Validating Complex Construction Simulation Models Using 3D Visualization

One of primary impediments in the use of discrete-event simulation to plan and design construction operations is that decision-makers often do not have the means, the knowledge, and/or the time to check the veracity and the validity of simulation models and thus have little confidence in the results. Visualizing simulated operations in 3D can be of substantial help in the verification, validation, and accreditation of simulation models. In addition, visualization can provide valuable insight into subtleties of modeled operations that are otherwise non-quantifiable and presentable. This paper investigates the efficacy of 3D visualization in verifying and validating discrete-event construction simulation models. The paper presents a case study of a simulation model of an earthmoving operation with fairly complex control logic that was verified and validated by visualizing the operation in 3D. The simulation model for the example was developed using Stroboscope and was visualized using the Dynamic Construction Visualizer.