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An information capture and processing model for hybrid concrete performance simulation

Various investigations and research efforts have exposed the advantages of utilising hybrid concrete construction techniques in building construction. The method, which refers to the systematic combination of the various forms of construction mainly insitu concrete, precast concrete and steel, offers several benefits. These include enhanced speed of construction, reduced (whole life-cycle) cost, improved quality and buildability among many others. However, these benefits are not immediately apparent unless actual alternative prototypes of the buildings (based on different forms of construction) are constructed and evaluated in line with the performance indicators. An on-going research involving three UK universities and several industrial partners seeks to overcome the limitation of this decision making process through the development of a virtual prototyping model. The model is being developed as an integration of an information capture and virtual simulation environment, which allows the user to query outcomes of construction performance. This paper presents the conceptual development of the information capture and processing sub-component of the virtual prototyping model. The development considers: speed and cost as two ‘hard’ key performance indicators that stakeholders often seek to evaluate their proposed projects against. A review of the proposed components and system architecture is also given as a precursor to constructive debate and future work on the development of the model.