模块化建筑的定制化和成本之间的权衡

This research aims to analyze the acceleration of the construction project for the Coordinating Ministry 4 office building in the Nusantara capital city in terms of cost and time. Additionally, it examines the optimization of the final total cost and project completion time after acceleration. The Time Cost Trade Off (TCTO) method is used to evaluate an acceleration alternative that replaces the construction method with a more effective one. Specifically, the work method for the floor slab structural element is changed from conventional concrete to precast concrete (half-slab). The half-slab method is a type of precast concrete construction for floor slab structural elements. The analysis shows that using the half-slab method as an acceleration alternative was effective for constructing the office building of the Coordinating Ministry 4 in the Nusantara Capital City project, reducing the total work time from 392 days or 56 weeks to 363 days or 52 weeks. The cost also changed, with the normal cost increasing from Rp 29,874,122,004.42 to Rp 29,901,677,798.806, achieving an optimization value of Rp 29,718,483,194.103 and a total time acceleration of 29 days or 4 weeks. These results provide an important overview of the work optimization for improving the future construction management and can serve as a cost-efficiency and time management reference.

This study aims to analyze the effect of implementing the modular construction method on time and cost efficiency in building construction projects. The technique used in this study is a quantitative approach with data collection through documentation research and interviews with project managers, contractors, and technical teams. The study's results indicate that implementing the modular construction method can save project time by around 20% to 28% and costs by 20% to 24%. These savings are obtained by reducing work time on-site and carrying out several jobs off-site parallel. However, the main challenges are higher initial costs and difficulties adapting modular designs to local conditions. Limited knowledge of this method among contractors is also an obstacle to its implementation. In conclusion, the modular construction method can increase time and cost efficiency in construction projects, but training and increased knowledge are needed for its implementation to be more optimal

No abstract available

The paper demonstrates a web-based system for use in the area of prefabricated housing to assist the customer and architect in selecting appropriate building components. By collecting and evaluating client’s requirements with web technology, a methodology can be developed that can generate design options based on the client’s needs and available modular components in the market, and simulate the final design before beginning manufacturing. In this proposed model, a process of providing mass-customized prefabricated housing based on computer-aided design and a web-based product configuration system will be presented. How prefabricated housing design can be evolved from a mass repetitive production level to a mass customization level to meet variability and personality is the primary issue to be explored in this research.

Rapid urbanization in developing countries has residential units suffering from inadequate daylighting and inefficient space utilization. As technology advances, buildings are more likely to be mass-manufactured using various prefabrication techniques and modular principles. The conventional strategy mainly prioritizes building services and market economics resulting in light-intensive spaces getting locked into the unit at the cost of visual comfort. This approach also increases energy demand due to poorly lit rooms. This research intends to mix syntactic design strategies while using relevant daylighting standards as a basis for design. This method makes it easier to filter out desirable plans from a generated sample set. It involves employing the space syntax theory by using tools like Rhino, Grasshopper, and Syntactic, among other software plug-ins, to generate layouts while integrating daylighting norms, functionality, modularity, and user preference into the process. In this approach, several configurations can be generated by adding, joining, and moving spaces according to their proximity to neighbouring areas and spatial needs. For this study, a tropical Indian context is taken, with the spatial requirements of an average dwelling unit in an apartment as the reference scheme. Being wholly automated and flexible allows for the accommodation of plan changes without redesigning the layout manually. This method provides the end-user with options filtered out to optimize functionality and visual comfort. With enhanced modularity and customization of unit plans, end-users would select their apartment unit configuration. Future residents of high-density living areas would have better-daylit options to pick from based on their requirements and liking.

The European building stock is in high need of refurbishment due to its contribution to excessive global energy consumption. In the North-Sea Region (NSR) alone there are 22 million houses built between 1950 and 1985 with an annual CO2 emission of 79 Mton. Current deep retrofits are carried out on a limited-scale production, which may result in climate targets not being met in time. To tackle the need for rapid renovations, prefabricated insulation elements with integrated intelligent technologies, manufactured in novel smart factories using mass customization, could offer a solution. This approach is also followed by the Interreg project INDU-ZERO. The project examines a far-reaching automated production and develops a blueprint for a smart construction factory in the NSR that can produce 15 000 renovation packages per year. This paper aims to quantify the acceleration potential of the supply chain by improving its production, logistics, and on-site mounting processes for Dutch single-family terraced houses. First, the design of the renovation packages and smart construction factories are introduced. Then, the procedure is elaborated on how the supply chain can be abbreviated. The results show that the renovation cycle time can be completed within two weeks through coordinated efforts between production, logistics, and mounting.

As cities continue to develop in population and size, architects are calling to make the more efficient use to already settled areas. The irregular leftover space between plots (the In-between Space) as the product of different planning processes therefore provides opportunities for solving housing crisis and improving on-site environmental performance. However, current approaches of stacking prefabricated modules cannot respond to the complex micro-climate constrains of the in-between sites to the greatest extent, as the layout lacks flexibility and user-orientated consideration. This paper presents a workflow of Performance-Driven Architecture Design (PDAD) for massing generation and environmental data-based genetic optimization, which integrates Cellular Automaton (CA), parametric daylight simulation and Genetic Algorithm (GA). The research helps architects to take the impact of modular layout on the interior daylight performance of buildings as the primary decision-support tool in early stage of design, puts forward the possible computational solutions of exploring the urban in-between space transformation from the perspective of solving the daylight issues of the vicinity, and invites further discussions on the bottom-up design approach in urban renewal process.

Modular construction is increasingly recognized as a transformative approach to addressing sustainability challenges in the construction industry. This study evaluates the environmental, economic, and operational benefits of modular construction compared to conventional building practices, with Suraksha Smart City in Vasai serving as a case study. The findings highlight that modular construction significantly reduces material waste, carbon emissions, and energy consumption while enhancing cost efficiency through precision manufacturing and resource optimization. Additionally, modular construction aligns with circular economy principles by promoting material reuse and recycling, contributing to broader sustainability goals such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite its advantages, challenges such as high initial costs, transportation logistics, and standardization constraints must be addressed to facilitate its wider adoption. The study emphasizes the need for supportive policy frameworks, technological advancements, and industry collaboration to scale modular construction effectively and maximize its potential in sustainable urban development. Suraksha Smart City demonstrates how modular techniques can bridge the gap between rapid urbanization and environmental responsibility, paving the way for greener and more resilient urban infrastructure.

Currently, the global construction industry is facing challenges of stagnant efficiency and cost overruns. The potential of modular construction has not been fully unleashed due to the disconnection between design and manufacturing. This paper proposes a P-DFMA (Platform-Design for Manufacture and Assembly) building product platform architecture for modular apartments. The research establishes a three-level standardization framework of “modular unit-component-connector”, covering core residential modules, light steel keel systems, and high-strength bolt joints. Finite element simulation using SimSolid is employed to ensure manufacturing feasibility, and a standardized component library and a full-process collaborative P-DFMA architecture for modular apartments are developed. Verified through the case of the modular dormitory building project at Tianjin Chengjian University, the results show that compared with the traditional prefabricated construction mode, the P-DFMA platform mode achieves a cost savings rate of 54.8% in project design, production, and cross-link collaboration. This proves the feasibility and architectural advantages of the platform in improving the full-process efficiency and optimizing costs of modular buildings.

Despite rapid digitization in the AEC industry and the potential of industrialized construction to reduce timelines and budget overruns, product-based approaches remain in their infancy. Prefabricated construction is often associated with limited design flexibility and poor quality, leading to skepticism among practitioners. While BIM tools and generative design are widely adopted, building configurators have not advanced due to the lack of integration with downstream supply chains, such as manufacturing. This work presents a web-based design configurator that utilizes a manufacturing kit-of-parts—a set of pre-engineered, adaptable digital models representing construction-ready components. By encoding construction constraints and code requirements into a database, the configurator generates accurate planning and design representations. A classification system categorizes kit-of-parts entities into assemblies, sub-assemblies, and products. The tool focuses on early design stages, enabling users to translate preliminary designs into components suited for modern methods of construction. It facilitates the generation of design alternatives based on specified criteria and performs similarity analyses with benchmark designs. Each alternative is scored, providing accurate cost and timeline estimates from the concept phase. Additionally, users can create custom kits of parts and extend the .ifc schema with specific properties. The configurator enhances collaboration across disciplines by establishing a central repository for exchanging building elements in a standardized format (i.e., IFC), supporting interoperability across design and construction phases. As a next step, the tool will be tested in a real-world case: the design and construction of a residential building in Zurich.

