Construction firms are increasingly look:ing for innovative constructional solutions to offer their clients. The innovation potential of the firms depends on their ability to acquife existing knowledge, to Cfeate new knowledge and to make use of it fof the fealization of new constructional solutions. The main objective of this study is to investigate the challenges of innovation through knowledge management (KM) practices in North Cyprus construction industfy. The fesearch focus is to 1) identify the key issues and challenges of innovation that contfibute to successful implementation of KM practices 2) analyze the current initiatives of innovation through KM practices, and 3) assess the effectiveness of innovation initiatives through KM practices in construction contractofs. The fesearch includes an extensive literature study, interviews with managefs on innovation through knowledge management practices in construction, analysis of this infofmation to develop findings, and extending these to pfesent the key dfivefs that could be targeted fof innovation through knowledge management sustainability. The papef commences on undefstanding the contractofs' own processes and detecting theif weaknesses and stfengths, detefmining the strategies and actions that should be made in the long term to adopt innovation and knowledge management practices and helping the North Cyprus construction industry to leam as a whole. The papef concludes how the drivefs of innovation through knowledge management practices can offef benefits to construction contractofs in North Cyprus if appropriate strategies are adopted.
Changes at different phases of a construction project are inevitable due to a multitude of reasons such as design changes, design errors, additions to scope, or unknown conditions that may arise due to resource limitations and the uniqueness of the project. For each change, contractors are entitled to an equitable adjustment to the base contract price and schedule. It is commonly accepted that change orders can have adverse effects on project performance, but these effects are difficult to quantify and manage, and they frequently lead to disputes. Most work in change order management focuses on labor productivity and does not pay as much attention to the quantification and management of the impact of change orders in regard to overall project performance in terms of time and cost. This paper describes a prototype expert system named QUICOPP that implements these ideas. The knowledge used in the system was acquired through a questionnaire survey administered to the contractors in North Cyprus construction industry. A list of factors that describe the adverse effects of change orders on project performance have been identified based on the survey, and this list of factors was used to develop a quantitative model of how different change orders affect the time and cost of a project. Our system provides a cost-effective means for handling change orders through all phases of a project such that construction operations can continue with the least amount of interruption that usually results from of disputes between different parties involved in a project.
Compression toughness tests were carried out on concrete cylinders reinforced with three different aspect ratios of hooked-end steel fibers 60, 75, and 83 and six different percentages of steel fibers 0.5, 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, and 2.0% by volume of concrete. The w/c ratio used for the normal strength steel fiber reinforced concrete mixes (NSSFRC) was 0.55, and the water-cementitious ratio (w/c+s) for the high strength fiber reinforced concrete mixes (HSSFRC) was 0.31. For each mix, three test cylinders were tested for compression specific toughness. The effect of fiber reinforcement index: volume of fibers × length/diameter ratio on compression specific toughness and also on the relationship between these two properties is presented in this paper. As a result, (a) equations are proposed to quantify the effect of fibers on compression toughness ratio of concrete in terms of FRI, (b) equations obtained in terms of FRI and compression specific toughness of plain concrete to estimate both compression specific toughness of NSSFRC and HSSFRC (N.m), (c) equations obtained which represent the relationship between compression toughness index and FRI for NSSFRC and HSSFRC, respectively, and (d) equations obtained to quantify the relationship between compression specific toughness index and fiber reinforcement index for NSSFRC and HSSFRC, respectively. The proposed equations give good correlation with the experimental values.
This study takes a unique approach by investigating the integration of Brain–Computer Interfaces (BCIs) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) within residential architecture. It explores their combined potential to foster neuro-responsive, sustainable environments within the framework of Construction 5.0. The methodological approach involves real-time BCI data and subjective evaluations of occupants’ experiences to elucidate cognitive and emotional states. These data inform BIM-driven alterations that facilitate adaptable, customized, and sustainability-oriented architectural solutions. The results highlight the ability of BCI–BIM integration to create dynamic, occupant-responsive environments that enhance well-being, promote energy efficiency, and minimize environmental impact. The primary contribution of this work is the demonstration of the viability of neuro-responsive architecture, wherein cognitive input from Brain–Computer Interfaces enables real-time modifications to architectural designs. This technique enhances built environments’ flexibility and user-centered quality by integrating occupant preferences and mental states into the design process. Furthermore, integrating BCI and BIM technologies has significant implications for advancing sustainability and facilitating the design of energy-efficient and ecologically responsible residential areas. The study offers practical insights for architects, engineers, and construction professionals, providing a method for implementing BCI–BIM systems to enhance user experience and promote sustainable design practices. The research examines ethical issues concerning privacy, data security, and informed permission, ensuring these technologies adhere to moral and legal requirements. The study underscores the transformational potential of BCI–BIM integration while acknowledging challenges related to data interoperability, integrity, and scalability. As a result, ongoing innovation and rigorous ethical supervision are crucial for effectively implementing these technologies. The findings provide practical insights for architects, engineers, and industry professionals, offering a roadmap for developing intelligent and ethically sound design practices.