Advanced Computing for Safer Structures

Friday, November 1
8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Artificial intelligence (AI) is likely to transform practices of architecture, engineering and construction (AEC). Drawing on lessons from past transformative technologies, we can expect that AI will assist architects, engineers, and builders in gaining productivity significantly. However, uses of AI in AEC sector may be tempered by new types of failures. Forensic engineers have already started to explore the potential applications of deep learning and emerging advanced computing technologies in investigating building and infrastructure defects and collapses. Images can be analyzed to identify defects in civil infrastructure, enhancing the safety and longevity of these structures. Natural disasters can be simulated and experienced through virtual environments, providing valuable insights for disaster preparedness and response. Extended reality technologies have the potential to allow inspectors to “visualize” hidden construction components, improving the accuracy and efficiency of inspections. Furthermore, large language models are beginning to show potential in reasoning tasks, opening new avenues for advanced problem-solving and decision-making. The workshop explores how to leverage AI and emergent technologies to improve health, safety, and welfare in the built environment. The one-day workshop is composed of four parts:

1. Forensic engineering and advanced computing (1.5 hrs)
2. Machine learning, deep learning, and large language models for forensic engineering (2.5 hrs)
3. Virtual reality(VR), augmented reality(AR), and mixed reality(MR) for forensic engineering (2.5 hrs)
4. Discussions on future practices of forensic engineering driven by emergent technologies (1.5 hrs)

Learning outcomes:

• Fundamentals of machine learning, deep learning, and artificial intelligence
• Understanding of VR, AR, and MR technologies
• Learning potential applications of AI and emergent technologies in forensic engineering
• Integrating emergent technologies into established forensic engineering practices

Instructors: Rui Liu, Ph.D., P.E., M.ASCE; Mike Drerup, P.E., M.ASCE; Pingbo Tang, Ph.D., P.E., M.ASCE; Pengkun Liu, Ph.D., Aff.M.ASCE; Pengkun Liu

Champlain Towers South Collapse: Identifying and Addressing Punching Shear Deficiencies in Flat Plate Construction

Friday, November 1
8:00 am – 12:00 pm

In the early morning of June 24, 2021, the eastern half of the 12-story Champlain Towers South Condominium collapsed, killing 98 residents of the 40-year-old building in Surfside, Florida. WJE was retained by attorneys representing the condominium association to determine the cause of the collapse and provide litigation support. Based on document review, field investigation, material testing, and analysis, WJE determined that the collapse was initiated by punching shear failures in the pool deck slab, which caused the failure of columns at the south face of the building, leading to the collapse.

This collapse has emphasized the importance of identifying, evaluating, and correcting punching shear deficiencies in flat plate construction. In practice, punching shear-related cracking can be challenging to identify, as cracking is usually concealed. Current and previous code equations are of limited use for evaluating the punching shear capacity of slabs with excessive top cover and low reinforcement ratios.

This short course details WJE's investigation and findings regarding the tragic collapse of Champlain Towers South. Subsequently, we will present approaches to screening for punching shear deficiencies, field evaluation of existing conditions, and punching shear strength evaluation. Additionally, we will discuss approaches for cost-effective retrofits to strengthen slab/column regions where deficiencies have been identified.

Instructors: Matthew Fadden, Gary Klein, Andrea Shear

Pre-Construction Surveys of Adjoining Structure – Guidelines for Practicing Engineers: An interactive review of the proposed guidelines

Friday, November 1
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

The Committee on Forensic Investigations noted a need within the industry to develop guidelines for performing preconstruction surveys of structures adjacent to proposed construction sites. Members of the committee have found that the extent and quality of pre-construction surveys varies throughout the industry and has drafted a publication titled Pre-Construction Surveys of Adjoining Structure – Guidelines for Practicing Engineers to outline best practices for performing these surveys. This workshop will provide an interactive review of the proposed guidelines and will teach participants best practices.

Instructors: Nathaniel B. Smith, P.E., M.ASCE; John Wylie, P.E., M.ASCE