Multi-agent-based simulation system for construction operations with congested flows

Abstract

This study aims to develop a multi-agent-based simulation system to evaluate the traffic flow of construction equipment in construction site. It is known that traffic flow of construction equipment affects work efficiency and productivity. The conventional modeling approaches for discrete event simulation, however, have a limitation in simulating the flow of construction equipment because construction equipment has continuous dynamic behavior in the traffic flow. In order to describe behavioral characteristics of construction equipment by identifying changes in a dynamic environment, this study proposes the multi-agent-based simulation system and applies and tests it to simulate earthmoving operations. It is anticipated that the results of this study will help working-level construction engineers to assess the impact of traffic congestion during construction planning. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.