ABSTRACT

Objective: This article investigates the technological processes involved in the construction of low-rise residential buildings through a methodical time measurement approach. With a focus on optimizing construction efficiency, the study analyzes various processes by recording their time requirements, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing improvements. This research employs qualitative and quantitative methodologies to derive factual results, providing critical perspectives on the findings. Methods: Each process was timed and recorded, ensuring accuracy and reliability in the data collected. The analysis also included factors such as labor allocation, the number of work crews, and material efficiency. Results: Based on the results of timing measurements at the construction site, the duration of mechanization of work for the selected technological processes was determined. Actual energy consumption was calculated for different operating modes. A comparison of the actual and standard durations, as well as the corresponding energy costs. Conclusion: The results of this study highlight critical aspects of the construction processes for low-rise residential buildings.

АННОТАЦИЯ

Цель: В данной статье исследуются технологические процессы, связанные со строительством малоэтажных жилых зданий, с помощью методического подхода к измерению времени. С акцентом на оптимизацию эффективности строительства, исследование анализирует различные процессы, регистрируя их временные затраты, выявляя узкие места и предлагая улучшения. В исследовании используются качественные и количественные методы для получения фактических результатов, предоставляя критический взгляд на полученные данные. Методы: Каждый процесс был замерен по времени и зафиксирован, что обеспечило точность и надежность собранных данных. Анализ также включал такие факторы, как распределение рабочей силы, количество рабочих бригад и эффективность использования материалов. Результаты: На основе результатов измерений времени на строительной площадке была определена продолжительность механизации работ для выбранных технологических процессов. Было рассчитано фактическое энергопотребление для различных режимов работы. Проведено сравнение фактической и стандартной продолжительности, а также соответствующих затрат энергии. Вывод: Результаты данного исследования подчеркивают критически важные аспекты строительных процессов малоэтажных жилых зданий.

Keywords: Technological Processes, Construction Methods, Low-rise Residential Buildings, Time Measurements, Construction Efficiency, Building Time Optimization, Time and Motion Study, Construction Scheduling, Construction Productivity, Labor Efficiency.

Ключевые слова: Технологические процессы, Методы строительства, Малоэтажные жилые здания, Измерение времени, Эффективность строительства, Оптимизация времени строительства, Исследование времени и движений, Планирование строительства, Производительность строительства, Эффективность труда.

INTRODUCTION. The construction sector plays a pivotal role in economic development, directly impacting job creation and infrastructure growth. low-rise residential buildings represent a significant portion of the construction industry, meriting detailed investigation into the technological processes that govern their construction [1,2]. efficient construction processes not only reduce costs but also enhance sustainability, thereby aligning with modern environmental objectives [3,4]. This study aims to quantify the time requirements for various construction processes associated with low-rise residential buildings [5,6]. By systematically analyzing these processes, it seeks to identify inefficiencies and propose methods for improvement, ultimately contributing to better practices in the construction industry.

This study investigates the technological processes involved in the construction of low-rise residential buildings by employing time measurement techniques. The aim is to identify inefficiencies, optimize workflow, and enhance productivity within this sector. Low-rise residential construction plays a crucial role in meeting housing demands [7]. Understanding the technological processes allows for improved project management and cost control. This paper examines various construction stages, analyses timeframes, and offers insights for best practices.

METHODS. Study design. the research adopts an observational study design, focusing on specific construction sites of low-rise residential buildings. the sites were selected based on their ongoing projects, the types of building being constructed, and their accessibility for the duration of the study. Data collection. Time measurement was performed using a combination of direct observation and electronic timing devices. Key processes were identified and categorized into major phases of construction, including: site preparation, foundation laying, framing, roofing, electrical and plumbing installations, finishing work.

Each process was timed and recorded, ensuring accuracy and reliability in the data collected. The analysis also included factors such as labor allocation, the number of work crews, and material efficiency.

The collected data were analyzed using statistical methods to calculate average times for each process, identify variances, and determine correlations between different variables impacting construction efficiency. Time measurement methodologies were adopted to observe and record the duration of various tasks throughout the construction process. Data collection involved direct observation and the use of time-tracking software across multiple construction sites.

