Construction Elements Research Articles

Dialogues with the Future: AI Socratic Exploration of Christopher Alexander’s 15 Foundational Properties for Life

Abstract Artificial Intelligence (AI) can provide novel insight into how complex lifeforms will evolve. Investigating the hypothesis that this evolution will follow the 15 fundamental properties listed in Christopher Alexander’s Nature of Order, this art project recruits AI to impersonate Socrates and domain experts to probe refutational and constructive elements as a means of facilitating meaningful discourse. The fictional dialogues and their core outcomes are transferred into AI generative visual representations. The project concludes with a synthesis of the insights gained from the exploration, providing a narrative about the Nature of Order as a vision of augmented wisdom.

Exploring the Practical Teaching Mode of Language Laboratory based on Artificial Intelligence

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, its application in the field of education is becoming more and more extensive, especially in the teaching mode of language laboratory, AI technology shows great potential and innovation space. The purpose of this paper is to explore the practical teaching mode of language lab based on artificial intelligence, and to reveal its advantages and challenges in language learning by analysing the current status of the application of AI technology in teaching. This study aims to explore the in-depth analysis of the research on the practical teaching mode of language labs based on artificial intelligence. Firstly, it introduces the problems of language labs and analyses the limitations and problems of traditional labs. Secondly, the language laboratory solution measures are elaborated in detail to construct the practical teaching mode of language laboratory based on artificial intelligence. Then, the practical teaching mode of language laboratory based on artificial intelligence is explored. Finally, the application value of the language laboratory of artificial intelligence in the aspects of linguistic research and teaching practicability is discussed. As an innovative application of educational technology, the language laboratory of artificial intelligence has a positive role in promoting the transformation of the modern language teaching mode, and provides new perspectives and methods for foreign language teaching. This paper focuses on the design and construction of the practical language teaching mode of artificial intelligence. With the rapid development of artificial intelligence technology, its application in the field of education has become increasingly widespread. In language teaching, the construction of an AI-based practical teaching model can help to improve teaching efficiency and quality and stimulate students’ interest in learning. This paper elaborates the design principles, construction elements, implementation process and effect evaluation of this teaching mode from various aspects.

Building a 4D Cell Complex Topology Through the Extrusion Process

Abstract. This paper is a step forward towards a construction of 4D cell-complex models implemented using a topological data structure, dual half-edge. This allows for explicit representation of spatial relations among objects, such as adjacency relationship, coincidence or order of construction elements, e.g. vertices and edges. A method based on extrusion is proposed. An original 2D model is extruded to 3D, where adjacent cells sharing the same face are directly linked. Then extrusion to 4D is performed. In this case individual 4D cells sharing the same 3D cell are linked together. A model is kept valid at any stage of the construction process and links among cells are automatically provided by the construction operators. Implementation is based on the 4D data structure, which is used at each stage of construction, even in intermediate models of lower dimensionality.

Through the history of the acoustic response within the theatre of Taormina: From Greek and Roman periods to our days

The ancient theatre of Taormina is considered one of the most beautiful attractions of this town. Built on top of a cliff over the Mediterranean Sea, the spectators remain captured by the suggestions that this performance arts space can still inspire. Finished to be erected in the 3rd century BC, the theatre in Hellenistic period was provided with a small temple on the top centre of the cavea. Modified by Romans based on their requirements for spectacles, the organization of this ancient theatre was amplified with the creation of a double porticus supported by a columnade, and with the extension of the scenic building. After its desuse, some construction elements of the theatre were utilized to build new structures in town, provoking significant damage to the original shape. The spectacles that nowadays are conducted within the ancient theatre are many, executed especially over summer seasons. Acoustic measurements have been carried out inside the theatre to understand the acoustic response of the existing conditions. Starting from this scenario, the values of the main acoustic parameters have been compared with the digital reconstruction of the building at the Greek and Roman period. This research study highlights the difference in the acoustic response between these two scenarios and the existing conditions, and how the acoustics during the Roman period was the most suitable for musical performances.

