Industrial Engineering Research Articles

Analysis of Potential, Impact and Design of a Sustainable Ecotourism Management System Using an Industrial Engineering Approach in The Kuala Bubon Mangrove Forest, West Aceh

The discourse of the West Aceh government and the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, which aims to develop the Kuala Bubon West Aceh mangrove forest area into an ecotourism site to boost the community's economy, has drawn attention from many parties. This is due to the rich biodiversity present in the mangrove forest. Pre-ecotourism studies need to be conducted to ensure that the use of this forest can be managed properly, including studying potential tourist attractions, analyzing negative impacts, and engineering a sustainable ecotourism management industry. This involves using an industrial engineering approach, which offers an optimal framework for achieving these goals. The research was conducted in the Kuala Bubon mangrove forest, West Aceh, in July 2024. Survey techniques and direct observation were used to gather data on the ecotourism potential in the Kuala Bubon mangrove forest. This potential data will be mapped using Quantum GIS and then analyzed to assess the potential and impact of environmental damage as part of ecotourism and the ecosystem. The impact of the damage will then be addressed with alternative industrial engineering solutions, creating an effective management design using AutoCAD. The research results identified five ecotourism attraction points: sunset observation ecotourism, flora & fauna exploration, fishing, duck games, and shellfish searching. Based on this potential, a negative impact analysis and industrial engineering of the ecotourism area will be conducted, focusing on three aspects: infrastructure, waste management, and the utilization of renewable energy.Type your abstract here.

The Overview Literature Review on Competence-Based Education in The Industrial Engineering Using PRISMA 2020

Structured methods for the methodical re-alignment of professional education programs are needed for the comprehensive integration of the human workforce in digital and sustainable manufacturing and logistics systems. It is believed that investing in engineering education is essential to the advancement of both industry and society. Future engineers, though, will need more than simply a solid foundation in technology. The focus on competence-orientation is often neglected, particularly in the field of Industrial Engineering (IE), and empirically proven success criteria that support the holistic reorientation of engineering education are usually studied. The authors of this work perform a thorough literature review on engineering education, focusing on competence-based engineering education within the field of IE. Additionally, the writers offer beneficial implications for the competence-based for Industrial Engineering students and lectures writings.

Heat and mass transfer conduct in an unsteady two- dimensional stream between parallel sheets

In the present research, an effort has been made to analytically solve heat and mass linear/ nonlinear as well as steady/ unsteady equations in a viscous nanofluid squeezed between parallel sheets. Using Python and the SymPy library, the nanofluid with viscous properties between parallel sheets has been analyzed to symbolically solve flow, heat, and mass transfer effects equations through the Homotopy Perturbation Method and Akbari-Ganji Method approaches. The two nanofluids selected to conduct this study are Copper as well as Al2O3, whose sizes are 29 nm and 47 nm respectively. The provided details encompass the outcomes of active variables on flow and the transfer of heat coupled with mass. The Homotopy Perturbation and Akbari-Ganji methods have resulted in top-of-the-line consequences compared to analytical and numerical approaches. This research study highlights a faster and more accurate computation to conduct the analytic section of the study. The outcome shows that the increase of the Prandtl number and the Eckert number will increase Nusselt. However, skin friction increases with the increase in the Schmidt number. Furthermore, a rise in Schmidt number and parameters related to chemical reactions leads to an elevated Sherwood number. The outcomes of the study presented here provide a more innovative and precise insight, and the comparison with the available literature also proves there is a well-agreed numerical calculation. Microchips in engineering and medical-related industries would enjoy the outcomes obtained from this study. This study proves that the maximum and minimum amounts of heat transfer in respect occur at η=0 and η=1. Moreover, the maximum and minimum amounts of error are equal to 0.0001 and 0.00001, respectively. The maximum and minimum amounts of concentration occur at η=1 and η=0 in order. Finally, the maximum and minimum amounts of error are equal to 0.000016 and 0.000002, respectively.

