ALBERT

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Smart technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT), have the potential to play a significant role in enabling older people to age in place. Although there has been substantial development of new applications of sensor technology in the home, this has tended to be tele-health focused, and there has been less work done on the role of IoT and ageing in place that more broadly considers caregiving and the built environment. Research in the field of IoT development and evaluation has recognised a number of challenges and limitations associated with past smart technology developments to support Ageing in Place, calling for user centeredness and better integration with broader systems. Compounding this, research into Ageing in Place and home environments has focused on built environments and largely ignored the impact of technology in the lives of older people staying at home. Recognising a gap in acknowledging the potential impact of technology on Ageing in Place theories, the purpose of this paper is to conceptualise a way of framing smart technology within an Ageing in Place model that acknowledges the interaction of smart technology with the built environment and caregiving and to present a framework for visualising the interactions that take place. A review of Environmental Gerontology model development is undertaken and a new model is presented that recognises the role of technology in Ageing in Place. Based on this model, a template is developed and three case studies of older people’s experiences of smart home technology, home modifications and caregiving are mapped out. These are used to demonstrate “proof of concept” of the relationships put forward in the HAST model and the pre-curser for a template to help people map smart technology and its role in supporting caregiving and ageing in place. This paper’s position is that technologies such as IoT further support the role of the built environment and caregiving to produce outcomes that enable older people to remain autonomous, independent, safe and well at home. However, a number of risks were also identified through the case studies, the issues of maintenance, cost and ease of use, and willingness to use are considerations and potential barriers to the benefits of smart technology.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Ever growing population and progressive municipal business demands for constructing new buildings are known as the foremost contributor to greenhouse gasses. Therefore, improvement of energy efficiency of the building sector has become an essential target to reduce the amount of gas emission as well as fossil fuel consumption. One most effective approach to reducing CO2 emission and energy consumption with regards to new buildings is to consider energy efficiency at a very early design stage. On the other hand,efficient energy management and smart refurbishments can enhance energy performance of the existing stock. All these solutions entail accurate energy prediction for optimal decision making. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) in general and machine learning (ML) techniques in specific terms have been proposed for forecasting of building energy consumption and performance. This paper provides a substantial review on the four main ML approaches including artificial neural network, support vector machine, Gaussian-based regressions and clustering, which have commonly been applied in forecasting and improving building energy performance.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉The digital process of Building Information Modeling (BIM) involves the creation and modification of CAD-based building models. The complexity of such models has been increasing steadily within the last few years. BIM Models are usually being exchanged using open and standardized data formats. In this context, the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) are widely used. Therefore, software vendors provide interfaces for dealing with the IFC format. To obtain a high level of data integrity, however, IFC elements are often managed as completely distinct entities, which can result in the creation of multiple copies of identical pieces of information. Since the trend to provide web-based solutions for BIM applications is also becoming increasingly important, especially the conflict between available resource consumption and suitable response times must be considered. Although existing optimization algorithms can reduce the size of an IFC file by analyzing its structure syntactically, there is still the gap to detect identical pieces of geometries that are syntactically distinct. Also, when subsequently merging such geometries, the available sharing concepts must be questioned.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉The contribution of this paper is twofold. On the one hand, we propose an algorithm to retrospectively detect identical geometries by estimating the rigid body transformation. On the other hand, we outline and evaluate the available possibilities for sharing geometries within the IFC data model. The so-called flyweight pattern is applied to provide and maintain the appropriate reuse of identical information.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The methodologies are exemplary demonstrated by modeling and optimizing a typical tunnel lining structure, which contains many repetitive elements. As a result, a noticeable reduction of storage and processing time can be measured.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Establishing BIM in large building projects, where complexity not only depends on variation and geometric detail, but also depends on enormous repetition of these elements, a significant benefit is expected.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Settlements induced by tunneling in inner urban areas can easily damage above ground structures. This already has to be considered in early planning of tunneling routes. Assessing the risk of damages to structures on hypothetical tunneling routes inflicted by such settlements beforehand enables routes’ comparability. Hereby, it facilitates the choice of the optimal tunneling route in terms of potential damages and of suitable countermeasures. Risk analyses of structures establishing the assessment obtain relevant data from various sources. Some data even has to be gathered manually. Virtual building models could ease this process and facilitate analyses for entire districts as they combine several required information in a single data set. Commonly, these are yet modelled very coarse. Relevant details like facade openings, which highly affect a structures stiffness, are not included.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉In this paper, we propose a system which detects windows in facade images. This is used to subsequently enrich existing virtual building models allowing for a precise risk assessment. For this, we apply a sliding window detector which employs a cascaded classifier to obtain windows in images patches.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our system yields sufficient results on facade images of several countries showing its general applicability despite regional and architectural variation in the facades’ and windows’ appearance. In an ensuing case study, we assess the risk of damages to structures based on detections of our system using different analysis methods.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉We contrast these results to assessments using manually gathered data. Hereby, we show that the detection rate of our proposed system is sufficient for a reliable estimation of a structure’s damage class.