Beyond Permanent Residences: Measuring Place Attachment in Tempo-Local Housing Arrangements

Current societal shifts, including increased mobility, advances in information technologies, and diverse lifestyles, are driving postmodern housing arrangements that prioritize mobility and flexibility. The traditional view of housing as fixed and stable is evolving to encompass temporary forms, including multi-locality, which are often underestimated due to measurement challenges. Recognizing and integrating the potential of transient populations into urban societies is crucial to enhancing community cohesion and reducing social fragmentation. Therefore, the development of rootedness, emotional connection, and spatial identity should be analyzed in the context of temporary housing practices. Data collected through a representative survey in two major German urban regions in 2023 enable the validation of a four-dimensional place attachment scale, which includes the dimensions of place identity, place dependence, ambient bonding, and social bonding. Each dimension includes distinct elements of place-making constructions. The classification of four tempo-local housing types serves as the foundation for measuring how the temporal and spatial structure of housing arrangements influences emotional attachment to one’s place of residence. Interestingly, spatial mobility, when paired with temporal stability in each location, can cultivate deep connections, revealing an often-overlooked potential within this group. The results emphasize the significance of incorporating spatio-temporal dimensions of housing to foster inclusive, comprehensive, and diverse urban development.

Architectural Dynamics in Tolkien’s Novel, The Hobbit: A Literary and Cinematic Perspective

This study investigates the dynamic interplay between architectural elements and narrative construction in J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel The Hobbit (1937) and its cinematic adaptations directed by Peter Jackson. By focusing on both literary and cinematic mediums, this research elucidates how architectural elements contribute to world-building, character development, story progression, and thematic expression. The fantasy genre, with its potential for spatial constructs, provides fertile ground for this exploration. Through comprehensive analysis, it is revealed that Tolkien’s strategic use of spaces such as the Shire, Erebor, and the Woodland Realm enhances the narrative's depth and realism. These spaces are integral to the narrative, reflecting the cultural and moral attributes of their inhabitants and influencing the story's progression. In parallel, Jackson's films reinterpret these architectural spaces, employing cinematic techniques to amplify their visual and emotional impact. The adaptation showcases the integration of architectural elements with narrative and character development, creating a different kind of experience for viewer. This study adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from literary analysis, film studies, and architectural theory, to offer new insights into the significant role of architecture in storytelling. The research highlights how architectural principles are translated into narrative devices in literature and visual representations in film. The findings underscore the transformative potential of architectural elements in narrative construction, highlighting their importance as central components rather than mere background settings. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted relationship between architecture, literature, and film, and calls for further interdisciplinary exploration to fully appreciate the impact of spatial dynamics in narrative art.

THE UTILIZATION OF STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELLING TO DETERMINE CASUALITY ON CONSUMER DECISION OF E-WALLET

One of the technological innovations that exemplifies transactional innovation is the use of an E-Wallet as a means of carrying out financial transactions. This invention enhances transactional ease and quickness. The E-Wallet is the most popular means of financial transaction among the general population. The traditional marketing mix has developed into the product, price, place, promotion, personalization, privacy, customer service, community, site, security, and sales promotion (4Ps+P2C2S3). These criteria are used to evaluate their efficacy in persuading customers to adopt an E-Wallet. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is used to assess the causal link between e-marketing mix items and customer decisions to use E-Wallet. SEM provides the core capability of validating the validity and reliability of procedures such as Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). by investigating the pattern of linkages between latent variables and showing them with route diagrams. This study employed 200 E-Wallet users in Palembang for modeling. with the criterion of having one of the E-Wallet programs on a smartphone and having used the application at least once. According to the results of the consumer response processing. all constructs have Cronbach's Alpha (CA) > 0.60, indicating that all constructs are valid for use in measurement. As do the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) and Composite Reliability (CR) values > 0.70, indicating that the construct explains more than half of the variance coming from the indicators. Furthermore, we show the results of evaluating the causal relationship between endogenous construct elements that influence customer decisions, such as location, security, and sales promotion.

Construction Education through Virtual Reality: A Game-based Approach for Interior Architecture Students

This study investigates a novel method of instructing interior architecture students on building specifics pertaining to walls by utilizing the combination of virtual reality (VR) and game-based learning. The creation and application of a virtual reality game called "VR ConstructED," which aims to improve knowledge of wall construction methods, materials, and design consequences, is the study's focus. This project intends to improve students' understanding of wall-related construction elements and their applicability in real-world circumstances by utilizing the immersive and interactive properties of virtual reality technology in conjunction with gamification methods. Through a case study involving academic staff and students at Bahçeşehir University, the efficacy of this pedagogical strategy will be assessed. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collects quantitative data from surveys and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews. These questionnaires will evaluate the academic performance, contentment, and VR game participation of the students. The main goal is to clarify the advantages and difficulties of using virtual VR to teach construction features, such walls, so that curriculum designers and teachers may make informed decisions. Additionally, by illustrating how gamification and the integration of VR technology may greatly improve student engagement and academic achievement, this study hopes to contribute to the larger area of design education. The results of this study are anticipated to add to the body of knowledge in architectural education and stimulate more research into specific VR applications for design pedagogy.

