Estimating productivity using simulation

Abstract

Purpose -Recently, there has been increased interest in the use of simulation for real-time planning, scheduling, control of construction projects and obtaining optimum productivity. The purpose of this case study is to demonstrate the use of simulation as an effective tool for estimating production rates in an attempt to prepare optimal time schedules. Design/methodology/approach -Gaza Beach-Camp Shore Protection Project was taken as a case study. The case study is used to demonstrate how to estimate effectively the production rates of labour and equipment during the implementation of the project activities and to estimate the duration of the project using process simulation. The model simulates the construction of 1,600 m of gabions divided into 32 identical stations. Probabilistic distribution functions were used to fit the time functions for each process and sub-process based on 100 replications. Findings -The simulation output generated three probabilistic values for completing each activity upon which the overall project completion time is determined. The resources utilizations for all processes were also generated and used in the determination of the average production rates. Originality/value -The computation of productivity based on effective resources utilization has been demonstrated to give better results than estimating productivity based on aggregate resources assignments.

A Thematic Review of the Main Research on Construction Equipment over Recent Years

“…Other research included that of Schabowicz and Hoła (2007;2008) who applied ANNs not only to predict productivity but also to predict earthmoving machinery effectiveness ratios; Marinelli and Lambropoulos (2013) proposed a new algorithmic method for scraper load-time optimization; Oh et al (2015) developed a driver model for the wheel loader V-cycle working pattern and a 3D dynamic simulation model to analyse the working performance and energy flow in each component. Finally, the work of Rustom and Yahia (2007) employed the use of simulation as an effective planning technique for estimating production rates in construction projects.…”

Apply EZStrobe to simulate the finishing work for reducing construction process waste

“…Therefore, to achieve a thorough understanding of how lean thinking might impact the effectiveness of construction projects, a simulation-based methodology was utilized. Computer modeling and simulation precede real-world implementation for two primary purposes: to illuminate and quantify various forms of waste in the construction process and to identify and assess potential enhancements to the system's performance with minimal risk, cost, and time investment 24 – 26 . Moreover, simulation modeling is a cost-effective, flexible, accurate, and realistic approach, preferred by researchers due to its advantages over mathematical and experimental modeling 3 , 5 , 27 , 28 .…”