CONSCHED: Expert System for Scheduling of Modular Construction Projects

Abstract

The paper describes the principles, operation, and development of an expert system for progress scheduling in the construction of modular multistory buildings. Objectives of effective scheduling are presented and some rules for attaining them in this type of buildings are suggested. The scheduling in the system is task rather than component oriented. The system plans the execution of tasks in view of various managerial goals, and is very flexible in terms of building activities that it can handle and the amount of data required from the user. The system at its present stage is applicable to residential buildings with reinforced concrete skeletons. Operation of the system includes input processing of the project attributes, estimation of works quantities, generation of activities necessary for their execution, allocation of time and resources to activities, and determination of the schedule. An application example is presented. The knowledge base of the system includes a rule base, a data base, algorithms, context knowledge, and user interface. Further development will involve expansion of the technological domain, alternative managerial policies, and different compositions of floors.