Exploration and Practice of Integrating Ideological and Political Education into the “Comprehensive Practical Training in Prefabricated Building Construction” Course

This paper focuses on the ideological and political construction of the course “Comprehensive Practical Training of Prefabricated Building Construction” and deeply discusses its exploration and practice process. By building an ideological and political teaching system in line with the characteristics of “Comprehensive Training of Prefabricated Building Construction,” ideological and political elements such as industry spirit, professional ethics, and social responsibility are organically integrated into all links of practical training and teaching. In terms of teaching methods, various innovative means such as case analysis, role-playing, and group discussion are adopted, and modern information technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality are used to improve the teaching effect. At the same time, a diversified teaching evaluation system is formulated to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of ideological and political education. This study not only enriches the theoretical research of ideological and political courses but also provides a practical reference for the ideological and political construction of similar courses, which is of great significance for promoting the overall improvement of the quality of talent training in higher education.

Impact of transpedicular fixation on thoracolumbar junction burst fracture stability: a biomechanical perspective

Introduction. The treatment of burst fractures at the thoracolumbar junction remains a contentious issue in vertebrology. Despite a broad array of surgical interventions available, many surgeons favor isolated posterior stabilization, which can be performed using either minimally invasive or open approaches. However, the biomechanical properties of these methods have not been thoroughly investigated. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the biomechanical stability of the thoracolumbar junction following transpedicular stabilization of a burst fracture at the Th12 vertebra, under different system configurations influenced by lateral flexion. Materials and Methods: A mathematical finite element model of the human thoracolumbar spine, featuring a burst fracture at the Th12 vertebra, was developed. The model included a transpedicular stabilization system with eight screws, simulating “long” stabilization. We examined four variants of transpedicular fixation using both mono- and bicortical screws, with and without the inclusion of two cross-links. Results: The study found that the load borne by the damaged Th12 vertebral body varied depending on the fixation system employed. Specifically, stress levels were 24.0 MPa, 27.3 MPa, 18.4 MPa, and 25.8 MPa for models with short screws without cross-links, long screws without cross-links, short screws with cross-links, and long screws with cross-links, respectively. At the screw entry points in the vertebral arch, the highest stress values were recorded at the L2 vertebra, showing 11.8 MPa, 14.0 MPa, 9.4 MPa, and 13.4 MPa for each respective model. Among the metal construct elements, the connecting rods consistently exhibited the highest stress, with values of 226.7 MPa, 313.4 MPa, 212.4 MPa, and 293.98 MPa, respectively. Conclusion: The results underscore that utilizing cross-links in the stabilization of burst fractures at the thoracolumbar junction, which is only feasible through an open installation, somewhat mitigates stress within the stabilized spinal segment. Meanwhile, the modeling of lateral flexion revealed only minimal differences in stress values between open and minimally invasive installations.

Research on the Basic Framework and Elements of Landscape System Construction

Research on the Basic Framework and Elements of Landscape System Construction

Toward an innovative function-oriented assessment methodology (FOAM) for evaluating the functional condition of buildings during the operation and maintenance phase

This paper introduces a foundational approach toward defining a Function-Oriented Assessment Methodology (FOAM) for evaluating the functional condition of buildings during the operation and maintenance phase. Although various national classification systems exist, a unified international system for organizing construction elements has not been widely adopted. To bridge this gap, the paper proposes adopting an international standard-based classification system for identifying objects within a function-oriented structure. Traditional inspections often focus on damage, overlooking the functional condition of construction elements. This research addresses these limitations with a comprehensive methodological approach tailored to assess functional condition. It employs a multiple-choice questionnaire adapted from international rating scales to ensure consistency and minimize subjectivity among inspectors. A case study validates the effectiveness of this strategic framework, demonstrating high consistency and accuracy in evaluating functional conditions. Overall, this research lays the groundwork for FOAM, offering a clear path for its broader application in the built environment.

Analysis of Thermal Comfort of the Building Envelope Using an Earth-Air Heat Exchanger

The constructive elements of a building influence the demand for electrical energy, and optimal decisions can be assessed with the support of software that measures this building's demand more accurately. The objective of this research is to assess the thermal behavior of a residential dwelling located in bioclimatic zone 2 in the southern region of Brazil, seeking energy sources that contribute to improving thermal comfort. The study utilizes parameters that reduce the thermal demand for cooling and heating by installing an earth-air heat exchanger (EAHE) in the prolonged occupancy enviroments (POEs) within the building. The results obtained in the EnergyPlus software show that the adaptive comfort of the model with the Earth-Air Heat Exchanger (EAHE), compared to without it, reduces cold discomfort by 5.4% and increases thermal comfort in the building by 5.2%. Analyzing the annual temperatures of the spaces with the EAHE, it is observed that the outlet temperature of the EAHE duct remains at an average of 23.6°C and 23.8°C for the living room and bedrooms, respectively. From an energy perspective, the electrical energy consumption of the building was reduced by 29.8% when using the EAHE.

