Construction Engineering Management Laboratories
Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Delhi

The Construction Engineering and Management Laboratories at the Civil Engineering Department, IIT Delhi, are state-of-the-art research and learning facility dedicated to driving advanced digital innovation in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Designed to support cutting-edge research and academic excellence, the lab integrates advanced computational tools, high-performance workstations, and industry-leading software, enabling the development of next-generation construction methodologies. It is equipped to address the evolving challenges of the modern built environment, the lab fosters research in construction management, structural analysis, sustainable supply chain management, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), geospatial studies, data management, knowledge management and emerging digital technologies. There are three major laboratories: Construction Management Lab, Construction Technology Lab, and Formwork Lab, each focusing on specific aspects of modern construction methodologies. This facility provides an interdisciplinary platform for researchers, industry professionals, and students to collaborate, innovate, and contribute to the future of construction technology.

Several pictures of a building

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

 

Laboratories

a) Construction Management Lab: This lab focuses on optimizing construction planning and execution using modern project management tools. The lab explores data lakes for construction data management, GIS applications in construction, and quality management in building projects. Studies on affordable housing, modular construction, and Right-of-Way (ROW) management aim to enhance sustainability and efficiency. Additionally, the research covers intelligent contract systems for EPC projects, ensuring better project execution and compliance.

b) Construction Technology Lab: This lab deals with advanced construction methodologies and the integration of digital technologies. The lab focuses on robotic construction for automation, architectural design using Revit, structural analysis and design using ETABS and STAAD Pro, and life cycle analysis to enhance sustainability. Additionally, the research covers healthcare facility management using BIM, ensuring better planning, maintenance, and operational efficiency in healthcare infrastructure.

c) Formwork Lab: The Formwork Lab specializes in innovative formwork technologies and material optimization techniques. Research focuses on the design of temporary structures and formwork systems to improve efficiency and safety in large-scale projects. Additionally, material testing and performance evaluation are conducted to assess the durability and adaptability of new formwork materials. The lab also investigates load distribution between interconnected slabs in multi-storeyed building construction and determines the optimal formwork stripping time for reinforced cement concrete members at various temperatures, ensuring structural integrity and efficiency in construction processes.

Several people in a classroom

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

 

Software Tools

The labs utilize a comprehensive suite of industry-standard software to support research and education. Some of the key software tools used include:

·       MS Project and Primavera P6 for project scheduling, resource management, risk analysis, and workflow optimization.

·       Revit, a BIM software and Digital Twin for the building design, documentation, and real-time construction simulation, supporting digital twin development for enhanced decision-making.

·       ETABS, and STAAD Pro for structural modelling, analysis, and design of buildings and infrastructure projects.

·       ArcGIS for geospatial data analysis and mapping used for site planning, spatial data management, and terrain evaluation in construction projects.

·       GEPHI for social network analysis tool that facilitates visualization and interpretation of complex relationships within project stakeholders and construction teams.

·       SPSS for the analysis of statistical data and to make data-driven decisions.

·       NetLogo, AnyLogic for agent-based modelling, system dynamics, and discrete event simulation, used to analyse construction processes, logistics, and emergent behaviours in complex systems.

·       NVivo a specialized qualitative data analysis tool for processing textual and unstructured data in research studies.

The Construction Technology Management Lab at IIT Delhi serves as a vital hub for research and innovation in the AEC industry. By leveraging cutting-edge software and methodologies, the lab contributes to the advancement of sustainable and efficient construction practices. By bringing academic research with practical applications, the laboratory at IIT Delhi reinforces its commitment to excellence, sustainability, and global leadership in civil engineering.

 

Faculty Members (6)

Prof K.N. Jha

Areas of Interest: Construction Project Management, Project Success Factor, Asset Management, Schedule Cost, Quality and Safety

E-mail: knjha[at]civil.iitd.ac.in

Prof. Ann Francis

Areas of Interest: Sustainability Assessment Tools and Frameworks, System Dynamics Modelling and Simulation, Lean Construction, Sustainable and Affordable Housing, Life Cycle Assessment, Building Energy Modelling , Green Buildings, Project Management, Construction Scheduling and Sustainable Supply Chains and Construction Methods

E-mail: annfrancis[at]civil.iitd.ac.in

 

Prof. Sahil Garg

Areas of Interest: Construction Management, Quality Management in Construction, Rework Management, Building Materials, Construction Technology and Practices, Contract Management, Non-Destructive Testing, Estimation and Costing of Construction Projects, Safety in Construction Projects, Project Management

E-mail: gargsahil[at]civil.iitd.ac.in

Prof. Supratic Gupta

Areas of Interest: Concrete Mechanics, Self-Compacting Concrete, Constitute Modelling, Analytical and Experimental Research of RC and Prestressed Concrete Bridges, Bamboo Concrete Composites

E-mail: supratic[at]civil.iitd.ac.in

.

Prof. Pawan Pandey

Areas of Interest: Construction Management, Lean Construction, ESG (Environmental Social Governance), Project Schedule Optimisation

E-mail: pvn[at]civil.iitd.ac.in

Prof. S.Z.S Tabish

Areas of Interest: Public Project Management, Construction Contract Management, Technical Audit of Work, Transparency and Good Governance in Public Procurement, Project Success Factors and Fair Performance

E-mail: szstabish[at]civil.iitd.ac.in