Enhancing Volumetric Modular Construction Efficiency Through Integrated Project Planning and Virtual Reality Simulations
摘要
Volumetric modular construction, where buildings are constructed off-site under controlled plant conditions, has emerged as a sustainable and efficient building methodology by improving project planning, coordination, and communication processes across off-site and on-site operations. For successful implementation, it is critical to identify and mitigate bottlenecks in production scheduling. This study aims to enhance construction workflow that can impede efficiency in off-site manufacturing facilities —e.g., by identifying sub-tasks that negatively impact unique modular unit assemblies, such as mismatches between modular and site-built components. The presented study uses virtual reality (VR)-based simulations to explore the users’ ability to visualize better constraints in lead time planning and capacity planning for coordination in on-site assembly. The developed VR simulations focus on pull planning. The aim is to find efficiencies in the assembly of modular units and modular components on-site by comprehending interfacing (dependencies and the complexity of the structure assembly) between modular and traditionally built sections. This virtual space allows project engineers, subcontractors, owners’ representatives, and construction professionals to visualize the entire construction process, from manufacturing to installation. The immersive planning is expected to enable users to reduce potential conflicts during off-site manufacturing and on-site assembly, facilitate real-time collaboration and decision-making, and reduce rework and delays on-site. The outcome will streamline production and minimize project delays by reducing project timelines and on-site disruptions, resulting in significant cost savings, improved waste management and sustainability practices, and on-site project delivery.