Parameterized Design Optimization Framework for Worker-Friendly Workplaces in Modular Construction
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 147, Issue 5
Abstract
Addressing ergonomic risk factors in modular construction is critical to enhancing the productivity of production lines and reducing the societal cost burden for worker recovery. Ergonomics-driven workplace design is thus essential to not only proactively reducing risks through design changes but also accommodating medical restrictions for workers returning to work after an injury or illness. However, efforts to realize this two-fold approach are confounded by the lack of a sound approach to identifying the root causes of ergonomic posture risks among various workplace design parameters or an optimal workplace design for multiple tasks. To address this limitation, this paper proposes a parameterized workplace design optimization framework that consists of four core components: workplace design initiation, interactive worker–workplace simulation, development of predictive surrogate models, and workplace optimization. The framework is demonstrated through a case study designing a drywall preparation workplace in a real modular construction plant. The results show that the framework enables the design of the optimal workplace (i.e., the one with minimal ergonomic risk) and provides a guide for devising practical action plans for safety improvement.
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Data Availability Statement
All data, models, and codes generated or used in this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
The authors would like to acknowledge the support from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) through the Collaborative Research Development (CRD) (File No. CRDPJ 522018-17) and Discovery Grant (RGPIN-2017-06721) programs.
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Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 147 • Issue 5 • May 2021
Copyright
© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: May 15, 2020
Accepted: Nov 13, 2020
Published online: Feb 25, 2021
Published in print: May 1, 2021
Discussion open until: Jul 25, 2021
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