Analysis of Models to Predict Mechanical Properties of High-Performance and Ultra-High-Performance Concrete Using Machine Learning

High-Performance Concrete (HPC) and Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) have many applications in civil engineering industries. These two types of concrete have as many similarities as they have differences with each other, such as the mix design and additive powders like silica fume, metakaolin, and various fibers, however, the optimal percentages of the mixture design properties of each element of these concretes are completely different. This study investigated the differences and similarities between these two types of concrete to find better mechanical behavior through mixture design and parameters of each concrete. In addition, this paper studied the correlation matrix through the machine learning method to predict the mechanical properties and find the relationship between the concrete mix design elements and the mechanical properties. In this way, Linear, Ridge, Lasso, Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Decision tree, and Partial least squares (PLS) regressions have been chosen to find the best regression types. To find the accuracy, the coefficient of determination (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), and root-mean-square error (RMSE) were selected. Finally, PLS, Linear, and Lasso regressions had better results than other regressions, with R2 greater than 93%, 92%, and 92%, respectively. In general, the present study shows that HPC and UHPC have different mix designs and mechanical properties. In addition, PLS, Linear, and Lasso regressions are the best regressions for predicting mechanical properties.

Controllable Assemblies of Au NPs/P5A for Enhanced Catalytic Reduction of 4-Nitrophenol.

Efficient catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) is one focus of industry and practical engineering, because 4-NP is one of the most important sources of pollution of the ecological environment and human health. Here, coassembled hybrid composites of pillar[5]arene (P5A) and gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) were successfully developed by a one-step synthetic method as a type of water-insoluble catalyst for the reduction of 4-NP. The geometric and topological structures, as well as physiochemical properties of Au NPs/P5A composite catalyst, were fully characterized and analyzed through various tests such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), indicating that Au NPs were well dispersed on the surface of the two-dimensional film of assembled P5A. The influence factors of the catalytic reduction of 4-NP were further investigated and discussed, confirming that the content of Au NPs and the concentration of 4-NP were very significant during the catalysis. The catalytic reaction was carried out at the catalyst concentration of 100 mg·L-1 and an initial 4-NP concentration of 90 mg·L-1 under 30 °C. The calculated reaction rate constant was 0.3959 min-1 and the reduction rate of 4-NP was more than 95% in 20 min. In addition, the as-prepared catalyst can maintain a high catalytic efficiency after five cycles. Thus, the easily recyclable composite catalyst with poor aqueous solution can exhibit prospective application to the treatment of 4-NP in water.

Implicit finite difference simulations for unsteady oscillating flow of Walters-B nanofluid with microbes using the Cattaneo–Christov model

The thermal importance of nanoparticles in different fields of engineering is still a developing issue that necessitates additional focused consideration. The suspension of non-Newtonian fluids with nonmaterials has various applications in areas such as enhanced thermal systems, energy processes, aerospace engineering, and chemical industries. Following such motivations, this work aims to analyze the heat and mass transfer flow of Walters-B nanofluid in the presence of microorganisms. The fluid motion is presumed to be nonsteady over a surface that undergoes periodic acceleration. The motivations for studying nanofluid’s oscillating flow are its use in effective mixing processes, combustion stability, and process efficiency. The text provides a detailed explanation of the saturation of porous media. A modified theory for heat and mass fluxes, known as the Cattaneo–Christov approach, suggests an extension in heat equations. Moreover, it supports the interaction of radiation phenomena for enhancing heat transfer. It is noteworthy that the entire problem is represented using extremely nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs). The CFD study utilizing the renowned implicit finite difference method (FDM) has been effectively employed to propose a numerical solution for the problem. The numerical results are deemed valid and confirmed within certain limiting cases, based on the available data. The evaluation of velocity, skin friction coefficient, Nusselt number, and Sherwood number as a function of time has been demonstrated for various parameters. It is asserted that the wall shear force exhibited an oscillating pattern with a greater magnitude as a result of the viscoelastic parameter. The Nusselt number and Sherwood number exhibit slight acceleration as a result of changes in the Prandtl number and Schmidt number, respectively. The proposed model is specifically designed for use in heat exchangers, vibrational systems, compact designs, and vibration control.

