The deterioration of Italian motorway infrastructure requires continuous monitoring and optimized management with minimal environmental impact. This research applies the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to evaluate environmental impact as a key factor in selecting engineering solutions for tunnel maintenance, alongside technical and economic criteria. The study presents initial LCA results on a typical Italian motorway tunnel section, comparing three maintenance interventions for crack-type defects in concrete tunnels. The goal is to collect data on environmental impacts to support decision-making in tunnel maintenance planning, promoting sustainable infrastructure management while balancing efficiency, cost, and environmental responsibility.
Digital Twins (DT) has gained traction in recent years, offering significant potential to centralize design, construction and operation processes, improve management, and support decision-making. However, implementing DTs in the AECO sector involves managing various technologies and software, leading to increased complexity for professionals. This paper presents MatchFEM, a tool designed to simplify data generation for DTs within a unified environment. Developed as a plug-in for Grasshopper Computational Design (CD) software, MatchFEM facilitates 4D IFC-BIM modelling, IoT monitoring, data processing, and Structural Analysis models generation, key components of DTs. A case study is included to demonstrate its functionality and potential benefits.
When creating layouts using 3D interior design tools, users are typically guided by implicit design rules that aim to improve function and comfort. This tacit knowledge is extremely valuable for automated layout generation tools, such that automatically generated layouts exhibit similar function and comfort characteristics as user-designed ones. This paper evaluates a novel rule-learning method that, given user-designed layouts, learns rules that characterize the input layouts. Our comparison of the perceived quality of user- and computer-generated layouts indicates that the method works well in some room scenarios and better with fewer, more consistent-looking input layouts.
This paper proposes a tool integrating a BIM library plugin with a Digital Product Passport (DPP) system to support modular construction and circularity. DPPs store essential product data, includ-ing history, technical characteristics, environmental impact, and reuse potential, structured using Product Data Template standards compatible with BIM. The platform allows designers to access reusable products’ DPPs via the BIM library and import this data into their BIM models. By ad-dressing lifecycle information gaps, this system enhances sustainable decision-making, reduces waste, and leverages modular construction’s strengths in disassembly, recovery, and reuse to promote sustainability and a circular economy in the construction industry.
Traditional methods for reviewing construction safety regulations are typically manual, time-consuming, and susceptible to inconsistencies. This study explores the use of Large Language Models (LLMs) to simplify complex regulatory language, thereby enhancing employers’ and workers’ understanding of OSHA policies and regulations. By processing images and textual reports from construction sites and regulations, LLMs can identify hazards, match them to relevant regulations, and provide actionable recommendations. This real-time, context-specific approach bridges the gap between regulations and practical application, fostering a safer, more informed workforce. Additionally, LLMs improve accessibility and comprehension of OSHA standards, aligning safety practices with regulatory requirements more effectively.
This study frames the development of a new Interdisciplinary Digital Construction (IDC) program. A review of 15 and detailed analysis of five selected programs revealed a strong emphasis on Building Information Modelling (BIM), simulation, and computational design, while topics such as robotics, additive manufacturing, and construction management receive limited attention. The proposed IDC concept and principles suggest combining domain engineering principles, computational thinking, information and communication technology (ICT) management, and production theory to foster physical–digital–human integration. The alignment of technology implementation with process management can yield graduates prepared to lead the digital transformation of the AEC industry.
The construction industry is rapidly evolving with the integration of robots and advances in digital fabrication for architecture. Incorporating human-robot collaboration (HRC) systems improve workflow efficiency and precision. However, challenges remain in task allocation, worker acceptance, and regulatory frameworks. Through comparative case study, this paper explores the role of interface in shaping workflow and engagement of agents in open-ended design processes. Presented findings contribute to the development of strategies in implementation of advanced construction techniques that follow socially sustainable approaches, ensuring more efficient and inclusive HRC in construction.
The growing need for automation in construction requires seamless integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and robotics. This study examines how BIM-based planning supports automating structural shell construction using a cable-driven parallel robot (CDPR). A six-phase methodology—covering data identification, classification, standardization, attribution, export, and validation—was tested through a use case. The approach ensures accurate embedding of geometric, material, and structural properties in the BIM model and their transfer to the robotic system via the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) standard. Findings show that BIM-based automation enhances precision, boosts productivity, and helps address labor shortages in construction.
