Digital Commons Network^™

Uav-Dl-Based Computer Vision Framework For Construction Worker Pose Estimation, Roy Lan, Ibukun Awolusi

CIB Conferences

Traditional ergonomic assessments in construction are limited by subjectivity, intermittent monitoring, and scalability challenges. To address these issues, this study presents a framework integrating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and deep learning-based computer vision for automated ergonomic risk assessment of construction workers. The framework utilizes UAVs to capture aerial footage of workers, enabling continuous monitoring across large and complex sites. Leveraging MediaPipe for pose estimation, the framework detects key body landmarks and calculates joint angles, providing an objective representation of worker postures. These joint angles are then mapped to the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) scoring system through custom algorithms, which …

A Case-Study-Based Investigation On The Planning And Development Of Tiny Home Communities In North Carolina, Lin Whipkey, Jianxin Hu

CIB Conferences

Tiny homes have gained popularity over the past two decades. However, tiny homes have encountered obstacles to being considered as primary dwellings because most local zoning ordinances do not fully adopt them as a permanent dwelling type. Only a few counties (5%) and municipalities (6%) in North Carolina adopted tiny homes in their ordinance. A multiple-case study is employed to investigate eight communities in North Carolina. The developers, property owners, municipality officials, and county planners are interviewed. Other methods include studying the communities' general layout and amenities and reviewing zoning ordinances, property records, and site plans. The data are analyzed …

Exploring The Performance Trends In Leed-Certified Schools In Massachusetts: Analyzing Scorecards For Sustainability Insights, Jung Hyun Lee, Bilge Gokhan Celik, Shaghayegh Kurzinski, Amine Ghanem

CIB Conferences

Schools are essential environments for student development, with the quality of these buildings playing a significant role in shaping students’ learning experiences. Several factors, including indoor air quality, thermal comfort, acoustics, and daylight access, can impact both student well-being and academic performance. Therefore, evolving government regulations and updates to sustainable building standards, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications, have prioritized enhancing the quality of school buildings. This study aims to identify the trends within LEED for school certifications between 2019 and 2024 by examining each rating system category to determine whether these trends vary across categories …

Ai Tools In Project Practice (Design Process, Platforms, Open Building), Sergey Rybakov, Aleksandra Shibaeva

CIB Conferences

The article provides an overview the application of AI-practices in the architectural and design practice (narrow AI/ANI’s). Various directions of introducing these tools into the process (from generative design to reinforced collaborative systems & AI-actors) are considered. The main emphasis is on two aspects: application of AI to ensure the Open Building Implementation concept (within the framework of open construction). How to open buildings ideas react on these practices. How open systems can be complemented with these tools. How the OB-principles (modularity, “openness” itself, users-inhabitants design decisions making & designing process with multiple participants ets.) may change when applying AI-ideas. …

Dwelling Overheating In Cool Climates: Evidence From Monitoring, Mark Mulville, Seamus Harrington, Ciara Ahern, Omprakash Ramalingam Rethnam

CIB Conferences

To date, much of the research on overheating risk in dwellings has been focused on warmer climates, there is however increasing ­concern regarding overheating risk in dwellings including in cool climates, exacerbated by both large scales retrofit and the potential impacts of climate change. Dwelling overheating has been linked to impacts on sleep, health and wellbeing, including increased rates of mortality and morbidity. This paper explores overheating risk in dwellings in cool climates using Ireland as use case. Ten representative vernacular Irish dwellings were identified and monitored over the summer months of 2024 (June-August inclusive). To understand the role and …

Critical Review Of Biodiversity Criteria In Sustainable Real Estate Finance, Maria Holopainen, Inari Virkkala, Antti Kinnunen, Seppo Junnila Professor

CIB Conferences

The speed of global biodiversity loss has highlighted the urgency of directing more capital into nature-positive investments. Subsequently, green real estate finance has an important role to play in filling this finance gap. Against this backdrop, the paper employs a case study methodology to critically review the harmonies and disparities between two alternative approaches to incorporate biodiversity in the building sector: the EU Taxonomy, representing a regulatory “top-down” push for minimum standards, and the “Biodiversity Building” concept which portrays an industry-driven “bottom-up” approach aimed at ecological regenerativity. The analysis reveals some fundamental differences between the scope, content, and applicability of …

Digital Twin Insights From A Green Star-Rated Learning Environment, Ashvin Manga Mr., Theo C. Haupt, Chris James Allen Mr.

