A simulation tool for multi-perspective site layout analysis

This paper presents a simulation application for the analysis of space on construction site from a variety of perspectives. This aims to serve as an IT support tool for site planners and managers to carry out more informed decisions regarding the spatial organisation of site layouts and their impact on productivity and safety of site activities. The application models and evaluates the potential implications of site space on practical site planning considerations such as the distribution of facilities and resources, the movement of logistics and safety of site operatives. The site layout analysis tool consists of three main components, a space analysis component, a facility allocation component, and a path selection component. The space analysis component evaluates the construction site space in terms of visibility, accessibility and safety. The facility allocation component optimises the locations of temporary facilities on the site according to a combination of cost and safety criteria. The path selection component applies mathematical search techniques to perform optimum path finding according to a combination of distance, visibility and safety measures, and a user defined starting and destination locations on the site.