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉This paper explores the potential for using remotely sensed data from a combination of commercial and open-sources, to improve the functionality, accuracy of energy-use calculations and visualisation of carbon emissions. We present a study demonstrating the use of LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) data and aerial imagery for a mixed-use inner urban area within the North East of England and how this can improve the quality of input data for modelling standardised energy uses and carbon emissions. We explore the scope of possible input data for both (1) building geometry and (2) building physics models from these sources.〈/p〉 〈p〉We explain the significance of improved data accuracy for the assessment of heat-loss parameters, orientation, and shading and renewable energy micro-generation. We also highlight the limitations around the sole use of remotely sensed data and how these concerns can be partially addressed through combinations with (1) open-source property data, such as age, occupancy, tenure and (2) existing stakeholder data sets, including building services and measured performance. We set out some of the technical challenges; addressed through data approximation (considering data quality and metadata protocols) and a combination of automated or manual processing; in the use, adaptation, and transferability of this data. We elucidate how the output can be visualised and be supported by many of industry-standard CAD, GIS, and BIM software applications hence, broadening the scope for real-world applications. We demonstrate the support of commercial interest and potential drawing evidence from primary market research regarding the principal applications, functionality, and output.〈/p〉 〈p〉In summary, we conclude on the benefits in the use of remotely sensed data for improved accuracy in energy use and carbon emission calculations, the need for semantic integration of mixed data sources and the importance of output visualisation.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Lighting simulation tools are extending the functionality of Building Information Modeling (BIM) authoring software applications to support the lighting design analysis of buildings. Although such tools enable quantitative and qualitative analysis and visualization of indoor lighting, they do not provide an interactive environment between users and the design context. Moreover, their visualization environments do not allow users to experience visual phenomena such as glare. In addition, lighting energy consumption generated from traditional tools is often separated from the 3D virtual context of the building. Therefore, an incorrect interpretation by designers regarding the relationship between their desirable lighting design and energy feedback may occur.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉This research proposes a method and develops a BIM-based lighting design feedback (BLDF) prototype system for realistic visualization of lighting condition and the calculation of energy consumption.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The results of a case study revealed that BLDF supports design stakeholders to better perceive and optimize lighting conditions in order to achieve a higher degree of satisfaction in terms of lighting design and energy savings for future occupants.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉The developed system utilizes an interactive and immersive virtual reality (VR) environment to simulate daylighting and the illumination of artificial lights in buildings and visualizes realistic VR scenes using head mounted displays (HMD). BLDF allows users to interact with design objects, to change them, and to compare multiple design scenarios, and provides real-time lighting quality and energy consumption feedback.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Technological developments and globalized working processes have transformed the building process. However, current digital semantic building models no longer adequately represent the increasing complexity of modern building projects. The potential of combining agent-based and graph-based methods, for example for energy calculations or spatial research strategies, is not fully exploited.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉In our system, users search for building floorplans, for example as sources of inspiration, by creating conceptual hand-drawn sketches of building parts on multi-touch devices. The sketch is analyzed and used to query a federated database system comprising a building information model server, the graph database neo4j and the content management system mediaTUM. Users interact with client applications that show and continuously update a list of floorplans by sending queries to a central coordinator service. In the paper, we describe the coordinator that enables our databases to appear as a single smart information system to search for digital information about buildings and visualize their floorplans. The application case comprises search by drawing the initial design idea of a building to find similar floorplans e.g. as source of inspiration.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our federated database system is queried using semantic building floorplan fingerprints, which are formalized as graphs and encoded in a common schema, like our AGraphML, to represent spatial configurations and perform graph matching. As graph matching is computationally expensive, the coordinator needs to analyze the queries, separate different fingerprints and metadata and pass it to specialized agents, implemented as microservices, for processing. The returned result sets are combined and the results are visualized. The use of multiple agents facilitates the recombination of the data from the underlying disparate data sources and also serves to support different execution strategies which are chosen using properties of the query and a set of predefined rules.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉To deal with complex and dynamic queries, as well as dynamic results that are updated while some agents are still executing, a caching framework was developed which takes the similarity measures of the graph-based building representation into account when determining query equality.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉With the rising adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the AEC sector, computational models supersede traditional ways of information provision based on textual documents and two-dimensional drawings. The use of models enables the streamlining of workflows, and the included virtual construction increases the quality of the final product, the building. To create a comprehensive description of a planned building, information from different sources must be combined, specified and regularly updated by the project’s stakeholders. The emerging models are highly structured, and instance files entail large amounts of data. However, in an unprocessed state, these models are of limited suitability for performing engineering tasks as the amount and structure does not match the domain-specific and purpose-oriented views.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Selection and filtering data for the user’s needs is a well-understood task in computer science, and various approaches are available. A promising approach is the usage of formal query languages. In this paper, selected common query languages are examined and assessed for processing building model information. Based on the analysis, we come to the conclusion that textual query languages are too complex to be employed by typical end users in the construction industry such as architects and engineers.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉To overcome this issue, two Visual Programming Languages representing a new, more intuitive mechanism for data retrieval are introduced. The first one, QL4BIM, is designed for general filtering of IFC models, the second one, VCCL, has been developed for Code Compliance Checking. Both languages provide operators based on the Relational Algebra to allow handling of relations - a highly required feature of BIM QLs.