This study aims to optimize the length partitioning of modular MEP systems in building construction using a genetic algorithm, addressing challenges such as avoiding fittings (e.g., tees and crosses) and achieving standardized module lengths. To this end, this paper proposes an optimization method utilizing the customization of Revit 2021. The method comprehensively considers factors such as the location of pipe fittings, module length, production, transportation, and installation, achieving a more systematic partitioning of modules. The results show that the optimized partitioning scheme effectively avoids critical pipe fittings, and the optimized module lengths are comparable to those created manually. However, the optimized scheme includes more standardized segments, which is conducive to factory-standardized production. Additionally, cost analysis reveals that production and transportation costs account for a significant proportion of total costs, while lifting costs are relatively low. Furthermore, the presence of modules with non-standard lengths introduces corresponding penalty costs. This paper discusses the advantages and limitations of the proposed method and suggests future directions for further optimizing the algorithm and improving module partitioning. The novelty of this research lies in the integration of a genetic algorithm with BIM software to optimize MEP module partitioning, offering a more efficient and systematic approach to the modular construction process.

Modular-integrated Construction (MiC) is an emerging construction technique promoted in the building sector for high productivity and low waste emission in the construction phase; yet, the standardized modules also bring new challenges, such as balancing passive energy efficiency and spatial daylight autonomy, to the operational phase. This paper proposes a Symmetric 15 Skeleton Grammar-based Multi-Objective Optimization (SSG-MOO) method to formulate parametric MiC envelopes and detailed layout, with the two objective functions being energy efficiency and interior daylight performance in the operational phase. Pareto optima of the SSG-MOO, computed by the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II, are generally verified and analyzed in three levels, i.e., MOO’s solution space, SSG layout, and MiC design 20 parameters. A case study of MiC residential building in Hong Kong demonstrated the SSG-MOO method through five new passive MiC designs (i

The integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) with modular construction has emerged as a promising approach to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness in the construction industry. This study aims to investigate the challenges and strategies associated with BIM implementation in modular construction, comparing it with traditional construction methods. A descriptive and comparative research methodology is employed, utilizing primary data from industry surveys, expert interviews, and BIM model creation, alongside secondary data from literature reviews and historical project records. The analysis reveals significant challenges in BIM adoption for modular construction, including data exchange and interoperability issues, high initial costs, communication gaps, and resistance to new technology. Design challenges, such as limited flexibility, coordination gaps, and structural constraints, are also highlighted. Manufacturing and logistics challenges, including standardization, transportation costs, and site coordination, further complicate the implementation process. However, the study emphasizes the potential of BIM in streamlining prefabrication, optimizing logistics, and mitigating common project risks. Recommendations include investing in training and capacity building, promoting industry-wide standardization, and providing incentives for BIM adoption. The findings suggest that, with the right strategies and investments, BIM integration can revolutionize modular construction, leading to improved project outcomes and long-term sustainability. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts of BIM integration and its potential synergies with emerging technologies like AI and IoT in the construction industry

Relocatable modular buildings (RMBs) offer significant advantages, including flexibility, mobility, and scalability, making them ideal for temporary or rapidly changing scenarios. However, as the scale and quantity of RMB modules increase, their allocation across projects poses complex logistical challenges. Inefficiencies in traditional manual allocation methods, such as suboptimal module selection, increased transportation costs, and project delays, underscore the need for innovative solutions. This study develops a Digital Twin (DT)-based decision support system to optimize the allocation and management of RMB modules. The proposed framework integrates Building Information Modeling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT), and Geographic Information Systems (GISs), enabling the real-time synchronization of physical assets with their digital counterparts. The DT framework incorporates real-time data acquisition, dynamic module condition assessments, and an algorithm-driven allocation process to streamline resource utilization and logistics planning. The system is validated through a case study of South Korea’s first relocatable modular school system project, demonstrating its capability to optimize module allocation, reduce costs, and enhance lifecycle management. This study advances RMB management by offering a practical, data-driven approach, empowering facility managers to leverage real-time data for preventive maintenance, asset optimization, and sustainable resource utilization.

As one of the key ways to realize the industrialization and green development of construction, prefabricated construction is conducive to saving resources and energy and improving labor productivity and quality. Aiming to solve the problem of the lack of standardization in the design of prefabricated residential buildings, which leads to the components not being universally used and the industrial characteristics not being fully embodied, while excessive standardization leads to a lack of personalization and flexibility, the modular design theory is applied to the standardized design of prefabricated residential buildings in this study. The application route of modular design theory in the standardized design is constructed, that is, “system decomposition—module design—module combination”. Taking residential buildings within a height of 54 m as an example, each basic functional module is standardized and combined into standard plans. At the same time, the functional space module design based on modular coordination and the module combination design based on the trinity of “modulus, pattern, and mode” are discussed. This research is of great significance for giving full play to the comprehensive benefits of prefabricated concrete structures in quality improvement, cost reduction, and rapid assembly.

Abstract Modular manufacturing is gaining popularity in a variety of industrial applications due to potential cost-savings as well as process flexibility that can be achieved with the use of small and standardized modules. In this work, a framework for supply chain optimization is proposed that ensures production feasibility with the help of historical process data for individual process modules and machine learning-based feasibility analysis. A supply chain optimization problem is formulated where the binary variables represent facility locations, and the integer variables correspond to the number of modular equipment installed. Results demonstrate that the tradeoff between centralized and distributed manufacturing and the effect of economies of numbers on the cost of the supply chain can be studied by solving the problem.

This study explores the interaction between the indoor ventilation environment of a modular building and internal building elements, including relative position of modules, number and location of windows and standardized bathroom modules. The computer hydrodynamics technology was used for this research. The model was divided into three parts to simulate the ventilation environment: (i) the relative position of the module, (ii) the number and position of windows, and (iii) the position of the standardized bathroom module. The results of the simulation illustrate the need to balance the balcony space for indoor ventilation, which should be considered comprehensively during the actual design. From the perspective of the whole living unit, the ventilation condition is more advantageous when the four openings are along the external wind direction. In addition, it can improve efficiently the overall ventilation quality in the low wind speed zone by taking full advantage of the bathroom location in modular interior. In the process of a modular unit design, the relationship between standardized modules, window location, number and indoor comfort should be fully considered. With the simulation results, a relatively optimized standard of modular interior organization was established. In future, these variables can be adjusted according to actual needs.

Providing shelter after disasters is a complex, multi-stage process. In the early aftermath, emergency shelters must be secured to meet basic physical needs of affected communities. However, the subsequent provision of various types of temporary accommodation requires new resources. Agencies and governments mobilize significant supplies during the phases of relief, often for a protracted period time, facing inefficiencies and challenges of wasted resources. This paper aims to review the persistent issues of post-disaster shelter processes to explore how the relief efforts could be more sustainable. The study derives a technical framework for shelter adaptability and efficiency based on architectural principles of flexibility to examine how material supply from early emergency stages could contribute to efficient transitional shelter processes. Following a review of literature, the study drew analogies with theories of Open Building and flexibility to propose guidelines for a design and building method. Through an analytical description, the paper draws up an actual shelter proposal using the derived principles. The analysis suggests that the early-stage provision of adaptable shelters, conducive to the concept of incremental transitional building processes, could optimize resources and logistics, reduce waste, enhancing the efficiency, adaptability, and overall sustainability of post-disaster shelter responses.

ncreasing the efficiency of the footprint of existing buildings instead of con- structing new ones involves adding rooftop extensions to residential structures in urban areas, optimizing existing architecture. Given the constraints of some buildings due to their age, the approach relies on prefabricated, lightweight modular systems. These systems are eco-friendly, they optimize energy and material use, and they offer social benefits by creating new housing in an inner city environment. The paper specifically focuses on volumetric modular units, a type of prefab- ricated construction, where components are produced in controlled environ- ments and then assembled on-site. This contrasts with traditional building methods of on-site construction, offering benefits in terms of efficiency and quality. The paper establishes criteria to assess the suitability of different modular sys- tems for vertical expansion, considering factors such as material use, structural systems, efficiency, flexibility, time, costs and sustainability. A 3x3 matrix sup- ports scoring these systems, ultimately identifying the best options for increas- ing building height. Steel portal frame and cross-laminated timber panel systems emerge as top choices, recognized for their robust structural response and adaptability.

