Near Optimum Selection of Module Configuration for Efficient Modular Construction

Abstract

Modular construction has received considerable attention in recent years. This has been attributed to its impact on cost and time reduction and improved productivity and quality of constructed facilities. Modular construction can also result in improved safety on construction jobsites and reduced material waste. Most recent work in this field focused cranes selection and location, more suited scheduling methods and issues pertinent to logistics, without due consideration to optimized modules configuration. This paper introduces a newly developed unified modular suitability index to accomplish a near optimum selection of module configuration for efficient modular residential construction. The developed modular suitability index (MSI) utilizes five indices; 1) connections index (CI) that evaluates the module connections using the matrix clustering technique along with the bond energy algorithm, 2) transportation dimensions index (TDI) that accounts for the module dimensions’ effects on transportation, 3) transportation shipping distance index (TSDI) to evaluate the distance between modules fabrication and assembly facility and the project construction site, 4) crane cost penalty index (CCPI) to evaluate the crane cost relevant to the module placing rate, and 5) concrete volume index (CVI) to evaluate the project’s foundation concrete quantities. Calculating the modular suitability index (MSI) provides a unified indicator for the project stakeholders to assess the suitability of different modular configuration and support near optimum modules.