CIB Conferences

This study investigates the application of digital twin technology to enhance energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in a Green Star-rated learning environment. Focusing on Nelson Mandela University’s Business School, the research employed a mono-method quantitative approach, gathering real-time data through IoT sensors. The sensors were integrated into a digital twin platform using AWS IoT TwinMaker, enabling multi-sensor collaborative visualisation of building performance data. Findings reveal that CO₂ levels frequently exceeded recommended limits, even at moderate occupancy, indicating ventilation inadequacies. Additionally, the performance gap between design expectations and operational outcomes was highlighted, especially regarding energy efficiency and IEQ, suggesting …

Review On Strength Properties Of Graphene Incorporated Sustainable Concrete By Reducing Cement Quantity, Balkis A, Shashank B. S, Rajesh Goyal, Anil Kashyap

CIB Conferences

Abstract

Graphene, an allotrope of carbon with outstanding mechanical, physical, and thermal properties, is increasingly gaining recognition in scientific research. Its unique nanostructure has revolutionized cement composites by enhancing their mechanical strength, durability, and overall performance. The construction industry is actively exploring new, sustainable materials that improve the mechanical properties of concrete. Graphene-based nanomaterials like Graphene oxide (GO), Graphene Nanoplates, and Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) have gained significant attention due to their superior reinforcement capabilities. This study examines the impact of GO in cement composites incorporating supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) such as fly ash, silica fume, rice husk ash, and geopolymer …

Off-Site Construction Smes Transition To Net-Zero, Nwakaego Onyenokporo, Patricia Tzortzopoulos Prof., Sara Biscaya, Tamiris Capellaro Ferreira, Nic Clear Prof., Rakesh Mishra Prof.

CIB Conferences

With the imperative to combat climate change and achieve net-zero targets by 2050, the construction industry faces growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices and reduce carbon emissions. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which constitute the majority of the industry, often lack the resources and expertise to make this transition effectively. This paper investigates how off-site construction SMEs can implement actions to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, focusing on the integration of sustainable practices through Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Lean principles within a small off-site construction company. Using an action research approach, the study employed iterative cycles of planning, action, and …

Exploring Social Equity And Cultural Indicators In Sustainable Road And Highway Infrastructure Development In Ghana, George Okyere Dokyi, Osei Kwame Kwakwa, Funmilayo Ebun Rotimi, John Tookey

CIB Conferences

This study explores the integration of social equity and cultural indicators in sustainable road and highway infrastructure development in Ghana. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 professionals in the construction industry, including engineers, project managers, and consultants. The research aimed to uncover challenges and effective strategies in addressing social and cultural dimensions of infrastructure projects. Thematic analysis of interview data, facilitated by ATLAS.ti software, revealed three key areas of concern: community engagement and public participation, worker health and safety, and traffic congestion management. Findings indicate that while stakeholders recognize the importance of these factors, significant challenges …

Collaborative Design Technologies And Methods For Sustainable Built Environment, Kalle Kahkonen, Jaakko Huusko, Taija Puolitaival

CIB Conferences

In the present design process, designers still operate relatively alone, each in their own "swimming lane". Coordination between different design trades typically takes place in BIM coordination meetings organized by consultants. The process is reactive, and the feedback loops are long and error prone. Reaching successfully multi-criteria design solutions can be very difficult. This is eminently a burning issue with sustainability which is imposing new criteria and requirements for design solutions. Collaboration is widely understood as a necessity to successfully manage the ever-increasing complexity and demands of construction. Advanced collaboration consists of frequent reliable information sharing and constant working together. …

A Systematic Review Of The Mitigating Factors For Emergency Response In Facilities, Haruna Domanamwin Abudu, Modupe Cecilia M.C Mewomo Prof., Kofi Owusu Adjei Dr., Francis Kwesi Bondinuba Prof.

