Modeling and analysis of concrete production plant using petri nets

Computer modeling and analysis of construction processes have gained import ance in recent years because of an increase in the complexity of constructi on processes. Petri nets provide a modeling and analysis approach that can be used to effectively study, understand, analyze, and improve construction processes. This paper highlights the advanced features of petri nets and d escribes their utilization as a process modeling and analysis tool for the study of a ready-mix concrete plant. Usually process modeling and analysis are performed by initially developing a graphical portrayal of the process and then dynamically studying the response of the process to external and i nternal factors. A petri net is a formal graphical modeling tool that can b e efficiently utilized as a process modeling and analysis tool because it c an graphically portray and dynamically analyze a process in an integrated m anner. The paper contributes significantly in the area of computer-based de cision making and provides value to practicing schedulers, estimators, and project managers who deal with complex construction processes.