Challenge for Chinese BIM Software Extension Comparison with International BIM Development

This study provides an in-depth analysis of the current status of the promotion and application of BIM software in China, highlighting its differences from the international market. Chinese BIM software shows advantages in data security, cost-effectiveness, user habit adaptability, and localization standards, but faces challenges in terms of technological maturity and ecosystem development. By employing bibliometric methods and utilizing literature resources from CNKI and the Web of Science, the study offers a comprehensive analysis of the market and policy environment and proposes targeted recommendations. The study indicates that Chinese BIM software has significant advantages in enhancing data security and cost-effectiveness but lacks technological maturity and requires improvements in ecosystem development. User habits are crucial for the promotion of BIM software, and the localization and adaptability of the software need further enhancement. To promote the widespread application of BIM in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries, a robust market mechanism needs to be established. The government should strengthen policy support and improve regulatory frameworks; software developers should enhance product functionality and work closely with users; and application enterprises should actively provide feedback to promote software improvements. Moreover, the introduction of reasonable capital and the collaboration between educational institutions and enterprises to cultivate professional talent are critical for the promotion and application of BIM technology. The research emphasizes that forming a cross-departmental joint mechanism to promote a virtuous cycle in the AEC market is key to achieving the widespread application of BIM technology. These measures can provide strong market impetus for the development of BIM software, accelerate the maturity and ecosystem construction of Chinese BIM software, and ultimately realize the comprehensive upgrading of informatization and digitization in the construction industry.

Tackling inventory losses of small accessories in engineering manufacturing: a case study of Euro Manufacturing

Learning outcomes After completion of the case study, the students will be able to understand ABC analysis and develop a systematic approach using PDCA, analyze processes, technology, employee training and supplier relationships when analyzing shrink and developing solutions, evaluate how technology improves production inventory control and visibility and recognize the importance of fostering a culture of employee accountability and ownership to minimize inventory loss and improve overall operational efficiency. Case overview/synopsis On June 2, 2023, sitting in his office in Karachi, Pakistan, Khan Aamir, the manager of store and inventory at Euro Manufacturing, found himself immersed in a cloud of confusion. The incessant loss of inventory items, particularly the nut bolts and small accessories, had become a perplexing challenge. To address these losses and provide a cycle count report to the director of supply chain, Aamir, manager of store and inventory, was given the responsibility to take action. He was looking for a comprehensive approach to address the current problems and prevent further losses in the future. This case study examines the various reasons for the losses, including theft, inadequate inventory control methods, human error and problems with suppliers. It highlights the importance of established procedures, the use of technology (such as barcode scanning, radio-frequency identification tagging and inventory management software) and the cultivation of a culture of accountability among employees. Complexity academic level This case study is developed for class discussion in the course of operations management or supply chain management. This case study is suitable for use with undergrad students. This case study can be taught in a module on operations management or supply chain management, as part of a broader course in business management or industrial engineering. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS: 9: Operations and logistics.

Mixed convective heat transfer in an open cavity with fins

AbstractThis work numerically explores the mixed convective heat transfer in an open square enclosure containing conducting fins fixed to the heated vertical wall. This kind of work with fins has enormous potential due to its applications in research, engineering, and current industries. Therefore, the current work is highly significant to understand the impact of mixed convection. The external flow enters from the hole in the bottom wall and leaves from the hole in the upper wall. The left vertical wall of the enclosure is heated isothermally, and the fins are attached to the heated walls at a uniform height. Both the upper and lower walls are adiabatic, whereas the right sidewall is at a lower temperature. The non‐dimensional transport equations are resolved by using the finite element method. The study is accomplished for the wide control variables range, such as Reynolds number (50 ≤ Re ≤ 200), Richardson's number (0.1 ≤ Ri ≤ 10), the length of the fins (Lf = 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6), the size of the outlet opening (Wout = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3), and the gaps in between the outlet hole and left heated wall (S = 0, 0.45, and 0.9). The results show that the thermal performance of the open enclosure is meaningfully affected by the control parameters. The maximum and minimum heat transfer happens when the position of the outlet opening is at the left (S = 0) and right (S = 0.9), respectively. The heat transfer improves by raising the Ri and Re, whereas increasing the fin's length and distance between the outlet opening and left wall reduces heat transfer significantly. The rises 13% with a decrease in the fin's length from 0.6 to 0.2 at Re = 200, S = 0 due to the improvement of the convection on the heated wall. Also, increases by 15% when Ri increases from 1 to 9.

Superhydrophobic Tensile Designability of Silicone Rubber Composites.

