System Dynamics for Complex Problems in Pavement Engineering

Description

Increasingly, segments of the civil infrastructure are considered to be parts of larger systems, which requires a systems approach for a fuller and proper understanding of and solutions to problems. Unfortunately, the subject of a system or a systems approach is barely covered in a standard civil and environmental engineering curriculum. Most, if not all, civil engineering problems involve interdependency, and hence segmented approaches of learning one individual topic at a time make it difficult for students to learn, understand, and apply rational concepts for the design, construction, and maintenance of larger infrastructure components. System Dynamics for Complex Problems in Pavement Engineering presents an introduction to a systems approach to help readers evolve and develop their capabilities of learning, communicating, and researching through system dynamics modeling and experimentation. Furthermore, it helps students appreciate the need for systems thinking in modeling, analyzing, and proposing solutions for multidisciplinary problems in pavement engineering. Cover Half Title Title Page Copyright Page Dedication Table of Contents Preface Acknowledgments Author Chapter 1 Why this Book? Why Model? Systems Thinking through System Dynamics Chapter 2 Pedagogical Background Objective and Approach Suggestions for Assessment Expected Outcomes References Chapter 3 Dynamics in Pavements Chapter 4 How to Model a Problem Modeling as a Tool Chapter 5 Relationships between Variables Modeling a Problem with Stocks, Flows, and Converters How Do We Characterize the Model Trends? Exponential Goal Seeking Oscillation S-Shaped Growth Modeling with a Spreadsheet Chapter 6 Cascading Effects Reference Chapter 7 Feedback Causal System References Chapter 8 Analysis of Pavement Systems Example Problem 1: Interrelationship between Different Properties of Hot Mix Asphalt A Model to Determine the Performance of Porous Friction Course References Chapter 9 Multidisciplinary Analysis Composite Index Complex Problem – Defining the Key Sectors and Parameters Step 1: Identify the Key Sectors Population and Road Demand Sector Road Construction and Rehabilitation Sector Complex Problem – Combining the Sectors and Running the Model Example: A Model to Determine the Effect of Climate Change on Pavement Life Example: A Model to Determine the Long-Term Benefits of Using Warm Mix Asphalt, Dry Aggregates, and Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement References Chapter 10 Probabilistic Simulation with System Dynamics References Chapter 11 System of Systems References Chapter 12 System Dynamics – Path Forward Mathematics to Model Ideal Steps for Creating and Using a System Dynamics Model Systems Science, Systems Engineering, and System Dynamics Limits to Growth Theory Use of System Dynamics, Source of Information, and Suggested Readings References Appendix: Equations for Model in Chapter 11