Simulation Modeling of Aerial Work Completed by Helicopters in the Construction Industry Focused on Weather Conditions

The aim of this research was to develop a simulation model of the works carried out by helicopters, which are used in the construction of buildings under harsh natural conditions. This work identified that even technologies that we do not normally encounter, such as aerial work using helicopters, can have a major impact on ensuring the requirement of sustainability within the overall environmental and economic context. In the environment of protected landscape areas and national parks, in particular, where all sites are sensitive to human intervention, the use of helicopters in construction functions is an irreplaceable aid. Preparations for aerial work are very demanding and require the use of more sophisticated tools to achieve optimal results consistent within the paradigm of long-term sustainability. Simulation modeling is one such option, thanks to the considerable advancements made in information technology. A simulation model of aerial work was compiled within the presented work, and its functionality was verified using specific examples that confirmed in full the suitability of using simulations in the preparation of aerial work within construction. A detailed analysis of helicopter operations showed that an algorithm that accounts for future weather conditions at the construction site, and specifically focused on the conditions at the given altitude above the ground, should be a dominant feature of simulation models. It is exceptionally important that such data be known within the preparations for aerial work as accurately as possible, and, as such, this article describes the process of obtaining meteorological information for simulation models in detail using a numerical weather forecast and the reliability of data obtained in this manner. Based on the results obtained during this research, the proposed simulation model can be recommended as a suitable tool in the preparation of buildings. Its use is especially important if construction takes place under difficult natural conditions, where work cannot be carried out without the use of helicopters. We perceive the simulation model as a potential tool for digitizing construction preparations in the age of Industry 4.0.