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Buildings
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Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry
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Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry

A special issue of Buildings (ISSN 2075-5309). This special issue belongs to the section "Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2024 | Viewed by 15580

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Jun Wang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Interests: BIM; computer vision; construction automation; lean construction; blockchain
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Shuyuan Xu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
Interests: BIM; IFC; computer vision; bridge management
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Yongwei Wang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor Assistant
China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Second Harbor Engineering Company Ltd., Wuhan 430040, China
Interests: intelligent construction; computer vision; BIM; bridge construction

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

A rapid increase in the use of smart and digital technologies in construction accelerates the transformation of the AEC industry. However, issues relating to data interoperability, information security, technology maturity, return on investment, and skilled workforce shortage still exist and prevent the implementation of these digital technologies in practice.  In this Special Issue, we would like to invite researchers to address these issues from various perspectives, including (but not limited to) the following:

  • BIM/CIM/digital twin;
  • Deep learning/artificial intelligence;
  • Computer vision;
  • Internet of Things and wireless sensor networks;
  • Knowledge graph/NLP;
  • Construction robotics;
  • Mathematical modeling and simulation;
  • Lean construction.

Dr. Jun Wang
Dr. Shuyuan Xu
Guest Editors

Yongwei Wang
Guest Editor Assistant

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Buildings is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • digital construction
  • smart construction
  • BIM
  • construction automation
  • asset management

