Simulation of Construction Processes as a Link Between BIM Models and Construction Progression On-site

Abstract

Among Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) developed in the past decades—and successfully applied to Construction—is Building Information Modeling (BIM). One possible use of BIM models is Phase Planning (4D modeling), i.e., the integration of schedule with 3D building components of the BIM model. In addition, there is the growth in the use of: (1) technologies, such as augmented-reality equipment, to bring BIM models to the field; (2) sensor networks to feedback data about the daily progress of construction work on-site. However, the connection between 4D models, and real-world data from sensors on the construction site, to promote integration between design and construction (among other possible applications) is still in its infancy. The question addressed by this research is: how to use simulation as a link between 4D BIM models and a network of sensors on-site (off-site)? Simulation would be considered as a set of interlinked models of different construction processes, which should evolve in time based on (partial) data received from sensors. In that context, the objective of this preliminary work is to study and validate the level of detail in one construction process model, necessary to incorporate one specific type of sensor, and to quantify, even if indirectly, the amount of progression in construction work on the field. Given the availability of the ProModel software, the present research aimed to develop different models of the same construction process, with different levels of details, to draw conclusion that could be extrapolated to other processes.