Title: An object-oriented approach for modelling and simulation of construction operations

Authors: H. Zhang, C.M. Tam, J.Y. Wang

Addresses: School of Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Nanhai Ave 3688, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China. ' Department of Building and Construction, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon, Hong Kong. ' School of Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Nanhai Ave 3688, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China

Abstract: This paper describes the application of an object-oriented (OO) modelling concept and OO programming mechanisms to develop an activity object-oriented (AOO) simulation strategy for modelling construction operations. The AOO simulation strategy considers construction activities to be objects, thus overcoming some pitfalls due to the general simulation strategies in developing simulation models or controlling simulation experiments. This paper also discusses the characteristics and related problems of some simulation strategies used for construction simulation. Moreover, the AOO graphical modelling interface associated with the AOO simulation strategy is described. Finally, the AOO simulation system has been compared with other simulation tools.

Keywords: object-oriented modelling; OOM; simulation strategy; construction operations; object-oriented programming; OOP; construction simulation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSPM.2008.020611

International Journal of Simulation and Process Modelling, 2008 Vol.4 No.1, pp.31 - 42

Published online: 03 Oct 2008 *

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