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉The paper concludes with a discussion of the strengths and limitations of visual programming languages in the BIM context.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Injuries and fatalities resulting from work place accidents remain a global concern within the construction and engineering sectors. Education and training of personnel are two of the primary approaches for establishing a safe work environment. Virtual Environments (VE) are being increasingly investigated as a complementary approach for safety learning. Despite the proliferation of VE studies for safety learning, there is still limited evidence about their effectiveness or benefits, extent of coverage of the risk management process, and limitations.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉This articles poses the following research questions: (1) are VE providing an effective learning means to address safety risks in construction and engineering sectors?, (2) what are the areas that require improvement?, and (3) to what extent are VE addressing the established risk management process (i.e., risk identification, risk evaluation, risk response planning, and risk monitoring and control)? To address these the research questions, this research employs: (a) a systematic literature review and analysis of VE studies for safety learning; and (b) a gap analysis technique.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The findings suggest: (a) the evidence of the effectiveness of VE as an intervention for safety learning across the entirety of the risk management process are still limited; (b) ‘risk identification’, where learners improve their abilities to spot hazards, is the most investigated phase in the risk management process, (c) VE applications in other risk management phases (i.e. ‘risk evaluation’, ‘risk response planning’, and ‘risk monitoring and controlling’) receive very limited attention compared to the risk identification phase.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉The areas of recommendations for future research included the need to: (a) intensify real-life observational studies to provide evidence about the comparative performance of learners in VE against those of learners by other means through the setting of control groups; (b) extend studies to, and concurrently address, all the risk management phases; (b) intensify studies in other sectors including chemical, oil and gas, and manufacturing; (d) address human factors such as communication, language and cognitive distraction. An analysis of the limitations of current VE studies in each of the recommendation areas accompanied with suggestions for future research is proposed.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Offshore oil and gas platforms generally have a lifetime of 30 to 40 years, and platform decommissioning is a major issue because many of the existing offshore oil and gas platforms are reaching the end of their service life. There are many possible options for decommissioning offshore oil and gas platforms, and each decommissioning option can be implemented using different methods and technologies. Therefore, it is necessary to have a clear understanding and in-depth evaluation of each decommissioning option before commencing platform decommissioning. 4D and 5D building information modeling (BIM) has been commonly used in the building industry to analyze constructability and to evaluate different construction or demolition plans. However, application of BIM in the oil and gas industry, especially for the platform decommissioning process, is still limited.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉This paper suggests and demonstrates the application of 4D and 5D BIM technology to simulate various methodologies to realize various selected offshore platform decommissioning options, thereby visualizing and evaluating different options, considering both the time and resources required for decommissioning process. One hundred and seventy-seven offshore platform decommissioning options are summarized in this paper. A new approach to create multiple 4D/5D BIM models in a semi-automated manner for evaluating various scenario options of OOGP decommissioning was proposed to reduce the model creation time as current way of 4D/5D BIM model creation for each OOGP decommissioning option is time consuming.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉In the proposed approach, an OOGP BIM model relationship database that contains possible 4D/5D BIM model relationships (i.e. schedules for different decommissioning methods) for different parts of an OOGP was generated. Different OOGP decommissioning options can be simulated and visualized with 4D/5D BIM models created by automatically matching schedules, resources, cost information and 3D BIM models. This paper also presents an illustrative example of the proposed approach, which simulates and evaluates two decommissioning options of a fixed jacket platform, namely Rig-to-Reef and Removal-to-Shore. As compared to the traditional approach of 4D/5D BIM model generation, the proposed semi-automated approach reduces the model generation time by 58.8% in the illustrative example.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉The proposed approach of semi-automated 4D/5D BIM model creation can help understand the implication of different decommissioning options as well as applied methods, detecting potential lifting clashes, and reducing 4D/5D BIM model creation time, leading to better planning and execution for the decommissioning of offshore oil and gas platforms. In addition, with the proposed semi-automated approach, the 4D/5D BIM model can be generated in a more efficient manner.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉The effective 3D manipulation, comprehension, and control of 3D objects on computers are well-established lasting problems, which include a display aspect, a control aspect, and a spatial coupling between control input and visual output aspect, which is a debatable issue. Most existing control interfaces are located in front of the display. This requires users to imagine that manipulated objects that are actually behind the display exist in front of the display.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉In this research, a Rear-Screen and Kinesthetic Vision 3D Manipulator is proposed for manipulating models on laptops. In contrast to the front-screen setup of a motion controller, it tracks a user’s hand motion behind screens, coupling the actual interactive space with the perceived visual space. In addition, Kinesthetic Vision provides a dynamic perspective of objects according to a user’s sight, by tracking the position of their head, in order to obtain depth perception using the “motion parallax” effect.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉To evaluate the performance of “rear-screen interaction” and Kinesthetic Vision, an experiment was conducted to compare the front-screen setup, the rear-screen setup with Kinesthetic Vision, and the rear-screen setup without it. Subjects were asked to grasp and move a cube from a fixed starting location to a target location in each trial. There were 20 designated target locations scattered in the interactive space. The moving time and distance were recorded during experiments. In each setup, subjects were asked to go through five trial blocks, including 20 trials in each block. The results show that there are significant differences in the moving efficiency by repeated measures ANOVA.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉The Rear-Screen and Kinesthetic Vision setup gives rise to better performance, especially in the depth direction of movements, where path length is reduced by 24%.