Journal of Construction Engineering, Management & Innovation

Emad Tanbour Kasim Korkmaz Suleiman Ashur Othman Almousa

The rapid advancement of interactive technologies, such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), has brought numerous possibilities for transformative applications in various areas. These innovations hold immense potential to revolutionize the construction industry. The dynamic progression of VR and AR not only introduces novel approaches but also fosters a range of applications in the field. In a recent study, the practical utilization of VR and AR was showcased through the development of a virtual highway bridge with reinforcement in a dedicated laboratory. This model, outlined in the paper, serves as an educational tool tailored for engineering students, offering a cost-effective and multifaceted learning experience in the realm of construction. The inherent connection between immersion and engagement in a virtual environment underscores the significance of these technologies. The ability to virtually interact with a constructed bridge model not only enhances the learning process but also provides a hands-on experience without the constraints of real-world costs and logistical challenges. Through this innovative approach, students gain valuable insights into construction practices, making the educational process more accessible and dynamic. The incorporation of VR and AR in the construction industry, as demonstrated by the development of a virtual highway bridge, signifies a paradigm shift in education. This pioneering method not only reduces costs but also expands the possibilities for interactive learning, offering engineering students a comprehensive and engaging exploration of construction principles.

https://doi.org/10.31462/jcemi.2024.01001009

Kubra Yilmaz Senel Asli Cekmis

Smart objects, equipped with a variety of intelligent features, can significantly improve BIM efficiency and address issues such as data loss and outdated information throughout the design, construction, and management phases of projects. A systematic literature review was conducted, encompassing research articles published from 2005 to 2023, to examine the involvement of smart objects in BIM integration. Out of the 98 studies identified, it was revealed that smart objects play a crucial role in three primary stages of BIM implementation: pre-construction (architectural design), construction (management and progress monitoring), and post-construction (applications in smart buildings and documentation of existing and historical buildings). A comprehensive analysis of these studies led to the development of a current workflow, detailing the various categories of smart objects, their application areas, and the procedures involved in their creation. The analysis also provides insights into the methodologies, tools, and software crucial for BIM integration, along with potential challenges that may arise. It is anticipated that the use of smart objects as representatives of real building elements will become a core component of the AEC industry.

https://doi.org/10.31462/jcemi.2024.01010033

Merve KASAPOGLU Yeliz Duygu ERCEK Mustafa Taha ASLAN

Disaster wastes generated after earthquakes have a negative impact on the environment and living beings and cause damages that last for many years. Within the scope of the study, it is aimed to reveal the importance of the disaster waste management process. For this purpose, the disaster waste management process in the Kahramanmaraş earthquake centered on February 6, which is the world's biggest disaster in 2023, was discussed. In this context, document/record and case study methods were used. In this context, "Waste Management Regulation", "Regulation on Regular Storage of Waste" and "Regulation on the Control of Excavation Soil, Construction and Demolition Waste" were examined. Also, The Landfill Directive, which concerns all member countries of the European Union and is included in the European Union Waste Legislation, was examined in order to compare it with the Turkish Legislation. The study was supported with data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TSI). It was determined that there was no storage or sorting area for disaster waste in this region according to TSI data, the legislation examined did not contain sufficient and detailed information on the subject, and the reports published by the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (UCTEA) confirmed that the process was not managed properly in the region. It has been determined that the existing practices and legislation contradict each other, the legislation does not contain sufficient detail, the practices in the world have been investigated within the scope of the subject, and suggestions have been presented in this context. This study is important in terms of revealing the importance and correct positioning of waste storage and sorting areas in order to prevent similar situations in future earthquakes.

https://doi.org/10.31462/jcemi.2024.01034055

Zeynep Birgonul

This study aims to create the Symbiotic Data Platform, focusing on the intricate relationship between humans and the environment with a goal of optimizing occupant thermal comfort and energy efficiency. The paper outlines early design decisions based on a validation survey, seeking to define user-centric demands and identify supply gaps. The Symbiotic Data Platform integrates Building Information Modeling data with real-time information, emphasizing user thermal perception, preferences, and demands. An online validation survey with 475 participants was conducted in the early design stages to gather essential insights. The study underscores the crucial role of user feedback in shaping early design decisions, emphasizing the need to incorporate user requirements for an effective system. The majority of participants expressed a demand for a personalized system to optimize residential thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption while including the building material data together with the occupants’ real-time comfort information. Therefore, to be able to analyze the applicability and usability of this study, user-centric analysis was essential. Acknowledging the limitations of relying solely on user feedback, the study emphasizes a comprehensive approach considering various factors affecting occupant comfort and energy efficiency, with these limitations reconsidered during platform design. Practically, the findings stress the importance of real-time consideration of occupant preferences in decision-making processes, contributing to energy optimization and enhanced occupant comfort within buildings. The survey's participant-based demands were implemented as requested during the platform's design.

https://doi.org/10.31462/jcemi.2024.01056076

Hamdi Tekin

This study investigates the sustainable role of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems and rain gardens (RG) in stormwater management based on worldwide perspectives by using both quantitative and qualitative data. The research relied on a questionnaire-based survey. Domain experts on water management from 38 different countries with different levels of annual precipitation rates and income (GDP per capita), contributed to the survey. Statistical analysis, including reliability analysis, normality test, and, Kruskal–Wallis test were performed for the quantitative data. The qualitative part of the survey was analysed through content analysis software, QDA Miner Late v3.0. The study showed that rainwater harvesting technologies and rain gardens are not adequately valued for mitigating stormwater risks, although proper implementation of RWH technologies and optimum use of RG promise several contributions, such as better water infiltration into the soil, decreased groundwater contamination, increased vegetation, proper level of soil moisture and hindered surface runoff. It was also observed that countries’ annual precipitation rates and income levels directly impact higher awareness and current sustainable implementations. However, the perception of the flood as a crucial danger was determined as highest in countries with moderate annual precipitation rates. The importance of public engagement through policy-makers and local authorities was highlighted by promoting Nature-based solutions, pilot projects, incentives, and altering design criteria on newly constructed buildings to boost the use of RWH technologies and RG as a cheaper, accessible, and sustainable solution for stormwater management.

https://doi.org/10.31462/jcemi.2024.01077092