In the heart of Singapore, where urban density meets cutting-edge innovation, a groundbreaking approach to construction is taking root. Researchers, led by Daniel Darma Widjaja from the Department of Architectural Engineering at Kyung Hee University in South Korea, have developed an intelligent framework that promises to revolutionize the way we build underground infrastructure, particularly in mass rapid transit (MRT) systems. Their work, published in the journal *Smart Cities* (translated as “Intelligent Cities”), is a beacon of hope for sustainable and efficient construction practices.
The challenge at hand is significant. As cities grow denser, the demand for deep underground infrastructure increases, bringing with it complex construction challenges. Reinforced concrete (RC) diaphragm walls, crucial for these projects, often involve intricate rebar configurations, spatial constraints, and high material usage, leading to substantial waste and carbon emissions. “Traditional methods rely heavily on stock-length rebars and lap splicing, which are not only inefficient but also contribute to environmental degradation,” explains Widjaja.
Enter the intelligent rebar optimization framework. This innovative approach integrates Building Information Modeling (BIM) with a custom greedy hybrid Python-based metaheuristic algorithm inspired by the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA). The framework optimizes rebar usage by strategically allocating special-length rebars and placing mechanical couplers, reducing waste and enhancing constructability. “By incorporating constructability constraints and reinforcement continuity into the optimization process, we can achieve significant reductions in material usage, waste, and carbon emissions,” Widjaja notes.
The impact of this framework is nothing short of remarkable. When applied to a high-density MRT project in Singapore, it demonstrated a 19.76% reduction in rebar usage, an 84.57% decrease in cutting waste, a 17.4% reduction in carbon emissions, and a 14.57% decrease in construction cost. These figures are a testament to the framework’s potential to transform the construction industry, making it more sustainable and cost-effective.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are profound. As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, the need for efficient and sustainable construction practices becomes ever more critical. This framework offers a blueprint for reducing the environmental footprint of infrastructure projects, aligning with global decarbonization goals. “Our framework supports smart city initiatives by promoting resource-efficient practices and construction innovation,” Widjaja emphasizes.
The research by Widjaja and his team is a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable urban development. It highlights the potential of digital intelligence to drive construction innovation and urban infrastructure decarbonization. As cities continue to grow and evolve, the need for such intelligent solutions will only increase, shaping the future of urban transit infrastructure and beyond.