Research

24 pages, 1927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring Comprehensive Production Efficiency of the Chinese Construction Industry: A Bootstrap-DEA-Malmquist Approach

by Aobo Yue and Xupeng Yin

Buildings 2023, 13(3), 834; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13030834 - 22 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1466

Production efficiency is a critical research topic in the field of construction economics and management. It reflects the developmental potential and competitiveness of the economy or an economic system. An objective and reasonable assessment framework of the production efficiency in the construction industry [...] Read more.

Production efficiency is a critical research topic in the field of construction economics and management. It reflects the developmental potential and competitiveness of the economy or an economic system. An objective and reasonable assessment framework of the production efficiency in the construction industry is essential to promote the industry’s high-quality development. This study aims to propose a scientific and holistic framework to examine the production efficiency in the construction industry and to investigate evolution patterns from a macroeconomic perspective. Input and output indicators were identified through the value-added and the fuzzy Delphi methods. In addition, the production efficiency in the construction industry was examined via the bootstrap-DEA and Malmquist exponential decomposition models. A case study in China was conducted at the end of this research. The panel data of 31 provinces from 2010 to 2020 were applied in the case study. The results reveal the following: (1) The bootstrap-DEA model results show that the trends of production efficiency before and after rectification are similar, but the difference is largest at the peak. Moreover, the production efficiency value after correction is evidently lower than that which is obtained by the traditional DEA model. (2) The Malmquist index decomposition results show that the change trend of technical efficiency in the construction industry is contrary to that of the scale efficiency. In addition, the improvement of scale efficiency cannot bring a melioration of management efficiency or the accumulation of production experience. (3) There is no direct correlation between production efficiency and economic development. High-value areas and median areas are contiguous, and they are mainly distributed in the central and eastern provinces. The findings accurately reflect construction industry productivity, providing practical data for developing policy recommendations for bridging regional construction development gaps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 3968 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ensuring Efficient Implementation of Lean Construction Projects Using Building Information Modeling

by Svetlana S. Uvarova, Alexandr K. Orlov and Vadim S. Kankhva

Buildings 2023, 13(3), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13030770 - 15 Mar 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3004

Abstract

Modern economic dynamics makes it more expedient to introduce lean construction tools into the activities of all value chain participants in construction. The need to take into account digitalization processes in construction entail an increase in the urgency of the problem related to [...] Read more.

Modern economic dynamics makes it more expedient to introduce lean construction tools into the activities of all value chain participants in construction. The need to take into account digitalization processes in construction entail an increase in the urgency of the problem related to the integration of digital technologies into the concept of lean construction. Many studies have been devoted to the problems of integrating lean construction with building information modeling (BIM) tools, which have proved their effectiveness and substantiated obstacles to their active implementation. However, issues related to assessing the cost-effectiveness of integrating lean construction with BIM and other digital technologies (if companies refuse to introduce BIM), which allow for improving the interaction of investment and construction project participants, have not been actively studied. This article examines the effectiveness of using digital tools and technologies that will contribute to the development of lean construction and reduce the corresponding losses of investment and construction projects in the example of Russia. A literature review, interviews with experts aimed at summarizing the results, as well as practical calculations taken from the existing project, were used for the purposes of this study. The main losses at each stage of an investment and construction project arising from problems in the interaction of participants in Russian construction were identified, the effects of integrating lean construction with BIM and other digital technologies were determined, an algorithm for selecting digital technologies to be integrated with lean construction was developed. The methodology for calculating the effect of the implementation of tools and principles of lean–digital interaction technologies, as well as recommendations for the implementation of tools in construction practice, were discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 9586 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Wind Effects on a Residential Building with a Focus on the Linings, Window Sills, and Lintel

by Oľga Hubová, Marek Macák, Michal Franek, Peter Lobotka, Lenka Bujdáková Konečná and Oľga Ivánková

Buildings 2023, 13(1), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13010183 - 10 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1404

Abstract

This article deals with the investigation of wind effects on a façade of a rectangular residential building with explicit modelling of the windows for specific wind conditions. The external wind pressure coefficients were treated on the façade and at the places of the [...] Read more.

