Cost Estimation System Research Articles

사례기반추론을 이용한 개략비용 예측시스템 개발 - 토양경작법 정화비용사례를 중심으로 적용가능성 검토 -

This study proposes a approximate cost estimation system based on Excel with VBA using weighted CBR(Case Based Reasoning). One characteristic of this system is that it generates the sheet automatically as many as the number of similar case and new estimation when it performs a case learning and a new estimate and cell formula is automatically entered into each sheet. User can be free to compose a combination of attribute factors because they can select up to ten attribute factors. This paper presents an applicability of estimation model for estimating the soil remediation cost when it use a landfarming method. When compared to a estimation model by using average unit cost and optimum multiple regression, this model shows a better result. This study was aimed at landfarming method, but it is expected that a cost estimation model using CBR will be more likely to apply in soil remediation technologies which various remediation technologies and pollutant species exist.

Design and Economic Evaluation of Electrification of Small Villages in Rural Area in Yemen Using Stand-Alone PV System

The photovoltaic (PV) technology potential for Yemen is relatively high, based on this fact, there are many isolated and remote locations are located far away from the electrical national grid and cannot be linked in the near future. Hence, the electrification of these rural areas using PV system is very suitable solution to solve the problem of lighting and access to the development of these villages. This paper presents a study on the design and cost estimation of stand-alone photovoltaic PV system (SAPS) to supply the required electricity for these villages. The sizing of the suggested SAPS is achieved, such that radiation data, the electrical load for the typical household in the target villages are taken into account during the sizing steps. Furthermore, there are a maximum power point tracking (MPPT), an inverter, charge controller and lead acid battery which used as an energy storage system were designed. The MATLAB/Simulink used to simulate the PV array sizing and its characteristics depending on incremental conductance MPPT technique to enhance the efficiency of the modules and get maximum available power. The simulation result have been matched the sizing calculation result. Finally, the life cycle cost (LCC) analysis used to evaluate the economic feasibility of the system. The economical results proved that, there is a difference between the conventional energy systems and PV system in that they have a low operating cost and high initial cost. As a result, this study encouraged the using of PV systems to electrify the remote villages in Yemen.

A Contingency Cost Estimation System for Road Maintenance Contracts

Generally, a contingency cost is provided in a project to cover the change orders (CO) that may be generated in a project during the construction phase due to various reasons, such as unforeseen conditions, design errors, and scope changes. If the contingency cost could be accurately estimated during the contract's procurement phase, the CO cost could be properly managed during the construction phase. Traditionally, contingency costs are allocated around 10% to 15% of the project cost without considering any of the historical CO costs. In this study, a tool was developed to estimate the contingency cost of a road maintenance contract by using a mathematical model. The tool forecasts the contingency costs for each of the road maintenance activities included in the contract by using an artificial neural network model based on the historical CO data. The tool was validated using the CO cost data available from road maintenance contracts.

도로분야 BIM 라이브러리를 활용한 실적공사비 산정모델 구축

Currently, a BIM-based quantity takeoff (QTO) system is mainly focused on architectural projects. To perform this, diverse quantity takeoff methods such as an object-based automatic quantity takeoff, manual quantity and base functions of calculation have widely been utilizing. However, since BIM library for road projects includes structural elements associated with alignment, it is necessary to establish cost estimation system interlocked with historical cost using 3D library by each unit length. Accordingly, the aim of this study is to develop cost estimation model with using a historical cost approach so that it can be utilized in construction planning based on the BIM library for road projects. For this, based on the BIM library for road, the standardized quantity is estimated, and a process for calculating historical cost and a verification model with a 5D simulation was developed by mapping a WBS code with each BIM library object. This can be applied during the approximate cost estimation process in a project planning and an initial design phase for road projects. Besides, it is expected that these results will be utilized in constructing an optimal historical cost estimation process for project libraries.

Hybrid PV and solar-thermal systems for domestic heat and power provision in the UK: Techno-economic considerations

