Simulation-based evaluation of fuel consumption in heavy construction projects by monitoring equipment idle times

A systematic approach to idle time reduction can significantly boost the efficiency of construction equipment during their lifetime, result in higher overall productivity, and ultimately protect public health and the environment. Towards this goal, this paper describes research aimed at designing a framework for estimating heavy equipment idle times during a construction project. A distributed sensor network is deployed to communicate and present metrics about idle times and production rates and inform project managers and field operators when idle time thresholds are exceeded. The designed user interface includes a graphical representation of the site layout to visualize the status of equipment in real time in support of project management and decision-making tasks. Collected data will be also used to determine energy consumption and CO₂ emission levels as the project makes progress. Using simulation modeling, various operational strategies are evaluated from the point of view of equipment emission and idle times.