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Article
Publication date: 18 January 2016

Huaqing Min, Chang'an Yi, Ronghua Luo and Jinhui Zhu

This paper aims to present a hybrid control approach that combines learning-based reactive control and affordance-based deliberate control for autonomous mobile robot navigation…

275

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a hybrid control approach that combines learning-based reactive control and affordance-based deliberate control for autonomous mobile robot navigation. Unlike many current navigation approaches which only use learning-based paradigms, the authors focus on how to utilize the machine learning methods for reactive control together with the affordance knowledge that is simultaneously inherent in natural environments to gain advantages from both local and global optimization.

Design/methodology/approach

The idea is to decompose the complex and large-scale robot navigation task into multiple sub-tasks and use the hierarchical reinforcement learning (HRL) algorithm, which is well-studied in the learning and control algorithm domains, to decompose the overall task into sub-tasks and learn a grid-topological map of the environment. An affordance-based deliberate controller is used to inspect the affordance knowledge of the obstacles in the environment. The hybrid control architecture is then designed to integrate the learning-based reactive control and affordance-based deliberate control based on the grid-topological and affordance knowledge.

Findings

Experiments with computer simulation and an actual humanoid NAO robot have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid approach for mobile robot navigation.

Originality/value

The main contributions of this paper are a new robot navigation framework that decomposes a complex navigation task into multiple sub-tasks using the HRL approach, and hybrid control architecture development that integrates learning-based and affordance-based paradigms for autonomous mobile robot navigation.

Details

Industrial Robot: An International Journal, vol. 43 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

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Article
Publication date: 14 July 2021

Yijie Zhao, Kai Qi, Albert P.C. Chan, Yat Hung Chiang and Ming Fung Francis Siu

This paper aims to make a systematic review of the manpower prediction model of the construction industry. It aims to determine the forecasting model's development trend, analyse…

2947

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to make a systematic review of the manpower prediction model of the construction industry. It aims to determine the forecasting model's development trend, analyse the use limitations and applicable conditions of each forecasting model and then identify the impact indicators of the human resource forecasting model from an economic point of view. It is hoped that this study will provide insights into the selection of forecasting models for governments and groups that are dealing with human resource forecasts.

Design/methodology/approach

The common search engine, Scopus, was used to retrieve construction manpower forecast-related articles for this review. Keywords such as “construction”, “building”, “labour”, “manpower” were searched. Papers that not related to the manpower prediction model of the construction industry were excluded. A total of 27 articles were obtained and rated according to the publication time, author and organisation of the article. The prediction model used in the selected paper was analysed.

Findings

The number of papers focussing on the prediction of manpower in the construction industry is on the rise. Hong Kong is the region with the largest number of published papers. Different methods have different requirements for the quality of historical data. Most forecasting methods are not suitable for sudden changes in the labour market. This paper also finds that the construction output is the economic indicator with the most significant influence on the forecasting model.

Research limitations/implications

The research results discuss the problem that the prediction results are not accurate due to the sudden change of data in the current prediction model. Besides, the study results take stock of the published literature and can provide an overall understanding of the forecasting methods of human resources in the construction industry.

Practical implications

Through this study, decision-makers can choose a reasonable prediction model according to their situation. Decision-makers can make clear plans for future construction projects specifically when there are changes in the labour market caused by emergencies. Also, this study can help decision-makers understand the current research trend of human resources forecasting models.

Originality/value

Although the human resource prediction model's effectiveness in the construction industry is affected by the dynamic change of data, the research results show that it is expected to solve the problem using artificial intelligence. No one has researched this area, and it is expected to become the focus of research in the future.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 29 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 10 July 2019

Jingxiao Zhang, Haiyan Xie and Hui Li

The purpose of this paper is to improve students’ problem-solving skills in civil engineering and construction management education.

1349

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve students’ problem-solving skills in civil engineering and construction management education.

Design/methodology/approach

The design includes structured role-playing as a pedagogical method in 21 project teams with a total of 82 undergraduate students at Chang’an University, China, in a nine-week Building Information Modeling (BIM) capstone course. The methodology is a teaching–learning experiment in a civil engineering education program with a detailed description of the empirical case and assessment instruments. The approach is to train project execution planning in a capstone course by role-playing with a real-world project using the procedures of the BIM Project Execution Planning Guide (PEPG) and process mapping.

Findings

The study finds that students can significantly improve their problem-solving skills through planning and role-specific communication during projects.

Research limitations/implications

The research sample needs to be expanded from senior-level undergraduate students to consider the different backgrounds and motivations of students.