A techno-economic analysis is undertaken to assess hybrid PV/solar-thermal (PVT) systems for distributed electricity and hot-water provision in a typical house in London, UK. In earlier work (Herrando et al., 2014), a system model based on a PVT collector with water as the cooling medium (PVT/w) was used to estimate average year-long system performance. The results showed that for low solar irradiance levels and low ambient temperatures, such as those associated with the UK climate, a higher coverage of total household energy demands and higher CO2 emission savings can be achieved by the complete coverage of the solar collector with PV and a relatively low collector cooling flow-rate. Such a PVT/w system demonstrated an annual electricity generation of 2.3MWh, or a 51% coverage of the household’s electrical demand (compared to an equivalent PV-only value of 49%), plus a significant annual water heating potential of to 1.0MWh, or a 36% coverage of the hot-water demand. In addition, this system allowed for a reduction in CO2 emissions amounting to 16.0 tonnes over a life-time of 20years due to the reduction in electrical power drawn from the grid and gas taken from the mains for water heating, and a 14-tonne corresponding displacement of primary fossil-fuel consumption. Both the emissions and fossil-fuel consumption reductions are significantly larger (by 36% and 18%, respectively) than those achieved by an equivalent PV-only system with the same peak rating/installed capacity. The present paper proceeds further, by considering the economic aspects of PVT technology, based on which invaluable policy-related conclusions can be drawn concerning the incentives that would need to be in place to accelerate the widespread uptake of such systems. It is found that, with an electricity-only Feed-In Tariff (FIT) support rate at 43.3p/kWh over 20years, the system cost estimates of optimised PVT/w systems have an 11.2-year discounted payback period (PV-only: 6.8years). The role and impact of heat-based incentives is also studied. The implementation of a domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) at a rate of 8.5p/kWh in quarterly payments leads to a payback reduction of about 1year. If this incentive is given as a one-off voucher at the beginning of the system’s lifetime, the payback is reduced by about 2years. With a RHI rate of 20 p/kWh (about half of the FIT rate) PVT technology would have approximately the same payback as PV. It is concluded that, if primary energy (currently dominated by fossil fuels) and CO2 emission minimisation are important goals of national energy policy, PVT systems offer a significantly improved proposition over equivalent PV-only systems, but at an elevated cost. This is in need of careful reflection when developing relevant policy and considering technology incentivation. Currently, although heat outweighs electricity consumption by a factor of about 4 (by energy unit) in the UK domestic sector, the support landscape has strongly favoured electrical microgeneration, being inclined in favour of PV technology, which has been experiencing a well-documented exponential growth over recent decades.

Prediction Based Cost Estimation Model Using Clusters

On some parameters Software cost estimation based on development and effort on the project. Every line of code and every method are important to estimate the cost of project. To develop the software project using well defined scientific principles, methods, statements and functions, though there are many costs estimation models are available to estimate the cost of project, but still there is lack of efficient system to predict the cost estimation based on size of project, functionality of project, methods of project. In the existing system cost estimation is done on the basis of lines of code, resource management, in time process. Because of various reasons in the existing system we have identified the drawbacks. In this paper, cost prediction model is defined based on clusters, the number of clusters will form the centroids. Each centroid has a specific number of clusters. Each cluster will be called as rule. In this paper, results will show the prediction of cost estimation is defined.

A robust loss function approach for a multi-objective redundancy allocation problem

A redundancy allocation problem consists of the selection of a number of redundancies to be allocated in each subsystem of a series–parallel configuration to maximize system reliability, while minimizing overall system cost. Most existing studies either ignore system cost or assume deterministic component reliabilities. However, the selection of a network system design requires the estimation of its reliability and cost. Therefore, the uncertainty associated with such estimates must be considered in the decision process. In this study, an efficient method based on the loss function approach is proposed to solve the redundancy allocation problem. This approach not only optimizes the overall system reliability and cost estimates simultaneously, but also considers their associated variance–covariance structure. Experimental results obtained using a standard example show the effectiveness of the proposed method and its superior performance when compared to existing approaches.

Analysis of the First Polish BIM-Based Cost Estimation Application

The ability to automate the process of preparing the bill of quantities is one of the key advantages for the estimator. Such a possibility is provided by the BIM model. The paper discusses key approaches to BIM-based cost estimating, such as exporting quantities, using a specialized BIM measurement tool and a cost estimation system. The opportunities and solutions offered by the Polish application seem to be a significant contribution to software development. This paper attempts to provide a new cost estimation system operating on the BIM model and aims to analyze the attributes required from BIM applications. Hopefully the BIM Vision system and the BIMestiMate presented in the paper will be regarded as appropriate and ready to be applied in BIM-based cost estimation.

Costing for an Autonomous Future: A Discussion on Estimation for Unmanned Autonomous Systems

This paper will produce three areas of discussion in the field of cost estimation for unmanned autonomous systems. First, this paper will propose a common definition of an Unmanned Autonomous system. Second, it will introduce a method to estimate the cost of unmanned autonomous systems utilizing existing parametric cost estimation tools: SEER – HDR, COCOMO II, COSYSMO, and two relationships – weight and performance. The third discussion will focus on challenges surrounding autonomy. To address these challenges from a cost perspective, this paper recommends modifications to parameters within COCOMO II – via the use of object oriented function points in lieu of current methods, and COSYSMO – via the introduction of two cost driving parameters, namely, TVED and HRI-T. Finally, in summary this paper will identify areas of further research.