Silicone rubber has broad applications in the field of industrial engineering due to its stable physical and chemical properties. However, the superhydrophobic properties, of silicone rubber, especially large deformation superhydrophobic properties, were not satisfactory for many harsh application environments and complex engineering structures. Here, we report the preparation of superhydrophobic tensile designable silicone rubber composites by a mixed deposition process that included powder deposition and smoke deposition. The infrared test showed that the deposited powder from silicone rubber combustion was mainly composed of SiO2 and short chain siloxane. The mixed deposited surface with a rich micro-nanostructure, which was the key to the formation of superhydrophobic properties. The water contact angle (WCA) and sliding angle (SA) of coating surface could reach 157.6° and 5° ± 1°, respectively, and the tensile designability of superhydrophobic surface is closely related to the prestretched process. In addition, bounce tests, high temperature tests, and solvent resistance tests showed the application potential of modified silicone rubber composites in the field of engineering.

The influence of professional engineering certifications on offshore industry standards and practices

The offshore engineering industry plays a critical role in global energy production and infrastructure development. Ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency in offshore operations is paramount to the success and sustainability of these projects. This paper explores the significant impact of professional engineering certifications on offshore industry standards and practices, specifically focusing on how certifications contribute to enhancing quality, safety, and efficiency. Professional engineering certifications validate the skills and expertise of individuals working in the offshore sector, providing assurance to stakeholders that industry standards are being met. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies, this paper examines the role of certifications in maintaining quality assurance, ensuring safety protocols, and enhancing operational efficiency. Certified professionals play a crucial role in implementing and adhering to stringent quality standards throughout offshore projects, ultimately reducing the risk of costly errors and project delays. Moreover, certifications equip professionals with the necessary knowledge and training to identify and mitigate safety hazards, thereby minimizing the likelihood of accidents and environmental disasters. In addition to quality and safety considerations, certifications also contribute to improving efficiency in offshore operations. Certified professionals are equipped with the latest industry best practices and technologies, enabling them to streamline processes, optimize resource utilization, and deliver projects on time and within budget. While professional certifications are instrumental in raising industry standards and practices, challenges such as access to training, certification maintenance, and evolving regulatory requirements remain. Addressing these challenges and promoting the adoption of certification programs are essential steps towards further enhancing the quality, safety, and efficiency of offshore engineering operations. Overall, this paper underscores the critical role of professional engineering certifications in shaping the future of the offshore industry, providing a roadmap for stakeholders to leverage certifications effectively to achieve their operational objectives. Keywords: Professional Engineering Certifications, Offshore Industry Standards, Quality, Safety, Efficiency, Offshore engineering operations.

Generative Early Architectural Visualizations: Incorporating Architect's Style-trained Models

Abstract This study introduces a novel approach to architectural visualization using generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly emphasizing text-to-image (txt2img) technology, to remarkably improve the visualization process right from the initial design phase within the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. By creating >10,000 images incorporating an architect's personal style and characteristics into a residential house model, the effectiveness of base AI models. Furthermore, various architectural styles were integrated to enhance the visualization process. This method involved additional training for styles with low similarity rates, which required extensive data preparation and their integration into the base AI model. Demonstrated to be effective across multiple scenarios, this technique markedly enhances the efficiency and speed of production of architectural visualization images. Highlighting the vast potential of AI in design visualization, our study emphasizes the technology's shift toward facilitating more user-centered and personalized design applications.

Heat transfer innovation of engine oil conveying SWCNTs-MWCNTs-TiO2 nanoparticles embedded in a porous stretching cylinder

The influence of boundary layer flow of heat transfer analysis on hybrid nanofluid across an extended cylinder is the main focus of the current research. In addition, the impressions of magnetohydrodynamic, porous medium and thermal radiation are part of this investigation. Arrogate similarity variables are employed to transform the governing modelled partial differential equations into a couple of highly nonlinear ordinary differential equations. A numerical approach based on the BVP Midrich scheme in MAPLE solver is employed for solution of the set of resulting ordinary differential equations and obtained results are compared with existing literature. The effect of active important physical parameters like Magnetic Field, Porosity parameter, Eckert number, Prandtl number and thermal radiation parameters on dimensionless velocity and energy fields are employed via graphs and tables. The velocity profile decreased by about 65% when the magnetic field parameter values increases from 0.5 to 1.5. On the other hand increased by 70% on energy profile. The energy profile enhanced by about 62% when the Radiation parameter values increases from 1.0 < Rd < 3.0. The current model may be applicable in real life practical implications of employing Engine oil-SWCNTs-MWCNTs-TiO2 nanofluids on cylinders encompass enhanced heat transfer efficiency, and extended component lifespan, energy savings, and environmental benefits. This kind of theoretical analysis may be used in daily life applications, such as engineering and automobile industries.

