Lean Thinking for Structural Engineers

Abstract

The positive transformation realised from lean concept application in the manufacturing industry has inspired many researchers to investigate and propose its adoption in Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry (AEC). The lean application in construction sector has received significant attention. Building up on previous recommendations regarding lean design and construction, this study explored lean thinking for Structural Engineers (SE) to identify new, efficient and innovative ways for executing structural designs and engineering works. The research study was based on qualitative research method using Systematic Literature Review (SLR). An overview of research works on lean applied to designs demonstrated lean to be a multi-dimensional concept characterised by different levels and therefore defied a universal definition. This paper therefore focused on the first part of the study where an understanding of lean was gained with respect to structural designs and was characterised with lean principles, techniques, processes, practices and tools to deliver value for customers.

Sustainable Construction: Improving Productivity through Lean Construction

“…The aim of systems engineering [32] is to formalise new ways of approaching the execution of the building, with which we will understand better the advantages of industrial approaches, using its own internal logic in the design. However, it is not only necessary to industrialise the components for their industrial manufacture but also to go further, thinking about assembly and maintenance, summarized by contemplating the full 360 • cycle of the complete exploitation of the building asset.…”