Proceedings of the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering Annual Conference 2024, Volume 8

Table of Contents

1. Frontmatter

2. Review of Climate-Resilient Building Retrofits for Adaptation to Floods, Extreme Heat, Wildfire, and Wind

   Herry Chen, Rachel Krueger, Cameron McGlade-Bouchard, Devon Jones, Monika Mikhail, Tyler Hull, Sharmalene Mendis-Millard

   Abstract

   With escalating climate change impacts across Canada, there is an urgent need to adapt existing infrastructure to withstand more frequent and severe hazards. To support the goal of making Canada’s buildings more climate resilient, a comprehensive online database of multi-hazard retrofits was developed (climateresilientretrofits.ca/database). This paper presents common retrofits to four hazards: extreme heat, wildfires, flooding, and extreme wind events. Each hazard is examined in terms of its impacts on the built environment and potential retrofit strategies to mitigate those impacts. With annual maximum temperatures in regions across Canada projected to reach over 40 °C on average by 2051–2080, extreme heatwaves will strain cities and pose health risks to vulnerable populations. Passive cooling, enhanced building enclosure performance, and cool roofs and walls are all critical engineering retrofits for extreme heat events. Increased wildfire risks necessitate preventative measures to make buildings fire resistant; solutions for ignition zones that help prevent fire spreading to buildings are provided. Flooding, Canada’s most frequent and costly natural hazard, is intensifying due to increased heavy precipitation and storm surges. Dry and wet floodproofing measures to prevent or limit damage are key retrofit options. Extreme wind events demand structural retrofits to fortify buildings beyond current building codes to resist roof uplift and enclosure loss. The next phase of the research will refine the database for a user-friendly interface accessible to the public, with the aim of providing information that empowers individuals, organizations, and governments to adopt, promote, and enable climate-resilient buildings.

3. The Conestogo River Bridge: A Full-Scale Test Specimen Still in Service

   J. Peter C. King, F. Michael Bartlett

   Abstract

   The Engineering Research and Development Branch of the Ontario Ministry of Transportation designed the Conestogo River Bridge, which carries Regional Road 85 over the Conestogo River just east of St. Jacobs, ON, as a full-scale test specimen. Research findings of the early 70s indicated that: (1) the familiar AASHTO H20-S44 traffic loading model was no longer representative of Ontario truck traffic; (2) the dynamic effects of the traffic loads were sensitive to the first flexural frequency of the bridge; (3) existing methods to distribute truck load moments laterally to the girders of a multi-girder structure were conservative; (4) steel bolts could be used to replace shear studs to achieve fully composite behaviour of steel–concrete bridge superstructures; and (5) the flexural demands due to wheel loads on reinforced concrete deck slabs were significantly mitigated by compressive membrane action. A series of full-scale tests were conducted in 1975 and 1976 to evaluate the validity of these findings in the field, and the success of these tests supported the inclusion of these research findings in the first edition of the Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code, published in 1979. A landmark paper describing these tests won the CSCE Casimir Gzowski Medal in 1977, and the bridge is now being considered for nomination as a Canadian Society for Civil Engineering National Historic Site.

4. Traffic Considerations for Ontario Highway Bridge Design CodeA Historical Account

   Akhilesh C. Agarwal

   Abstract

   The Ontario Bridge Formula (OBF)-based regulatory load limits in 1971 led to large variations of truck configurations and loads. Various load surveys showed significant overloads above regulatory limits. The AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges, used for design and evaluation in Ontario prior to the Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code (OHBDC) specified 1944 design truck models that were considered unsuitable for real truck configurations and loads in Ontario. Furthermore, in the old system, a substandard bridge was posted with a single gross vehicle weight (GVW) limit that was considered overly restrictive and usually ignored by the truck operators. In the new system, the bridge is evaluated for three types of vehicle categories and posted with three GVW limits. These new provisions required the development of new live load models for evaluation of bridges. The OHBD truck for design was selected such that its sub-configurations could be used as rating trucks for the three levels evaluation. New Dynamic Load Allowance (DLA) provisions based on dynamic interaction between the vehicle and the bridge, and deflection limits based on human perception of bridge vibration are also presented.