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Introduction〈/h3〉 〈p〉A successful project delivery based on building information modeling (BIM) methods is interdependent on an efficient collaboration. This relies mainly on the visualization of a BIM model, which can appear on different mediums. Visualization on mediums such as computer screens, lack some degrees of immersion which may prevent the full utilization of the model. Another problem with conventional collaboration methods such as BIM-Big room, is the need of physical presence of participants in a room. Virtual Reality as the most immersive medium for visualizing a model, has the promise to become a regular part of construction industry. The virtual presence of collaborators in a VR environment, eliminates the need of their physical presence. Simulation of on-site task can address a number of issues during construction, such as feasibility of operations. As consumer VR tools have recently been available in the market, little research has been done on their actual employment in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) practices.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Case description〈/h3〉 〈p〉This paper investigates the application of a VR based workflow in a real project. The authors collaborated with a software company to evaluate some of their advanced VR software features, such as simulation of an on-site task. A case study of VR integrated collaboration workflow serves as an example of how firms can overcome the challenge of benefiting this new technology. A group of AEC professionals involved in a project were invited to take part in the experiment, utilizing their actual project BIM models.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Discussion and evaluation〈/h3〉 〈p〉The results of the feedbacks from the experiment confirmed the supposed benefits of a VR collaboration method. Although the participants of the study were from a wide range of disciplines, they could find benefits of the technology in their practice. It also resulted that an experimental method of clash detection via simulation, could actually be practical.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉The simulation of on-site tasks and perception of architectural spaces in a 1:1 scale are assets unique to VR application in AEC practices. Nevertheless, the study shows the investment in new hardware and software, and resistant against adoption of new technologies are main obstacles of its wide adoption. Further works in computer industry is required to make these technologies more affordable.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉The Internet of Things (IoT) is an interconnected network of objects which range from simple sensors to smartphones and tablets; it is a relatively novel paradigm that has been rapidly gaining ground in the scenario of modern wireless telecommunications with an expected growth of 25 to 50 billion of connected devices for 2020 Due to the recent rise of this paradigm, authors across the literature use inconsistent terms to address the devices present in the IoT, such as mobile device, smart device, mobile technologies or mobile smart device. Based on the existing literature, this paper chooses the term smart device as a starting point towards the development of an appropriate definition for the devices present in the IoT. This investigation aims at exploring the concept and main features of smart devices as well as their role in the IoT. This paper follows a systematic approach for reviewing compendium of literature to explore the current research in this field. It has been identified smart devices as the primary objects interconnected in the network of IoT, having an essential role in this paradigm. The developed concept for defining smart device is based on three main features, namely context-awareness, autonomy and device connectivity. Other features such as mobility and user-interaction were highly mentioned in the literature, but were not considered because of the nature of the IoT as a network mainly oriented to device-to-device connectivity whether they are mobile or not and whether they interact with people or not. What emerges from this paper is a concept which can be used to homogenise the terminology used on further research in the Field of digitalisation and smart technologies.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Visibility Graph Analysis (VGA) is a space syntax method for quantifying some socio-spatial properties of the built environment by mapping the floor plan into a grid. Presently, VGA mainly relies on mean values of the measures while the individual room-to-room (“interspatial”) relations are not considered or achievable by the common VGA software – depthMapX.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉A new software package, Viraph, is developed using a weighed Dijkstra algorithm to calculate depths. The floor plan is mapped into convex areas to increase the speed of calculation. The interspatial relations are calculated by averaging the point-to-point depths in-between.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The effectiveness of Viraph is demonstrated through a case study, which compares the houses from the late Victorian era with Wright’s Prairie style with a detailed analysis of Francis Little House (designed in 1902). In summary, Viraph has showed a significantly higher calculation speed for VGA, and capability of capturing some socio-spatial relations of the styles by measuring the interspatial depth. 〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Viraph’s improved speed for measurement has made VGA analysis more accessible for general design researchers and practitioners. Further this paper shows that the added feature of measuring the interspatial depth opens a new perspective for enhancing traditional space syntax analysis.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉The construction industry is responsible for 50% of the solid waste generated worldwide. Governments around the world formulate legislation and regulations concerning recycling and re-using building materials, aiming to reduce waste and environmental impact. Researchers have also been developing strategies and models of waste management for construction and demolition of buildings. The application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is an example of this. BIM is emergent technology commonly used to maximize the efficiency of design, construction and maintenance throughout the entire lifecycle. The uses of BIM on deconstruction or demolition are not common; especially the fixtures and fittings of buildings are not considered in BIM models. The development of BIM is based on two-dimensional drawings or sketches, which may not be accurately converted to 3D BIM models. In addition, previous researches mainly focused on construction waste management. There are few studies about the deconstruction waste management focusing on demolition. To fill this gap, this paper aims to develop a framework using a reconstructed 3D model with BIM, for the purpose of improving BIM accuracy and thus developing a deconstruction waste management system to improve demolition efficiency, effective recycling and cost savings. In particular, the developed as-built BIM will be used to identify and measure recyclable materials, as well as to develop a plan for the recycling process.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉With advances in technologies that enabled massive visual data collection and BIM, the AEC industry now has an unprecedented amount of visual data (e.g., images and videos) and BIMs. One of the past efforts to leverage these data includes the Construction Material Library (CML) that was created for inferring construction progress by automatically detecting construction materials. CML has a limited number of construction material classes because it is merely impossible for an individual or a group of researchers to collect all possible variations of construction materials.