Practical implications

This pedagogy is helpful to educators who are interested in group learning with a real-world project; the procedures of BIM PEPG; self-chosen responsibilities within a capstone course time framework; raising the awareness of the importance of planning; information exchange; and team cooperation.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study how role-playing in information and technology rich environments can be structured.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 26 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 16 January 2025

Shuo Wang, Xin Li, Yu Zhang, Songhui Ma and Xianrui Ren

Visual simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) methods suffer from accumulated errors, especially in challenging environments without loop closure. By constructing…

23

Abstract

Purpose

Visual simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) methods suffer from accumulated errors, especially in challenging environments without loop closure. By constructing lightweight offline maps and using deep learning (DL)-based technology in the two stages, i.e. image retrieval and feature matching, the goal is to reconstruct the six-degree-of-freedom (6-DoF) relationship between SLAM sequences and map sequences. This study aims to propose a comprehensive coarse-to-fine 6-DoF long-term visual relocalization assisted SLAM method specifically designed for challenging environments, aiming to achieve more accurate pose estimation.

Design/methodology/approach

First, image global feature matching and patch-level global feature matching are conducted to achieve optimal frame-to-frame matching. Second, a DL network is introduced to extract and match features between the most similar frames, enabling point-to-point motion estimation. Finally, a fast pose graph optimization method is proposed to achieve real-time optimization of the pose in the SLAM sequence.

Findings

The proposed method has been successfully validated on the real-world FinnForest Dataset and UZH-FPV Drone Racing Dataset. The accuracy of the proposed method is evaluated using absolute positional error and absolute rotational error. Experimental results show that in most cases, there are significant improvements in the root mean square error and the standard deviation of the error in pose estimation, and it performs better than loop closure in terms of accuracy. This indicates that the method has strong generalizability and robustness.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this study is the proposal of a complete DL-based coarse-to-fine 6-DoF long-term visual relocalization method to assist vSLAM, which demonstrates enhanced robustness and generalizability and can eliminate cumulative errors in pose estimation under challenging environments.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

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Article
Publication date: 6 May 2022

Chengshan Li and Huachao Dong

Variable-fidelity optimization (VFO) frameworks generally aim at taking full advantage of high-fidelity (HF) and low-fidelity (LF) models to solve computationally expensive…

86

Abstract

Purpose

Variable-fidelity optimization (VFO) frameworks generally aim at taking full advantage of high-fidelity (HF) and low-fidelity (LF) models to solve computationally expensive problems. The purpose of this paper is to develop a novel modified trust-region assisted variable-fidelity optimization (MTR-VFO) framework that can improve the optimization efficiency for computationally expensive engineering design problems.

Design/methodology/approach

Though the LF model is rough and inaccurate, it probably contains the gradient information and trend of the computationally expensive HF model. In the proposed framework, the extreme locations of the LF kriging model are firstly utilized to enhance the HF kriging model, and then a modified trust-region (MTR) method is presented for efficient local search. The proposed MTR-VFO framework is verified through comparison with three typical methods on some benchmark problems, and it is also applied to optimize the configuration of underwater tandem wings.

Findings

The results indicate that the proposed MTR-VFO framework is more effective than some existing typical methods and it has the potential of solving computationally expensive problems more efficiently.

Originality/value

The extreme locations of LF models are utilized to improve the accuracy of HF models and a MTR method is first proposed for local search without utilizing HF gradient. Besides, a novel MTR-VFO framework is presented which is verified to be more effective than some existing typical methods and shows great potential of solving computationally expensive problems effectively.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 39 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

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Article
Publication date: 4 January 2023

Xiaomin Qi, Qiang Du, Patrick X.W. Zou and Ning Huang

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model considering synergy effect for prefabricated construction service combination selection.

223

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model considering synergy effect for prefabricated construction service combination selection.

Design/methodology/approach

This research defines prefabricated construction service as a service-led construction method that meets the specific requirements of clients. Based on network theory, the multi-dimensional collaborative relationships of the prefabricated construction inter-services are formulated. The synergy effect is quantitatively calculated through the linear weighting of the strengths of collaborative relationships. Further, a weighted synergy network (WSN) is developed, from which a service composition selection model considering the synergy effect is established. Then, a genetic algorithm is employed to implement the model.

Findings

The results showed that (1) when the number of prefabricated construction services is increased, the synergy effect of combination options is enhanced; (2) The finer-grained prefabricated construction services, the stronger the synergy effect of service combination; (3) Clients have heterogeneous preferences for collaborative relationships, and there are differences in the synergy effect of service combination.

Originality/value

The contribution of this research includes proposed a method to quantify the synergy effect from the perspective of collaborative relationships, explored the specific procedure for the prefabricated construction service combination selection under the service-led construction, and provided a reference for promoting the development in construction. Besides, the model proposed could be applied to prefabricated construction service composition selection with diverse research boundaries or client preferences by executing the same procedure.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 3 April 2023

Qiang Du, Xiaomin Qi, Patrick X.W. Zou and Yanmin Zhang

The purpose of this paper is to develop a bi-objective optimization framework to select prefabricated construction service composition. An improved algorithm-genetic simulated…

192

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a bi-objective optimization framework to select prefabricated construction service composition. An improved algorithm-genetic simulated annealing algorithm (GSA) is employed to demonstrate the application of the framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The weighted aggregate multi-dimensional collaborative relationship is used to quantitatively evaluate the synergistic effect. The quality of service is measured using the same method. The research proposed a service combination selection framework of prefabricated construction that comprehensively considers the quality of service and synergistic effect. The framework is demonstrated by using a GSA that can accept poor solutions with a certain probability. Furthermore, GSA is compared with the genetic algorithm (GA), simulated annealing algorithm (SA) and particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) to validate the performance.

