Simulation of Learning Development in Repetitive Construction

Abstract

This paper presents the methodology used to model the learning development phenomenon in the CYCLONE format using the Boeing learning curve. The learning development enhancement was coded in the MicroCYCLONE (a microcomputer version of CYCLONE) environment using QuickBASIC programming. The enhancement allows the user to specify the rate of learning expressed as a percentage, the realization count required for the task duration to increment due to learning, and the threshold at which no more learning improvement can be realized. The existing routines for generating deterministic durations and stochastic durations based on uniform, triangular, and beta distributions were upgraded to calculate durations that reflect the impact of learning development. The learning development enhancement can be extended for use with other simulation programs based on the CYCLONE modeling format. The developed learning‐development enhancement was used to model and simulate the learning‐development phenomenon for linear construction operation illustrative examples. Findings from the simulation experimentation performed for the illustrative examples are provided. The significance, capabilities, and implementation of the learning‐development enhancement are discussed.