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉This paper proposes a web-based platform that streamlines the data collection process for creating annotated material patches guided by BIM overlays.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Result〈/h3〉 〈p〉Construction site images with BIM overlays are automatically generated after image-based 3D reconstruction. These images are deployed on a web-based platform for annotations.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉The proposed crowdsourcing method using this platform has potential to scale up data collection for expanding the existing CML. A case study was conducted to validate the feasibility of the proposed method and to improve the web interface before deployment to a public cloud environment.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉If unprocessed natural materials are the most environmentally friendly construction materials available, how do we develop and communicate design model and construction information that allows dealing with their volatile indeterminacies?〈/p〉 〈p〉This paper discusses the design and development of the ‘ZCB Bamboo Pavilion’, a 30-metres-spanning, light-weight, bending-active gridshell from hand-tied bamboo poles, as a case study for the computational design and building information modelling of nonstandard architecture where both applied materials and employed craftsmanship are highly unpredictable in terms of accuracy and precision.〈/p〉 〈p〉Reflective practice and participatory action research are used to extract knowledge on and challenge the environment of practice, and improve design and construction strategies. The project is used to discuss how traditional construction can be augmented through the strategic injection of computation in the design and construction process, how computation allows for a different mode of collaboration with increased impact for the designer, and how bespoke building information models enable an expanded architectural design solution space.〈/p〉 〈p〉The paper concludes by arguing for a mode of digital design practice that more proactively operates within a field of real-world indeterminacy. The risk and ambiguity of working with indeterminacies are to be strategically balanced out against idealised digital set-ups and onsite opportunities.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Construction companies typically work on many projects simultaneously each with its own objectives and resource demands. Consequently, a key managerial function is to allocate financial, equipment, and human resources between these concurrent projects in a way that satisfies the individual project constraints while optimizing the company’s overall objectives.〈/p〉 〈p〉Project portfolio management is concerned with managing multiple projects to accomplish strategic goals. The main concentrations of research so far have been project selection, prioritization and alignment of a portfolio with strategic goals among a pool of awarded projects. The objective of this research is to develop a model capable of generating representative future streams of projects that can be used to assist in strategic planning and portfolio management.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉This paper reports on an on-going research project aimed at developing and validating a stochastic model of streams of uncertain and unknown future projects and to demonstrate the significance and implications of such uncertainties on project portfolio and strategic planning. The scope of the research is Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) projects. Records of the past 12 years letting information combined with a pool of candidate variables is analyzed to capture characteristics of the time series data and to determine any project characteristic correlations with macroeconomic factors.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The performances of the various model components presented indicate the viability of an integrated project stream forecaster that predicts, within a simulation environment, the frequencies of projects and empirical distributions of project duration and cost.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉The gap in the current body of knowledge is a lack of consideration of the effects of uncertainties associated with future projects, both known (but yet to be awarded to a contractor) and unknown (although statistically quantifiable). It is evident that companies should not just focus on current known projects but also uncertain and unknown future projects. Such a capability, looking into the future, is key to the effective medium and long-term strategic planning for the company. Contractors can, for example, use these stochastic streams of data to test different bidding strategies and to see how sensitive the performance of their portfolio is to changes in different market factors.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Introduction〈/h3〉 〈p〉Given that the nanoscale regime has been reached, atomistic simulations are being used as predictive tools on a nanoscopic scale in nanoelectronics, materials science, and computational fluid dynamics. These simulations are generally supported by complex and specific simulation engines that require a deep knowledge of the engine as well as the field. The inputs required by these engines are usually described in long-text files, and their composition is error prone. These files contain details about the corresponding materials, geometries, algorithms, initial values, etc. The introduction of visualizations to the simulation creation process could alleviate some common user issues with simulation creation, in particular regarding the input-text files. In other fields, visual analytics have been used to facilitate user interaction with complex data. This work features a case study on the creation of a nanoelectronic device simulation and provides evidence of how the use of visual analytics reduces the cognitive complexity of defining an atomistic simulation.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Case description〈/h3〉 〈p〉NEMO5 is a tool designed to simulate the electronic properties of nanoelectronic devices on an atomistic level. In this work we introduce NemoViz, an interactive visualization tool that enables users to define the simulation inputs required by NEMO5. Regular NEMO5 users were exposed to NemoViz, and users’ effectiveness and efficiency was measured while debugging the input for a simulation.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Discussion and Evaluation〈/h3〉 〈p〉The results of this work show that NemoViz reduced the time that users spent defining the inputs of a NEMO5 simulation. When using NemoViz, Expert NEMO5 users detected errors twice as fast as when NemoViz was not used, and non-expert NEMO5 users were able to detect errors as effectively and efficiently as expert users.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉These results suggest that the use of visual analytics as a simulation design process tool reduces the cognitive load of complex simulators such as NEMO5. Users’ interaction with visualization facilitates their understanding of output results and input descriptors, which may lead to new research codes from their widespread user base.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Within the current organization of design activities it is difficult to fully realize the potential of BIM (Building Information Modelling). In BIM processes, it is necessary to identify and exchange the specific information that is relevant in the exchange information requirements of each project. The concept of level of detail of the information is a tool for describing and quantifying the information that should be exchanged. But the existing definitions of level of detail of information are not easily usable. Precise definitions of methodology, tools and principles are needed to redefine this concept and to use it in order to define the elements of information that are relevant to be exchanged.