This research integrates lean construction principles with scan-to–building information modeling (BIM) to enhance cost management in modular off-site construction. It proposes a scan-to-BIM approach within a semi-automated 5D-BIM framework to improve cost estimation accuracy and efficiency. By leveraging 3D laser scanning, it enhances quantity takeoff and cost reporting, reducing manual errors and improving decision-making during manufacturing and in-factory assembly. A design science research methodology is used to compare the proposed lean-driven 5D-BIM framework with traditional cost management practices. The integration of 3D laser scanning and scan-to-BIM improves measurement accuracy and automates data extraction and analysis. Lean construction reduces waste and maximizes value through collaboration, while modular off-site construction benefits from prefabrication in controlled environments. The 5D-BIM model embeds cost data, enabling more precise quantity takeoffs. In contrast, traditional cost management remains heavily manual and less efficient. The proposed approach reduces the time required for progress cost reporting by 18% and improves cost estimation accuracy by 12%, highlighting the value of combining lean principles with advanced BIM technologies. The study is limited to the manufacturing and assembly phases of modular off-site construction in Canada. Results may vary when applied to other phases or regions. The framework offers actionable guidance for industry professionals aiming to improve cost control, data accuracy and resource planning in modular off-site projects, while advancing the human-centered transformation of the architecture, engineering, construction and operation industry by automating repetitive tasks, enhancing collaboration and enabling professionals to focus on higher-value decision-making. This study uniquely combines lean construction, scan-to-BIM and 5D-BIM to tackle cost management challenges, promoting efficiency, accuracy and digital innovation in off-site construction.

The rising demand for housing continues to outpace traditional construction processes, highlighting the need for innovative, efficient, and sustainable delivery models. Off-site construction (OSC) has emerged as a promising alternative, offering faster project timelines and enhanced cost management. However, current research on cost models for OSC, particularly in automating material take-offs and optimising cost performance, remains limited. This study addresses this gap by proposing a new cost model integrating Digital Twin (DT) technology and AI-driven decision models for modular housing in the UK. The research explores the role of DTs in enhancing cost estimation and decision-making processes. By leveraging DTs and AI, the proposed model evaluates the impact of emergent technologies on cost performance, material efficiency, and sustainability across social, environmental, and economic dimensions. As proposed, this integrated approach enables a cost model tailored for OSC systems, providing a data-driven foundation for cost optimisation and material take-offs. The study’s findings highlight the potential of combining DTs and AI decision models to enhance cost modelling in modular construction, offering new capabilities to support sustainable and performance-driven housing delivery. The paper introduces a dynamic, data-driven cost model integrating real-time data acquisition through DTs and AI-powered predictive analytics. This dynamic approach enhances cost accuracy, reduces lifecycle cost variability, and supports adaptive decision-making throughout the OSC project lifecycle.

No abstract available

Abstract This research presents an innovative approach based on Lean Theory that explores the application of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) in Ireland, specifically aimed at optimizing resource costs for precast concrete components. The research has developed a supplier evaluation and raw material procurement model rooted in Lean principles, utilizing the Triangular Fuzzy Number-Analytic Hierarchy Process (TFN-AHP) and Kraljic matrix within the Irish construction sector. This research illustrates how these methods significantly enhance the sustainability and efficiency of MMC, to promote the adoption of MMC technologies in construction projects and address Ireland’s severe housing shortage. The paper highlights the originality of applying these integrated methods in the Irish construction industry, setting a precedent for future research and practice.

ABSTRACT The last decade has witnessed a proliferation of Off-Site Construction (OSC) operations and systems in the UK in response to persistent performance challenges in the construction industry. However, understanding the real influences of cost modelling for accurate project costing and cost performance remains limited. Consequently, this systematic literature review aims to identify the key parameters associated with effective cost modelling in OSC systems. Using literature in the last 10 years (i.e. 2011–2021) and keyword search terms, the review covers OSC aspects such as cost modelling and models, life cycle costing, cost analysis and taking off. Knowledge gaps are identified within literature and practice in cost modelling despite a backdrop of a proliferation of OSC systems and concomitant literature. Emergent findings uncover thematic clusters in analysed literature with the role of design, 88%, costs, 69% and modelling, 74% dominating the literature reviewed. Moreover, key influences to cost modelling in OSC (e.g. abnormal costs, factory-based preliminaries, and contractor’s overheads) do not feature prominently in any published research. This paper provides a cross-sectional snapshot of contemporary developments in the field and highlights the need for new research to support integrated cost modelling to support current OSC practice.

The recent global pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges to the construction industry's survival. Therefore, even minor improvements and the elimination of small sources of waste are crucial. Although they constitute a small percentage of total construction costs, hasty designs and design errors have the potential to be one of the most significant sources of waste within the industry. Also, offsite construction involves a high degree of precision and efficiency. Any waste during the design process can result in time delays, cost overruns, and suboptimal final product performance. The design process should aim for minimal waste to avoid potential delays or errors during construction or manufacturing that could lead to wasted resources and money. To address this challenge, a framework based on lean principles has been developed to minimize waste during the design process for offsite construction. The primary objective is to incorporate lean principles and tools to address waste reduction quantitatively and measurably. Proposed solutions aim to eliminate or reduce these activities, and a framework is presented to guide organizations in mapping out the necessary steps. To assess the recommended interventions, statistical analysis and simulation methods are introduced. The framework is intended to help evaluate processes and increase efficiency during the design phase for off-site construction and built-to-order companies. The innovation of this framework lies in its precise procedures and guidance for improving these phases using Lean tools, which could provide significant benefits for off-site construction and built-to-order companies.

The study investigates the application of Lean Construction principles to enhance productivity in modular off-site construction, specifically focusing on roof panel production. A systematic framework was developed, emphasizing Standardization, Elimination of Waste, Continuous Improvement, and Minimization of Time and Effort, which was tested through a real-world case study. Conducted at a modular offsite construction project in Montreal, Canada, the study involved light gauge steel structure panels covering a total gross floor area of 2,500 square meters. The adoption of lean practices resulted in a notable 32% improvement in labor productivity. Key strategies contributing to this success included the use of Design for Manufacture and Assembly tools, semi-automation, augmented reality for quality checks, and the 5S methodology (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain). These strategies collectively minimized waste, streamlined production processes, and enhanced labor efficiency. The findings validate the effectiveness of the proposed framework and offer a replicable model for future modular construction projects aiming for productivity enhancement. By integrating these lean principles, the study provides a proper approach to improving efficiency and quality in modular construction environments, setting a benchmark for subsequent projects in the industry.