5. Monitoring Geothermal Energy Extraction-Induced Ground Surface Deformation by InSAR

   Zhaoxi Wang, Boshun Lv, Jonathan Li, Shunde Yin

   Abstract

   Global climate change underscores the critical role of renewable clean energy in achieving sustainable development. The geothermal resources associated with oilfields offer a solution for residential heating and industrial applications; however, their utilization faces environmental challenges. Improperly designed heat exchange systems have been linked to declining groundwater levels, while asynchronous patterns of water extraction and re-injection exacerbate land subsidence risks. These issues threaten the long-term viability of geothermal energy exploitation. Accurate monitoring of large-scale ground deformation in geothermal fields has therefore become imperative. This study employed the short baseline subsets-interferometric synthetic aperture radar (SBAS-InSAR) technique to monitor ground deformation in Caofeidian District, Bohai Bay Basin, North China, where the Nanpu Oilfield operates. By analyzing 55 Sentinel-1A images acquired between October 2018 and May 2022, we identified two subsidence centers: the Nanpu development zone and the Caofeidian new district. The cumulative subsidence reached − 53.54 mm and − 49.33 mm, respectively. The spatial distribution of subsidence correlates with geological stratigraphy and engineering practices. Pumping and recharging experiments near the heating project helped reveal seasonal subsidence mechanisms in the Caofeidian new district. Thermal reservoir extraction-induced drainage consolidation triggered rapid subsidence in November. In April, imbalanced water withdrawal and re-injection volumes intensified strata compaction, accelerating the subsidence trend. SBAS-InSAR proves to be a viable monitoring tool for quantifying and interpreting geothermal-induced deformation.

6. Analyzing the Hydraulic Impact of Non-flushable Wet Wipes on Sewer Systems

   Katayoun Kargar, Darko Joksimovic

   Abstract

   Various factors, including the accumulation of fats, oils, grease, tree root intrusion, and non-biodegradable items like wet wipes and sanitary products, cause sewer blockages. The COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated the situation, with improper disposal of wipes leading to severe blockages, causing backups, flooding, and overflows. However, the understanding of wipe-caused sewer blockage formation and the resulting hydraulic impacts is lacking. This research aims to address this gap by examining the likelihood of wipes snagging on sewer imperfections and analyzing the resulting backwater effects. Laboratory experiments were conducted to replicate real-world scenarios to explore the hydraulic effects of non-flushable wet wipes on sewer systems. Results showed a significant variation in the likelihood of wipes snagging on sewer imperfections, with probabilities ranging from 93 to 0%, depending on the imperfection’s location within the sewer and the prevailing flow rate. Similarly, the probability of wipe accumulation exhibited a wide range, from 71% to zero, highlighting the critical influence of both flow rate and the specific positioning of the imperfections. The experiments further revealed that blockages significantly increase upstream water levels, with the extent of this rise directly depending on the blockage size and the flow rate. These findings underscore the need for better design and management of urban wastewater systems to enhance their overall resilience and efficiency.

7. Assessment of the Impact of Climate Change on Thunderstorm Winds

   Si Han Li

   Abstract

   Many recent studies have investigated the impact of climate change on wind hazards and design-level wind speeds for structural design. Future climate projections were used in these studies. However, due to climate modelling resolution, thunderstorm winds cannot be readily separated from the projections. Therefore, it is unclear if the impact of climate change on thunderstorm wind speeds is the same as the synoptic wind speeds. To answer this question, this study employed some climate projections for the RCP 6.0 scenario to study the impact of climate change on thunderstorm events in the future period between 2029 and 2049. The future thunderstorm activity and wind hazards were compared with the simulations between 1999 and 2019. The historical period simulations were also compared with the historical ground observation at selected locations in Ontario, which were used as a benchmark to determine appropriate metrics for identifying thunderstorm wind speeds from the climate modelling outputs. The identified thunderstorm winds in historical and future periods from the climate modelling outputs were then compared to appreciate the impact of climate change. The results were used to understand the impact of climate change on the occurrence of thunderstorm wind events and the design level of wind speeds.