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉The authors propose the use of System Engineering and Requirements Engineering to define BIM uses and the relevant level of detail of information and its modelling concerned by each BIM use. The authors first explain why, in this context, the existing definitions of LOD, which can mean level of detail, level of development, level of definition, etc., are not sufficient and not always coherent. They demonstrate through real use cases that System Engineering and Requirement Engineering are a part of this methodology and propose, using formalisms, to describe each BIM use in detail.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The authors apply two different approaches to defining the relevant information to each BIM use. Using a top-down conceptual approach they show that Level Of Detail (LOD) is a crucial element in defining the content of a BIM use. They then verify the practicality of their proposal using a bottom-up approach based on three use cases (acoustic studies, safety audit, sizing drainage system). These cases studies allow the authors to address different kinds of systems and objects within a whole infrastructure project. They represent domain use cases (acoustic and drainage) and coordination use cases (safety audit). This part of the work is based on the L2 project in Marseille, which is a Public Private Partnership for expressways.〈/p〉 〈p〉As a result, a methodology is proposed both to redefine the level of detail of information concept and to describe how this concept is used to complete the BIM uses definition. The system engineering and requirement engineering methods are partially adapted to infrastructure projects. These elements facilitate the description of BIM uses expected in BIM Execution Plans. It was necessary to change the definitions of LOD in order to make them compatible with the methods of requirement management.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Design activities should be reorganized toward the common goal of meeting project needs and requirements. The authors demonstrate that the best way to meet requirements is to define BIM uses using a new definition of the level of detail of information. It has first to consider requirements that have to be reached through BIM and then define the relevant level of detail of information, using the concept of abstraction of reality. To do it well, applying system engineering and requirement engineering, adapted to infrastructure project, is required. To validate this proposal on an entire project, more use cases will be tested in further work.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Contemporary communication mediums in isolation have reached a technological plateau, proximal communication is no longer limited by spatial or technological constraints. However, integration of communication mediums and their application in pedagogy do not appear to receive the attention they deserve outwith marketing and social psychology research. This is to the determinant of AEC industries where the forefront of proximal communication extends to video conferencing and high latency sharing of open standard models. Underutilisation is not just a missed opportunity; it is the source of many cascading conflicts, trust issues and delivery failures in in AEC projects. Although effective communication will not resolve all problems, those associated with its absence are unnecessarily endemic. Through discussion of the antecedents of trust and the social presence principles that underpin effective communication, this paper proposes the next disruptive innovation in industry should be a paradigm shift in its approach to communication.〈/p〉

Description: Background For construction management, data collection is a critical process for gathering and measuring information for the evaluation and control of ongoing project performances. Taking into account that construction involves a significant amount of manual work, worker monitoring can play a key role in analyzing operations and improving productivity and safety. However, time-consuming tasks involved in field observation have brought up the issue of implementing worker observation in daily management practice. Methods In an effort to address the issue, this paper investigates the performances of a cost-effective and portable RGB-D sensor, based on recent research efforts extended from our previous study. The performance of an RGB-D sensor is evaluated in terms of (1) the 3D positions of the body parts tracked by the sensor, (2) the 3D rotation angles at joints, and (3) the impact of the RGB-D sensor’s accuracy on motion analysis. For the assessment, experimental studies were undertaken to collect motion capture datasets using an RGB-D sensor and a marker-based motion capture system, VICON, and to analyze errors as compared with the VICON used as the ground truth. As a test case, 25 trials of ascending and descending during ladder climbing were recorded simultaneously with both systems, and the resulting motion capture datasets (i.e., 3D skeleton models) were temporally and spatially synchronized for their comparison. Results Through the comparative assessment, we found a discrepancy of 10.7 cm in the tracked locations of body parts, and a difference of 16.2 degrees in rotation angles. However, motion detection results show that the inaccuracy of an RGB-D sensor does not have a considerable effect on action recognition in the experiment. Conclusions This paper thus provides insight into the accuracy of an RGB-D sensor on motion capture in various measures and directions of further research for the improvement of accuracy.

Description: Background Recently multi-use environmental sensors became affordable and easy to control. This improvement enabled us to measure the broad range of indoor environments by using low-priced and controllable sensor devices. As the data set acquired by widely installed environmental sensors increased significantly, the need for making effective use of the data has become of importance. We developed an integrated visualization mechanism to express larger amounts of sensor data. Method The mechanism for visualization on floor plan described in this paper consists of the following modules: 1) the sensor module; 2) the data collection module; 3) the data processing module; 4) the spatial data module; 5) the sensor location module; and 6) the data visualization module. A demonstration following the mechanism is introduced in this paper for evaluating the integrated visualization approach. We set up a test-purposed and versatile toolkit that is cheaper, smaller and more controllable than conventional tools. We collect indoor environmental data set composed of sequential numeric data so as to use them as parameters for visualization. We inspected three major issues in the process: 1) indoor temperature data of a specific room collected at a second interval; 2) such a data set can be varied by subdivided spots of interest using multiple toolkits; 3) as a result, the collection of data is regarded as one type of parameter for visualization on top of the room's floor plan, e.g. a sudden change of sequential numbers. Results Indoor environment such as temperature changes are shown as colors overlapped on the floor plan. In this way it may be easier to understand the state of indoor environment and factors which influence the environment. The floor plan based visualization of an indoor environmental element seems intuitive compared to just listing the numeric information. Conclusion This paper introduces and demonstrates an integrated approach for visualizing the indoor environment on a floor plan with an actual test case. Combined with the building model, the visualized data can be used for recognition of the factors affecting to the target environmental element. We expect floor plan-based visualization to be used for decision-making.

