System Dynamics for Complex Problems in Pavement Engineering

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. 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 and solutions of problems Cover 1 Half Title 2 Title Page 4 Copyright Page 5 Dedication 6 Table of Contents 8 Preface 10 Acknowledgments 14 Author 16 Chapter 1 Why this Book? 18 Why Model? 18 Systems Thinking through System Dynamics 19 Chapter 2 Pedagogical Background 20 Objective and Approach 21 Suggestions for Assessment 22 Expected Outcomes 23 References 23 Chapter 3 Dynamics in Pavements 26 Chapter 4 How to Model a Problem 32 Modeling as a Tool 32 Chapter 5 Relationships between Variables 40 Modeling a Problem with Stocks, Flows, and Converters 42 How Do We Characterize the Model Trends? 44 Exponential 44 Goal Seeking 45 Oscillation 46 S-Shaped Growth 47 Modeling with a Spreadsheet 50 Chapter 6 Cascading Effects 52 Reference 65 Chapter 7 Feedback Causal System 66 References 82 Chapter 8 Analysis of Pavement Systems 84 Example Problem 1: Interrelationship between Different Properties of Hot Mix Asphalt 84 A Model to Determine the Performance of Porous Friction Course 86 References 93 Chapter 9 Multidisciplinary Analysis 94 Composite Index 94 Complex Problem – Defining the Key Sectors and Parameters 97 Step 1: Identify the Key Sectors 97 Population and Road Demand Sector 98 Road Construction and Rehabilitation Sector 98 Complex Problem – Combining the Sectors and Running the Model 105 Example: A Model to Determine the Effect of Climate Change on Pavement Life 108 Example: A Model to Determine the Long-Term Benefits of Using Warm Mix Asphalt, Dry Aggregates, and Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement 110 References 119 Chapter 10 Probabilistic Simulation with System Dynamics 120 References 127 Chapter 11 System of Systems 128 References 134 Chapter 12 System Dynamics – Path Forward 136 Mathematics to Model 137 Ideal Steps for Creating and Using a System Dynamics Model 138 Systems Science, Systems Engineering, and System Dynamics 140 Limits to Growth Theory 141 Use of System Dynamics, Source of Information, and Suggested Readings 141 References 143 Appendix: Equations for Model in Chapter 11 144 Asphalt;,Pavements;,Systems,Engineering;,Roadway,engineering;,Systems,thinking;,Transportation,Engineering;,Civil,infrastructure Asphalt,Pavements,Systems Engineering,Roadway engineering,Systems thinking,Transportation Engineering,Civil infrastructure