8. Computer Vision-Based Work Productivity Optimization with Lean Principles and Simulation Method

   Xue Chen, William Correa, Rafik Lemouchi, Alejandro Ramon, Mohammad Masfiqul Alam Bhuiyan, Mohamed Al-Hussein

   Abstract

   With the development of construction automation technologies, semi-automated production lines have become increasingly common on the construction site. Current construction productivity is affected by worker efficiency, the utilization rate of machines, and the cooperation between workers and machines. In this situation, lean thinking integrating with computer vision may be one of the most effective methods to improve work productivity further. This study aims to acquire actual work data using computer vision methods and explore the effectiveness of lean methods by identifying potential wastes in the construction process. The lean model, subsequently, is designed with Simphony, considering vision-based results like waiting time and applying lean methods like takt time and just-in-time. Finally, the study compares the simulation results, such as duration and resource utilization rate, between the traditional and lean scenarios to clarify whether the new lean production workflow is beneficial to optimizing the construction process.

9. Digital As-built Documentation for Buildings: How Different Data Capturing Technologies Enable 3D Model Reconstruction and BIM Enrichment

   Robert Joost, Stephan Mönchinger, Nicolas Acker, Kai Lindow

   Abstract

   Energy-related renovation is an essential component in achieving emission reduction in the building sector and towards climate neutrality. The digital as-built documentation forms the basis for digital inventory, re-planning and renovation of existing buildings. It is indispensable for relieving the backlog of needed renovation. The advancement of the building information model (BIM) method as general requirement for construction projects forces stakeholders to retrieve 3D BIM from existent real-estate. The first step towards digitizing an object is to capture data with sensors, like cameras or 3D scanners. Using techniques from the field of reverse engineering (RE), the geometry and certain attributes are reconstructed and modelled. This yields a virtual representation of the physical object, typically as CAD model or BIM. Today, this RE process, sometimes referred to as “Scan-to-BIM”, is partly put in practice, but involves tedious manual work. Software tools and algorithms together with AI solutions evolve in order to automate and accelerate the digital as-built documentation. This work presents the complete process chain from existing building to 3D BIM. State-of-the-art literature is consulted and examined. Special focus is placed on different sensors and techniques for data capture and their consequent opportunities and enabled downstream applications. This work extends the approach of “Scan-to-BIM” to various sensors and considers the sensor and data fusion. The research points out the need for and potential of a holistic methodology for digital as-built documentation, leaving the assessment of downstream process steps for future work.

10. BIM-ABC Integration for Visualizing and Allocating Costs in Mid-rise Construction Projects: A Case Study

    Mojdeh Derakhshan, Hassan Irani, Shayan Nikoukar, Mehdi Tavakolan

    Abstract

    Accurate cost estimation is critical in mid-rise construction projects, often relying on pre-sales for financial support. Inaccuracies in cost estimation and allocation may lead to budgetary challenges, project delays, and substantial cost overruns. While traditional cost allocation systems, exemplified by activity-based costing (ABC), are recognized in the industry, their time-consuming nature limits their practical utility. In contrast, contemporary tools such as building information modeling (BIM) offer a transformative advantage by swiftly generating precise information that significantly enhances the accuracy of cost estimation. Previous studies in this domain have been extensive; however, many studies either lacked precision in their methodologies or relied on oversimplified assumptions. This study bridges a knowledge gap by integrating BIM and ABC, enhancing cost estimation and visualization in mid-rise construction. It introduces a valuable framework for visualizing cost allocation. The proposed model leverages ABC to assign direct and overhead costs within a BIM model, displaying them in a color map representation. Costs, along with their drivers, are calculated and visually presented, offering a quick analysis of cost distribution. This innovative framework facilitates the swift assessment of cost changes associated with model modifications, providing project managers and stakeholders with a nuanced breakdown of total costs. Implemented in a real mid-rise construction project in Iran, the model's results illuminate cost concentration in various elements, contributing to a deeper understanding of unit costs and empowering better decision-making. Furthermore, the introduced model can serve as a plugin for BIM software, promoting its practical application in the industry.