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

22 pages, 2853 KiB  
Article
A Roadmap for Applying Digital Technology to Improve the Efficiency of Construction Supervision in Building Projects: Focusing on Korean Cases
by Chang-Won Kim, Wi Sung Yoo, Junghoon Seo, Byoung gun Kim and Hyunsu Lim
Buildings 2024, 14(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14010075 - 26 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 674
Abstract
Construction supervision is a key task that can confirm and inspect the project execution and support the creation of successful results. For the efficient performance of construction supervision, collecting various information necessary for the supervisor’s decision-making is a prerequisite, and the use of [...] Read more.
Construction supervision is a key task that can confirm and inspect the project execution and support the creation of successful results. For the efficient performance of construction supervision, collecting various information necessary for the supervisor’s decision-making is a prerequisite, and the use of digital technology has recently been proposed as an alternative. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to present a roadmap for the step-by-step use of digital technology to improve the efficiency of construction supervision. This study was limited to the supervision of construction projects, which have a high proportion of contract volumes in the Korean construction industry and can directly affect people’s lives. This study reclassified Korea’s construction supervision works, collected data on the urgency and effectiveness of detailed works from various stakeholders, and derived a final roadmap using importance–performance analysis. The results of this study are expected to serve as basic guidelines that can be used when reviewing digital technologies that can be applied step by step to improve the efficiency of construction supervision work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry)
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20 pages, 2863 KiB  
Article
Multi-Objective Optimization Research on the Integration of Renewable Energy HVAC Systems Based on TRNSYS
by Qiang Si, Yougang Peng, Qiuli Jin, Yuan Li and Hao Cai
Buildings 2023, 13(12), 3057; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13123057 - 08 Dec 2023
Viewed by 890
Abstract
Well-designed passive buildings can drastically reduce building energy consumption, and optimal design of air conditioning systems is the key to achieving low operating energy consumption in near-zero energy buildings. TRNSYS was used to build the simulation model for a near-zero-energy building and its [...] Read more.
Well-designed passive buildings can drastically reduce building energy consumption, and optimal design of air conditioning systems is the key to achieving low operating energy consumption in near-zero energy buildings. TRNSYS was used to build the simulation model for a near-zero-energy building and its air conditioning system in Beijing. The Taguchi method was used to sort the design parameters that affect system performance according to the degree of influence and find the best combination of design parameters to optimize the system, which increased the solar fraction of the system by 4.6% and reduced the annual operating energy consumption by 7.32%. For the optimized system, a multi-objective optimization function of the life cycle costs and carbon emissions was established. By comparing the energy consumption, life cycle costs, and carbon emissions of the air conditioning system under different system configurations, optimal configuration solutions under different design target weights were obtained. It was found that using a ground source heat pump system + solar collector system had better energy-savings benefits, but the operating costs were slightly higher. The application of absorption refrigeration can reduce the system operating costs but will increase the initial investment. The best economic benefits were achieved using the ground source heat pump system + solar collector system for heating in winter and the ground source heat pump system for cooling in summer, and the best environmental benefits were obtaining using the ground source heat pump system + solar collector system for heating in winter and the ground source heat pump system + solar absorption refrigeration system in summer, which provides a reference for the optimization design and research of air conditioning systems in near-zero energy buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry)
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18 pages, 2505 KiB  
Article
Dual-Level Framework for OpenBIM-Enabled Design Collaboration
by Ming Jin and Baizhan Li
Buildings 2023, 13(12), 3031; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13123031 - 05 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1198
Abstract
Design coordination and collaboration are crucial in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries, necessitating the integration of diverse disciplines and expertise to achieve unified and functional designs. Traditionally, these disciplines operate in isolation, leading to a fragmented design process. Building Information Modeling [...] Read more.
Design coordination and collaboration are crucial in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries, necessitating the integration of diverse disciplines and expertise to achieve unified and functional designs. Traditionally, these disciplines operate in isolation, leading to a fragmented design process. Building Information Modeling (BIM), recognized for its collaborative capabilities, presents an opportunity to revolutionize traditional design practices. However, existing research on BIM primarily assumes an ideal environment where all major participants use BIM models, overlooking the dynamics of mixed 2D Computer-aided Design (CAD) and 3D BIM environments. Addressing this research gap, this study aims to establish a dual-level OpenBIM-enabled collaborative design framework, enhancing the design process across various disciplines. The study employs a case study approach, applying this framework to an airport project in Chengdu, China. The airport includes different corridors that are similar in scope and scale but distinct enough to allow for a comparative study. The results demonstrate a 27% faster completion rate, a 98% reduction in design errors, and improved user satisfaction with the proposed method. The paper concludes by discussing the limitations of the study and suggesting avenues for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry)
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16 pages, 1515 KiB  
Article
Towards a Conceptual Framework of Using Technology to Support Smart Construction: The Case of Modular Integrated Construction (MiC)
by Becky P. Y. Loo and Rosana W. M. Wong
Buildings 2023, 13(2), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13020372 - 29 Jan 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3531
Abstract
Construction is a major source of carbon emissions. Moreover, it faces various other sustainability challenges, such as construction waste, construction noise, vehicular traffic near construction sites, dust and other air and water pollutants, and safety and well-being of construction workers. Poorly designed and [...] Read more.
Construction is a major source of carbon emissions. Moreover, it faces various other sustainability challenges, such as construction waste, construction noise, vehicular traffic near construction sites, dust and other air and water pollutants, and safety and well-being of construction workers. Poorly designed and constructed buildings will continue to affect the well-being of their occupants and overall energy efficiency throughout the building lifecycle. Hence, accelerating the transformation of the construction industry towards smart construction or Construction 4.0 is an important topic. The ways that technology can help to achieve smart construction, especially with the adoption of construction methods with increasing construction modularity, should be further explored. Focusing on modular integrated construction (MiC), this paper examines the following questions: (1) How has technology been applied to support MiC development and smart construction in Hong Kong? (2) What are the lessons learned? A case study approach of a building information model (BIM)-enabled multifunctional blockchain-based digital platform is adopted to allow us to systematically consider (1) the main objectives and scope, (2) the stakeholders involved, (3) the key outcomes and processes, (4) the applications of blockchain technology, and (5) the integration with other digital software and management platforms in practice. Drawing upon the experience, we propose a generic four-stage approach in understanding and facilitating the adoption of relevant technology towards smart construction. At Stage One, the technologies of BIM, RFID, and blockchain are applied to support the core elements of MiC production: just-in-time transportation and on-site installation. At Stage Two, the digital platform is extended to serve as an interface for third parties, notably government; monitoring, authentication, and certifications for information sharing; visualization; and real-time monitoring and updating of MiC projects. At Stage Three, the system focuses on people in the construction process, aiming to enhance the safety and well-being of workers and drivers throughout the construction process. Different Internet-of-Thing devices and sensors, construction robotics, closed-circuit television, dashboards, and cloud-based monitoring are deployed. At Stage Four, the full construction lifecycle is the focus, whereby a centralized smart command theatre is set up with multiple sources of data in a city information model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry)
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20 pages, 7428 KiB  
Article
BIM Methodology in Structural Design: A Practical Case of Collaboration, Coordination, and Integration
by Alcinia Zita Sampaio, Paulo Sequeira, Augusto M. Gomes and Alberto Sanchez-Lite
Buildings 2023, 13(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13010031 - 23 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5226
Abstract
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a methodology focused on the centralization and sharing of project information among all experts involved. The use of BIM platforms allows professionals to improve coordination, collaboration, and integration along with the development of all disciplines and tasks required [...] Read more.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a methodology focused on the centralization and sharing of project information among all experts involved. The use of BIM platforms allows professionals to improve coordination, collaboration, and integration along with the development of all disciplines and tasks required in a complete building project. Currently, the construction industry has witnessed a growing adoption of BIM, mainly caused by the constant technologic achievements, contributing to the improvement of the integration capability of the available software. However, concerning structural design, BIM implementation still presents some difficulties, especially in the interoperability of BIM-based systems. In the present study, a structural design case was considered, using Revit as the modeling software and Robot as the structural system. A bidirectional exchange of information between the two systems was required and the interoperability capacity was evaluated. In the process, the main identified remarks concern the fundamental aspects of information sharing, collaboration, integration, and interoperability. Despite the limitations found, essentially related to the software interoperability, the BIM approach presents significant advantages in a structural project, supported by 3D visualization, model overlapping, easy accessibility to the model database, streamlined coordination, and enhanced collaboration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry)
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Review

