In the high-stakes world of metro shield construction, where safety is paramount and delays can cost millions, a groundbreaking study led by Ping Liu at Lanzhou University of Technology is set to revolutionize how we identify and manage safety risks. The research, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, introduces an innovative approach that could significantly enhance safety management and decision-making processes in tunnel construction.
Metro shield construction, a critical component of urban infrastructure development, is fraught with complex safety risks. Traditionally, safety risk information has been scattered across various formats, making it difficult to share and reuse effectively. This disjointed approach hinders the ability of construction managers to make informed decisions quickly, potentially leading to costly delays and safety incidents.
Liu’s study addresses this challenge head-on by developing a domain ontology—a structured framework that formalizes safety risk knowledge. This ontology integrates ontology and rules inference technology, allowing for semantic inference of hazards and corresponding preventive measures. “By organizing safety risk knowledge into five unified classes—projects, construction activities, precursor information, risk events, and risk prevention measures—we can create a holistic knowledge base that integrates a wide range of domain knowledge,” Liu explains.
The ontology is developed using a five-step method and coded using the Protégé platform, ensuring that all defined classes, properties, and relations are clearly structured. This structured approach not only facilitates real-time hazard identification and prevention at construction sites but also provides important guidance and decision support to construction managers.
To evaluate the effectiveness of the ontology, the researchers conducted both theoretical and practical assessments. A shield axial deviation example was used to verify the feasibility of the ontology model, and the results were consistent with the thinking of safety managers. “The operation results of the ontology model are consistent with the thinking of safety managers,” Liu notes, highlighting the practical applicability of the research.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By creating a structured knowledge base, construction managers can access and utilize safety risk information more efficiently, leading to better decision-making and enhanced safety management. This could have significant commercial impacts, particularly in the energy sector, where metro shield construction is often a critical component of infrastructure development.
As the demand for urban infrastructure continues to grow, the need for efficient and safe construction practices becomes increasingly important. Liu’s research offers a promising solution, paving the way for future developments in the field. By leveraging domain ontology and rules inference technology, construction managers can stay ahead of potential hazards, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.
The study, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, marks a significant step forward in the field of safety risk identification in metro shield construction. As the industry continues to evolve, the adoption of such innovative technologies will be crucial in maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency.