Geometric-based reasoning system for project planning utilizing AI and CAD technologies

Morad, A A (1990) Geometric-based reasoning system for project planning utilizing AI and CAD technologies. PhD thesis, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA.

Abstract

Traditional planning and scheduling techniques have played an important role in system analysis over the last three decades. They provide construction planners with mathematical models to simulate the construction process as an aid in planning and control of complex projects. Although these techniques have been widely used by the construction industry, they possess many limitations. Researchers and practitioners in the construction industry have followed two directions to overcome most of the limitations of current planning techniques. The first direction has been concentrated on the utilization of state-of-the-art Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D computer modeling technology. The objective of their work is to interactively generate and visually simulate the construction process on graphics display. The second direction has been influenced by the potential capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to accomplish "Automated Planning". This group has utilized knowledge-based and expert systems to automatically generate construction plans. The research proposed here presents a geometric-based reasoning system called KNOW-PLAN. The system integrates CAD and 3D computer modeling technology with AI technology to automatically generate and simulate construction plans. The system, therefore, can be classified as a third alternative in approaching the planning problem. The research seeks to utilize geometric data to provide a dynamic sequencing for project planning. The research utilizes object location and object interaction with other objects as the primary source of reasoning for the project plan. The interaction of objects is based on a classification of objects with relation to connection types among them, the zones in which the objects are located, and relationships between the classes with which the objects are associated. To accomplish the objectives of the research, an overall model called the KNOW-PLAN model has been formulated. This model is formulated to demonstrate theoretically the feasibility of implementing such a model in real-life. The implementation effort has been concentrated on the development of the crucial components of the KNOW-PLAN model using advanced computer applications. The implementation at this level is referred to as the KNOW-PLAN prototype system.

Item Type: Thesis (Doctoral)
Thesis advisor: Beliveau, Y J
Uncontrolled Keywords: artificial intelligence; project planning; reasoning; scheduling
Index terms: computer modelling, computer application, artificial intelligence, complex project, interaction, implementation, construction industry, mathematical model, scheduling, reasoning, prototype, state of the art, computer aided design, practitioner, expert system, construction planner, construction process, planning technique, project planning
Subjects: software systems, data management, industry analysis, mathematical modelling, control systems, modelling and simulation, artificial intelligence, cognitive psychology, building construction, behavioral psychology, computational design, research dissemination and communication, practitioner, urban planning, operations research, contractual arrangements, strategic project management
Topics: Digital Applications, Site Management, Time Control, Research Practice, Governance, Roles and Professions, Project Management, Engineering Principles, Procurement
Descriptive scope: 4 PCTA

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