CIB Conferences

This research aims to identify effective practices and strategies that improve preparedness and response capabilities by examining the factors contributing to mitigating challenges in emergency response. A comprehensive literature review was adopted to analyse current trends, case studies, and expert opinions regarding global emergency response infrastructure. The review synthesised existing research and case studies and provided insights into practical experiences and perspectives from diverse operational contexts. The research highlights 11 factors categorised into 7 key factors that contribute significantly to mitigating challenges in emergency response. These factors include community engagement and capacity building, policy and governance, technological integration, collaboration and …

Exploring And Comparing Gendered Experiences In Construction Management Education In Ireland, Joanne White

CIB Conferences

Despite efforts by Irish governments and construction industries, women are still distinctly underrepresented in 3rd level construction management courses in Ireland. This study investigates the age-old barriers and challenges faced by women in pursuing careers in construction management, focusing on gender stereotypes, the industry's image, access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) education, and the role of career guidance. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines a literature review with semi-structured interviews conducted with eight students from Technological University Dublin. The findings reveal that gender stereotypes remain pervasive, with female students facing challenges such as lack of female role …

A Systematic Literature Review On The Thermal Behaviour Of Building Elements Constructed Through 3d Concrete Printing (3dcp), Asad Ur Rehman Bajwa, Don A.S. Samarasinghe, Claire L. Flemmer, Ding Wen Bao

CIB Conferences

3D concrete printing (3DCP) is increasingly used in construction due to its high speed, low waste, and geometric freedom capabilities. Researchers have signaled that 3DCP can help achieve long desired sustainability in the construction industry. Understanding the thermal behaviour of 3DCP based building elements could play a crucial role in attaining an energy efficient envelope, yet research on assessing the thermal behaviour of printed elements remains limited. This systematic literature review of records published between 2013 to 2023, provides a comprehensive overview of the thermal behaviour of several 3DCP-based materials and the important factors affecting heat transfer properties. The most …

Accra Airport City: Construction Practices And Forms, Arturo Pavani Dr

CIB Conferences

This paper analyzes the scientific theory about African and Global cities and their practices through the analysis of a specific case study, the Airport City business district in Accra, Ghana. The goal of this research is to investigate what are the characteristics that influence this neighborhood’s architectural and urban development, starting from the analysis of its practices and forms. The purpose of the broader research is to investigate the forms and dynamics that shape this urban environment using a problem-driven and phronetic approach that starts from local practice and context and later reframes them within scientific theory.

Enhancing The Practice Of Sustainable Construction Materials In The Construction Industry Of Developing Countries, Henok Asfaw Hailu Dr

CIB Conferences

Globally, the utilization of sustainable construction materials has recently gained more attention. However, this practice faces different barriers in developing countries, where economic constraints, rapid urbanization, and other issues often complicate the adoption of sustainable practices. The study aimed to explore the key drivers, facilitators, and barriers to the practice of sustainable construction materials in the construction industry of developing countries. For this, a systematic literature review was preferred to identify relevant studies in the study area. After screening with inclusion/exclusion criteria, 22 publications were selected for further analysis. A thematic analysis was employed to explore the differentdrivers, facilitators, and …

Identifying Financial Incentives For Green Housing Loans In Low Interest Margin Environments, Lassi Tornberg, Anniina Saari, Seppo Junnila Professor

CIB Conferences

The purpose of this study was to identify financial incentives for consumers in low interest margin housing loan markets, such as Finland, for green housing loans, including both green mortgages and renovation loans. Although green financing is well-researched, the financial viability of green housing loans under the EU Taxonomy as a sustainable financing framework remains underexplored. EU’s revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive sets Minimum Energy Performance Standards for expediting the decarbonisation of European building stock, with households playing a key role through energy-efficient renovations. The research design comprises two parts: developing a literature-based framework of financial incentives for green …

Generative Ai In Construction: Emerging Trends And Use Cases, Zaid Alwashah, Hexu Liu, Bo Xiao, Shane Mueller, Xiaoyun Shao

CIB Conferences

The construction industry is beginning to explore generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to address complex data management challenges and inefficiencies within traditional workflows, particularly in design, planning, and project management. Although there is growing interest in generative AI in construction, the understanding of its trends and opportunities remains scattered. This paper investigates the current trends, applications, and research needs for generative AI in construction through a bibliometric analysis of 148 publications from Scopus and Google Scholar. The keyword co-occurrence map highlights several search clusters, with a strong focus on "Building Information Modeling (BIM)," "digital twins," "sustainability," "construction safety," "structural and …