Cost Estimating Methods for RC Structures by Quantity Takeoff and Quantity Prediction in the Design Development Stage

The cost estimating methods for reinforced concrete structures based 3D design can be categorized into quantity takeoff (estimation) and quantity prediction in the design development stage. The main estimating elements are concrete and formwork that can be considered in a quantity takeoff, whereas the quantity prediction element is the reinforcing bars in the design development stage. This study proposes a cost estimation system that applies automatic quantity takeoff and quantity prediction with parameters. Firstly, the logic of a quantity takeoff calculates the quantity of formwork with the object information. The Standard Method of Measurement (SMM) automatically estimates the quantity of formwork upon receiving physical shape information from the 3D-object. Secondly, the logic of quantity prediction estimates the quantity of reinforcing bars with data mining tools such as the Decision Tree Model (DTM) and Case Based Reasoning (CBR). To predict the quantity of reinforcing bars, Information Gains (IG) of design attributes are evaluated, and then the valid attributes are selected as the parameters. The Parameters can statistically classify the quantity of reinforcing bars by generating decision tree nodes.

Optimal operation efficiency and control of water pumps in multiple water reservoir system: case study in Korea

Pumping regimes for water distribution systems have been established to reduce pump operation costs. Optimization of water reservoir networks has been studied extensively for operating pumps efficiently. According to research, optimization reduces pump operation costs by approximately 10–20%. However, comparing economic benefits per country would be too complex because the effects of optimization differ depending on the power cost estimation system of each country and the existing operations. This study presents an optimization algorithm to minimize the operating costs of an entire system via the application of dynamic programming. Case studies were conducted to apply the algorithm to real values in four scenarios. By setting cost minimization as an objective, an optimum water pump operation plan was derived that encompasses operating conditions, variations in water demand, and energy costs. Results showed that operating a standby pump in an existing system can increase the system's efficiency. In addition, even if hourly water consumption remains constant, each case requires its own operating method, because each case has different operational costs. By considering various conditions such as those mentioned in this study, future pump operation schedules can be optimized and stabilized to maintain economic water supply.

Cost estimation of hypertension management based on home blood pressure monitoring alone or combined office and ambulatory blood pressure measurements

This study aims at estimating the resources consumed and subsequent costs for hypertension management, using home blood pressure (BP) monitoring (HBPM) alone versus combined clinic measurements and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (C/ABPM). One hundred sixteen untreated hypertensive subjects were randomized to use HBPM or C/ABPM for antihypertensive treatment initiation and titration. Health resources utilized within 12-months follow-up, their respective costs, and hypertension control were assessed. The total cost of the first year of hypertension management was lower in HBPM than C/ABPM arm (€1336.0 vs. €1473.5 per subject, respectively; P < .001). Laboratory tests' cost was identical in both arms. There was no difference in achieved BP control and drug expenditure (HBPM: €233.1 per subject; C/ABPM: €247.6 per subject; P = not significant), whereas the cost of BP measurements and/or visits was higher in C/ABPM arm (€393.9 vs. €516.9, per patient, respectively P < .001). The cost for subsequent years (>1) was €348.9 and €440.2 per subject, respectively for HBPM and C/ABPM arm and €2731.4 versus €3234.3 per subject, respectively (P < .001) for a 5-year projection. HBPM used alone for the first year of hypertension management presents lower cost than C/ABPM, and the same trend is observed in 5-year projection. The results on the resources consumption can be used to make cost estimates for other health-care systems.

Integrating a fuzzy-logic decision support system with bridge information modelling and cost estimation at conceptual design stage of concrete box-girder bridges

Integrating 3D bridge information modelling (BrIM) with construction technologies had inspired many researchers for the past decade. In this study, research objectives are intended to demonstrate the viability of integrating a 3D computer-aided design (3D-CAD) model with a structural analysis application and bridge cost estimation framework without compromising interoperability matters. An integrated model that relates a fuzzy logic decision support system with cost estimation for concrete box-girder bridges is presented. Model development methodology comprises an integrated preliminary cost estimation system (IPCES), and complex quality functions and deployment of a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) approach. An actual case project is used to validate and illustrate model corresponding estimating capabilities. The proposed model is engineered to enhance existing techniques implemented by bridge stakeholders and designers to prepare cost estimates at the conceptual design stage by taking into consideration box-girder bridge project site preparations, substructure, and superstructure. The proposed model is anticipated to be of major significance to designers and its contribution resides into the integration of BrIM technologies with cost estimation approaches.