Time measurements were taken at low-rise residential construction sites during the following mechanized works: site planning with a bulldozer (cutting off the topsoil); soil development under trenches with an excavator; installation of foundation blocks; installation of floor slabs.

For each type of work, measurements were taken for three parameters: operating time under full load, under partial load, and when running idle. Examples of photo recording during mechanization of works at sites for site planning with a bulldozer and soil development in trenches with an excavator under various load conditions are shown in Figures 1-2.

Figures (Photographic recording of the bulldozer in operation at site No. 1)

(a)                                                                                                (b)

(c)

Figure 1. a – under full load, b – under partial load, c – idle

(a)                                                                                (b)

(c)

Figure 2. Figures (Photographic recording of excavator operation at site No. 2)

a – under full load, b – under partial load, c – idle.

For each measured parameter, energy consumption was calculated taking into account the corresponding hourly consumption of fuel and energy resources. A stopwatch with a measurement accuracy of up to 1 s was used for measurements. The results of the studies are presented in Tables 2,3,4,5.

RESULTS.

Table 1.

The following table summarizes the average time taken for each major phase of construction

The analysis revealed that the framing and finishing work phases accounted for the majority of time variability. The standard deviation in these phases indicates inconsistent work rates and potential inefficiencies, suggesting areas for improvement.

Further statistical analysis demonstrated significant negative correlations between crew size and time taken for framing and finishing work. Interestingly, an increase in labor resources did not translate to proportional time savings. This highlights the importance of strategic crew management. The study revealed significant discrepancies in time allocation for different tasks, indicating areas that require improvement. Graphs illustrate the time distribution across construction stages, highlighting bottlenecks and best-performing teams.

Table 2.

Results of timing measurements during site planning work using a bulldozer

Based on the results of timing measurements at the construction site, the duration of mechanization of work for the selected technological processes was determined. Actual energy consumption was calculated for different operating modes (under full load, under partial load, and when running idle). A comparison of the actual and standard (normative) durations, as well as the corresponding energy costs, is presented in Table 3.

Table 3.

Comparison of actual, standard durations and corresponding energy consumption during the production of individual technological processes

DISCUSSION. The results of this study highlight critical aspects of the construction processes for low-rise residential buildings. while some phases, such as roofing and site preparation, exhibited relatively consistent time metrics, others presented notable variability, particularly in the framing and finishing phases. Efficient management of labor resources is essential. The findings suggest that merely increasing the number of workers may not yield expected improvements in productivity. Developers should focus on optimizing team sizes and ensuring that workers are well-coordinated. Training and standardization: the variability observed in certain processes underscores the need for standardized procedures and worker training. Implementing training programs aimed at enhancing skill levels may reduce time inconsistencies. Technological integration: employing technological tools such as project management software can streamline scheduling and improve cultural shifts in worker accountability.

The findings point to the need for adopting advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and lean construction practices. Critical evaluation of the current methods suggests that embracing these innovations can lead to substantial time savings and efficiency gains.

CONCLUSION. This study provides an in-depth analysis of the time requirements associated with the construction processes of low-rise residential buildings. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential for transformation within the low-rise residential construction sector through time measurement and process optimization. By systematically addressing inefficiencies and adopting innovative practices, the industry can navigate challenges and deliver high-quality housing solutions more effectively. Future research should explore the long-term effects of these interventions on overall project success and sustainability.

As a result of the measurements carried out, it was established that the actual time of work execution at the construction site is lower in comparison with the standard by: 20% when planning the site with a bulldozer; 15% when developing trenches with an excavator; 10% when installing foundation blocks; 7% when installing floor slabs.

The shorter actual duration compared to that calculated according to standards and the differences in the hourly consumption of fuel and energy resources under different modes of work mechanization affect the reduction of fuel and energy resource consumption at the construction site compared to the calculated one by: 18% when planning the site with a bulldozer; 27% when developing trenches with an excavator;  12% when installing foundation blocks; 11% when installing floor slabs.

Thus, the conducted timing of the mechanization of work of individual technological processes made it possible to establish a comparatively lower energy consumption at the construction site in comparison with the calculated one.

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