Virtual Construction Automation for Modular Assembly Operations

On large construction sites crane positions tend to be determined through a process of trial and error. The analysis of complicated spatial static equipment locations is not an easy task. It requires understanding of many complicated aspects of not only the lift procedures or crane equipment limitation but also knowledge of the lifted objects. The virtual, an three-dimensional (3D) CAD modeling process allow for the storage, not only of shape and color (visual aspect), but also material properties, and parametric dependency (intelligent aspect). The utilization of advanced CAD tools allows for the exploration of the behavior of a structure. Digitally animated and simulated, modular construction assembly operation illustrate benefits of implementing 3D and 4D modeling for analysis of lifts and sequence optimization. This paper provides an example of development and methodology to optimize crane selection operation process for the onsite erection of five, three stories dormitory buildings in McGregor Village for Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania USA. Fully habitually modular assembly units were delivered securely on flatbed trailers in advance to the site. A 600 Tone mobile hydraulic crane was placed in the center of construction site to lift over 100 modules in order to construct the 5 buildings in only 10 working days. Created CAD models were efficiently utilized to optimize detailed schedule. The process includes the creation of kinematic movement for each module lift then simulation sequences and finally compile AVI video movie for review and approval.