Intelligent scheduling model and multi-dimensional CM information system

Whereas three-dimensional computer models offer significant advantages and improvements on product quality during the design phase, four-dimensional computer models (3D + time) enhance the potential of computer-aided tools and their advantages in both the design and the construction phase. However, the existing commercial four-dimensional tools only allow the planners to create graphic simulations of the construction process without providing any features to support analysis of such process. The main objective of this research is to build a multi-dimensional construction management information system, called EFFCON (short for EFFective CONstruction management information system), which can be utilized throughout the planning, design, and construction management stages of a project. There are two development stages in this system. The first involves developing an intelligent scheduling model called ISM. This model can automatically optimize the user specified objectives based on the utilization of resources and space by using simulation techniques. The outputs of ISM including: (1) resource distribution with resource allocation, (2) space distribution with dynamic space allocation, (3) production rates of driving resources, (4) utilization rates of resources and space, (5) activity duration, (6) project schedule and cost (including project revenue and project net present value), (7) material management and procurement schedule, and (8) stochastic risk analyses of project duration, project cost, project revenue and project net present value. Furthermore, it allows for what-if analyses of possible scenarios, and schedule adjustments based on unforeseen conditions (change orders, late material delivery, etc. ). The second is to build EFFCON, which involves developing the Dynamic Database System (used to build a multi-dimensional computer model) and the Database Linkage System (a database management system), besides ISM, and integrates a 3D CAD tool, ISM, the Dynamic Database System and the Database Linkage System by applying Fully Integrated and Automated Project Process (FIAPP), and has some important functions (dynamic database window, object-identifier function, “3D WalkThrough” function, etc. ) to assist in the construction stage. The database management system allows users to do detailed and effective database management of labor, material, equipment, space, purchase order, activity, accounting and cost, and generate each report automatically. ISM can work independently of EFFCON to find the optimum schedule plan, and it is a part of the EFFCON integrated system.