11. Examining AI-Enhanced Regression Models for Predicting Slope Stability in Earthen Dams During Extreme Weather Events

    Isaida Flores Berenguer, Jack Warden, Mohammad Reza Najafi, Yoermes González Haramboure, Alejandro Rosete, Jenny García Tristá, Hamidreza Shirkhani

    Abstract

    The engineering significance of earth dams emphasizes the importance of slope stability. This study underscores the importance of considering precipitation events and rapid drawdown in stability analyses, to ensure the maintenance and conservation of hydraulic infrastructure in the face of nonstationary extreme weather events associated with climate change. In this research, the combination of hybrid numerical modeling and regression models with artificial intelligence is used to analyze the stability of homogeneous earth dam slopes. Three case studies are established considering transitory water flow in all scenarios. Two separate external loading analyses are included: rapid drawdown, which affects the upstream slope, and precipitation, which affects the downstream slope. Considering changes in flow and precipitation patterns under climate change scenarios, three rapid drawdown speeds are established: 0.1; 0.15; and 0.3 m/day. In addition, three precipitation intensities are defined, considering their increase in future scenarios: 3; 50; and 150 mm/day for 24 h duration. A methodology is proposed for the analysis of regression with AI. After applying the regression models, it was obtained that the polynomial regression of degree two presents consistent results (adjusted R² greater than 0.84) for the analysis of the stability of the upstream slope considering rapid drawdown. However, none of the evaluated models obtained satisfactory results for predicting stability on the downstream slope subjected to precipitation (adjusted R² less than 0.65), so new conditions for this type of event must be explored. Based on these results, it is recommended to consider analysis of the stability of slopes subjected to rapid drawdown, and successive precipitation events.

12. Pavement Performance Evaluation of Microsurfacing Rehabilitation Treatments

    Tyler Somers, Xiomara Sanchez

    Abstract

    The asphalt pavement of a highway network degrades over time, with many factors influencing how well the pavement is able to resist this degradation and continue to meet service requirements. There are several different kinds and types of repair and rehabilitation treatments available for pavement upkeep, and choosing the most appropriate and cost-effective treatment for each specific case continues to be an ongoing and time-intensive process for many transportation agencies. A significant part of this process is the analysis of yearly survey data which captures various defects and imperfections in the highway network and ensuring that this data is both accurate and reliable. This paper uses data collected by an Automatic Road Analyzer (ARAN) vehicle during Nova Scotia’s 2014–2019 pavement condition surveys on highways which had had microsurfacing treatments performed during this period. The results show that rutting and roughness degradation curves can be used to estimate the relative efficiency and effectiveness of pavement rehabilitation treatments.

13. Empowering Energy Efficiency: Fusing Indigenous Roof Designs to Contemporary Canadian Homes

    S. Rubaiya Sultana, Anber Rana, Rehan Sadiq, Kasun Hewage, M. Shahria Alam

    Abstract

    Municipalities across Canada prioritize constructing Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) to achieve their decarbonization targets. Renewable energy systems, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, are essential to attain NZEB buildings. PV systems are frequently installed on rooftops to harness maximum solar energy generation where the architectural design and orientation of the roof significantly influence their performance. While considerable research has been conducted on optimizing PV system performance, studies still need to explore the potential impact of integrating Indigenous architectural knowledge to enhance PV system efficiency. Hence, this work examines how incorporating Indigenous roof design principles, such as shape, size, and orientation, can impact the effectiveness of PV systems in modern residential buildings. Building Information Modeling software, Autodesk Revit, is used to develop parametric models derived from Indigenous home roof designs. Subsequently, solar analyses are performed using Autodesk Insight to evaluate the potential of Indigenous roof designs. Consequently, a case study of an existing Net Zero energy home in Okanagan Valley (Canada) compares Indigenous and contemporary roof designs. The results from the analysis indicate that combining Indigenous knowledge with contemporary roofs can yield higher environmental and economic benefits. The results of this study offer architects, builders, and policymakers an essential foundation for integrating Indigenous roof designs into Canadian residential buildings as a practical and culturally enriching approach to enhancing energy efficiency.

14. Enhancing Housing Resilience Towards Wildfire in First Nations Communities in Canada

    Tadele Getu, Cliff Buettner, Bronwyn Chorlton, Katerina Genikomsou, Mark F. Green

    Abstract

    Given the urgent wildfire situation in Canada, communities located in the wildland-urban interface need to consider methods for enhancing community resilience against these events. First Nations communities are disproportionately affected by wildfires. They are unique compared to other communities because of their often rural or remote location, which can make access to labour and material resources more difficult. Furthermore, First Nations are deeply connected to the land, which includes cultural customs, stories, and ceremonies. The purpose of this study is to better understand the effect of wildfire on First Nations communities in Canada through a review of available literature and insights from First Nations rightsholders. The Canadian wildfire season of 2023 highlighted the need for proactive measures, including construction and design guidelines. Specific discussion will consider Prince Albert Grand Council, a Tribal Council that represents 12 First Nations in Central and Northern Saskatchewan, many of which have been affected by wildfire (including the effects of smoke) in the recent years. The study concludes by recommending interdisciplinary research for affordable, resilient building materials, direct community engagement, localized data collection, and ongoing discourse to bolster wildfire resilience in First Nation communities.

15. Effect of Mesh Size in Dynamic FE Modeling of Resonant Column Tests

    Mohammad Zaid, Giovanni Cascante, Dipanjan Basu

    Abstract

    This study investigates variations in soil dynamic properties based on strain levels using a finite element model of the resonant column (RC) device. The RC test is recognized for its unique ability to shed light on how soil reacts to dynamic loading. However, several factors can influence the measurement of dynamic properties in RC, therefore, further investigation is needed. These factors include the uniformity of the applied strain field, base-fixity, strain localization, top-platen coupling, sample geometry, and uniformity of the soil. To better understand how these factors impact measured shear wave velocity and damping ratio, finite element analysis has been conducted using Abaqus/Explicit, a commercial continuum mechanics-based finite element package. The modeling employed the specific geometric configuration of the RC setup at the University of Waterloo. Initially, low-strain properties of sand (shear modulus, Poisson’s ratio, damping ratio) have been used and shear strain has been varied as an input loading parameter. Torsional loading was then applied, ranging from shear strains of 10⁻⁵ to 10⁻⁴. The mesh size has been varied to understand its effect on RC device results. The finite element model considered the free vibration of the cylindrical sand specimen following forced vibration, enabling the evaluation of dynamic properties. Modal analysis of the RC setup was conducted to confirm the dominant contribution of the first torsional mode. By comparing the damping ratios and resonant frequencies at different shear strains obtained through finite element modeling with laboratory results, we found a close match, with a difference ranging from 0.50% to 3.5%.

16. Simplified Model for Road Sustainability Evaluation

    Arghya Chatterjee, Taylor Dagenais, Sanat Pokharel, Marc Breault

    Abstract

    With the issue of climate change high in the public agenda, the general perception of sustainability seems to have centered on environmental concerns with a focus on reducing total CO₂ emissions. As the understanding of the pillars of sustainable development (SD) improves, future infrastructure development projects could face scrutiny over the consideration of only a single criterion in sustainability evaluations. However, while maintaining a meaningful focus on environmental issues, both the economical and societal pillars can be properly addressed through the same parameters. While many studies on the implementation of sustainability parameters into construction projects are available, the process can be complex, incentivizing the creation of a simplified model. Within the construction industry, sustainability needs to be addressed throughout the project life cycle, encompassing the feasibility, design, and construction stages. A simplified theoretical model was developed to measure the scale of sustainability achieved in the chosen road design and construction methodology. The theoretical model was implemented for a test run on a new gravel road design and construction project at Blainville, Quebec, Canada. Upon successfully testing unreinforced and several geosynthetic reinforced design options to optimize the sustainability parameters, it was found that use of polymeric geocell, having a high strength and a high modulus value, yielded the most sustainable results.