Pemanfaatan Limbah Sampah Plastik Kota Bangkalan sebagai Bahan Baku Genteng dengan Menggunakan Mesin Hotpress

Plastic waste is a waste that is difficult to decompose, and plastic waste is a problem that until now has not been resolved by the Indonesian government, especially the local government of Bangkalan Regency. The Bangkalan Environmental Agency (DLH) stated that in 2022, there will be around 100 tons/year of potential waste generated. As a result of the waste generation data, DLH experienced complaints about the increasing use of plastic and was not balanced with plastic waste management. This activity aims to provide alternative utilization of plastic waste in the form of HDPE plastic-based roof tiles using a pneumatic hotpress machine made by students of the Industrial Engineering Manufacturing Laboratory, Trunojoyo University Madura. With this alternative waste utilization opportunity, it is not only one of the solutions to reduce plastic waste, but also can be used as a business opportunity by Bangkalan residents.

Research on Talent Cultivation Mode of Transportation Engineering Electromechanical Professional Group Based on Guizhou Transportation Characteristics

Taking "cultivating people with moral integrity" as the fundamental task of talent cultivation, accelerating the innovation of talent mode, building a talent cultivation environment that meets the needs of the industry through in-depth integration of industry and education, establishing a good system of collaborative education and system, and innovatively constructing a multi-level and progressive comprehensive talent cultivation system of "order-modern apprenticeship-skilled elites At the same time, we innovate and build "order-modern apprenticeship-skilled elite" multi-level and progressive comprehensive talent cultivation system, realize the hierarchization of talent cultivation, implement the reform of "personalized and multi-level" cultivation mode, and take the modern apprenticeship cultivation mode as the core, and "double-excellent and double-courses" order-type cultivation mode and high-quality complex technology cultivation mode as the core. With modern apprenticeship training mode as the core, "double-excellent and double-course" order-type training mode and high-quality and complex technical skills (technician class, tutorial system, competition class, micro-professional and so on) talent training mode as the support, so that the professional group can become a training ground for cultivating high-quality technical skills in line with the development of the modern intelligent transportation engineering industry, as well as the development of moral and technical training, innovation, complexity, and the industry urgently needed talents.

JOB STATUS OF WOMEN IN SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY: A SUSTAINABILITY PERSPECTIVE

Objective: This study aims at exploring the relationship between the job status of female engineers and the lack of development opportunities in the workplace considering the United Nation’s Social Development Goal number 5 (Gender Equality) and amid sever low representation of women in science, engineering, and technology (SET) industries worldwide. A discussion of the leaky pipeline, a term used by scholars to indicate the progressive decline in the number of women opting the field of SET in the professional practice, is presented (Berry et al., 2022; Kemp, 2021). Method: Quantitative approach was administered in one of the leading universities in Dubai, targeting graduate and postgraduate female students in SET majors. Data analysis was conducted using ANOVA testing. Results: The findings of the research suggest that the job status of female engineers and the lack of development opportunities at the workplace are not related with positive inferences about the progressive evolution that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is witnessing in terms of gender diversity and inclusion (Alblooshi &amp; May, 2018). Originality/Value: Major governmental initiatives regarding gender equality are represented and discussed. The study provides positive insights related to the under-representation of females in SET sectors and a gateway for future research amid lack of literature pertaining to this subject in the Arab world.

Actual uptake pursuance analysis of certification examination among industrial engineers in the Philippines: A TPB-PVT approach

The demand for Industrial Engineers across the globe is significantly increasing and professional certifications give advantage in the job marketplace. The Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers (PIIE) – Industrial Engineering Certification Board facilitates the conferment of the Certified Industrial Engineer (CIE) in the Philippines. The goal of this study was to determine the factors affecting the intention IEs in the Philippines to take the CIE examination using an integration of the Perceived Value Theory and the Extended Theory of Planned Behavior. The research data were collected through an online distributed survey questionnaire to 690 graduating students and graduates from private and public universities across the Philippines. Employing a variance-based partial least squares structural equation modeling, the different significant variables and factors were assessed holistically. It was seen that attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and understanding of the CIE examination have significant positive effects to intent to take the CIE examination and becoming a CIE. The perceived benefits and positive emotions brought by becoming a CIE significantly affects the attitude and behavior. This study also confirmed that the higher the perceived return on investment, the more the IEs will take the CIE examination. Moreover, demographic characteristics were identified to correlate and are significant among different variables. As a reflection, the findings and the integrated framework can be utilized in future studies related to development, career pathing, lifelong learning, and other related professional education.

