Abstract

This thesis presents a methodology for crane selection, location, and utilization on construction sites. It first describes the current practices and discusses the factors that are considered in the selection process, then it introduces a crane selection methodology. This methodology was used in the development of a computer-integrated system, designed to support users in the selection and location of appropriate cranes for their construction projects. The system integrates a relational database, a selection module, an optimization routine, and 3D-graphics and animation module. The developed system provides its users with powerful graphics capabilities, featuring a multimedia environment and a practical user-friendly interface. The system offers the flexibility in using metric and empirical units and can be run in a network environment. Its database system can accommodate different types of commercially available cranes, and powerful storage, sorting, and query routines. The system was implemented using MS-Visual Basic, MS-Access DBMS, AutoCAD, and 3D-Stodio. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the use and capabilities of the developed system.