Public defence in Civil Engineering, Zheng Yuan, M.Sc.

Title of the thesis: Integrating digital construction workflow information with semantic web technologies

Thesis defender: Zheng Yuan
Opponent: Prof. Timo Hartmann, TU Berlin, Germany
Custos: Prof. Olli Seppänen, Aalto University School of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering

Managing construction workflows efficiently is essential for successful project execution. Construction workflows involve a diverse range of data, such as Building Information Models, schedules, sensor readings, site images, and reports. However, these information sources are often scattered across different systems that do not communicate with each other, making it challenging to gain a comprehensive insight of ongoing construction activities.

This doctoral research focuses on improving the integration of construction workflow data using Semantic Web technologies. The study develops a formal ontology suite that connects and interprets different types of construction data, an ontology extension for the interpretation of construction images, and a semantic digital twin framework for enhanced workflow monitoring and predictive analysis.

The results of this research significantly advance digital construction by improving data interoperability. This allows different systems to work together more effectively, addressing the increasing use of automation, AI, and digital twins in the construction industry to improve efficiency and decision-making.

The methods and models developed in this study can be applied to construction project management, digital twins, and smart infrastructure monitoring. They offer solutions to reduce inefficiencies, improve coordination, and support data-driven decision-making. By enabling a more connected and intelligent construction ecosystem, this research paves the way for more efficient and informed construction management practices.

Keywords: Construction workflow, information integration, semantic web, ontology, digital twin, construction management.

Thesis available for public display 10 days prior to the defence at Aaltodoc. 

Contact information: yuan.zheng@aalto.fi