A Partnership In Construction Management Education: A Case Study With The Us Army Corps Of Engineers, Blaine Guidry, Jeffrey Kim

CIB Conferences

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the XXXX University-U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) partnership certificate program, aimed at rapidly upskilling personnel for construction management roles. Surveying 240 graduates, including both USACE-affiliated and non-affiliated participants, this research examines perceptions of the program's impact on proficiency in three key areas: scheduling, estimating, and construction law. With a 22.9% response rate, results indicate perceived improvement across all key areas, with respondents reporting more significant gains in construction law proficiency. The curriculum’s focus on project management, estimating, scheduling, and construction law received positive feedback, suggesting the certificate program offers relevant and practical training …

Building Together: Premises For Applying Ipd In Brazilian Construction, Guilherme Quinilato Baldessin, Silvio Burrattino Melhado

CIB Conferences

This study examines the feasibility of implementing Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) in Brazil’s construction sector. Combining literature review, surveys, and interviews, it identifies barriers such as regulatory constraints, cultural resistance, and limited awareness, while highlighting opportunities in complex, high-collaboration projects. Recommendations include prototype testing, stakeholder training, and cultural adaptation to promote IPD adoption. The findings emphasize IPD’s potential to enhance collaboration, reduce conflicts, and improve project outcomes, offering a framework for advancing construction practices in Brazil.

Using Recycled Materials For Asphalt Road Pavement Pothole Repair To Reduce Carbon In Construction, Kenneth O. Lawani, Carys Morrison, Farhad Sadeghineko, Billy Hare, Michael K. Tong

CIB Conferences

The physical condition of motorways and trunk roads in Scotland is monitored by specialist contractors on behalf of Transport Scotland by annual condition survey to provide information about the structural, surface and safety condition of the road surface or pavements. Flexible asphalt pavement is subjected to continuous vehicular and environmental loading causing potholes that needs to be reinstated to maintain functional requirements. However, traditional pothole repair materials have sustainability concerns and can deteriorate quickly after installation. The longevity and durability of pothole repairs is important as repeat treatments incite additional costs. Innovation can enhance sustainable development and for road transport …

Exploring The Effect Of Communication On Sustainable Knowledge Management, Musa Onundi, Mani Poshdar Dr, Funmilayo Ebun Rotimi

CIB Conferences

Effective communication abilities are vital for facilitating Knowledge Management within the construction sector, especially in relation to sustainable development goals objectives. This study examines the influence of communication skills on sustainable Knowledge management practices, stressing how effective and clear communication promotes collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovative thinking. A thorough systematic literature review was adopted to point out best practices and strategies for enhancing communication to advance sustainable results in construction initiatives

Exploring Camel Hair: A Sustainable Local Material For Architectural Applications In Saudi Arabia, Laila Alqahtani, Basma Shaheen

CIB Conferences

This research explores the potential of camel hair as a sustainable architectural material, emphasizing its applications in air purification, thermal insulation, and aesthetic facade treatments. Camel hair, an abundant yet underutilized byproduct in Saudi Arabia, possesses unique physical and chemical properties, including excellent thermal conductivity, moisture resistance, durability, and biodegradability. These attributes position it as a viable alternative to conventional materials, particularly in arid climates.

The study draws on experimental data, including patented filtration systems, to evaluate camel hair’s performance in architectural contexts. Comparative analysis highlights its advantages over other animal-derived materials, such as wool, leather, and bone, in terms …

Metaverse Applications In Construction Research: Are We There Yet?, Mohamed Assaf, Sena Assaf, Mohamed Al-Hussein, Xinming Li

CIB Conferences

Despite the significant potential of extended reality (XR) technologies in construction research, achieving a collaborative virtual environment that allows real-time engagements among various geographically remote stakeholders is a challenge. Building upon XR technologies, metaverse technology was introduced recently in construction research as a possible solution to address this issue, as it allows multiple users to engage and communicate in virtual environments. Being introduced recently, the applications of the metaverse in construction research (ConVerse) remain immature, vague, and unexplored. Seasoned researchers interested in the ConVerse research still need a reference guide to better understand the potential of the metaverse and its …

