Infrastructure Engineering - Research Publications
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ItemLean and Green: How the Synergy Can Promote Sustainable Construction(Springer Nature, 2023-08-01)Lean construction aims to improve efficiency through the reduction of wasteful activities. These waste reduction activities also indirectly improve the sustainability approach used by organizations. Our paper examines the definition of lean construction (LC), LC activities, and green construction as understood by academics through a focused literature review. It then examines these practices considering how these activities contribute towards enhancing the sustainability of the built environment and the organization. Our findings suggest that not all waste reduction activities have the same degree of effect on sustainability improvements. Some lean tools such as standardization and just-in-time (JIT) for production scheduling can have a better effect, especially, if the key performance indicators (KPI) specifically target sustainability indicators. “Lean and Green” is not a myth and is very much achievable in the construction industry with the current efforts towards industry 4.0/5.0. Combining these two concepts remains a challenge. This paper aims to learn from what we already know and suggests ways on how “Lean and Green” can be achieved in the future. The paper includes a discussion on leveraging lean and green concepts to achieve the sustainable development goals promoted by the United Nations.
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ItemNo Preview AvailableProduction scheduling in modular construction: Metaheuristics and future directions(Elsevier, 2023-06)Modular construction (MC) is an increasingly important construction technique. However, it also requires the use of sophisticated scheduling algorithms. A comprehensive literature review of different scheduling systems used for prefabricated construction, was conducted using the PRISMA methodology. Over 500 relevant papers were analysed and 59 critical applications of production scheduling metaheuristics were closely examined. However, very few of these were for modular construction. This paper provides a deep analysis of GA applications in scheduling and the newer techniques using PSO, SA and ACO. The results of the review suggest 6 directions for future research namely, (i) Consideration of added complexities, (ii) Responsiveness of the scheduling system to new tenders or work, (iii) Integrating production scheduling with Manufacturing Execution and Control Systems, (iv) Dynamic scheduling, (v) Simulation-based optimization techniques for MC, (vi) Use of AI and machine learning concepts for MC. This paper will inform better production scheduling of MC projects.
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ItemDigitalising modular construction: Enhancement of off-site manufacturing productivity via a manufacturing execution & control (MEC) system(Elsevier, 2023-03-02)Modular construction facilities operate under tight deadlines making the monitoring of manufacturing progress and delivery for optimal factory-to-site operations a significant challenge. This paper presents an action research study that assisted in enhancing the productivity of a manufacturing execution and control system implemented at a facility in Melbourne, Australia. This system monitors production processes, and shares information for timely, well-informed decision-making using an online platform and a mobile app, developed using lean principles. The results showed significant time and cost savings, quality improvement and increased visibility of inefficiencies and will serve as a helpful reference for construction factory managers wishing to improve their manufacturing systems.
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ItemNo Preview AvailableChallenges in Transport Logistics for Modular Construction: A Case Study(Springer Nature, 2023-01-01)Construction logistics is one of the essential functions in the modular construction industry due to the high demand for on-time delivery of components. For modular component suppliers, there is minimal flexibility in delivery times as generally, the installation times of modular components are critical to the contractor’s construction programme. There are several studies conducted in recent years that articulate novel methodologies in construction logistics scheduling; however, the industry still faces challenges in streamlining the whole supply chain to better cater to potential uncertainties that impact construction logistics. This paper looks at a case study on a modular component supplier in Melbourne, with regarding to the challenges faced and how they have effectively overcome these challenges and provides a framework to mitigate construction logistics related discrepancies in the supply chain. The resilience of these methods in facing unforeseen events such as COVID-19 will also be discussed. The overarching objectives of this paper are to include: (1) bibliographic mapping of related publications; (2) identification of current methods, problems and technologies used in modular construction logistics; and (3) propose best practice guidelines that can be implemented to effectively cater to such uncertainties in construction logistics to minimise the impact on the supply chain. Further, incorporating lean principles for planning construction logistics and transport for the modular construction industry is also in discussion. Finally, the potential future research directions are highlighted to guide the researchers to pursue areas of much importance.