PurposeOff-Site Construction (OSC) has received much government and public attention during and after COVID. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an initiative discussed widely to promote OSC implementation. Although many policy promotions have been published, there are many challenges to implementing BIM and OSC in real life and questions of whether they really offer value to healthcare design professionals. This research aims to investigate BIM and OSC to understand their commonalities and differences of challenges by collecting empirical evidence from China’s healthcare construction.Design/methodology/approachThis exploratory research adopted a mixed method with a questionnaire survey and interviews. A total of 261 questionnaires were received (with 183 valid), followed by 31 semi-structured interviews.FindingsThis research reveals that although both OSC and BIM face similar adoption challenges and suspicious attitudes in real-life projects, their challenges’ connotations and reasons are different. OSC faces scepticism for its customisation costs and technical constraints, while BIM is seen as limited in utility and complex to integrate. Highlighting these as socio-technical challenges, the research advocates for an integrated framework to effectively implement OSC and BIM, addressing both technical and collaborative needs in healthcare construction.Originality/valueThis research examines OSC and BIM within the context of healthcare construction, a focus that is relatively underexplored. The research provides a juxtaposition of the perceived and practical challenges of adopting these technologies, revealing a gap between the industry’s expectations and the current capabilities of OSC and BIM, thereby contributing to the development of modern methods of design in healthcare.

ABSTRACT Research on expert systems and configurators has gained momentum in manufacturing. Although comparable approaches in construction date back to early 70s, literature on the application of configurators in the construction industry remains few and far between, and existing configurators do not benefit from knowledge transfer/integration from manufacturing. This study utilizes design science research method with case study as an exploratory research instrument to develop a configurator to enable co-design and automate sales and production of a modular annex building typology. The technical development of the garage configurator along with an algorithm to customize the garage structure, realize and personalize the 3D model, detail the connections, and generate off-site production documents and assembly details have been explored. The configurator is based on a three-tier distributed system architecture that demonstrates the potential of a fully automated tool to engineer the value chain. Preliminary results indicate that the configurator facilitates more effective data handling, reduces delivery time and resources, and enables more effective management of materials for the company with potentially measurable contributions to waste reduction and circular economy.

The construction industry lags behind other sectors in terms of productivity performance, with many megaprojects experiencing cost overruns. While there are various reasons for this, the most significant one is the lack of efficiency. Adopting the off-site construction (OSC) methodology can improve productivity by enhancing project efficiency mainly in terms of time, cost and quality. Although OSC, off-site manufacturing (OSM), Industrialized Building System (IBS), prefabrication, modular, or other similar terms are not novel concepts, it is essential to shift any aspect of construction project activity from traditional onsite methods to a controlled, factory-based and manufacturing concept of production. Industrialization and digital fabrication have gained significant prominence in recent years, as they are perceived as a viable solution to the issues faced by the construction sector. As OSC is gradually gaining interest in building projects, it is crucial to identify and validate the key decision support factors (KDSFs) for selecting an appropriate OSC method from the early design stage. The purpose of this study is to identify, verify, and evaluate the KDSF for selecting OSC in Canada. This study utilized a mixed-methods design, comprising a systematic literature review (SLR) and pilot expert reviews through semi-structured interviews and surveys, to accomplish the research objectives and ensure the validity and reliability of the findings. Twelve interviews were conducted to validate and analyze the KDSFs, which were then prioritized using the mean score (MS) analysis and weighting function. Based on the research methodology, 32 KDSFs were validated and grouped into 7 'dimensions'. Further analysis concluded that the most important 'dimension' in selecting OSC for a building project in Canada is project time which consists of the design period, production time, mobilization and transfer time, as well as the assembly, and construction periods.

The integration of digitalization and building information modelling (BIM) has been lauded as a cornerstone to improve processes and enhance communication across the construction industry. Nevertheless, the implementation of digitalization approaches has suffered due to the lack of methods and processes uncertainties, particularly in the case of off-site construction (OSC) companies where its premanufacturing phases (design, planning, and procurement) differ significantly from traditional construction. This research presents a case study of a digitalization-based workflow to reduce the duration and increase accuracy of premanufacturing phases. To that end, a digitalization plan is developed using value stream maps, supported by Monte Carlo simulation, to identify the waste of current practices and propose suitable improvement measures. Afterwards, a digitalization-based workflow is developed and implemented to exchange data between BIM models and other systems. After one year and a half of implementation, the proposed workflow reduced the duration of tasks in 92.31% while providing an average of 12.24% more accurate bill of materials compared to the previous approach. As such, the contribution of this study is twofold: first, a lean-based method to implement digitalization in OSC companies considering its particularities and inherited process uncertainties; and second, an improved process for OSC premanufacturing phases.

The construction industry faces persistent challenges, including low productivity, high waste generation, and resistance to technological innovation. Off-site modular construction, supported by Building Information Modeling (BIM), emerges as a promising strategy to address these issues and advance sustainability goals. This study aims to evaluate the practical impacts of industrialized off-site construction in the Brazilian context, focusing on cost, execution time, structural weight, and architectural–logistical constraints. The novelty lies in applying the methodology to a high standard, mixed-use multifamily building, an atypical scenario for modular construction in Brazil, and employing a MultiCriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to integrate results. A detailed case study is developed comparing conventional and off-site construction approaches using BIM-assisted analyses for weight reduction, cost estimates, and schedule optimization. The results show an 89% reduction in structural weight, a 6% decrease in overall costs, and a 40% reduction in project duration when adopting fully off-site solutions. The integration of results was performed through the Weighted Scoring Method (WSM), a form of MCDA chosen for its transparency and adaptability to case studies. While this study defined weights and scores, the framework allows the future incorporation of stakeholder input. Challenges identified include the need for early design integration, transport limitations, and site-specific constraints. By quantifying benefits and limitations, this study contributes to expanding the understanding of off-site modular adaptability of construction projects beyond low-cost housing, demonstrating its potential for diverse projects and advancing its implementation in emerging markets. Beyond technical and economic outcomes, the study also frames off-site modular construction within the three pillars of sustainability. Environmentally, it reduces structural weight, resource consumption, and on-site waste; economically, it improves cost efficiency and project delivery times; and socially, it offers potential benefits such as safer working conditions, reduced urban disruption, and faster provision of community-oriented buildings. These dimensions highlight its broader contribution to sustainable development in Brazil.

The construction industry continues to face challenges such as increased costs, time overruns, and low quality. Off-site construction (OSC) methods are increasingly being adopted as alternatives to traditional construction practices to address these issues, with off-site manufacturing (OSM) representing a key difference in construction methods. However, existing studies have largely neglected the systematic evaluation of OSM risks on quality, cost, and delivery (QCD) outcomes, leaving a significant gap in understanding the complex interdependencies among risk factors. To improve risk management in OSC projects, it is crucial to evaluate the impact of OSM risks on QCD outcomes. This study applies the Bayesian Belief Network (BBN) method to develop an evaluation model that measures the impact of OSM risks on QCD outcomes in OSC projects. The results identify 12 significant risk factors affecting QCD outcomes in OSC projects. Five key risk groups were identified as critical for managing OSM risks. This approach provides a systematic framework for managing OSM risks and optimizing OSC practices in China.

Abstract This paper examines the time comparing efficiency between the two approaches namely the modular building system and the common ways of building a construction and cost efficiency with an emphasis on whether Primavera P6 is used as a means of project scheduling and project optimization. Using modules, prefabricated off site and assembled on site, modular construction does provide the opportunity to shorten project schedules through simultaneous work on activities, reduced occurrence of weather delays, and enhanced quality management. Nevertheless, adoption by industry is a problem related to difficulty in initial manufacturing costs, involved logistics of production, specialized labour, and also having an equal scarcity in domestic supply chains. Case study method was used which is comparative, focusing on two same-type multi-story buildings constructions, with the same type of products, but one is built using standard methods and the other with modular construction. Primavera P6 was used to model both scenarios so that they could be handled with the same delivery timing, career and cost control. Also, 25 professionals in the industry have been surveyed and the relative importance index (RII) was applied to their responses to measure benefits and barriers impression. The findings indicated that the modular approach to construction saved 65 days (12.7 percent) on the project and this was largely due to concurrent fabrication of the modules off-site and on-site site preparations. The total costs however, rose up by about 8.1 percent with the catalyst being fabrication, transport, crane procedures and special assembly needs. RII analysis proved that the most appreciated benefits were time savings and improved profitability and the most hindering barriers were high initial costs and constraints regarding logistics. This conclusion implies that modular construction can be vitally fast in delivering the projects when coupled with an advanced project management tool such as Primavera P6. Greater investments in strategic supply chain management development, training of the workforce and regulatory backing of the modular practices should be encouraged to render the modular practices cost-competitive and more popular. Keywords- Building performance, Cost optimization, Modular construction, Prefabricated systems, Primavera P6 scheduling, Time efficiency

