Modeling and Simulation

As construction projects become large, complex and tough to manage using traditional techniques, computer simulation can be used effectively to design and analyze construction processes regardless of size or complex.

Computer simulation models can be built to characterize the construction activities of a scope of work ranging from a full blown large and complex project to a sub-area of an industrial facility or to a floor or room of a building. Using simulation, engineers can test out different construction scenarios, estimate resource utilization, find bottlenecks, and forecast time and cost requirements without having to go to site.

To achieve this, we have developed several simulators for different construction operations. Many insights have been deduced from developing and implementing the simulators through capturing the effect of resource interaction (i.e. queuing, equipment capacity mismatches etc…) on productivity. All our simulators were developed in collaboration with experts from the relevant fields, mainly through collaboration with the CCC Knowledge Management Communities of Practice for each discipline.

Earthworks Simulator

The earthworks simulator was developed in collaboration with the CCC Knowledge Management Earthworks Community of Practice. It aids estimators and site engineers in answering questions such as: What is the minimum number of working days required to complete a certain scope with a certain equipment mix? What is the optimal mix of the selected type of equipment to complete the scope in a specific time and with minimum cost? What are total and unit costs? Which type of equipment is a bottleneck? Is any type of equipment idling too much? How will scheduled maintenance affect my productivity?

Asphalt Paving Simulator

The asphalt paving simulator was developed in collaboration with the CCC Knowledge Management Earthworks Community of Practice. It allows end users to examine the paving operation beforehand, or during execution. It helps asses total time and cost required for a paving operation, asphalt plant requirements, equipment requirements, and bottlenecks.

Building Finishes

Allows achieving Lean and BIM integration, and aids in optimizing finishing activities/volumes to minimize crew
idle times,minimizing time and cost required to completion, and validating finishing activity schedule.

Pipe Fabrication and Erection

Built in collaboration with the CCC Knowledge Management Piping Fabrication and Piping Erection Communities of Practice. The aim behind the pipe fabrication simulator is to have a tool that will assist in analyzing, validating and optimizing pipe fabrication and erection activities and crew productivity.

The above simulators have been implemented at numerous customer projects to assist with schedule validation, resource planning, and time and cost forecasting. Some recent on-site implementations include Barzan ESW (E/W), DPCT (E/W, Asphalting), DHP (E/W, Asphalting), FMWP (E/W), Barzan BOP (Pipe Fabrication).