This article deals with the investigation of wind effects on a façade of a rectangular residential building with explicit modelling of the windows for specific wind conditions. The external wind pressure coefficients were treated on the façade and at the places of the window sills, linings, and lintel for the direction of the wind from 0° to 90° with increments of 22.5°. For a detailed analysis, the CFD simulation using Ansys Fluent was used. The method selected for the CFD simulation solution and its setting (quality of meshing, horizontal homogeneity of the boundary layer, etc.) were verified by known results of similar objects. The purpose of this analysis is to show how important it is to consider wind effects to determine the suitable placement of passive ventilation devices. Research shows the potential optimal position of ventilation units in terms of favourable pressure distribution. Zones with negative pressure and corners or façades in a wake are not suitable for applying passive ventilation units. The results can serve as a basis for designers to achieve optimal comfort in residential buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Project Governance on Opportunistic Behavior: Taking a Dynamic Perspective

by Wenjing Han and Yilin Yin

Buildings 2022, 12(10), 1659; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12101659 - 11 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1339

Abstract

The importance of project governance in curbing opportunistic behavior (OB) has been clearly established in the project literature. Although contract governance and trust are considered critical factors that explain project governance, there is a lack of understanding regarding their interplay at various stages [...] Read more.

The importance of project governance in curbing opportunistic behavior (OB) has been clearly established in the project literature. Although contract governance and trust are considered critical factors that explain project governance, there is a lack of understanding regarding their interplay at various stages of project development. The current study takes a dynamic perspective and breaks down contract governance into contract completeness (CC) and contract enforcement (CE), while differentiating ex-ante trust from ex-post trust. As such, the current study takes a dynamic perspective and the Grossman-Hart-Moore (GHM) model, which aims to investigate how each of the two facets of contract governance and trust intertwine during the management of construction projects as well as their effects on OB. We undertook a questionnaire survey of individuals involved in 342 construction projects in China, and our research results show that, first of all, governance mechanisms at different stages have different inhibitory effects on OB. Taking contract-signing as the boundary, the governance effect of a contract is gradually enhanced, while the governance effect of trust is gradually reduced. Second, ex-ante trust is more important than ex-post trust: the former moderates not only the relationship between CE and OB, but also the influence of CC on OB. Finally, a contract that is overly complete is not conducive to precluding OB, as such completeness can give the contract parties a sense of security that is guaranteed. The current study not only garners insights into project governance research but also provides implications for architectural practitioners in deploying resources that relate to governance mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1471 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A TRIZ-Inspired Conceptual Development of a Roof Tile Transportation and Inspection System

by Poh Kiat Ng, Murman Dwi Prasetio, Kia Wai Liew, Boon Kian Lim, Ayudita Oktafiani, Sheila Amalia Salma and Yunita Nugrahaini Safrudin

Buildings 2022, 12(9), 1456; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12091456 - 15 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2304

Abstract

The Indonesian roof tile manufacturing industry relies heavily on manual operations, specifically in transportation and inspection processes, which creates multiple issues, such as fatigue, injuries, human error, and reduced productivity. Various industries in the Indonesian industrial landscape have begun embracing a problem-solving approach [...] Read more.

The Indonesian roof tile manufacturing industry relies heavily on manual operations, specifically in transportation and inspection processes, which creates multiple issues, such as fatigue, injuries, human error, and reduced productivity. Various industries in the Indonesian industrial landscape have begun embracing a problem-solving approach known as the theory of inventive problem-solving (TRIZ) to mine solutions for industrial issues. Nevertheless, its application in the Indonesian roof tile manufacturing industry remains unaddressed. The study aims to solve manual handling issues in the roof tile manufacturing industry using TRIZ. Three observations were outlined from manual roof tile transportation and inspection, followed by the formulation of engineering contradictions (ECs). The ECs were linked with system parameters, which were used as indicators within the contradiction matrix to extract inventive principles as solution models for conceptual development. The concept included an automated system with a conveyor belt (#15: dynamics) for effective transportation, automated image capture (#28: mechanics substitution) for effective inspection, and a flipping conveyor (#25: self-service) to eliminate manual contact. Although the study addressed several issues stemming from manual operations, mechanical analysis, prototyping, and usability testing still require improvements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 3631 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Innovation District Typology Classification via Performance Framework: Insights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane

by Rosemary Adu-McVie, Tan Yigitcanlar, Bo Xia and Isil Erol

Buildings 2022, 12(9), 1398; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12091398 - 06 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7811

Abstract

As a new land use type, innovation districts are taking prominence in the urban development policies and plans of many cities across the globe. This new urban land use comes in many shapes and forms and offers various features and functions to the [...] Read more.

