| Title |
Leveraging Visibility-Based Rewards in DRL-based Worker Travel Path Simulation for Improving the Learning Performance |
| Authors |
Kim, Minguk ; Kim, Tae Wan |
| DOI |
https://dx.doi.org/10.6106/KJCEM.2023.24.5.073 |
| Keywords |
Construction Worker; Site Layout Planning; Pathfinding; Deep Reinforcement Learning; Travel Path |
| Abstract |
Optimization of Construction Site Layout Planning (CSLP) heavily relies on workers' travel paths. However, traditional path generation approaches predominantly focus on the shortest path, often neglecting critical variables such as individual wayfinding tendencies, the spatial arrangement of site objects, and potential hazards. These oversights can lead to compromised path simulations, resulting in less reliable site layout plans. While Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) has been proposed as a potential alternative to address these issues, it has shown limitations. Despite presenting more realistic travel paths by considering these variables, DRL often struggles with efficiency in complex environments, leading to extended learning times and potential failures. To overcome these challenges, this study introduces a refined model that enhances spatial navigation capabilities and learning performance by integrating workers' visibility into the reward functions. The proposed model demonstrated a 12.47% increase in the pathfinding success rate and notable improvements in the other two performance measures compared to the existing DRL framework. The adoption of this model could greatly enhance the reliability of the results, ultimately improving site operational efficiency and safety management such as by reducing site congestion and accidents. Future research could expand this study by simulating travel paths in dynamic, multi-agent environments that represent different stages of construction. |