Chehayeb, N N and AbouRizk, S M (1998) Simulation-based scheduling with continuous activity relationships. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 124(2), pp. 107-115. ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
This paper discusses an approach that was developed to enable effective use of systems simulation in the scheduling of construction projects. The approach was implemented in a software program named SimCon, which enhances current simulation methods through the use of continuous production links for activities that comprise a project. The continuous production links provide construction managers with a flexible representation of activity sequencing. The procedure builds on existing CYCLONE fundamentals through new constructs to connect processes in a simulation-based project plan. These constructs are used to simplify the cyclic interprocess relationships, standardize the techniques for logical linking of simulation processes, provide a better estimate of progress, and model a continuous and smooth flow of construction. Various scheduling alternatives are modeled without the need to change activity sequencing, as is required in current scheduling systems. Examples from an actual construction project show the advantages of the continuous production links. The concepts are implemented using a prototype computer system that integrates object-oriented concepts, event-driven programming, a relational database, and a simulation system.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Index terms: | estimate, scheduling, prototype, computer system, relational database, program, cyclone, construction project, construction manager, programming |
| Subjects: | data management, programming, profession, climate science, computing systems, software systems, production management, operations research, financial and cost management, modelling and simulation |
| Topics: | Roles and Professions, Engineering Principles, Sustainability, Project Management, Cost Management, Digital Applications, Time Control |
| Descriptive scope: | 2 PC |
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