Description: Background Accessibility is a critical issue in site planning. A good accessibility plan can avoid possible conflicts involving equipment and allows for smooth transportation during the entire project. It can also ensure that sufficient space is available so that all onsite equipment, such as trucks, cranes and excavators can be safely operated. In current practice, the evaluation of accessibility is done manually, relying heavily on the experience of the construction planners. However, the evaluation needs to deal with temporal and spatial information simultaneously, which make the manual evaluations very challenging. Methods This research develops a sandbox environment for construction planners. As tractor-trailers are usually critical in accessibility evaluations, the simulation specifically focuses on these two-section vehicles. Four major steps were involved: Step 1: deriving a generic tractor-trailer mathematical model allowing real-time, physics-based computer simulation; Step 2: digitalizing a 2D site plan to the 3D virtual environment; Step 3: developing evaluation methods for accessibility, considering both safety and operability; Step 4: visualizing the evaluation results. We implemented these four steps using Microsoft XNA (a game platform) and Nvidia PhysX (a game engine). An example case is presented which uses the sandbox environment to evaluate the accessibility of a construction site. Results From the case study, we found that realistic visualizations and simulations provide solid references for construction planners. They are able to identify potential accessibility problems and unsafe situations in the sandbox environment and avoid them early on in the design and planning stages. Conclusion This paper proposed an innovative approach for evaluating accessibility during pre-construction site layout planning. It can present an intuitive and easily understood visualization result which clearly indicated the unsafe parts of the site layout plan.

Description: Background Taiwan experiences typhoons annually and the heavy rain accompanies a typhoon often causes flooding and damage. Local decision-makers invest heavily in flood-prevention measures thus need to allocate resources wisely to minimize the destruction. As floods periodically cause tremendous damage to lives and property, passing on the learning of previous generations becomes important. Disaster education is therefore critical in the region. However, the current disaster education curriculum follows a traditional education methodology focusing on theoretical and conceptual knowledge and teaching. An alternative methodology is needed to motivate students and to deliver practical experience in disaster education. Method This study adopted a persuasive technology game-initiated-learning (GIL) and developed a Flood Protection game to understanding the following: (1) students’ motivation for learning, (2) their ability to play the game, and (3) their focus on disaster topics. To evaluate their levels of motivation, students’ reactions were analyzed and categorized into four specific expressions: discussion, question, laughter, and screaming. Students’ game playing ability was analyzed and categorized into four stages: explore, aware, fluent, and known. Finally, the content of students’ discussions and questions were analyzed to assess their interest in disaster education. Results Students’ levels of motivation were found to be high (an average of 2.3 instances of discussion, 0.7 instances of question, 1.3 instances of laughter, and 0.8 instances of screaming were observed per minute during the game); their ability to play the game was sufficient (79% of students completed the game having reached the “known” stage); and the content of their discussions and questions was closely related to disaster knowledge (73% of the 256 discussions and questions related closely to flood and disaster knowledge). Conclusions From this research, we find that GIL is a persuasive design in flood protection training. Students with low motivation in conventional learning environments were triggered after playing the game. It enhanced students’ motivation to learn more about flooding. In short, the game does benefit flood disaster education, indicating that a well-designed game may promote students’ motivation in disaster education and cause behavior change.

Description: Background Three-dimensional (3D) modeling and visualization of temporary site facilities is instrumental in revealing potential space conflicts and refining time and cost estimates. This research focuses on implementation of photo-based 3D modeling in a time-dependent, dynamically-changing context. Methods We propose a cost-effective modeling technique to obtain dynamic dimension measurements of a moving object. The methodology resulting from integrating photo-based 3D modeling and robotic total station tracking technologies better caters to the application needs of visualization and measurement in construction that are critical to operational safety and structural accuracy. The computational foundation of photogrammetry is first addressed then the modeling procedure and the system design described. Results In a module assembly yard, a rigging system being lifted by a mobile crane was identified as the moving object. The length and the length changes of twelve slings on a newly-engineered rigging system at different stateswere measured in order to ensure quality and safety. Conclusion The proposed technique relies on utilizing two robotic total stations and three cameras and provides a simple, safe and effective solution to monitor the dimensional changes of a temporary facility in the construction field.

Description: Background Pipeline maintenance is becoming an important issue in modern construction and building information model (BIM) research. An understanding of pipeline accessibility considerations in terms of operation and maintenance is essential for planning and management. Previous studies have highlighted the complexity of multi-pipes including mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) pipelines and the importance of information visualization, but few have proposed a way to consider accessibility problems during operation and maintenance. Methods Therefore, this study develops a systematic method to evaluate accessibility with respect to pipeline maintenance. We first divided pipeline accessibility into three categories: (1) visual accessibility—the visibility for an inspector to view; (2) approachable accessibility—the difficulty for an inspector to approach; and (3) operational accessibility—the pipeline that can be operated by the inspectors. We created mathematical models and discussed the ergonomic details about each category. We then developed a user interface, VAO Checker, in which V, A and O stand for visual, approachable and operational respectively, to display visual information about pipeline accessibility. Through instantaneous analysis, the system visualizes the accessibility of the pipelines. We visually represent the intersection and union of these three categories to illustrate the varying accessibility of pipe elements. Results A usability test was conducted to validate the system's effectiveness. The results of the usability analysis show that users have higher correctness when using VAO Checker than 2D plan drawing and 3D model, and they evaluate the performance of this tool better than 2D plan drawing. Conclusion Pipeline designers can benefit by using this tool to sketch a suitable traffic flow for engineers to investigate. Furthermore, the substantial amount of information saved in the layout database could be referenced for future optimization.