This study examines the impact of Off-Site Manufacturing (OSM) and construction sites on housing projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study aims to strike a balance between achieving the highest quality, lowest cost, and expedited construction of housing units. OSM technology involves the production of construction components outside the site, followed by their transportation and installation on the final site. The study seeks to assess the contribution of OSM’s utilization in enhancing project perf ormance, measured against the project management triangle (quality, cost, and time), and compare it with the traditional construction method. To achieve this objective, a residential villa was designed as a model for comparing the implementation steps using manufacturing technology outside the site and traditional construction technology within the site, utilizing the Microsoft Project program. This program is widely utilized in various fields, including construction, manufacturing, and financial services, as it is a crucial component of project management programs. The study was grounded in a comprehensive literature review, which included reviewing previous studies and conducting field visits to identify suitable locations for manufacturing outside the construction site. This technology has been successfully implemented in the Kingdom for observation purposes. Additionally, personal interviews were conducted with construction specialists from the Ministry of Housing, the Director of Skills Raising and Capacity in the Initiative to Stimulate Building Technologies within the housing program in Riyadh, and the official of the Alaraab Mohamed Selim Company in Riyadh. Furthermore, experts from the Ministry of Housing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the research team relied on the conclusions drawn to extract data, emphasizing the significance of manufacturing outside the site. The study concluded that the utilization of techniques (OSM) for housing construction can be highly beneficial in addressing the current challenges, particularly the project management triangle. Furthermore, the expansion of the OSM application primarily relies on the strategy of integration and coordination of the project, encompassing establishment, design, manufacturing, and construction processes. This strategy aims to enhance the efficiency of new housing developments.

This paper presents a production flow-oriented framework for measuring and enhancing productivity in construction projects. Departing from traditional resource-based approaches, the proposed framework integrates value stream mapping with advanced simulation techniques and real-world data acquisition to comprehensively assess process performance. The simulation model employs a Monte Carlo method, incorporating lognormal distributions to generate realistic process durations for key construction activities. This approach effectively captures both central tendencies and variability while preventing the occurrence of unrealistically short process times. Data were collected from an actual construction site in Munich, where piles were constructed using Kelly drilling machines with a diameter of 50 cm and a depth of 12 m, followed by reinforcing and concreting. On-site measurements were obtained via manual recording and automated sensor technologies, including camera-based monitoring and data from construction equipment. The simulated and measured process times were compared using density graphs and statistical indicators. This showed that some of the processes are very similar to the reference processes but that there are also significant differences in variability and durations. These findings highlight the necessity for process-specific productivity benchmarks and underscore the importance of a flexible, production flow-oriented approach that can be adopted to the unique operational requirements of individual companies. The framework provides a robust tool for productivity assessment and offers practical insights for optimizing construction processes and reducing schedule variability.

The construction industry has been associated with inefficiencies. In contrast, Off-Site Construction (OSC) is a modern method of construction that has demonstrated significant improvements over conventional on-site methods. Despite that, OSC represents a tiny portion of the construction industry with a limited rate of diffusion and acceptance. One reason for that is associated with the lack or immaturity of OSC-related research and innovation benchmarking. This benchmarking helps in expanding OSC implementation as a component in driving and directing OSC research as well as roadmapping and measuring the innovation advancements. Hence, this study was intended to contribute to the OSC benchmarking by mapping innovation that paves the road towards building a strategic research and innovation roadmap in OSC. Among different innovation types, this study is limited to two types: technology-oriented and OSC method-oriented innovation. Unlike the traditional roadmaps in the literature, the envisioned roadmap design for OSC innovation in this study is based on maturity modelling. This design includes four components: framework, maturity scales, benchmarks, and targets. However, the focus of the current stage is on the developing the mapping components (framework and maturity scales). Consequently, two sets of frameworks and maturity models were developed to realize the two identified innovation types in OSC. The applicability of these frameworks and scales was demonstrated through hypothetical examples and a case study that is limited to technology-oriented research in the Canadian context. Accordingly, the subsequent case study scope embraces the last three research community meetings (2015-2019) relevant to our study in the indicated context. Based on this case study, the framework was found easy to understand, simple to implement, scalable, applicable across different contexts, and facilitates capturing benchmarks and targets. This confirms promising benefits of the developed frameworks and their effectiveness in roadmapping OSC innovation.

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the feasibility of an affordable and rapidly deployable prefabricated housing system adapted to urban contexts and emergency scenarios. The aim is to design an integrated system for the production, construction, and assembly of prefabricated reinforced concrete housing, offering accessible, efficient, and flexible housing solutions.   Theoretical Framework: The research is grounded in key concepts and theories such as prefabrication in construction, modularity, environmental sustainability, housing resilience, advanced concrete technology, and project management on-site, providing a solid basis for understanding its context.   Methodology: The study employs a comparative method, analyzing six representative housing units with built areas of 25.83 m², 33.39 m², 39.06 m², 42.21 m², 52.29 m², and 59.85 m². Data collection occurred in three stages: (1) search and review of experiences, (2) design and development of basic housing models, production, and assembly, (3) results analysis to evaluate technical and economic feasibility.   Results and Discussion: The results confirm the feasibility of designing six models of basic family housing that comply with Peruvian standards and are accessible to low-income families. A production process for prefabricated elements is proposed, adaptable to any location and operable with minimal equipment. Among the evaluated models, VUF 04 stands out for its lowest cost, estimated at $311.43 USD per square meter of built area.   Research Implications: The implications of this research are broad and significant, highlighting its potential to transform the design, production, and assembly of housing in urban and emergency contexts. By addressing multiple aspects, this study establishes a solid foundation for the implementation of sustainable, accessible, and efficient housing solutions.   Originality/Value: The originality of this study lies in its decentralized and simplified production approach, carried out on-site with minimal equipment. Its value resides in democratizing access to affordable, efficient, and sustainable housing, providing an alternative model to centralized systems and laying the groundwork for future research on accessible and resilient construction.

Abstract Housing issues in densely populated, high-rise cities like Hong Kong place significant pressure on the local Housing Authority to devise effective housing strategies. In response to these challenges, prefabrication, promoting sustainable construction has gained traction, and addresses labour shortages, time constraints, safety concerns, and environmental impacts. However, cross-border logistics from Mainland China heighten supply chain disruptions and risks. Establishing a local prefabrication hub could mitigate these issues and streamline the construction process. There is a lack of research on standardized model solutions for prefabrication hub feasibility assessments, which is essential for objective project viability analysis. This article proposes an integrated model for assessing the feasibility of prefabrication hubs, considering financial, market performance, technical, social, and environmental aspects. The interrelationships among these five Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were formulated as hypotheses. A questionnaire survey collected expert opinions from industry and academia on influential KPIs and their measurement items, followed by Structural Equation Modelling and interviews for hypothesis testing and validation. The assessment of market performance appears foundational, with ‘demand analysis for prefabricated components’ and ‘supply analysis’ as the most critical factors. These findings could serve as a basis for developing strategies for smoothly integrating prefabrication hubs into Hong Kong’s supply chain.

Serial retrofitting represents a crucial advancement in urban sustainability, addressing cost increases, resource constraints, and labour shortages within the building sector. “Energiesprong Deutschland”, coordinated by the German Energy Agency (dena), is a pioneering initiative for the retrofitting of 1950s–1970s multi-family housing through cost- and time-efficient solutions utilising industrial prefabrication and standardised components. Within the study, the role of serial retrofitting as a transformative innovation within the energy transition is assessed using Geels’ multi-level perspective, examining its establishment and potential for future system change within the context of the “Great Transformation”. The analysis reveals six interdependent feedback loops governing diffusion dynamics: performance monitoring, scalability dynamics, financial maturation, market co-evolution, market acceptance, and social acceptance. Serial retrofitting remains positioned within the early diffusion phase of the multi-level perspective framework. The study identifies three targeted intervention pathways: regulatory harmonisation, cultural transformation within the construction sector and innovative financing mechanisms. To expedite regime reconfiguration, various measures are required at political, institutional, social, cultural, research, and market levels. Serial retrofitting offers a future-oriented solution for transforming the building sector in alignment with the political agenda. By combining integrated technical, economic, and social efforts, it promises significant contributions to the decarbonisation and sustainable development of the building stock.