17. Numerical Investigation of CO2 as a Working Fluid for Geothermal Energy Exploitation at Mount Meager

    Yutong Chai, Shunde Yin

    Abstract

    In the recent years, the rising global awareness of the environmental impact of traditional energy sources has fueled a growing demand for renewable alternatives. Geothermal energy, characterized by its availability, reliability, and environmental friendliness, has emerged as a particularly attractive option. Within the realm of geothermal energy extraction, deep geothermal heat extraction techniques have gained substantial attention. Among these, the deep borehole heat exchanger (dBHE) stands out as a popular method. The dBHE operates as a closed-loop system, offering advantages such as mitigated risks of induced seismicity and non-stringent requirements for potential sites—two crucial considerations for other unconventional techniques like enhanced geothermal systems. The Meager Mountain Geothermal Project represents a pioneering venture in the early stages of geothermal energy resource development. Despite the abundance of geothermal heat resources, there has been a lack of systematic studies evaluating the potential implementation of dBHE on-site. In this study, numerical simulations are performed to conduct a comprehensive comparison of two major working fluids: water and carbon dioxide circulating within a coaxially configured close-looped wellbore. The results are analyzed by quantitatively evaluating the geothermal energy production potential for each scenario. The study concluded that determining the optimal fluid for enhancing geothermal power generation is not a straightforward task; it requires a comprehensive evaluation of various operational parameters to identify the most effective working fluid.

18. Soil Spring Constants for Laterally Loaded Rigid Piles Using a Continuum-Based Analytical Model

    Abhisek Paul, Dipanjan Basu

    Abstract

    The serviceability limit state-based design of laterally loaded pile foundation requires that the head displacement of the pile remains within a specified allowable limit. Laterally loaded rigid piles are analyzed by idealizing the surrounding soil as discrete springs. The equivalent soil spring constants are often developed empirically without considering three-dimensional pile–soil interaction. In the present study, the equivalent soil spring constants for laterally loaded rigid piles are derived from a continuum-based analytical model that captures the effect of three-dimensional pile–soil interaction. In the model, a rational soil displacement is assumed considering the kinematic compatibility with the pile displacement. The soil is assumed to behave elastically in a particular layer. The principle of virtual work is used to obtain the governing algebraic and differential equations for the pile and soil displacements, respectively. The accuracy of the method is verified against the results obtained from three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA) and field test. A systematic parametric study on the effect of pile dimensions, soil layering, and soil properties on the spring constants is conducted for piles in single layer soil, two-layer soils, and single layer soils with the elastic modulus varying with depth. Fitted algebraic equations for the equivalent soil spring constants are developed through optimization that can be readily used by practicing engineers to calculate the response of rigid piles under lateral load and moment.