An active learning Kriging-based Bayesian framework for probabilistic structural model exploration

The Bayesian framework in structural health monitoring includes both modal identification and model exploration. Probabilistic model exploration, also named as model updating, can effectively estimate the structural parameters and quantify their uncertainties. However, it can be computationally intensive on application to real-world large-scale structures. Meta-models, e.g. Kriging models, can help tackle this challenge but they also introduce more uncertainties. In this paper, a novel Bayesian framework combining the active learning Kriging approach is proposed. The framework comprises three major components: the improved fast Bayesian spectral density approach for modal identification, the active learning Kriging method for meta-modelling, and the Bayesian structural model exploration. The Transitional Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm is implemented throughout the framework to sample the posterior distributions. The uncertainties from three aspects, i.e., (1) measurements, (2) meta-model construction and (3) finite element modelling, are considered in definition of the likelihood function adopted in both the active learning and model exploration processes. Compared with the ordinary Kriging model and adaptive Kriging approach using U function, the proposed active learning method significantly reduces the uncertainties of the Kriging predictor and improves its local prediction performance with fewer samples. The proposed framework is validated by a continuous test beam in the laboratory and applied to a real-world cable-stayed bridge using structural health monitoring data. A mode-matching criterion is used to overcome the difficulty of closely spaced modes in model exploration of the cable-stayed bridge. As the proposed framework is data-driven, no weighting hyperparameters are required. The active learning Kriging-based Bayesian framework can directly process structural dynamic time history response and conduct probabilistic model exploration with multiple uncertainties included, and therefore is promising in application to major structures.

Towards Calculation of Anisotropic Constructive Elements with Elastic-Plastic Properties

Calculation improvement of asphalt concrete possessing parameters of structurally unstable material is based on the problem of increasing the bearing capacity in terms of the expansion of borders of elastic and plastic material deformation.Purpose: Determination of elastic-plastic characteristics of asphalt concrete during non-equiibrium deformation and elastic aftereffect.Practical implications: The estimation of strength of asphalt concrete pavement of carriageway is based on a solution of the contact problem for structurally unstable material.

Unveiling the digital horizon: Bridging the realms of digital twinning and construction project management performance

The digitalization of the construction industry is deemed a crucial element in Construction 4.0’s vision, attainable through the implementation of digital twinning. It is perceived as a virtual strategy to surmount the constraints linked with traditional construction projects, thereby augmenting their productivity and effectiveness. However, the neglect to investigate the causal relationship between implementation and construction project management performance has resulted from a lack of understanding and awareness regarding the consequences of digital twinning implementation, combined with a shortage of expertise among construction professionals. Consequently, this paper extensively explores the relationship between digital twinning implementation and construction project management performance. The Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT) is employed to investigate this relationship, utilizing a quantitative research approach through document analysis and questionnaire surveys. Additionally, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS software is employed to deduce the relationship. The results underscore that digital twinning implementation significantly improves construction project management performance. Despite recognizing various challenges in digital twinning implementation, when regarded as moderating factors, these challenges do not significantly impact the established causal relationship. Therefore, this investigation aligns with the national push toward the digitalization of the construction sector, highlighting the positive impacts of digital twinning implementation on construction project management performance. Moreover, this study details the impacts of implementing digital twinning from the construction industry’s perspective, including positive and negative impacts. Afterwards, this paper addresses the existing research gap, providing a more precise understanding and awareness among construction industry participants, particularly in developing nations.

Pathological manifestations in a historic building: post-fire scenario at Casarão dos Fabricantes

The objective of this study is to document the pathological manifestations of the Casarão dos Fabricantes, one of the oldest buildings in Fortaleza, which was severely damaged by a major fire in 2020. Despite its historical significance, there are no records detailing the condition of the building either before or after the fire. The internal walls and two facades were the only construction elements that were not destroyed by the fire. The survey of the pathological manifestations was conducted by visual assessment and infrared thermography, revealing different degradation processes across the evaluated structures and providing a systematic view of the extent of the damage to the building. Mapping this damage provided an integrated approach, offering a scientific basis to support the restoration process.

GHG emission quantification and reduction pathway of subway shield tunnel engineering: a case study on Guangzhou Metro, China.

