BIM and agent-based model integration for construction management optimization

The current necessity of manage complex building processes, push to provide A/E/C operators methodologies and tools capable to support them in a more effective way. In this research field, the specific scope of the paper is to present a methodology able to put in evidence areas that workers will occupy to accomplish a task. The related tool, based on an Agent-Based simulation paradigm, is integrated with a Building Information Modeling (BIM) tool in order to always manage information regarding workers' area linked to designed spaces, which are continuously updated during design process. Thus, managing properly this data flow allow the improvement of communication and collaboration among the design team and, in the definitive construction phases, mitigate risks due to works overlapping. The goal, indeed, is to know, at early project phases, where it is possible to work in a more effective and safer way, and how it is possible to manage more efficiently working areas allowing, for instance in case of refurbishments of existing buildings, the continuity of building use. The outcome is predicting how many resources are involved in a project, identifying and minimize wasted time.