PurposeDigital technology, which is regarded as a prominent and transformational force in modern society, encompasses a wide variety of technology that utilize digital data to process, store and transfer various types of information. Digital technologies have continually been introduced as cutting-edge information tools in order to achieve effective management of vast information that arises from the prefabrication supply chain. However, without a sufficient performance evaluation, drawbacks of technology investment, such as financial losses and ineffective resource allocation, keep occurring, which hinders the widespread implementation of digital technologies. This study demonstrates a comprehensive evaluation of digital technologies’ effects on the prefabrication supply chain based on multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) theory.Design/methodology/approachSpecifically, the targeted digital technologies and project constraints were first identified through a systematic literature review. The effects of the digital technologies were then scored using a questionnaire survey. The TOPSIS model was established to quantitatively rank the effectiveness of selected digital technologies.FindingsOverall, BIM technology shone out in the rankings and is regarded as the most beneficial digital solution by multi-stakeholders to the existing constraints, such as working efficiency. Collaboration patterns between different stakeholders and technology integration trend were also indicated.Originality/valueCompared with existing outcomes, this study specifically focused on examining the effects of digital technologies on the prefabrication supply chain, the most significant link in the process for prefabricated structures. New findings indicate the overall performance that considered both multi-stakeholders’ preferences and project constraints. The quantitative evaluation presents a comprehensive understanding of digital technologies’ effects, enabling industrial participants to reach well-informed, strategic and profitable investment decisions.

Technological advancements have greatly aided in improving quality of life through variety of new products and services. Pre Engineered Building (PEB) is among such technological advancement in the structural engineering. PEB concept provides optimum design, good aesthetic view, fast rate of construction and reduction in erection time. PEB satisfies a broad range of custom design needs and applications. This methodology is adaptable not only because of its high quality pre-designing and prefabrication, but also of its flexibility. In the current study, the comparison has been made on the structural performance of multiple bay system with different wind zones [Locations: Vijayawada and Hyderabad]. Analysis and design have been carried out using STAAD.Pro software. The structural performance of pre-engineered building has been assessed through the shear force (SF) and bending moment (BM) magnitudes. Based on the output of SF and BM of pre-engineered components through Staad. Pro analysis, the geometrical properties of pre-engineered sections have been decided. Results concludes structure weight located in Vijayawada is 11.04% higher than that of the structure in Hyderabad.

This research aims to explore a modular architecture approach for the design of an Art and Design Center in Jakarta. The research focuses on three key aspects of modular design: grid modularity, spatial flexibility, and prefabrication systems. This study employs qualitative method using observation based on Indonesian height standard with retrieval at maximum range to allow movement. The results show that modular architecture improves sustainability by maximizing material use, reducing construction waste, and enabling flexible multifunctional areas. Additionally, the use of prefabricated elements enhances building speed and cost efficiency while minimizing the total environmental impact. These findings indicate that modular design offers a practical approach to developing sustainable, adaptable, and resource-efficient community spaces in urban settings.

This work introduces a Life cycle- conscious generative architecture design system for modular architecture, combining AI-driven layout generation, environmental simulation, optimization, and BIM. With diffusion models and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), the system obtains a 0.83 design diversity measure, 96.1% modularity conformance, and 128 feasible designs per run on the ModArchN et benchmark. Life cycle analysis returns the minimum average carbon impact of about 387 kgCO2e/m2 and cost about $1,680/m2 across climatic zones. Convergence of optimization is achieved at 28 iterations with a fitness value of 0.89. BIM integration retains 97.2% metadata and a usability score of 4.6/5, surpassing state-of-art practices in efficiency and applicability.

This study conducts a comprehensive systematic review of the economic impact of Digital Twin (DT) technology within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, following the PRISMA methodology. While DT adoption has been accelerated by advancements in Building Information Modelling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics, significant challenges persist—most notably, high initial investment costs and integration complexities. Synthesising the literature from 2016 onwards, this review identifies sector-specific barriers, regulatory burdens, and a lack of standardisation as key factors constituting DT implementation costs. Despite these hurdles, DTs demonstrate strong potential for enhancing construction productivity, optimising lifecycle asset management, and enabling predictive maintenance, ultimately reducing operational expenditures and improving long-term financial performance. Case studies reveal cost efficiencies achieved through DTs in modular construction, energy optimisation, and infrastructure management. However, limited financial resources and digital skills continue to constrain the uptake across the sector, with various extents of impact. This paper calls for the development of unified standards, innovative public–private funding mechanisms, and strategic collaborations to unlock and utilise DTs’ full economic value. It also recommends that future research explore theoretical frameworks addressing governance, data infrastructure, and digital equity—particularly through conceptualising DT-related data as public assets or collective goods in the context of smart cities and networked infrastructure systems.

No abstract available

This study investigates how traditional costing methods hinder the development of modular product architectures. A structured literature review identifies the gap between Management Accounting (MA) and Innovation and Operations Management (IOM), revealing that current costing approaches often fail to provide an accurate cost assessment of the impact of modularity effects across the product life cycle. A hypothesis is proposed, suggesting that defining cost allocation by levels of abstraction—product, subsystem, and component—can address the challenges in current methods. The analysis found that modularity effects are predominantly assessed at the product level in four out of five life-cycle phases, despite product costs being incurred at lower levels, leading to inaccuracies in cost allocation. This study concludes that current costing practices do not offer a sufficient level of detail for informed design decisions based on cost when it comes to developing modular product architectures and proposes the development of more refined cost models. It offers a new perspective on how to assess product variety and its related effects in a product portfolio. This lays the foundation for future research combining the fields of MA and IOM. This paper highlights the absence of a universal method to assess the total life-cycle cost of product portfolios and outlines directions for future work, including the development and testing of refined allocation models through industry case studies.

The Industrialised Building System (IBS) is a well-known construction method with many advantages for future construction. However, IBS adoption in Malaysia remains low, particularly when coldformed steel (CFS) is used. A study on structural analysis and design of a CFS container module for the IBS system is conducted. The research is comprised of two parametric studies and one comparison study. The first parametric study was carried out to determine the cost-effective model from three parameters, including module with various layouts, the strength of steel, and the size of the CFS steel section. The analysis and design results from SCIA Engineer software of the chosen model are compared with manual calculations for validation. The second parametric study was carried out with the CFS container subjected to various angles of cable-lifting during transportation and installation. From the findings, an optimised CFS container module was selected from 64 models from the SCIA Engineer analysis result. Furthermore, it is found that certain cable-lifting angles would cause excessive stresses in the CFS container module that could lead to premature failure. Thus, it is recommended that professional measures are necessary while lifting the CFS container module.

PurposeModular construction is an innovative method that enhances the performance of building construction projects. However, the performance of steel modular construction has not been systematically understood, and the existing measurement methods exhibit limitations in effectively addressing the features of steel modular building construction. Therefore, this study aims to develop a new performance measurement framework for systematically examining the performance of steel modular construction in building projects.Design/methodology/approachThis study was conducted through a mixed-method research design that combines a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art practices of construction performance measurement and a case study with a 17-story steel modular apartment building project in Hong Kong. The case project was measured with data collected from the project teams and other reliable channels, and the measurement practices and findings were referenced to establish a systematic performance measurement framework for steel modular construction.FindingsConsidering steel modular construction as a complex socio-technical system, a systematic performance measurement framework was developed, which considers the features of steel modular construction, focuses on the construction stage, incorporates the views of various stakeholders, integrates generic and specific key performance indicators and provides a benchmarking process. Multifaceted benefits of adopting steel modular construction were demonstrated with case study, including improved economic efficiency (e.g. nearly 10% cost savings), improved environmental friendliness (e.g. approximately 90% waste reduction) and enhanced social welfare (e.g. over 60% delivery trips reduction).Originality/valueThis paper extends the existing performance measurement methods with a new framework proposed and offers experience for future steel modular construction. The measured performance of the case project also contributes in-depth understanding on steel modular construction with benefits demonstrated. The study is expected to accelerate an effective uptake of steel modular construction in building projects.

No abstract available

This article presents the design process and structural analysis for Halls 3, 4, and 6 commissioned by Fira de la Gran Vía in Barcelona. Its objective is to document the complete development of a real structure—from the initial briefing to final execution—highlighting key decisions related to cost, quality, construction speed, and standardization. Rather than simply describing the finished building, the article compares alternative solutions considered at each stage and explains the rationale behind the choices made. Close collaboration between the architectural and structural teams has resulted in a cost-effective solution that has remained relevant twenty-five years after completion. Each structural component is examined in detail, considering its behavior, preliminary sizing, fabrication, transportation, and rapid on-site assembly, all essential under the client’s demanding schedule. It also describes how specific structural details were resolved under project constraints, including instances that required unconventional approaches. Finally, it discusses the role of prestressed longitudinal frames as a strategy for reducing steel consumption. This article underscores the value of integrated architectural and structural thinking in shaping the building from the ground up.

No abstract available

Currently, modular building is undergoing vigorous development in China, and has provided a significant advantage in many fields, but its quality is difficult to guarantee. The key is to improve the design process, shorten the development cycle, and enhance competitiveness. Therefore, it is necessary to establish and optimize the design process of modular buildings. This article was based on the DSM and adopted a parallel design to model the modular building design process. Based on this, the design process was analyzed and optimized to shorten the development cycle and reduce costs. At the same time, considering the differences in attributes between different stages of the modular building design process, a DSM model with different resolutions was constructed based on the content and interrelationships of modular building design. The schedule and cost of the design process were evaluated through simulation, the differences between different resolution models were compared, and a more reliable estimate of the schedule and cost of the design process was obtained. Considering the workload and difficulty of high-resolution modeling, an approximate estimation method based on low-resolution modeling was proposed to alleviate the dependence on high-resolution models and modeling costs to some extent, thereby effectively improving the predictability of the design process and providing necessary reference for product design management personnel.

The profile modular system offers variability, flexibility, ease of assembly, and corrosion resistance as well as non-time-consuming assembly while meeting the required conditions of the customer. It has a broad spectrum of usability. This article compares the results of a stress analysis solution for two variants of a rack structure, namely the original variant made by welding Jäkl profiles and the newly proposed design variant created with aluminum Bosch profiles. The finite element method (FEM) is used in computational analyses. FEM models are created using shell elements. Particular attention is given to the use of shell elements in the FEM and their suitability for finite element analyses of the selected structures. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches are evaluated, including a safety assessment and an economic comparison of the variants.

The global construction industry is observing a significant revolution towards faster, cost-effective, and sustainable building techniques, with modular construction at the lead. This practice comprises off-site construction of building components, leveraging factory-controlled atmospheres to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and minimize on-site labor challenges. Prefabrication in contemporary architecture and civil infrastructure has been energized by innovations in digital design tools, Building Information Modelling (BIM), robotic manufacturing, and sustainable materials. These developments address current encounters such as housing deficiencies, rapid urbanization, labor shortage, and environmental dilapidation. The significance of modular construction has been highlighted during global disorders like the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing the significance of speediness and scalability in edifice. Modular construction methods, comprising panelized (2D), volumetric (3D), hybrid, kit-of-parts, and sub-component assembly, offer benefits such as faster construction timelines, better-quality control, and reduced on-site waste likened to traditional approaches. However, challenges such as site-specific limitations, lack of technical know-how, transport logistics, upfront design complication, public observation, and controlling compliance delay the prevalent acceptance of modular construction. Integrating software engineering, such as design optimization using Python, logistics optimization through route optimization algorithms, and manufacturing automation with control systems, can improve prefabrication procedures through automation and optimization. These technologies can modernize processes, advance efficiency, and address key challenges confronted in modular construction. Overall, with the right approaches and investments, modular construction has the possible to transform building design and delivery practices globally.

Modular structural systems have been used increasingly for low- and mid-rise structures such as schools and apartment buildings, and applications are extending to high-rise buildings. To provide sufficient resistance and economical construction of the high-rise modular structural system, the steel-concrete composite unit modular structure was proposed. The proposed composite unit modular system consists of the composite beam and the partially encased nonsymmetrical composite column. The outside steel member of the composite column has an open section, and is manufactured using a pressed forming procedure so that easy joining connecting work and manufacturing cost reductions are possible. However, the design methods are complicated due to the inherent nonsymmetrical properties of the section. Therefore, in this study, the focus was made on the strength evaluation and development of design methods for the partially encased nonsymmetrical steel-concrete composite column. Four full-scale specimens were constructed and tested. The experimental study focused on the effect of the slenderness ratio of the column, eccentricity, and the through bars on the strength of such columns. Additionally, the P–M interaction curve to estimate the strength of the proposed composite column under general combined loading was developed based on the plastic stress distribution method. The results indicate that the through bars are needed to delay the local buckling and distribute the loading uniformly throughout the composite column. Finally, the proposed design methods provide a conservative strength prediction of the proposed composite column.

The article is devoted to the analysis of calculation and design problems and features that arise when designing multi-storey modular buildings with a steel frame. The article describes the main features of the classification and trends in the construction of volumetric block buildings in Russia and the world. The object of the study is quick-assembly connections of compressed-bent load-bearing elements of frame modular systems. The main purpose of the study is to obtain reliable analytical and theoretical data to determine the characteristics of the rotational stiffness of module connection nodes and assess its influence on the stress-strain state of the frame and its elements. Within the work, the concept of an experimental modular building was developed using I-beam columns as part of the frame, as well as inter-module joints for their connection. Flange connections with high-strength bolts without controlled tightening are considered as the main design solution for the inter-module connections. The designed connections include inspection windows to access the hardware. A numerical study was performed to evaluate the bearing capacity and stiffness of the connections. The influence of the stiffness on the behavior of the frame in relation to two groups of limit states was assessed using the finite element method. The paper substantiates the relevance of using I-beam profiles as columns of the frame of a modular building, which is not a common solution in modern practice. The developed concept of quick-assembly inter-module flange connections makes it possible to ensure the safety of the building while reducing the time and labor costs for its installation.

This paper introduces a new self-locking-unlockable modular building with an inter-module connection, and its seismic performance is investigated. The new connection can realize fast connection and unlocking during construction through exceptional design. In this paper, taking the Tianjin Binhai Apartment project as the background, for the actual force situation of the new connection, considering the influence of corrugated steel plate stiffness, a simplified model of the connection is constructed by using multi-fold elastic connection, and the corrugated steel plate stiffness is simulated with equivalent support. In the MIDAS Gen 2021 software , the five-story and six-story structural models using traditional rigid connections and new connections were established, respectively, and reaction spectrum analysis was carried out. Meanwhile, seismic waves that comply with codes were selected for dynamic time course analysis. The results show that the stress ratios of all components of the new connection model and the traditional rigid model are less than 1. Among them, the maximum stress ratios of both floor beams are 0.745 and 0.725, respectively; the maximum stress ratios of the modular columns are 0.655 and 0.494, respectively; the stress ratios of the ceiling beams are all less than 0.5; and the two models show good strength and stiffness reserves, following the design principle of strong columns and weak beams and verifying the reliability of the new connection model. Meanwhile, it is found that the inter-story displacement angle of the six-story structure with the new connections is less than the normative value under the action of rare earthquakes, and the difference in top displacement is about 18% compared with that of the rigid structure, so it is suggested that the new connections can be applied within the height of six stories.

