Interactive simulation modeling for heavy construction operations

With all the benefits of discrete event simulation, the field application of simulation has been limited in the construction industry. The principal reasons for the limited field application include the complexity of simulation system itself and the amount of time and cost to develop the simulation model. To support the utilization of discrete-event simulation in the planning and the analysis of heavy construction operations, this paper proposes an interactive simulation modeling approach that will allow, with step-by-step guidance, the project manager to build a simulation model through interaction with a computer. To evaluate this modeling concept, this paper presents a framework for an information system that is called Knowledge-embedded, MOdularized Simulation system (KMOS), and then applies to a real project.