Findings

The results indicated that GSA has the largest optimal fitness value and synergistic effect compared with other algorithms, and the convergence time and convergence iteration of the improved algorithm are generally at a low level.

Originality/value

The contribution of this study is that the proposed framework enables project managers to clarify the interactions of the prefabricated construction process and provides guidance for project collaborative management. In addition, GSA helps to improve the probability of successful collaboration between potential partners, therefore enhancing client satisfaction.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 1 September 2016

Shining Zhang

With the development of economy and the progress of science and technology, the function of Luoyang city is constantly enriched and expanded. The city is no longer a simple area…

241

Abstract

With the development of economy and the progress of science and technology, the function of Luoyang city is constantly enriched and expanded. The city is no longer a simple area for people to live in. The function structure of the city is affected by the external factors and is constantly expanding. Urban logistics is one of the important influencing factors. To more comprehensively and accurately understand the status and role of logistics network space in urban planning, the characteristics and development law of urban logistics structure from the theoretical point of view are analyzed in this paper with Luoyang City as the research background. The city logistics function is determined as one of the main factors affecting the economic growth of the city is determined through the literature search method, consulting professionals and other research methods. Urban road planning and design are the focus of the study; the planning and development of urban logistics road network in Luoyang City are compared and analyzed. In full consideration of the necessity of the optimization of the urban logistics network space, the preliminary optimization scheme design and suggestion of Luoyang logistics is introduced. At the end of this paper, the sustainable development and the status of the future urban logistics function are analyzed and prospected. Continuous research and analysis of multiple subjects and angles are still needed.

Details

Open House International, vol. 41 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

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Article
Publication date: 8 October 2019

Hamed Golizadeh, M. Reza Hosseini, Igor Martek, David Edwards, Masoud Gheisari, Saeed Banihashemi and Jingxiao Zhang

Remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems have emerged as an established tool within the construction industry. Concurrent with this trend has been the rise in research on RPA…

628

Abstract

Purpose

Remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems have emerged as an established tool within the construction industry. Concurrent with this trend has been the rise in research on RPA, establishing this as a new field of study within the construction management domain. What is needed now is an assessment of the current state of research in this emerging discipline – its strengths and weaknesses – by which future research on RPA in construction may be guided. The purpose of this paper is to address this need.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 59 peer-reviewed journal articles covering RPAs within the construction domain were systematically reviewed using a mixed-methods approach, utilizing qualitative-scientometric analyses techniques.

Findings

The results reveal a field of study in its fledgling stage, with a limited number of experts operating somewhat in isolation, from a limited number of institutions. Key publication outlets are identified, with the main focus of research being in the technical areas of remote sensing, photogrammetry and image processing.

Practical implications

The study benefits researchers and industry practitioners alike. For researchers, the identified gaps reveal areas of high priority in future research. For construction companies, particularly small to medium-sized businesses, the study raises awareness of the latest developments and potential applicability of RPAs in the industry.

Originality/value

The study exposes what is missing from current research: a broader consideration of organizational adjustments needed to accommodate RPA usage, economic analyses and impediments to wider acceptance.

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Article
Publication date: 9 July 2024

Samera Nazir, Saqib Mehmood, Zarish Nazir and Li Zhaolei

This study aimed to examine how knowledge sharing, knowledge management, supply chain efficiency and integration collectively impacted firm performance. Additionally, it…

251

Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to examine how knowledge sharing, knowledge management, supply chain efficiency and integration collectively impacted firm performance. Additionally, it investigated the moderating influence of reverse logistics on these relationships, seeking to enhance understanding of the complex dynamics within organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive method was used in the research design, combining a thorough evaluation of the body of literature with organized questionnaire data collection. Random sampling was used to collect data from Pakistani manufacturing companies, and PLS-SEM was used to analyze the collected data.

Findings

The findings demonstrated the strong positive relationships between knowledge management, integration, supply chain effectiveness, and information sharing and business performance. The study also showed that reverse logistics improved and moderated these correlations, highlighting the significance of managing reverse logistics well for the best possible company performance.

Practical implications

In terms of practical implications, the study offered organizations looking to improve performance useful information. Making informed strategic decisions was made possible by realizing the benefits of knowledge management, integration, supply chain efficiency, and sharing. The relevance of using successful tactics to maximize company outcomes was highlighted by highlighting the moderating effects of reverse logistics.

Originality/value

By thoroughly analyzing the connections between knowledge management, supply chain effectiveness, integration, and firm performance—while taking into account the moderating influence of reverse logistics—this study enhanced the body of existing literature. The discoveries significantly added value to this research topic by enhancing our understanding of how these elements collectively influence business performance, especially in the sometimes disregarded field of reverse logistics.

Details

Kybernetes, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0368-492X

Keywords

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