Integrated digital twin and blockchain framework to support accountable information sharing in construction projects

PurposePrefabricated prefinished volumetric construction (PPVC) projects are industrialized building systems that are co-created. Thus, effective management of the involved stakeholders is required to ensure project success. However, knowledge of how best to manage the diverse stakeholders in PPVC projects is limited. This research identified and prioritized the success factors or key result areas (KRAs) for the effective stakeholder management (SM) in PPVC projects.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative research design was implemented involving a literature review and structured questionnaire survey with international PPVC experts. The research identified and statistically analysed 12 KRAs for SM in PPVC projects.FindingsAnalysis showed that the top three KRAs for SM in PPVC projects include: effective working collaboration, communication and information sharing among participants; effective coordination of the PPVC supply chain segments; and early involvement of relevant stakeholders in the PPVC project. A factor analysis clustered the 12 KRAs into stakeholder analysis and early involvement, effective communication and information sharing and stakeholder interest integration and conflict management.Practical implicationsThe paper identified and prioritized the KRAs required for the effective SM in PPVC projects. To practitioners, the results may serve as decision support on the key areas to focus to ensure effective SM in PPVC projects and may guide the efficient allocation of limited resources.Originality/valueThis research constitutes the first exclusive attempt at identifying and benchmarking the generic KRAs required for effective SM in PPVC projects and contributes to the SM body of knowledge in industrialized construction.

Download Full-text

Comparative Analysis of Conventional Formwork with Specialized Emerging Formwork Regarding Project Engineering Factors for High-rise Building

Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology ◽

10.37591/rtcet.v11i1.5486 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 11 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Deep Jayesh Mistry ◽

Amit D. Raval ◽

Jayesh R. Pitroda

Keyword(s):

Comparative Analysis ◽

Information Sharing ◽

Construction Projects ◽

Emerging Technologies ◽

Modern Technology ◽

Critical Component ◽

Construction Costs ◽

Traditional Methods ◽

High Rise ◽

Cross Border

Today, because of globalization, there have been a number of improvements in the construction of modern technology worldwide, as a result of the quick and reliable distribution of new and emerging technologies through societies worldwide and the cross-border information sharing. Shaping which helps to mount the concrete in the desired shape It is a critical component of the construction to support the loads placed on it, as well as supporting moist cement until it sets. Formwork is a significant building function that accounts for 20–25 percent of overall construction costs. As a result of using the more recent formwork techniques, it is possible to cast larger components quicker than normal, reducing the need for time and labour when opposed to traditional methods. This paper conducts a comparative analysis between current formwork technologies and recently evolving formwork systems such as aluminum formwork and jump formwork systems, which are not widely used in India, and thus suggests which approach is best for the project under consideration. To gain a better understanding of this topic, various construction projects using newly emerging formwork techniques are analyzed, and the data obtained from these projects is used to compare newly emerging formwork with traditional formwork systems.

Download Full-text

Differentiating Digital Twin from Digital Shadow: Elucidating a Paradigm Shift to Expedite a Smart, Sustainable Built Environment

Buildings ◽

10.3390/buildings11040151 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 11 (4) ◽

pp. 151

Author(s):

Samad M. E. Sepasgozar

Keyword(s):

Energy Consumption ◽

Real Time ◽

Industry 4.0 ◽

Construction Projects ◽

Data Exchange ◽

Smart Cities ◽

Information Modeling ◽

Digital Data ◽

Digital Twin ◽

Industrial Sectors

Construction projects and cities account for over 50% of carbon emissions and energy consumption. Industry 4.0 and digital transformation may increase productivity and reduce energy consumption. A digital twin (DT) is a key enabler in implementing Industry 4.0 in the areas of construction and smart cities. It is an emerging technology that connects different objects by utilising the advanced Internet of Things (IoT). As a technology, it is in high demand in various industries, and its literature is growing exponentially. Previous digital modeling practices, the use of data acquisition tools, human–computer–machine interfaces, programmable cities, and infrastructure, as well as Building Information Modeling (BIM), have provided digital data for construction, monitoring, or controlling physical objects. However, a DT is supposed to offer much more than digital representation. Characteristics such as bi-directional data exchange and real-time self-management (e.g., self-awareness or self-optimisation) distinguish a DT from other information modeling systems. The need to develop and implement DT is rising because it could be a core technology in many industrial sectors post-COVID-19. This paper aims to clarify the DT concept and differentiate it from other advanced 3D modeling technologies, digital shadows, and information systems. It also intends to review the state of play in DT development and offer research directions for future investigation. It recommends the development of DT applications that offer rapid and accurate data analysis platforms for real-time decisions, self-operation, and remote supervision requirements post-COVID-19. The discussion in this paper mainly focuses on the Smart City, Engineering and Construction (SCEC) sectors.

Download Full-text

Communication Modes Used for Information Sharing in Construction Projects of Pakistan

International Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering Research ◽

10.30534/ijeter/2021/029102021 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 9 (10) ◽

pp. 1305-1311

Keyword(s):

Information Sharing ◽

Virtual Environments ◽

Construction Industry ◽

Communication Systems ◽

Construction Projects ◽

Effective Communication ◽

Proper Understanding ◽

Phone Calls ◽

Communication Modes ◽

The Government

The construction industry is characterized as complex, fragmented, dynamic, and involves many parties. Therefore effective communication for information sharing is essential to overcome these challenges. A comprehensive review of previously published literature and questionnaire survey was done to collect this study's data. 161 responses collected from contractors, consultants, and clients were analyzed statistically. The results of the analysis reveal that the practitioners prefer to use Email, Drawings (CAD), Phone Calls, WhatsApp, and Site Meetings for communication. However, they mention that in comparison, Letters (Written Documents and Reports), Stakeholder meetings, Drawing (CAD), Site Meetings, and Phone Calls are more effective communication tools. Based on the discussion, it is summarized that important modes of communication are Drawing (CAD), Phone Calls, Site Meetings, Emails, and WhatsApp, which help in proper understanding and fast mode of communicating the messages. The respondents suggested that the government introduce and enforce the law to adopt modern communication modes for improved communication systems. Also, the practitioner should be motivated to work with virtual environments such as BIM for achieving successful projects.

Download Full-text