19. Geotechnical Analysis of a Heavy Haul Road Culvert Crossing at the Top of a Future Earth Fill Dam

    Ellen Huang, Bernie Mills, Xiteng Liu, Tye Minion

    Abstract

    An 80 m long and 7.4 m wide Structural Plate Corrugated Steel Pipe (SPCSP) culvert is being proposed to accommodate a multi-purpose crossing near the top of an approximately 60 m high future earth fill dam. The proposed culvert crossing will accommodate a two-lane heavy haul road (HHR) with approximately 6.5 m of cover over the crown of the culvert. Total and differential settlements of the culvert will occur as a result of the post-construction consolidation settlement of the dam fill, dead load from the grade raise overtop and the live load conditions varying from heavy haul mining trucks to very large mine shovels. Due to the complexities of the ground and live loading conditions, a three-dimensional soil-structure interaction analysis was carried out to estimate the performance of the proposed culvert. Initially, a stress analysis using Settle3 was conducted to estimate the stress versus depth for the two types of design vehicles including two-way CAT 797F heavy haulers versus a single CAT 7495 HF shovel to determine the worst-case live loading condition. The performance of the culvert under the worst-case shovel loading condition was then evaluated using the numerical software PLAXIS 3D. To support the serviceability limit state design of the culvert, the differential settlements along the longitudinal direction under different construction stages and loading conditions were estimated. Soil improvement options below the culvert were also assessed by reviewing the sensitivity of the improvements on the predicted differential settlement response of the culvert.

20. Experimental Investigation of Durable Wood Panels for the Design of Relocatable Modular Buildings

    Maxime Daviau, Daniella Roscetti, Andrea Atkins, Herry Chen, Daniel Lacroix

    Abstract

    As interest in a circular economy approach to construction grows, so does the development of innovative building component designs intended to be disassembled and reused in the future. Design for relocation of small buildings is an already active market in the construction industry (e.g., construction site offices, portable classrooms, etc.). At the end of their useful lives, these buildings are demolished and landfilled. With more attention to detailing for disassembly and greater intention on durability, the relocatable building market and temporary residential building markets can be transformed. This paper presents the results of an experimental program investigating the durability and reuse of a novel cross-laminated timber (CLT) modular wall-to-floor connection that has been detailed for ease of disassembly compared to a more traditional light-frame wood system. The development of a reusable connection capable of withstanding multiple loading scenarios will allow for applications in the residential or emergency markets, while also allowing for scaling as the construction industry shifts toward a circular economy. For each panel type, novel connections that can easily be assembled and disassembled were designed and implemented for testing. The durability of each panel type and connection detail were investigated under a loading regime that was deemed representative of the lifecycle of a relocatable building. Ultimately the durability of the two panels is evaluated and compared. A reusable and efficient panelized assembly designed for disassembly has shown the potential to replace the volumetric modular construction method that dominates the relocatable building market today.

21. Hierarchical Deep Reinforcement Learning Framework for Optimizing Cross-asset Budget Allocation in Municipal Asset Management

    Amir Keshvari Fard, Arnold Yuan

    Abstract

    Efficiently managing municipal budgets requires innovative strategies for allocating funds across a broad spectrum of asset classes, including sewer systems and pavement networks, and their respective subclasses, such as arterial and collector roads, which often derive from varied funding sources. This study introduces an innovative method for optimizing cross-asset budget allocation through a hierarchical deep reinforcement learning framework. Utilizing the soft-actor critic algorithm at the system level, our approach facilitates a dynamic and adaptive distribution of budgets across and within asset classes, while linear programming at the asset level ensures optimal fund utilization. This combined strategy allows for customized budget allocation, catering to the specific needs and priorities of different asset classes or subclasses, regardless of their functional similarities or disparate funding sources. Our methodology demonstrates marked improvements in budget allocation efficiency and asset performance, highlighting the potential for refined and effective MRR planning and financial management within municipal infrastructure. This research illustrates the effectiveness of integrating advanced machine learning techniques with conventional optimization methods to address complex optimization challenges, providing valuable insights for municipal budget policy-making.

