Petri nets for simulation and modeling of construction systems

Wakefield, R R and Sears, G A (1997) Petri nets for simulation and modeling of construction systems. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 123(2), pp. 105-112. ISSN 0733-9364

Abstract

Simulation and modeling of construction systems have been actively researched over the past 20 years. This paper demonstrates how Petri nets, a powerful modeling tool previously used for modeling computer networks and automated manufacturing systems, can be used effectively for modeling construction systems. This paper describes the Petri net approach to modeling and shows how models of construction systems can be developed. Several common Petri net structures and features useful in construction system modeling are described. Time and color Petri nets and their application in modeling specific characteristics of construction systems are discussed. Two illustrative examples are presented and the advantages and disadvantages of Petri nets as tools for the modeling and simulation of construction operations are detailed.

Item Type: Article
Index terms: construction operation, modelling, construction system
Subjects: construction operations, analytical methods, building construction
Topics: Site Management, Engineering Principles
Descriptive scope: 1 P

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here