A hybrid simulation model for modules installation in modular integrated construction projects

AbstractProper management of the installation process in Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) is essential to achieve the time-saving benefit of MiC. The analysis of the installation process should cover its operational and contextual sides to realistically mimic the problem. In this connection, the parameters governing the operational and contextual realms of the MiC installation process were identified and investigated through literature; afterwards, a hybrid model was developed to estimate installation rate, duration, and cost of MiC projects. In this model, discrete event simulation was used to consider the operational aspects of the process, e.g. tasks, durations, and logical sequence, while system dynamics was utilized to capture its contextual factors, e.g. absenteeism, rework, resource utilization, fatigue, and weather conditions. BIM was used to feed the model by modules' coordinates and visualize the process. Monte Carlo simulation was adopted to tackle uncertainty and sensitivity analysis was performed to measure outputs variation. The study achieved its aim and objects and the model proved high sensitivity against resource variation and weather conditions, where it was concluded that doubling the resources would reduce the project duration by more than 50% and the weather conditions had an impact of 8.5% increase in project duration. Finally, the model was validated using a case study from the literature.Keywords: BIMdiscrete-event simulationhybrid simulationmodular integrated constructionsystem dynamics Disclosure statementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.Additional informationFundingThis study was supported by Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction.