| This thesis introduces a new methodology, specially designed to simulate construction operations in real-time virtual interactive environments. Due to the complex nature of construction operations, it is difficult to describe the dynamic processes involved using traditional geometric modeling techniques. Other methods attempt to describe construction processes, but lack the capability to take into account the geometric component of building projects. The new approach uses a combination of techniques from different areas to take the designers, construction managers and other users into a virtual scenario where their ideas and decisions can be tested, experienced and improved.; A virtual environment program was created during this study, using the object oriented language C++, to test the new simulation concepts. This environment, called the Interactive Visualizer Plus Plus (IV++), provides the user with the choice of virtual construction equipment that can perform the tasks needed to assemble buildings. A new technique called Computer Aided Design and Assembly (CADA), conceived to simplify the process of defining simulation goals by using CAD, was also developed. The goals contained in the building model, created using CADA, are interpreted by a GPS planning algorithm which determines the way a goal should be accomplished using the available equipment in the virtual environment. The equipment receives instructions from the GPS planner and carries out the tasks while adapting to changes in the environment by using a reactive control algorithm.; The new simulation technique successfully accounts for the geometric characteristics of not only the building, but also the equipment and the construction site. In addition, construction equipment dynamics has been incorporated into the system to achieve a more realistic performance. Virtual reality has been included in the system as well to allow the users to "be" inside the simulated construction environment. By having a more direct interaction, users can focus on important engineering issues instead of finding ways to model the system so the simulation runs correctly. |