An Analytical Study of the Mikhailov–Novikov–Wang Equation with Stability and Modulation Instability Analysis in Industrial Engineering via Multiple Methods

Solitary waves, inherent in nonlinear wave equations, manifest across various physical systems like water waves, optical fibers, and plasma waves. In this study, we present this type of wave solution within the integrable Mikhailov–Novikov–Wang (MNW) equation, an integrable system known for representing localized disturbances that persist without dispersing, retaining their form and coherence over extended distances, thereby playing a pivotal role in understanding nonlinear dynamics and wave phenomena. Beyond this innovative work, we examine the stability and modulation instability of its gained solutions. These new solitary wave solutions have potential applications in telecommunications, spectroscopy, imaging, signal processing, and pulse modeling, as well as in economic systems and markets. To derive these solitary wave solutions, we employ two effective methods: the improved Sardar subequation method and the (℧′/℧, 1/℧) method. Through these methods, we develop a diverse array of waveforms, including hyperbolic, trigonometric, and rational functions. We thoroughly validated our results using Mathematica software to ensure their accuracy. Vigorous graphical representations showcase a variety of soliton patterns, including dark, singular, kink, anti-kink, and hyperbolic-shaped patterns. These findings highlight the effectiveness of these methods in showing novel solutions. The utilization of these methods significantly contributes to the derivation of novel soliton solutions for the MNW equation, holding promise for diverse applications throughout different scientific domains.

Systematic Review of Kansei Engineering Method Developments in the Design Field

Kansei engineering is a critical method for designing products that meet functionality, usability, and pleasurability, essential elements for business success. Despite its significance, there is limited understanding of how this method has evolved in recent years. This study aims to analyze the development of Kansei Engineering research from 2018 to 2022 using the Scopus database. The research methodology involved stages of identification, screening, filtering, and inclusion, resulting in 41 articles for detailed analysis out of an initial 215. The results indicate that 85% of Kansei Engineering research focuses on tangible products, with 83% categorized as type 1 studies, and 56% not integrating other methods. Additionally, 88% of the studies use only Kansei words, and 41% visualize design results as 3D images, with 95% not considering unique aspects. is dominance of tangible product design and the lack of integration with other methods suggest a need for diversification in research approaches. Furthermore, the high reliance on Kansei words and 3D visualizations points to a potential area for innovation and expansion in research techniques. This review highlights a significant research gap in Kansei Engineering studies, emphasizing the need for more diversified approaches. By identifying these gaps, the study provides a clear direction for future research, recommending that Kansei Engineering should explore beyond the predominant trends and consider integrating with other methods and unique aspects. This can enhance the method's application in industrial engineering and lead to more comprehensive and innovative product designs. Future research should aim to fill these gaps, ensuring that Kansei Engineering continues to evolve and contribute effectively to the field of product design and development.

The Role of Blockchain-Secured Digital Twins in Promoting Smart Energy Performance-Based Contracts for Buildings

Energy performance-based contracts (EPCs) offer a promising solution for enhancing the energy performance of buildings, which is an overarching step towards achieving Net Zero Carbon Buildings, addressing climate change and improving occupants’ comfort. Despite their potential, their execution is constrained by difficulties that hinder their diffusion in the architecture, engineering, construction, and operation industry. Notably, the Measurement and Verification process is considered a significant impediment due to data sharing, storage, and security challenges. Nevertheless, there have been minimal efforts to analyze research conducted in this field systematically. A systematic analysis of 113 identified journal articles was conducted to fill this gap. A paucity of research tackling the utilization of digital technologies to enhance the implementation of EPCs was found. Consequently, this article proposes a framework integrating Digital Twin and Blockchain technologies to provide an enhanced EPC execution environment. Digital Twin technology leverages the system by monitoring and evaluating energy performance in real-time, predicting future performance, and facilitating informed decisions. Blockchain technology ensures the integrity, transparency, and accountability of information. Moreover, a private Blockchain infrastructure was originally introduced in the framework to eliminate high transaction costs related to on-chain storage and potential concerns regarding the confidentiality of information in open distributed ledgers.