Materials Handling System Simulation in Precast Viaduct Construction: Modeling, Analysis, and Implementation
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 134, Issue 4
Abstract
The interactive, complicated system environment of a construction site renders conventional site layout planning and scheduling techniques to be inadequate in coping with materials handling system design in construction. In this paper, we present a university-industry joint endeavor for improving the effectiveness of the materials handling system on a precast viaduct construction project in Hong Kong by implementing the simplified discrete-event simulation approach (SDESA) along with its computer platform resulting from recent research. How to apply the simulation methodology of SDESA is elaborated step by step. Particular emphasis is placed on procedures of establishing a simulation model, validation of the simulation model, design of simulation experiments, and analysis of simulation results. With process flowchart, site layout plan, and process animation produced in a view-centric simulation environment, it is straightforward to establish, validate, and communicate the operations simulation. The research team convinced the project director, as well as field managers, of the functionality and effectiveness of operations simulation. The knowledge derived from simulation added to experiences of site managers in materials handling system design. With the aid of simulation, even junior engineers would be capable and confident to draw up an actionable construction plan that would lead to enhancement of cost effectiveness and productivity in the field.
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Acknowledgments
The research presented in this paper was funded by Hong Kong Research Grants Council (Project No. UNSPECIFIEDPolyU 5141/04E). The writers also acknowledge the following management staff of Gammon Construction Ltd. (Hong Kong) for their support to this research: Mr. Thomas O. S. Ho, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Philco N. K. Wong, Executive Director, Mr. R. Dean Wilson, Director of Human Resources, Mr. Rayland Lee, Projects Director, and Mr. Vincent Li, Project Manager of the Deep Bay Link (North) project.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 134 • Issue 4 • April 2008
Pages: 300 - 310
Copyright
© 2008 ASCE.
History
Received: Sep 11, 2006
Accepted: Sep 24, 2007
Published online: Apr 1, 2008
Published in print: Apr 2008
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