This study addresses the multi-objective trade-offs among energy consumption, thermal comfort, and construction cost in rural buildings by proposing a performance optimization framework that integrates Building Energy Simulation (BES), Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM). The method combines DesignBuilder modeling with JePlus batch simulations, incorporates the Morris method for key parameter sensitivity analysis, and utilizes MATLAB to construct an ANN-based prediction model. The TOPSIS approach is then used to select the optimal design solution. This framework significantly improves prediction accuracy and optimization efficiency under high-dimensional design spaces, overcoming the limitations of conventional platforms in convergence speed and computational complexity. A case study of a typical rural house in Chuzhou, Anhui Province, demonstrates that the optimized model reduces total energy consumption by 61.64% and discomfort hours by 32.04%, with an additional cost of ¥73,519.6, achieving a well-balanced improvement in overall performance. The study contributes a novel BES–ANN–MCDM framework, offering a replicable pathway and theoretical foundation for performance-driven, energy-efficient rural building design.

Abstract - Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative enabler for modular steel construction by providing parametric modelling, coordinated detailing, digital fabrication integration, and 4D construction sequencing. Modular steel systems require high accuracy in design, fabrication, logistics, and assembly, making BIM indispensable for reducing rework, improving coordination, and enabling just-in-time production. This paper examines the integration of BIM within modular steel construction, focusing on prefabrication accuracy, clash-free detailing, sequencing simulation, and digital manufacture. The study includes a comprehensive literature review, a methodology grounded in BIM-enabled workflows, and analysis of two major case studies Chennai International Airport Terminal T2 and Shanghai Tower. Findings indicate that BIM significantly improves productivity, reduces site conflicts, minimizes waste, and enhances assembly predictability, particularly in the Indian context where BIM adoption faces challenges such as limited skills, high costs, and low SME readiness. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for India’s modular steel industry and outlines future research directions. Key Words:  Building Information Modelling (BIM), Modular Steel Construction, Prefabrication, Digital Fabrication, 4D BIM, Clash Detection, SMEs, Coordination, Steel Structures

With the development of the construction industry, the market is increasingly pursuing efficient and energy-saving building models. Modular steel building is one of the main forms and has become an important development trend of future architecture. In the design and construction of modular steel buildings, the connection between modules is one of the most critical links. The research of the connection of modular steel building is mainly embodied in the connection structure, force transfer mechanism and experimental testing. In this paper, according to the structural differences, the connection of modular steel buildings is divided into bolt connection, self-locking connection and prestressed connection, and each connection form is explained and analyzed in detail. The results show that although the current modular steel building has carried out various innovations in the structure of connections, some methods are still lacking of practical engineering verification. Future studies are necessary to test their ease of installation and reasonableness of force transfer.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate the sustainability performance of modular construction from a life cycle perspective. So far, the sustainability performance of modular buildings has been explored from a life cycle viewpoint. There is no comprehensive study showing which material is the best choice for modular construction considering all three sustainable pillars. Therefore, a life cycle sustainability performance framework, including the three-pillar evaluation framework, was developed for different modular buildings. The materials are concrete, steel and timber constructed as a modular construction method. Design/methodology/approach Transitioning the built environment to a circular economy is vital to achieving sustainability goals. Modular construction is perceived as the future of the construction industry, and in combination with objective sustainability, it is still in the evaluation phase. A life cycle sustainability assessment, which includes life cycle assessment, life cycle cost and social life cycle assessment, has been selected to evaluate alternative materials for constructing a case study building using modular strategies. Subsequently, the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was used to compute the outranking scores for each modular component. Findings The calculated embodied impacts and global warming potential (GWP) showed that material production is the most critical phase (65%–88% of embodied energy and 64%–86% of GWP). The result of embodied energy and GWP shows timber as an ideal choice. Timber modular has a 21% and 11% lower GWP than concrete and steel, respectively. The timber structure also has 19% and 13% lower embodied energy than concrete and steel. However, the result of the economic analysis revealed that concrete is the most economical choice. The cost calculations indicate that concrete exhibits a lower total cost by 4% compared to timber and 11% higher than steel structures. However, the social assessment suggests that steel emerges as the optimal material when contrasted with timber and concrete. Consequently, determining the best single material for constructing modular buildings becomes challenging. To address this, the MCDM technique is used to identify the optimal choice. Through MCDM analysis, steel demonstrates the best overall performance. Originality/value This research is valuable for construction professionals as it gives a deliberate framework for modular buildings’ life cycle sustainability performance and assists with sustainable construction materials.

This study examines cost control challenges in prefabricated building construction, focusing on the design, production, transportation, and installation phases. A conceptual framework was developed through a literature review, and structural equation models were constructed using SPSS and AMOS based on data from Chinese prefabricated building firms. This study provides a holistic perspective on cost control in the prefabrication construction phase. The findings reveal that increased investment in design significantly reduces costs in subsequent phases, with design having the greatest impact on cost control. Production and installation have similar effects on overall costs, while transportation has the least impact. Key factors influencing cost management include prefabrication efficiency, IT proficiency, production scale, loading strategy, and installation complexity. By emphasizing the strategic role of design and production investments, this study delivers novel insights and practical recommendations for optimizing costs, offering decision-making support for improving cost efficiency in prefabricated buildings. These findings make a significant contribution to advancing research and industry practices in prefabricated building cost management.

No abstract available

ABSTRACT This research investigates the low use of modular construction despite its recognized cost, time, quality, safety, and sustainability advantages. Using technology diffusion theory, this study seeks to identify and rank the characteristics that impede modular building adoption, such as relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability. A survey of industry professionals in the United Kingdom was undertaken, and the results, validated by a one-sample t-test, showed that attitudes toward modular building, rather than technical difficulties, are the key impediments to broad adoption. The degree to which modular construction resonates with prospective adopters’ current values, past experiences, and requirements determines its acceptance. Traditional mind-sets, the presence of traditional constructs, resistance to change, prior attitudes, bid prices, hesitation, and skepticism are all associated with non-adoption. Professional positions serve as a bridge between adopters and non-adapters. The research also emphasizes the importance of design-build project delivery systems and early supplier chain participation in accelerating the mainstream adoption of modular construction.

No abstract available

This study investigates the fire resistance of columns in container-style steel modular buildings through fire tests. Three individual columns and one combined column were tested to evaluate the fire resistance performance of various protective measures: fire-resistant coatings, calcium silicate boards, and rock wool sandwich panels. The combined column protected by 75 mm rock wool sandwich panels achieved a fire resistance limit of 102.1 min. The study concludes that rock wool sandwich panels are a feasible, economical fire protection solution for such columns. The required thickness of rock wool for different fire resistance limits was calculated, providing valuable design insights for container-style steel modular buildings.

Modular construction is gaining prominence for its sustainability, speed of assembly, reduced material waste, and cost-effectiveness. Cold-formed steel (CFS) beams, such as the Modular Construction Optimised (MCO) beam, play a vital role in these structures due to their lightweight characteristics, high strength-to-weight ratio, and ease of fabrication. However, the thin-walled geometry of CFS beams introduces challenges in structural design, particularly due to complex buckling and failure modes. The structural behaviour of the MCO beam remains insufficiently explored, with no prior research focusing on its web crippling performance under interior two-flange (ITF) loading. Existing design codes provide equations for estimating web crippling capacity. However, these provisions have been shown to underestimate the actual capacity of complex CFS sections, resulting in overly conservative designs and inefficient material use. To address these limitations, this study investigates the web crippling behaviour of the MCO beam using finite element analysis (FEA). Numerical models were developed and validated against experimental web crippling data from similar beam types. A parametric study involving 162 FE models was conducted to assess the influence of key geometric parameters displaying an average reduction of 27% due to corner radius effects. All models assumed unfastened flanges, reflecting common modular construction practices. Based on the results, new design equations were proposed to improve the accuracy of web crippling capacity predictions, providing a mean value of 1.00 and COV value of 0.08 and 0.07. These findings support the development of more efficient design practices, reduce material overuse, and contribute to the optimisation of lightweight modular steel structures.