A Petri Net Based System for the Modeling and Computer Simulation of Automated Construction Operations

Simulation and modeling of construction systems has been the subject of much research over the past twenty years however there is still remains a need for a user friendly, high accuracy modelling method that comprehensively represents the complex dynamics and often time varying logics of the field construction process. This paper seeks to illustrate how Petri nets, a powerful modeling tool initially developed for modeling computing process and networks and flexible manufacturing systems, can be successfully adapted to the modeling of automated construction systems, for the operational design of systems comprised of autonomous construction agents and robotic devices and for the quantitative modelling of flexible manufacturing processes. Petri nets are generally considered to be superior for modelling systems with concurrency, where several state changes happen simultaneously and where event driven characteristics are present. The paper describes the Petri Net approach to modeling and shows how good dynamic models of automated construction systems can be developed. Several common Petri Net structures and features useful in construction system modeling are described. Time and colour Petri Nets and their application in modeling specific characteristics of construction systems are discussed. The paper concludes with a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of Petri nets as a tool for high accuracy computer modeling and simulation of automated and hybrid construction operations. Finally, some ongoing developments relative to the Petri net based construction simulation system are discussed.