The shield method is a commonly used construction technique in subway tunnel engineering. However, studies on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions specifically in subway shield tunnel engineering are lacking. This study aims to investigate the GHG emission characteristics and GHG reduction pathways during the construction period of subway shield tunnels. Firstly, based on the life cycle assessment (LCA) method, a greenhouse gas (GHG) emission quantification model for the shield tunnel construction period was developed using a multi-level decomposition of construction. Then, the GHG emission level and intensity during the construction period of a case project are quantified, and its emission characteristics and GHG reduction potential points are assessed. Finally, a comprehensive path for GHG reduction in subway shield tunnel engineering is proposed. The research results indicate that constructing 1 km of subway shield tunnel can generate 19,294.28 t CO2eq. Among these, material production element dominates the emissions with a percentage of 89.05%, while transportation and mechanical construction elements contribute 1.81% and 9.14%, respectively. From the structure perspective, the main structure contributes 88.73% of total emissions, while the ancillary structure contributes 11.27%. Among them, the working shaft and tunnel segments are the main sources of emissions for the main structure, accounting for 23.65% and 65.08%, respectively. Connecting channel and end reinforcement are the main emission sources of the ancillary structures, accounting for 43.63% and 31.30%, respectively. These findings provide a scientific foundation for the environmentally friendly transformation of urban railway development regarding pursuing "carbon peaking and carbon neutrality" strategic goals.

An improved method for statistics estimation of out-of-plane load resistance of masonry walls using design-code models and mechanics-based finite element models

The susceptibility of masonry walls to out-of-plane failure under seismic loading presents a significant engineering concern. In adherence to contemporary limit state design philosophy and as mandated by performance-based design guidelines, it is crucial to accurately estimate statistics parameters such as the mean and variance of out-of-plane resistance. To achieve this, two deterministic models are often considered within the Monte Carlo simulation framework: design-code models, known for their computational efficiency but potential for significant model error, and mechanics-based finite element models, noted for their accuracy but computational intensity. Relying solely on either model for statistics estimation presents challenges due to their respective inherent limitations. This study introduces an improved strategy that synergizes the strengths of both models, resulting in enhanced statistics estimators for the out-of-plane resistance of masonry walls. The proposed methodology involves the use of the control variate method by integrating numerous design-code model evaluations to boost computational efficiency while incorporating a limited number of finite element model evaluations to ensure accuracy. The constructions of the proposed estimators follow rigorous optimization procedures to minimize associated errors and variances. Theoretical derivations are provided for essential elements in the estimator constructions, such as model evaluation numbers for finite element and design-code models and control variate coefficients. Moreover, the accuracy of the proposed estimators is compared with that of the crude Monte Carlo estimator. A key benefit of the proposed estimators is their unbiased nature, and their accuracy is not compromised by the discrepancies between the finite element model and the design-code model. To demonstrate the practicality of these estimators, two case studies are illustrated: one focusing on unreinforced masonry walls and the other on reinforced masonry walls. The results indicate that design-code model-based estimators exhibit large bias, and compared to the estimators that solely rely on the finite element model, the proposed estimators achieve higher accuracy given the same computational budget.

Examining the role of concrete 3D printing for housing construction on Indigenous Reserves in Canada

PurposeThis research explores the role of concrete 3D printing (C3DP) in the development of culturally appropriate housing in Indigenous Reserves in Canada through the design, building and evaluation of the Star Lodge project located in the Siksika Nation of Alberta, Canada. The project aims to assess the potential of C3DP in addressing the escalating housing demands in Indigenous communities in Canada.Design/methodology/approachThe research involved a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach, engaging Blackfoot Elders, Knowledge Keepers from the Siksika Nation, Siksika Housing and Nidus3D. Central to this was the design, build and documentation of the Star Lodge project to analyse the advantages and challenges, guided by weekly meetings and site visits.FindingsThe project harnessed C3DP to streamline construction, enhance durability, reduce maintenance costs and enhance the energy performance of the homes. Notable time savings were achieved compared to conventional construction methods. Challenges included developing strategies to overcome extreme cold weather conditions, achieving a consistent concrete mix and integrating conventional construction elements such as drywall construction in interiors. The project served as a platform for collaboration and community participation, shaping the design and construction process while raising awareness of innovative construction techniques in the community.Originality/valueThis study provides an evidence-based framework for the evaluation of C3DP technology by analysing the Star Lodge Project, the first C3DP project in Alberta and the largest of its kind in Canada. By addressing housing challenges in Indigenous communities, the research holds broader implications for sustainable development and Indigenous empowerment across Canada.