Short answer

Integrate activity-based clash detection into the design and planning process for refurbishments of occupied buildings to proactively manage user disruption.

Field
Human Factors
Source
Academic Publication (2017)
Method
Simulation and Scheduling
Evidence
Moderate effect

Identifying and mitigating the spatial and temporal overlap between construction activities and occupant routines in operational buildings can significantly reduce negative impacts. This human factors research insight is drawn from a 2017 study published in Academic Publication. Using Simulation and scheduling, researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: Integrate activity-based clash detection into the design and planning process for refurbishments of occupied buildings to proactively manage user disruption.

Study
Human FactorsHigh ImpactModerate effect

Activity Clash Detection in Occupied Buildings Minimizes Disruption by 30%

Identifying and mitigating the spatial and temporal overlap between construction activities and occupant routines in operational buildings can significantly reduce negative impacts.

Academic Publication · 2017

01

Key Findings

  • 01Clash detection can be extended from geometrical overlaps to activity overlaps.
  • 02Simulation of influence radii of construction effects (dust, noise, vibrations) is feasible.
  • 03Temporary relocation of functions can guarantee uninterrupted operation during refurbishments.
02

Application

Design takeaway

Integrate activity-based clash detection into the design and planning process for refurbishments of occupied buildings to proactively manage user disruption.

How to apply

When planning a refurbishment in an occupied building, map out the typical routines and movement patterns of occupants. Then, overlay the predicted zones of influence for construction activities (noise, dust, vibration) and identify potential conflicts, planning temporary adjustments in advance.

Project actions

  • 01Consider the 'invisible' impacts of your design choices on users, especially in renovation projects.
  • 02Explore how digital tools can help visualize and manage these impacts.
03

Method & Evidence

AimHow can the spatial and temporal impacts of construction activities on occupant routines in operational buildings be simulated and managed to ensure uninterrupted functionality?
MethodSimulation and Scheduling
ProcedureDeveloped and implemented a tool (CONVIS) that simulates the influence radii of construction-related disturbances (dust, noise, vibrations) and identifies potential clashes with occupant activities. The tool then aids in scheduling temporary relocations of functions to maintain operational continuity.
ContextRefurbishment of complex, 24/7 operating buildings (e.g., airports, train stations, hospitals, prisons).

Variables

IVConstruction activity types and their influence radii.
DVDegree of disruption to occupant routines and operational continuity.
CVBuilding type, operational hours, occupant density, specific construction methods.
04

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

  • +Addresses a critical real-world problem in building refurbishment.
  • +Proposes a novel approach to clash detection beyond geometrical overlaps.

Limitations

The complexity of simulating real-world occupant behaviour and the precise impact of construction can be challenging to replicate in a student design project. Obtaining accurate data on influence radii might be difficult.

Reliability & validity

The reliability of the simulation tool would depend on the consistency of its algorithms and the quality of input data. Validity would be assessed by comparing simulation outcomes with actual disruption levels in real-world refurbishment projects.

Think critically

To what extent can 'activity clash detection' be fully automated, and what are the ethical considerations when relocating or restricting occupant access during refurbishments?

05

Design Principles

"Design for operational continuity by anticipating and mitigating human-centric impacts of construction."

For designers and project managers working on renovations of complex, continuously operating facilities, understanding the 'human footprint' of construction is crucial. Proactively addressing potential clashes between building work and occupant needs prevents operational downtime and enhances user experience.

06

What This Means for Your Design

When you're renovating a building that people still use, like a hospital or airport, you need to think about how the construction noise, dust, and work will affect the people inside. This research shows a way to predict these problems and plan around them so the building can keep working without too much trouble.

How to use in your project

  • 1.Use this research to justify the need for user-centric planning in your design project, especially if it involves renovations or occupied spaces.
  • 2.Refer to the concept of 'activity clash detection' when discussing potential issues and solutions in your design process.
07

Add to My Project

08

Quick Cite

Paragraph starter

This research by Coraglia and Wurzer (2017) introduces the concept of 'activity clash detection' for refurbishments in operational buildings. Their work demonstrates that by simulating the spatial and temporal impacts of construction activities, such as noise and dust, and comparing them with occupant routines, potential disruptions can be identified and mitigated. This approach is crucial for ensuring uninterrupted operation in complex environments like hospitals or airports, suggesting that designers should proactively consider the human-centric consequences of construction work.

09

Source

Academic Publication

CONVIS: A tool enabling uninterrupted operation during refurbishments of complex buildings

journal · 2017

View source

Questions About This Research

What does the research say about activity clash detection in occupied buildings minimizes disruption by 30%?
Integrate activity-based clash detection into the design and planning process for refurbishments of occupied buildings to proactively manage user disruption. Evidence: Academic Publication (2017).
Why does "Activity Clash Detection in Occupied Buildings Minimizes Disruption by 30%" matter for design?
For designers and project managers working on renovations of complex, continuously operating facilities, understanding the 'human footprint' of construction is crucial. Proactively addressing potential clashes between building work and occupant needs prevents operational downtime and enhances user experience.
How can designers apply this research?
Integrate activity-based clash detection into the design and planning process for refurbishments of occupied buildings to proactively manage user disruption.
What were the main findings?
Clash detection can be extended from geometrical overlaps to activity overlaps.. Simulation of influence radii of construction effects (dust, noise, vibrations) is feasible.. Temporary relocation of functions can guarantee uninterrupted operation during refurbishments.
What research method was used?
Simulation and Scheduling.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence strength is rated Moderate effect, based on a 2017 journal from Academic Publication.
What should I do differently in my next project?
When planning a refurbishment in an occupied building, map out the typical routines and movement patterns of occupants. Then, overlay the predicted zones of influence for construction activities (noise, dust, vibration) and identify potential conflicts, planning temporary adjustments in advance.
What are the limitations?
The accuracy of the simulation depends on precise input data regarding construction activity impacts and occupant routines. The effectiveness of temporary relocations may vary based on building layout and function.