Cost estimation for CO2 supercritical extraction systems and manufacturing cost for habanero chili

An equation to estimate the costs of industrial size supercritical extraction systems was developed and used to estimate the cost of manufacturing (COM) of habanero pepper oleoresin on extraction cells ranging from 5 to 400L. The correlation was based on quoted costs obtained for five different sizes of supercritical extraction plants, and took into consideration inflation with the use of a cost index for a chemical engineering plant. COM for habanero chili was based on experimentation developed on a cell 0.1L.

사무소 건물의 HVAC&R 시스템 공사비 분석방법 및 예측에 관한 연구

HVAC&R system costs can often be one of the most expensive components, representing approximately 15% of the total construction cost for office buildings. Despite their significant importance, there is a lack of a consistent and homogeneous framework to approximate the estimate research. This research deals with the prediction methodology of HVAC&R system cost with the aim of establishing a common idea for the analysis of the construction cost estimate. Our approach deals with the concept of an HVAC&R set that is composed of subsystems. The matrix combination analysis is examined, and total 960 HVAC&R system cost estimation can be implemented to large scale office buildings.

The Applied Research on the Municipal Road Project Cost Estimate Knowledge Management Based on CBR Technologies

The paper combines project cost estimating field features,enhance the ability of managing tacit knowledge and increase the organizing level and applying benefit of case.The technical thought and system working process of case-based reasoning ( CBR ), are introduced and analyzed in detail firstly in this paper, and discuss the introduction of CBR in the engineering field knowledge management on this basis. Meanwhile,integrate specific engineering practice case--XX Roads Comprehensive Renovation Project, do further research on the engineering cost estimation system of knowledge management applications based on case technology, and achieve knowledge reuse and innovation, as well as the shared values of knowledge resources.

Методические и организационные аспекты сопряжения САПР со сметно-экономическими системами

Предлагается новая технология формирования сметной документации в рамках проектов строительства, ремонтов и реконструкции автомобильных дорог, предполагающая участие сметчиков на ранних стадиях проектирования, что позволяет автоматически получать оценки стоимости проектных решений.

A Knowledge Based System for Cost Estimation of Deep Drawn Parts

Cost estimation of deep drawn sheet metal parts requires substantial knowledge and experience. It is a time consuming task and dependent on the expert personnel available. This paper presents the research work involved in the development of a knowledge based system for cost-estimation of deep drawn sheet metal parts. The proposed system is structured in form of two modules viz., module COMPC for estimation of total manufacturing cost of deep drawn parts and module TOOLC for estimation of total tooling cost of deep drawing tool. The system modules are coded in VB.6.0 in windows operating environment. The system has been tested for various types of axisymmetric deep drawn sheet metals parts taken from industries. System is flexible enough as its knowledge base can be extended or modified easily.

Combining case-based reasoning with genetic algorithm optimization for preliminary cost estimation in construction industry

In this paper, we propose a hybrid case-based reasoning (CBR) system for predicting the construction cost of high-rise buildings at the preliminary design stage. First, the extracted cost factors (CFs) of a high-rise building were shown to significantly improve the cost estimation system’s performance. For developing a CBR system, a hybrid approach that combines CBR with genetic algorithms (GAs) for cost estimation was adopted. Genetic algorithms were used for optimized weight generation and applied to real project cases. Additionally, this paper proposes the identification of an alternative similarity score measurement formula. The proposed formula evaluates the contrast between the alternative case matching approach and the classical formula in a scenario involving the use of cost factors describing a case. The results indicate that the proposed GA-based CBR system can consistently reduce errors and potentially be useful to owners and contractors in the early financial planning stage. Accordingly, it is expected that the developed CBR system would provide decision-makers with accurate cost information to assess and compare multiple alternatives for obtaining the optimal solution and controlling the cost.

BIM/GIS 기반 도로 개략공사비 산정 프로토타입 연구

While a detailed cost estimation utilizes the comprehensive quantity information obtained from a complete drawing and specification, an approximate cost estimation heavily relies on the subjective decisions. This phenomenon is because the approximate estimation is usually conducted in early stage of the construction phase where the drawing and specification are not available. This study developed a roadway construction cost estimation system which enables users to estimate the approximated cost of the project in early stage. The system identifies the variation of the construction costs due to the road route change using a cased based reasoning(CBR) method. Overall the system is expected to improves the accuracy and effectiveness of the estimation process, because it would provide users with increased accessability and consistent results in early stage of the project which leaded to the increased work transparency.