Construction Process Optimization of Concrete Structural Elements Using VDC - Case Study (Building)

Abstract

The construction industry is an engine of economic and social development; however, it is one of the industries that has grown the least in terms of productivity. Furthermore, it is characterized by inefficiencies that lead to time and cost overruns. This research seeks to optimize the execution time of a multipurpose building's concrete columns, beams, and slabs by applying the Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) methodology. A VDC framework was developed to establish the client's and project's objectives, production metrics, and controllable factors. As a result, 60 possible clashes among 2 disciplines (structure & MEP) were identified before construction and solved in a collaborative environment. Additionally, the execution time of the structure's concrete beams, slabs, and columns was shortened by 37% compared to the baseline, which was the execution time of the first work lot.