Workspace Optimization for Modular Off-site Assembly

Abstract

Modular construction is getting more prevalent than the past because it is environmentallyfriendly construction method and it can reduce construction period and cost by manufacturing in factory. Modular unit is produced through assembly line where the intensive manufacturing process is conducted. The manufacturing process is a complicated operation that integrates the production movement with a complex activity precedence network (procedure). Although modular unit production is a sum of the general construction activity superimposed on a production line in modular factory, the activities should be conducted on station for the optimal cycle time and many activities are carried out in the modular unit. So there is spatial constraint in the manufacturing process and modular construction manager suffers from existing limitations such as space, workers, materials which are caused by intensive process. If the manager doesn’t consider the workspace interference when establishing construction process, the efficiency of modular construction would be reduced. The object of this research is to suggest the method which optimize the number of workers for activities on the station and increase the productivity by inputting appropriate number of workers for minimum workspace interference.