Integrated planning systems for the construction industry

This thesis reports on a CAD-based integrated model developed to aid the planning of the construction of in-situ concrete structures. The main aim of this model is to automate the planning process of in-situ concrete structures using data generated by CAD systems. In order to achieve this goal, the integration of a CAD system (AutoCAD 10) and a computerised planning system (Artemis 2000) via a database program (dBase IV) has been achieved on an IBM PS2 Model 70 microcomputer. This enables the generation of network plans in the AutoCAD system which are then automatically transferred to the Artemis system for time and cost analyses. Currently, the system can handle concreting, steel fixing and formwork activities associated with in-situ concrete design elements. However, further enhancement of the model is possible in order to automate the generation of most construction activities. [Continues.]