Abstract

The IRI International Regularity Index is a performance indicator that evaluates the functional condition of a pavement structure. Its value is a key input for the management of road assets, allowing to establish the opportune moment for carrying out interventions on the pavement. In addition, it is used to receive road surfaces, assess vehicle operating costs, evaluate the profitability of road projects and establish the cash flow in the financial administration of the project. The IRI data obtained from measurements carried out in the field, feed the deterministic deterioration model that allows future estimations of the indicator and the development of pavement maintenance programs. This research proposes to evaluate in a probabilistic way the model of the IRI International Regularity Index of the HDM-4 program, by assigning probability density functions to the input variables from real data taken in the field. To achieve this objective, a Montecarlo-type simulation model was developed, where roads must be classified by their geographical location, structural capacity of the pavement and traffic intensity expressed in Number of Equivalent Axes. The research results provide the IRI characterized by probability density functions, allowing its estimation from an expected reliability value.

Abstract

Las ondas sísmicas que se transfiere a la cimentación de una edificación causan daños significativos a la estructura ocasionando su deterioro e inestabilidad. El presente artículo exhibe los resultados de someter una estructura a los efectos del sismo y a las propiedades físico – mecánicas del suelo, realizando la comparación de un modelo teórico de apoyo empotrado con el modelo de dinámica estructural de Barkan – Savinov. Se evaluaron tres hipótesis; i) Los efectos negativos causados en las edificaciones planteadas son indirectamente proporcionales, al incremento de las características de la respuesta sísmica que se detectan en los suelos; ii) Las características que presentan los estratos de los terrenos, es directamente proporcional al incremento de las características de la respuesta sísmica de los suelos y iii) El modelo de Barkan – Savinov presenta un rango inferior que el modelo teórico de apoyo empotrado, que simulan una cimentación aplicada en los suelos. Entre sus conclusiones más relevantes se deriva que el modelo de dinámica estructural de Barkan –Savino presenta un rango más específico en las reacciones producidas ante las fuerzas sísmicas y la relación en ambos casos se asevera que es indirectamente proporcional respecto a las características indicadas.

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel non-linear weighting model to evaluate the different aspects of infrastructure. In this regard, three approaches are presented to compute the percents of infrastructure indicators, namely analytical hierarchy process, Shannon entropy and fuzzy set theory. A unified weighting model is then proposed to aggregate the weighting vectors obtained from the three approaches. The developed model is designed to model the feedback of the experts, actual condition of the infrastructure and encountered uncertainties. Results highlighted that water has the highest relative importance with 52.65% followed by electricity with 34.12% while telecommunication has the least relative importance with 2.69%. To apply a more practical sense to the proposed framework, a sample assessment of the Lebanese city of Tripoli’s civil infrastructure was carried out in this paper. The developed model is expected to support planners and policymakers with a platform that enables them to efficiently evaluate the infrastructure’s condition

Abstract

Nowadays, an approximation of the concepts of engineering and art is required, since they are nothing more than modes of expression with which the engineer, like the artist, becomes a maker of form. Beyond the materiality of bridges, dams, or buildings, the engineering work configures a product of sensibility that intellectually provokes the spectator in the same way that conceptual art does, so that the value of engineering must be adjectivized as significant. Just as one cannot claim that art that is recognized as commercial is not art because it has a market value; it is pure reductionism to deny that engineering and art share qualities, beyond its primary function. What both manifestations have in common is significant value, and this is what allows us to unify properties in an attempt to define what can be considered art.

Abstract

Historically, public buildings are not importantly addressed in Brazil, resulting in several buildings dropped to the ruins and unnecessary acquisitions of new spaces by public institutions. The present study was carried out in a building part of the extinct industrial building of the Anglo fridge in Pelotas. The main objective was to evaluate state of degradation state through non-destructive tests in a case study of a public building of Federal Education Institution. Visual analysis, damage map, measurement of nominal coverings, sclerometry tests, silver nitrate spray and phenolphthalein test were performed. The building presents worrying deterioration levels, chlorides, and carbonation presence and several stains moisture. These facts lead concrete detachment, reinforcements corrosion and losses in slabs, beams, and pillars sections.

Abstract

This article addresses the development of a model for the material supply planning and management in the construction industry, using System Dynamics, supported by AHP supplier selection methods, evaluation and monitoring with ABC classification, all mediated by Vensim data analysis software. The supply management in the construction industry is studied and analyzed based on a collaborative model between suppliers and builders, under the CPFR model and the integration of the Last Planner System, which contributes to optimize the use of resources that allow completing all social interest housing (VIS) construction projects. The model simulates the impact and performance produced in the collaborative system, compliance with planning and profitability in VIS projects, appropriate selection, and supplier evaluation and monitoring. Finally, this model allows those who make strategic decisions in VIS projects to identify the most critical variables, assess their contribution, and make the right decisions to eliminate waste due to waiting time.