirong Zhu
M.S. Candidate, School of Civil Engineering, Tianjin Univ., Tianjin 300072, P. R. China. E mail: [email protected].
Lingguang Song
PhD Candidate, Dept. of Civil and Environmetal Engineering, Univ. of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G2G7. E-mail: [email protected]

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