Journal of Computing in Civil Engineering

Search Issue | RSS Feeds RSS
Previous Issue

November/December 2008

Volume 22, Issue 6, pp. 335-384

back to top
RSS Feeds
FREE

Technical Council for Computing and Information Technology

Hani G. Melhem, Ph.D., M.ASCE, P.E. and R. Raymond Issa, Ph.D., M.ASCE, J.D., P.E.

J. Comput. Civ. Eng. 22, 335 (2008); http://dx.doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0887-3801(2008)22:6(335) (3 pages)

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
back to top
RSS Feeds

Probabilistic Approach to the Solution of Inverse Problems in Civil Engineering

Rambod Hadidi, A.M.ASCE, P.E. and Nenad Gucunski, A.M.ASCE

J. Comput. Civ. Eng. 22, 338 (2008); http://dx.doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0887-3801(2008)22:6(338) (10 pages) | Cited 2 times

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
A wide range of important problems in civil engineering can be classified as inverse problems. In such problems, the observational data regarding the performance of a system is known, and the characteristics of the system and/or the input are sought. There are two general approaches to the solution of inverse problems: deterministic and probabilistic. Traditionally, inverse problems in civil engineering have been solved using a deterministic approach. In this approach, the objective is to find a specific model of a system that its theoretical response best fits the observed data. Obtaining the best fit solution, however, does not provide any information regarding the effect of data and/or theoretical uncertainties on the obtained solution. In this paper, a general probabilistic approach to the solution of the inverse problems is introduced, which provides uncertainty measures for the obtained solution. Techniques for direct analytical evaluation and numerical approximation of the probabilistic solution using Monte Carlo Markov Chains, with and without neighborhood algorithm approximation, are introduced and explained. The presented concepts and techniques and their application are then illustrated in practical terms using a simple example of a modulus determination experiment.

Evaluation of Knowledge Representation Schemes as a Prerequisite toward Development of a Knowledge-Based System

Devanjan Bhattacharya and Jayanta Kumar Ghosh

J. Comput. Civ. Eng. 22, 348 (2008); http://dx.doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0887-3801(2008)22:6(348) (12 pages) | Cited 1 time

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF


See Also: Erratum

Show Abstract
In developing a knowledge-based system, it is crucial to use an appropriate knowledge representation scheme (KRS) for efficient working of the developed system. However, it is difficult to select an appropriate KRS due to lack of a generalized method of comparison among the variety of schemes available. The objective of this paper is to discuss a generalized method for comparative evaluation of KRS, based on criteria of expressiveness and performance. The discussed method has been implemented for evaluation of four widely used KRSs: rule-based model, object-based model, relational model, and hybrid model. Evaluation is being carried out using a knowledge base for zonation of landslide hazard. Based on the criteria of expressiveness and performance, it has been found that hybrid-based KRS is best for representation of the domain knowledge available in the Indian Standard Code 14496-1998 (Part-II).

Integrated Decision Support System for Optimal Renewal Planning of Sewer Networks

Mahmoud R. Halfawy, Leila Dridi, and Samar Baker

J. Comput. Civ. Eng. 22, 360 (2008); http://dx.doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0887-3801(2008)22:6(360) (13 pages) | Cited 3 times

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
Municipalities are under increasing pressure to adopt proactive and optimized renewal strategies to reduce the risks, life-cycle costs, and resources needed to maintain acceptable performance and service levels of their infrastructure assets. A new integrated approach for optimal renewal planning of municipal infrastructure systems has been developed. This paper discusses the application of the proposed approach to implement a GIS-based decision support system (DSS) to support the renewal planning of sewer networks. Condition rating, risk assessment, and prioritization techniques are described. A procedure for identifying and selecting the most suitable renewal technologies is also presented. A genetic algorithm-based multiobjective optimization technique is used to find a Pareto front of feasible solutions, each comprising a set of sewers to be renewed each year, along with the associated costs and expected benefits in terms of condition improvement and risk reduction. The paper also presents an example application of the prototype DSS on the sewer network in Regina, Canada.

Analyzing Enterprise Resource Planning System Implementation Success Factors in the Engineering–Construction Industry

Boo Young Chung, Mirosław J. Skibniewski, Henry C. Lucas, Jr., and Young Hoon Kwak

J. Comput. Civ. Eng. 22, 373 (2008); http://dx.doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0887-3801(2008)22:6(373) (10 pages) | Cited 6 times

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems offer many benefits to the engineering–construction industry. Many construction firms recognize the benefits of ERP system implementation; however, they still hesitate to adopt these systems due to high cost, uncertainties, and risks. This study identifies and analyzes critical factors that need to be considered to ensure successful ERP system implementation in the construction industry. First, this paper identifies the factors associated with the success and failure of ERP systems, and provides indicators to evaluate the success of such systems. Then, the paper develops an information system success model to analyze the relationships between factors and success indicators. Finally, the paper provides recommendations for successful ERP systems based on the analysis. The derived success factors should help senior managers in construction firms make better decisions and improve their business value by implementing the most effective EPR systems.
back to top
RSS Feeds
FREE

Reviewer

J. Comput. Civ. Eng. 22, 383 (2008); http://dx.doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0887-3801(2008)22:6(383) (2 pages)

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Close

Your Recent History Recent History Help

Recently Viewed

  1. Lean Management Model for Construction of High-Rise Apartment Buildings
  2. Building Constructive Innovation Networks: Role of Relationship Management
  3. Comparative Study of Idea Generation between Traditional Value Management Workshops and GDSS-Support...
  4. Improving Employees’ Work-Life Balance in the Construction Industry: Project Alliance Case Study
  5. Evaluation of Unknown Foundation Depth Using Different NDT Method
close