A hybrid framework for modeling construction operations using discrete event simulation and System Dynamics

Hani Alzraiee, Osama Moselhi, Tarek Zayed

Research output: Chapter in book / Conference proceedingConference article published in proceeding or bookAcademic researchpeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Construction projects are characterized by their dynamic nature and operational details. This paper presents a hybrid simulation methodology; designed to model construction projects. The methodology utilizes Discrete Event Simulation (DES) and System Dynamics (SD). DES has been widely used in modeling construction operations; however, it lacks the ability to model the global aspects of operations being modeled and the cause-effect relations of simulation variables. SD is utilized to circumvent these limitations. Both simulation methods provide valuable decision support but none is individually capable of capturing the holistic nature of the operation being modeled. The developed methodology integrates DES and SD to utilize their respective advantages in simulating construction operations. The developed methodology encompasses five stages: 1) identification of model objectives, 2) decision criteria to assist in selecting simulation methodology, 3) building simulation model and identification of interface variables, 4) computation framework and 5) implementation and testing. The paper describes the essential features of the developed methodology and its computational framework and focuses primarily on the modeling aspects of SD. A case study project is analyzed to demonstrate the use of the developed methodology and to highlight its capabilities.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationConstruction Research Congress 2012
Subtitle of host publicationConstruction Challenges in a Flat World, Proceedings of the 2012 Construction Research Congress
Pages1063-1073
Number of pages11
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 19 Sept 2012
Externally publishedYes
EventConstruction Research Congress 2012: Construction Challenges in a Flat World - West Lafayette, IN, United States
Duration: 21 May 201223 May 2012

Conference

ConferenceConstruction Research Congress 2012: Construction Challenges in a Flat World
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityWest Lafayette, IN
Period21/05/1223/05/12

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction

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