Rekapalli, P V and Martinez, J C (2011) Discrete-event simulation-based virtual reality environments for construction operations: Technology introduction. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 137(3), pp. 214-224. ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
The next logical evolution of discrete-event simulation (DES) technology for construction is for simulations and animations to run concurrently and in a manner that allows interaction with the animation to affect the course of events in the simulation. This effectively enables the creation of virtual environments with logic based on DES models, something that recent research efforts have made possible. This paper introduces this technology with the help of a case study. In particular, the paper presents how interactivity can improve the process of model validation in simulation studies, which is a critical step in achieving model credibility. Via a complex earthmoving operation, a construction engineer can use real-time interactivity to create situations of interest and study the model's response to those, and thus validate that the response is appropriate. These capabilities can significantly enhance the process of model validation, thereby adding to the value of DES for practical use in operations planning and design.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | 3D animation; discrete-event simulation; user interaction; virtual reality |
| Index terms: | case study, interaction, earthmoving, evolution, engineer, validation, virtual environment, virtual reality, construction operation |
| Subjects: | behavioral psychology, data collection methods, virtual reality, professional development, environmental science, profession, construction operations |
| Topics: | Site Management, Roles and Professions, Research Practice, Digital Applications, Information Management, Sustainability |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCE |
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