Advanced Simulation of Cyclic Construction Operations: A Case Study Utilizing EZStrobe and MicroCYCLONE

Abstract

This paper enriches the body of knowledge by demonstrating the practical application and comparative effectiveness of EZStrobe and MicroCYCLONE in simulating cyclic construction operations, particularly in bridge and other civil infrastructure projects, a context that has received limited attention. The study provides new insights that enhance the adoption of simulation tools in construction practices, evaluating their effectiveness, resource efficiency, and role in decision-making, and addressing gaps in their application. The study modeled 35 cycles of a cable-stayed bridge using EZStrobe, and the results were compared with those of MicroCYCLONE. The analysis of various essential resource combinations revealed that employing two concrete crews, two stressing crews, and one concrete pump resulted in the best time performance, with a minimum duration of 133 days and a productivity rate of 0.132 segments/crew/day. Conversely, combining one stressing crew and two concrete crews achieved the highest production rate, 0.144 segments/crew/day, with a duration of 162 days. The study’s findings showed that EZStrobe matches the accuracy of MicroCYCLONE and improves modeling optimization and outcome by incorporating stochastic time variability. The study highlights the practical application and effectiveness of EZStrobe and MicroCYCLONE in civil infrastructure projects. EZStrobe offers streamlined and explicit modeling of cyclic operations, allowing for probabilistic task durations without requiring specialized simulation languages and skills, making it an accessible tool for project managers and planners.