As a new land use type, innovation districts are taking prominence in the urban development policies and plans of many cities across the globe. This new urban land use comes in many shapes and forms and offers various features and functions to the users. Despite its increasing popularity, there exist only limited approaches to classify innovation districts, and there are no holistic typologies developed so far. This study focuses on this understudied, but important area of research. The paper aims to develop an innovation district typology matrix and evaluates its practicality with real innovation district data. The methodological approach is three-fold. First, the multidimensional innovation district classification framework is adopted as a performance framework. Second, data from three eminent Australian innovation districts—i.e., Macquarie Park Innovation District (Sydney), Monash Technology Precinct (Melbourne), and Kelvin Grove Urban Village (Brisbane)—are collected. Third, both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods are employed for data analysis. The study finds that innovation district performances can be measured, and typologies can be developed though a novel approach. These, in return, inform property developers and managers, city administrators, and urban planners in their efforts to plan, design, develop, and manage competitive innovation districts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Architectural Design Optimisation in Reticulated Free-Form Canopies

by Anna Stefańska and Wiesław Rokicki

Buildings 2022, 12(8), 1068; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12081068 - 22 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4104

Abstract

The search for the structural form of reticulated roofs is significant in interdisciplinary Architectural Design optimisation. Combining parametric design with structural logic influences the visual perception of the shape by choosing the most suitable technical solutions. Therefore, the divisions of reticulated structures should [...] Read more.

The search for the structural form of reticulated roofs is significant in interdisciplinary Architectural Design optimisation. Combining parametric design with structural logic influences the visual perception of the shape by choosing the most suitable technical solutions. Therefore, the divisions of reticulated structures should be determined to pursue structural, material and fabrication advancement. Structural divisions of free-formed canopies should simultaneously be solved in architectural and structural design at an early stage. Choosing a proper design becomes a complicated process, requiring the ability to select a type of production and rationalise technical solutions mainly due to the computer-aided design supported by algorithmic tools. Based on searching for optimal geometrical divisions, the case study investigates the differences between planar quadrilateral and triangular mesh panelisation. The study concludes the assets and flaws of both geometry shaping methods of reticulated structures based on minimal weight and fabrication aspects. The study concludes that implementing the manufacturing method of the chosen type of gridshells divisions into the architectural design optimisation enhances the resulting free-form structures at the early design stage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 4988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Various Pseudomonas Bacteria Concentrations on the Strength and Durability Characteristics of Concrete

by Ashish Shukla, Nakul Gupta, Saurav Dixit, Nikolai Ivanovich Vatin, Manish Gupta, Kuldeep Kumar Saxena and Chander Prakash

Buildings 2022, 12(7), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12070993 - 12 Jul 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2228

Abstract

The goal of this study is to improve concrete’s efficiency by using a microbiologically produced specific growth/filler. One such way of thinking has resulted in the invention of a highly unusual concrete known as microbial concrete, which uses bacteria to cure flaws in [...] Read more.

The goal of this study is to improve concrete’s efficiency by using a microbiologically produced specific growth/filler. One such way of thinking has resulted in the invention of a highly unusual concrete known as microbial concrete, which uses bacteria to cure flaws in the concrete. Investigators working with various microorganisms suggested several microbial concretes. The bacterium “Pseudomonas” was used in this experiment. Pseudomonas bacteria, which can make calcite precipitates on a proper medium supplied with a calcium supply, is a typical science lab bacterium for calcite generation. Two different concentrations (10⁶ cfu/mL and 10⁷ cfu/mL) of bacteria were added to cement concrete and it was observed that the bacterial concrete with two different concentrations gives results as compared with normal concrete. According to the findings of this investigation, the inclusion of bacteria resulted in a considerable increase in compressive strength when the dilution factor was 10⁶ cells per ml of mixed water. With the incorporation of the microorganisms, it was discovered that holes were partly filled up by material growth, as shown by scanning electron micrography inspection of the sample. Concrete cubes without and with the inclusion of bacteria were molded, and it was discovered that the compressive strength of the cubes with the injection of microorganisms increased significantly. In this study, concrete cylinders without and with the inclusion of microorganisms were molded, and it was discovered that the split tensile strength of the cylinders with the injection of microorganisms increased significantly above the control. When compared with regular concrete, the results showed a maximum increase of 16 percent in compressive strength and a maximum increase of 12 percent in split tensile strength. It was discovered via durability testing that bacterial concrete had less weight loss and stronger tensile strength than conventional concrete when treated with 5 percent H₂SO₄ or 5 percent MgSO₄ compared with control concrete. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Sustainable Architecture and Construction Infrastructure

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (8 papers)

Research

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI