A hybrid approach for developing special purpose simulation tools

Abstract

The use of simulation techniques is an effective approach for modeling construction operations. Unfortunately, the high level of technical knowledge and development time required for building functional simulation models renders simulation modeling an impractical technology for many in the construction industry. Research in construction simulation tackles this conflict by providing modeling approaches that reduce the knowledge and time usually required for building simulation models of construction operations. Special purpose simulation (SPS) allows construction engineers with only minimal simulation knowledge to build practical simulation models. This paper presents a hybrid approach (HSPS) for effective and time-saving development of SPS tools. The approach utilizes visual, general purpose modeling elements to customize the simulation behaviors of new SPS elements, minimizing the programming effort required for developing these elements. This paper describes the theoretical background to the HSPS approach, its implementation, and a sample application successfully created subsequently. It also shows the results of an experiment quantifying the savings in development time achieved using this approach.Key words: automation, simulation models, computerized simulation, tunnel construction, construction management.