22. Leveraging Asset Master Data for Canadian Municipalities: Project Overview and Findings

    Said M. Easa, Philip Lawlor, Robert Lash, Peter Lewis

    Abstract

    Improving asset management for Canadian municipalities to realize better value from their assets has been recognized as a national need. The Toronto Metropolitan University, PEMAC Asset Management Association, and Municipal Representatives across Canada have partnered on a project to address this need. A grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities supports the project. The project aims to provide timely and effective asset data and information for Canadian municipalities to improve their maintenance management programs and operational readiness. The project involved four primary activities: (1) conducting a national current-state survey of Canadian municipalities, (2) surveying municipalities with success stories, (3) developing/delivering a training course, and (4) developing a white paper and a business case. The national survey has been conducted to determine how asset and maintenance management and reliability engineering data and information are collected, when, and how it is set up in various systems across the asset's lifecycle phases. Municipalities from very small to very large responded to the survey, and 71 responses were received. The six-week live-online training course (52 participants) addresses maintenance and reliability readiness for the four lifecycle phases (plan, design and acquire/build/commission, operate and maintain, and decommission and dispose). In addition, the course addressed emerging technologies, data standardization, and sustainability (climate change and circular economy). The success stories survey aims to gather information regarding the municipality's exemplary work and covers small, medium, and large municipalities. Finally, a whitepaper, business case, and practitioner’s guide are developed. These documents aim to increase the profile, understanding, benefits, and requirements for asset master data and information readiness during an asset's acquisition phase before being handed over to the operations and maintenance phase. Based on the course and survey findings, specific recommendations are made to advance MDRR during the capital project and equipment acquisition phases.

23. Calibration Limit State Design Provisions for the First Edition of the OHBDC

    Andrzej Nowak

    Abstract

    This paper focuses on the calculation of load and resistance factors for the first edition of the OHBDC, following a specially developed reliability-based calibration procedure. It involved the selection of representative bridges, the formulation of limit state functions, the development of reliability analysis procedure, the development of statistical parameters for load and resistance, the reliability analysis for representative bridges, the selection of the target reliability index, and lastly the determination of load and resistance factors. This was one of the first applications of newly developed reliability analysis procedures. The required statistical parameters of load components were determined from very limited measurements and mostly using engineering judgment (Delphi method), relying on an expert opinion. Live load parameters were based on the results of the truck survey in Ontario in 1978. Dynamic load was first based on field measurements and then modified based on dynamic analysis. Many of these early statistics are still unquestioned. The statistical parameters of resistance were based on the available literature, research reports, and material test results. These statistics were later updated. Many of the original recommendations still remain unquestioned.

24. Soil-Steel Structure Design by the 1979 Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code, a Historical Perspective

    Baidar Bakht

    Abstract

    The term ‘soil-steel structure’ was coined during the development of the 1st edition of the Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code (Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, Downsview, Ontario, 1979) to denote structures having spans greater than or equal to 3.0 m and comprised of corrugated steel plates and engineered soil, designed and constructed to induce a beneficial interaction between the two materials. Before this, these structures were known by various names, such as buried structures and corrugated metal structures. Although these structures had been in existence since the end of the Nineteenth Century, their design had been entirely empirical. The OHBDC was the first bridge design code in the world to provide not only ‘rational’ design provisions for these structures, but also prescribe procedures for their construction. It is noted that these economical alternatives to conventional bridges were more prone to distress and failures than other bridges. The main cause for their failure was errors in their construction. This paper, besides providing a historical account of the design and construction provisions for soil-steel structures introduced by the 1st edition of the OHBDC, also gives an account of some recent developments in these structures.

25. Bridge Analysis Section of the 1979 Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code, a Personal Account

    Baidar Bakht, Aftab Mufti

    Abstract

    Before 1970s, bridges in Ontario were designed by the American AASHTO Bridge Design Specifications, which permitted a very simple method for analyzing bridges for transverse load distribution under vehicle loads; this method was known as the D method. When the Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code (OHBDC) was conceived in 1976, one of the Technical Subcommittees (TSCs) for writing the code dealt with the analysis of bridge superstructures. It was required that the bridge analysis section of the new OHBDC would have simplified methods of analysis that are as simple as the AASHTO D method, but should be far more accurate. Such accurate simplified methods were indeed developed. This paper, besides providing a brief survey of the methods of bridge analysis in late 1960s and early 1970s, also gives some details of the OHBDC simplified methods of analysis and the limits of their application along with the rigorous methods of analysis that were permitted by the first edition of OHBDC.