Virtual reality supported interactive tower crane layout planning for high-rise modular integrated construction

Tower crane layout planning (TCLP) is critical to achieving safe and efficient module installation for high-rise modular integrated construction (MiC). Nevertheless, the existing TCLP methods are inefficient in addressing the multiple heavy lifts in high-rise MiC. Therefore, this paper aims to develop an innovative virtual reality (VR) tool to support main contractors in selecting the optimal tower crane layout plan for high-rise MiC. The paper adopts the design science methodology for tool development and evaluation. The tool is designed with three functional components, i.e., crane layout generation with real-time feasibility checking, layout selection using multi-criteria performance evaluation, and interactive crane-lift simulation. Using a real-life high-rise MiC project, the tool is proved to be innovative in interactive human-in-the-loop planning, effective in determining the safe and efficient crane layout, and efficient in use. The work described integrates human-in-the-loop simulation and multi-criteria decision-making via VR technologies.