Description: Background The emerging Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC)/Facility Management (FM) industry promotes life cycle process and collaborative way of working. Currently, many efforts have been contributed for professional integrated design/construction/maintenance process, there are very few practical methods that can enable a professional designer to effectively interact and collaborate with end-users/clients on a functional level. Method This paper tries to address the issue via the utilisation of computer game software combined with Building Information Modelling (BIM). Game-engine technology is used due to its intuitive controls, immersive 3D technology and network capabilities that allow for multiple simultaneous users. BIM has been specified due to the growing trend in industry for the adoption of the design method and the 3D nature of the models, which suit a game engine’s capabilities. Results The prototype system created in this paper is based around a designer creating a structure using BIM and this being transferred into the game engine automatically through a two-way data transferring channel. This model is then used in the game engine across a number of network connected client ends to allow end-users to change/add elements to the design, and those changes will be synchronized back to the original design conducted by the professional designer. The system has been tested for its robustness and functionality against the development requirements, and the results showed promising potential to support more collaborative and interactive design process. Conclusion It was concluded that this process of involving the end-user could be very useful in certain circumstances to better elaborate the end user’s requirement to design team in real time and in an efficient way.

Description: Background In recent years, the population structure in Taiwan has changed so dramatically. Based on concerns of social welfare issues, Taiwanese government began to seek principles for assessment of disability. After seven years of carefully evaluation, the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (Abbreviated to ICF) is officially adopted as Taiwan’s assessment standard while most of the assessment procedures of ICF are sophisticated, and time consuming. In this paper, we propose a sensor based decision supporting system for ICF. Our prototype system aims to reduce the burden of medical staffs, and to assist subjects to perform the assessments. Methods This paper integrate multiple devices including ASUS XtionTM, temperature/acceleration/gyro sensors on Arduino, and Zigbee to measure the mobility of limbs and joints. The subject’s log of assessments is then recorded in the database so that the medical staffs can remote-monitor the co ndition of subjects immediately, and analyze the results later. Additionally, in our system, a user-friendly interface is implemented for the detection of dementia. Results In this paper, three experiments have been conducted for different purpose. The experiment was conducted to compare the variation between thermometer and our device. Moreover, we invited 20 elders aged for 65 to 80 to use our system and all of them gave positive feedback. Two elders were invited to perform full assessment for dementia and the results show that both of them didn’t have sign of dementia. Also, the assessment of joint movement was performed by a 67 year-old elder and the result shows that the elder had well physical function and could take care of daily life. Conclusions The proposed system has potential for aiding users to perform the ICF testing better and provide benefits to medical staffs and society. With current technology, integration between sensor network systems and artificial intelligence approaches will more and more important. We develop a simple interface for user to manipulate and perform the ICF assessment. In addition, the early detection of dementia likely has the potential to provide patients with an increased level of precaution, which may improve quality of life.

Description: Background This research aims to improve the urban excavation safety by creating an uncertainty-aware, geospatial augmented reality (AR) to visualize and monitor the proximity between invisible utilities and digging implements. Excavation is the single largest cause of utility strikes. Utility strikes could be prevented if the excavator operator were able to “see” buried utilities and excavator movement, and judge the proximity between them in real time. Geospatial augmented reality (AR) is an enabling technology for such knowledge-based excavation. It synergizes the geospatial utility locations and the excavator movement into a real-time, three-dimensional (3D) spatial context accessible to excavator operators. The key to its success is the quality of the utility location data. Methods This paper describes a dynamic approach to incorporate positional uncertainties of buried utilities into an uncertainty-aware, geospatial-AR system for real time visualization and proximity analysis. Uncertainties are modeled as probability bands (e.g. spatial bands with certain probabilities of enclosing the “true” location of utilities). Positional uncertainties are derived in real time by referring to its determinant, data lineage, the genesis and processes used to collect and interpret data. Results A computational framework, and a generic data model and its XML-format implementation are developed and tested. A method is developed to analyze the proximity in the context of positional uncertainties of both the utilities and the excavator movement. Conclusions This newly created approach is expected to contribute to the safety in urban excavation via the integration of Geoinformatics and construction informatics into an uncertainty-aware, geospatial-AR, with real time visualization and analytical capabilities.

Description: Background Mobile cranes overturn due to excessive lifting, heavy wind, or when appropriate ground contact pressure is not secured. Such accidents can be prevented by reviewing the force conveyed from the outrigger to the ground upon lifting, as well as the soil bearing force. The stability review of mobile crane overturn is classified into the following stages: reviewing lifting conditions, mobile crane selection and reviewing ground contact stability. However, a precise review of ground contact stability requires expertise and is extremely time-consuming. Thus, this study develops automatic design algorithms for securing the ground stability of mobile cranes for easy and quick stability reviews. Methods The stability review method and the algorithm models are created in connection with the proposed conceptual process. The algorithms proposed in this study conduct simulations for all possible candidate cases, save the results in a database, review practical alternatives, and select the solution that minimizes cost. To verify the effectiveness of the automatic design model, a case project was selected and the algorithm was applied assuming several conditions. Results Developed algorithms can select candidate cranes according to lifting conditions and design plates through simulations easily and quickly, and design components required for ground contact plate design are collected to build the database that allows easier and quicker stability review. Conclusion The algorithms proposed in this study conduct simulations for all possible candidate cases, save the results in a database, review practical alternatives, and select the solution that minimizes cost. Developed processes are useful for analyzing correlations of mobile crane performance, ground contact and soil bearing force reinforcement designs and so forth, and for systematically selecting optimal mobile cranes.