A hierarchical modeling of planar steel frames that is based on a weak coupling of shell and beam computational models is studied in detail. A shell finite element is used to compute failure response of a representative part of each column and each beam of a frame under consideration; elasto-plasticity, geometrical nonlinearity and material softening (along with a localization limiter) are taken into account. The computed results, which naturally include local buckling and/or localized material failure effects, are further incorporated into a beam inelastic stress-resultant constitutive model; the embedded-discontinuity-in-rotation Euler–Bernoulli finite element is considered in this work. The designed beam finite element formulation can be effectively used for the failure analysis of the steel frame. Important issues of such weak coupling concept are presented and results of several numerical simulations are discussed.
COBISS.SI-ID: 6931553
Recently building information models have substantially improved the explicit semantic content of design information. Information models are used to integrate the initial phases of project development. On the construction site, however, the designs are still mostly represented as line-based paper drawings or projections on portable displays. A generic technology that can integrate information and situate it in time, place and context is augmented reality. The specific research issues addressed are (1) does augmented reality have a potential use in civil engineering, (2) how big % in comparison to other technologies - is this potential and (3) what are the main barriers to its adoption. The generic research issue was to develop a methodology for evaluation of potentials of technology. A prototype was built. It was tested on a real construction site to evaluate the potential of its use using the action-research method. A set of structured interviews with potential users was then conducted to compare the prototype to conventional presentation methods. Using this methodology it has been found out that augmented reality is expected to be as big a step as the transition from 2D line drawings to photorealistic 3D projections. The main barrier to the adoption is immature core virtual reality technology, conservative nature of construction businesses and size of building information models.
COBISS.SI-ID: 7091809
Traditional computer assisted learning is influenced by novel user interfaces, such as tangible user interfaces, support cognitive processes and concept modelling, assisted by multiple representation. The manipulative properties of the tangible user interfaces physical manipulatives, for example, enhance passage between physical and virtual representations. It therefore provides a transition between stages in the reasoning process. In social modes of learning, physical manipulatives provide assistance in all social modes: individual, pairs, small groups and teacher up front. Computer supported collaborative learning is provided in the physical presence of learners manipulating on the same tabletop device. A systematic review of scientific articles applying qualitative and quantitative approaches was undertaken. The content analysis was conducted to examine pedagogical approaches based on the two models of Bruner (1966) and Gagné (1985).
COBISS.SI-ID: 7306081
Practical training is the first deep encounter of the student with the construction practice and the first opportunity to match what she/has learned during her/his studies to the requirements of practical work. The article is based on a diploma thesis of a student who conducted the practical training in a way in which he was engaged with a relatively broad spectrum of construction activities. This enabled him to assess, in his thesis, how well he is prepared for the workplace requirements and identify areas where he would need more and additional study content. The student’s findings are analysed in the context of pedagogical theory and practice. We compare the knowledge and the competences, as structured during the study, with the skills that are required during the construction process. As a framework for the analysis we use the construction process model as implied by the Slovenian Construction Law and the types of documentation that control the construction processes. Our findings are procedural, epistemological and methodological. On the procedural level, the study process lacks what pedagogical theory calls “crossing borders”. Epistemologically it appears that during the study not much structure comes from the laws, rules and regulations. On the other hand, the transfer of knowledge originating from scientific theory or computer programs is appropriate. Methodologically we identify the project work as a suitable method for obtaining a comprehensive insight into content and interdisciplinary links among topics and for crossing the borders between study and practice.
COBISS.SI-ID: 7302241
Delays are encountered in most construction projects. The appearance of delays is connected to additional cost generation and appearance of conflicts between the client and the contractor. Delays and their causes are systematically examined and structured in the paper. The responsibilities are allocated to the individual causes in the next step. The survey carried out among a group of clients and contractors in Slovenia was carried out and the most common causes of delays are identified.
COBISS.SI-ID: 7326817