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Article
Publication date: 1 April 2024

Zoubeir Lafhaj, Slim Rebai, Olfa Hamdi, Rateb Jabbar, Hamdi Ayech and Pascal Yim

This study aims to introduce and evaluate the COPULA framework, a construction project monitoring solution based on blockchain designed to address the inherent challenges of…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to introduce and evaluate the COPULA framework, a construction project monitoring solution based on blockchain designed to address the inherent challenges of construction project monitoring and management. This research aims to enhance efficiency, transparency and trust within the dynamic and collaborative environment of the construction industry by leveraging the decentralized, secure and immutable nature of blockchain technology.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs a comprehensive approach encompassing the formulation of the COPULA model, the development of a digital solution using the ethereum blockchain and extensive testing to assess performance in terms of execution cost, time, integrity, immutability and security. A case analysis is conducted to demonstrate the practical application and benefits of blockchain technology in real-world construction project monitoring scenarios.

Findings

The findings reveal that the COPULA framework effectively addresses critical issues such as centralization, privacy and security vulnerabilities in construction project management. It facilitates seamless data exchange among stakeholders, ensuring real-time transparency and the creation of a tamper-proof communication channel. The framework demonstrates the potential to significantly enhance project efficiency and foster trust among all parties involved.

Research limitations/implications

While the study provides promising insights into the application of blockchain technology in construction project monitoring, future research could explore the integration of COPULA with existing project management methodologies to broaden its applicability and impact. Further investigations into the solution’s scalability and adaptation to various construction project types and sizes are also suggested.

Originality/value

This research offers a comprehensive blockchain solution specifically tailored for the construction industry. Unlike prior studies focusing on theoretical aspects, this paper presents a practical, end-to-end solution encompassing model formulation, digital implementation, proof-of-concept testing and validation analysis. The COPULA framework marks a significant advancement in the digital transformation of construction project monitoring, providing a novel approach to overcoming longstanding industry challenges.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 March 1996

Ayech Benjeddou and Mohamed Ali Hamdi

Presents a new B‐spline finite element for the dynamic analysis of unsymmetrical sandwich shells of revolution. The formulation takes account of the membrane and bending effects…

Abstract

Presents a new B‐spline finite element for the dynamic analysis of unsymmetrical sandwich shells of revolution. The formulation takes account of the membrane and bending effects in isotropic or orthotropic elastic facings, and membrane, bending and transverse shearing effects in an isotropic or othotropic elastic core. Both geometry and local displacements are interpolated by a set of B‐spline functions. The main aspects added by the sandwich structure of the element are the transverse shearing and membrane‐bending coupling effects in the core. These are well represented by a set of new variables which are the mean end relative in‐plane displacements of the facing middle surfaces. Together with the transverse displacement, these variables constitute the degrees of freedom (dofs) of this new B‐spline sandwich element. The finite elements are grouped into super‐elements with C1 continuity to obtain the whole finite element model. For each super‐element a total of five dofs per node is then obtained except for its end nodes where the derivatives of these dofs with respect to the meridional co‐ordinate are added. This choice reduces to a minimum the total number of dofs in comparison to existing sandwich elements. Evaluates the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed element through several benchmark examples. Compares the results with the analytical and numerical solutions found in the literature. A very satisfactory behaviour of the element was observed in all test cases.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 13 no. 2/3/4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

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