In the last years simulation approaches are increasingly used to support construction scheduling. For that purpose, different kinds of planning data have to be analyzed and integrated to perform realistic and suitable simulation, like building information models, bill of quantities, framework schedules, delivery dates, or available resources. However, a major challenge remains: the efficient specification of realistic and valid interdependencies between construction activities. This specification process is error-prone and often small variations of the input data lead to extensive modifications. This paper presents an intelligent concept to store interdependencies between activities in order to reuse them for handling modifications and different alternatives. Furthermore, the correctness of the interdependencies can be checked and visually highlighted. Finally, a realistic case study is presented to show the advantages of the approach. The approach was developed within the MEFISTO project, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research. INTRODUCTIONSimulation is a well-established approach to schedule, analyze, and improve production processes in manufacturing industries. In civil engineering, the application of simulations to support construction scheduling has increased in the last years. This development is caused by the application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the planning of construction processes. Planning data stored by BIM can also be used for simulation-based scheduling, like 3D building models, bill of quantities, framework schedules, delivery dates, and available resources. In addition, construction processes and interdependencies between the activities must be specified in order to perform a realistic and suitable simulation. Usually, processes and their interdependencies must be specified manually. This makes the process very errorprone and a small adoption of the building model or the construction method leads to extensive modifications. Currently, the application of process patterns is a well-established concept to define the construction process. Process patterns and simple interdependency definitions can be reused in the context of different projects. In addition to this, however, a multitude of more complex interdependencies need to be considered regarding technological and strategic aspects. These interdependencies are often very project-specific and can rarely be reused. This paper puts forward an intelligent approach to assign process patterns and to define interdependencies automatically. The presented method uses templates based on linked building information data to handle modifications and different scenarios efficiently.978-1-4673-4781-5/12/$31.00 ©2012 IEEE

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Optimal planning of construction projects requires an efficient allocation of available resources. Labor, material, equipment are to be planned, coordinated and quickly adapted to varying conditions. Frequent (design) changes during the construction period, diversity of trades and the high complexity of interacting processes in building manufacturing require innovative ways to support process-influencing decisions -a tool which allows testing interventions and adjustments in the manufacturing process, including individual sub-processes with the best possible efficiency. In this context, the discrete-event simulation comes into place. A research group simulated the manufacturing process of a hotel project in all details in order to examine applicability of simulation in the construction industry and to scrutinize and adjust it according to the construction specifics. The approach taken, the challenges encountered and insights gained will be presented in this article. FUNDAMENTALS Design Phase of BuildingsIn order to realize a project successfully, an integrated and well-considered planning is essential. The understanding of the term "planning" within the AEC industry usually considers only the building design. The client commissions architects and engineers to design a building. They create the geometric shape of the building, choose the needed materials and roughly estimate cost. The definitions of the scope of work and the corresponding work phases of the German Fee Regulation for Architects and Engineers can be used as a template for the different planning steps.In addition, all laws and regulations for the manufacturing of buildings must be taken into account. The design varies in detail depending on project size and type. If there are no changes or additions during the further project development, the building design is usually very dedicated and consistent. Deficits occur in details only occasionally, for example, if the understanding among designers is insufficient. Designers add corresponding specifications to the building design to complete it. Then, the design task is supposed to be fulfilled sufficiently.