Perceptions Of 3d Printing Construction Adoption In Latin America: Opportunities, Barriers, And Strategies For Sustainable Infrastructure, Jorge Rojas, Andrea Braul, Sogand Hasanzadeh

CIB Conferences

Within Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC), 3D Printing Construction (3DPC) offers significant potential by facilitating design flexibility, reducing reliance on formwork, and enhancing sustainability. However, the broader adoption of 3DPC is hindered by critical challenges, including lack of standards, material properties, and extra costs associated with a high initial investment. While previous studies have already explored the opportunities and barriers regulating the adoption of this technology from the perspective of a developed country, there is a critical need to better understand its potential in developing nations. This research aims to identify the AEC community's perception of 3DPC across four key …

Innovative Approaches To Qa/Qc In Construction: Current State, James O. Toyin, Anoop Sattineni

CIB Conferences

The construction industry has long faced inefficiencies in Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC), often relying on manual inspections. As construction demands increase and projects become more technologically advanced, there is an urgent need for innovative QA/QC methods that enhance precision and efficiency. While attempts have been made to integrate technology into QA/QC practices, gaps remain in comprehending precision and efficiency, documenting and synthesizing these advancements. This paper addresses this gap by conducting a critical review of emerging digital technologies in QA/QC and identifying future research directions with construction 6.0 speculations for 2050. A structured critical review methodology was …

Understanding Potential Challenges In Demolition Robot Teleoperation To Inform Interface Design: Insights From Industry Professionals, Zihao Wang, Patrick Borges Rodrigues, Yiyang Fang, Lucio Soibelman, Burcin Becerik-Gerber, Shawn C. Roll, Gale M. Lucas

CIB Conferences

Teleoperation is receiving intense attention due to its potential to address health and safety concerns for construction workers caused by on-site hazards. It allows operators to control robots from a distance outside their field of view using wireless communication technologies. Currently one of the most frequently deployed robotic technologies in construction is the remotely operated demolition robot within the field of view. While distance teleoperation offers great potential for enhancing worker safety and addressing labor shortages, the complex and dynamic demolition sites present unique challenges. This paper introduces the preliminary results of a study that explored potential challenges in demolition …

Bridging Conflicting Sustainable Goals: Ai-Empowered Analysis Of Biodiversity Commitments And Impacts In Renewable Energy Projects, Xinyi Xu, Jin Xue

CIB Conferences

The development of renewable energy projects, while essential for mitigating climate change, poses significant challenges to biodiversity conservation due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and species displacement. Aligning these projects with global sustainability goals, such as SDG 15, requires addressing the often-overlooked gap between biodiversity commitments and actual impacts.

To tackle this challenge, a conceptual framework is proposed in this study that illustrates the relationship between biodiversity commitments and impacts through four hierarchical levels. The framework distinguishes between predicted and actual impacts, as well as compliance-driven and proactive commitments. It incorporates alternative data sources, such as compliance documents, ESG reports, and …

Is Construction Material Science Lagging Other Industries?, Matt Stevens, Alan Todhunter, Laura Almeida, Anthony Butera

CIB Conferences

For over a decade, construction material researchers have largely ignored the world’s largest publicly accessible molecular database, The Materials Project. Today, Artificial Intelligence (AI) coupled with material databases is the new starting point for innovating products in the construction industry. More well-documented advancements in material performance have occurred in this century thus far than the last one. Coupled with Machine Learning, the possibility of rapid construction product improvement is realistic, given several verified breakthroughs in other fields. This is an efficacious way to approach advancement. Highly accurate data provides AI with the needed information to connect molecular dynamics with decision-making …

Socio-Political Risk Analysis Of Public Private Partnership (P3) Affordable Housing Projects In Ghana: A Case Study Of Three Projects, Ivan Asamoah, Shirley N. Tandoh

CIB Conferences

The implementation of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has driven numerous governmental initiatives aimed at achieving these targets. Considerable progress has been observed globally, particularly among developing nations, in the pursuit of Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) by the year 2030. However, despite these advancements, many countries, especially in the developing world, continue to face significant challenges in fully realizing this objective. In Ghana, the public-private partnership (PPP or P3) model has been adopted as an approach to facilitate successful housing projects.

This study critically examines various affordable housing projects in Ghana to identify potential risk …