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29 pages, 6992 KiB  
Review
Wireless Sensor Placement Optimization for Bridge Health Monitoring: A Critical Review
by Gang Chen, Weixiang Shi, Lei Yu, Jizhuo Huang, Jiangang Wei and Jun Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(3), 856; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030856 - 21 Mar 2024
Viewed by 746
Abstract
In recent years, wireless sensors have progressively supplanted conventional limited sensors owing to their attributes of small size, low cost, and high accuracy. Consequently, there has been a growing interest in leveraging wireless sensor networks for bridge structural health monitoring applications. By employing [...] Read more.
In recent years, wireless sensors have progressively supplanted conventional limited sensors owing to their attributes of small size, low cost, and high accuracy. Consequently, there has been a growing interest in leveraging wireless sensor networks for bridge structural health monitoring applications. By employing wireless sensor nodes to gather data from various segments of the bridge, information is relayed to a signal-receiving base station. Subsequently, the health status of the bridge is inferred through specific data processing and analysis, aiding monitoring personnel in making informed decisions. Nonetheless, there are limitations in this research, particularly pertaining to power consumption and efficiency issues in data acquisition and transmission, as well as in determining the appropriate wireless sensor types and deployment locations for different bridge configurations. This study aims to comprehensively examine research on the utilization of wireless sensor networks in the realm of bridge structural health monitoring. Employing a systematic evaluation methodology, more than one hundred relevant papers were assessed, leading to the identification of prevalent sensing techniques, data methodologies, and modal evaluation protocols in current use within the field. The findings indicate a heightened focus among contemporary scholars on challenges arising during the data acquisition and transmission processes, along with the development of optimal deployment strategies for wireless sensor networks. In continuing, the corresponding technical challenges are provided to address these concerns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry)
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16 pages, 15047 KiB  
Review
The Mediators of the Relationship between Digitalisation and Construction Productivity: A Systematic Literature Review
by Sambo Lyson Zulu, Ali M. Saad and Temitope Omotayo
Buildings 2023, 13(4), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13040839 - 23 Mar 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2287
Abstract
The construction industry has long been perceived as reluctant to embrace change, and digital transformation is not an exception. The slow adoption rate has been linked to the perceptions of the effectiveness of construction innovations. An implied link exists between digitalisation and productivity [...] Read more.
The construction industry has long been perceived as reluctant to embrace change, and digital transformation is not an exception. The slow adoption rate has been linked to the perceptions of the effectiveness of construction innovations. An implied link exists between digitalisation and productivity improvements. However, such a link is yet associated with ambiguities, suggesting that the influence is not linear. Despite the very low productivity rates achieved in the construction industry, studies on the association between technology adoption and productivity-related benefits and advantages are rare, and this may be a contributing factor to the indecision of construction firms to embrace digitalisation. A systematic literature review enables scholars to disseminate past research efforts in one scholarly resource, in pursuit of new knowledge. Through systematically reviewing the literature, this study identifies, classifies, and critically analyses research efforts, aiming to shed light on the mediators of the relationship between digitalisation and productivity. Overall, sixty articles have been identified, screened, and included in this study. Productivity, in this context, is positively related to digitalization, by promoting more safety and well-being, planning enhancements, collaboration, waste reduction, employee upskilling, design enhancements, communication and knowledge transfer, and accuracy in information management. The findings also reflect the popular use of qualitative methods when studying digitalisation in the construction context, a stance that may be a reflection of a less diverse use of methodological approaches, and presents a call for more quantitative studies, to explore the relationship between digitalisation and productivity. Future research is encouraged to use this extensive review as a foundation for comparable empirical investigations, considering areas of similar interest, to accelerate the adoption of digitalisation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Digital Construction in AEC Industry)
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Planned Papers

The below list represents only planned manuscripts. Some of these manuscripts have not been received by the Editorial Office yet. Papers submitted to MDPI journals are subject to peer-review.

Title: Wireless Sensor Placement Optimization for Bridge Health Monitoring: A Critical Review
Authors: Gang Chen; Weixiang Shi; Lei Yu; Jizhuo Huang; Jiangang Wei; Jun Wang
Affiliation: College of Civil Engineering ,Fuzhou University ,Fuzhou 350116 ,Fujian ,China
Abstract: In recent years, wireless sensors have gradually replaced the traditional limited sensors with their advantages of small size, low cost and high accuracy, and there is an increasing interest in the application of wireless sensor networks in bridge structural health monitoring. Using wireless sensor nodes to collect information from various parts of the bridge, the data is transmitted to the signal receiving base station and then the bridge health status is derived through certain data processing and analysis to assist the monitoring workers to make correct decisions. However, there are limitations in this research, how to solve the power consumption and efficiency problems in data acquisition and transmission, and how to choose the right type of wireless sensors and deployment locations on different bridge types. The purpose of this study is to review the research on the application of wireless sensor networks in the field of bridge structural health monitoring. Using a systematic evaluation approach, a total of 73 compliant papers were evaluated in this study, and the review identified the sensing techniques, data techniques, and modal evaluation guidelines that are currently in mainstream use in the field. The study shows that the current scholars pay more attention to the problems arising in the data acquisition and transmission process and the optimal deployment scheme of wireless sensor networks, and propose corresponding technical challenges and solutions.

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