Hierarchical Cost Modeling System for Construction Projects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current project cost modeling systems lack accuracy, transparency, and efficiency, often resulting in inefficient fund allocation and financial waste due to the need for extensive project information and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A computerized cost modeling system that estimates project costs by receiving user inputs, determining additional project parameters based on rules, and using stored cost data, allowing for real-time updates and verification, which minimizes the need for extensive project information and improves transparency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional cost modeling systems require extensive project information to make accurate cost estimates, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments project parameters into hierarchical levels (first-level parameters directly input by users, second-level parameters automatically determined by the system). This segmentation allows the system to provide accurate cost estimates using only a subset of critical parameters rather than requiring all possible project information, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces rules and historical project data as intermediary elements that bridge the gap between limited user inputs and accurate cost estimates. These intermediaries automatically fill in missing information by comparing first-level parameters against stored rules and historical data, eliminating the need for users to provide extensive project information while maintaining estimation accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If traditional cost modeling systems use extensive project information to improve accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically determining second-level project parameters and cost estimates based on user-provided first-level parameters, stored rules, and historical data. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for users to manually input extensive project information, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining accurate cost estimation through automated rule-based calculations.
3Measurement precision
If cost modeling systems provide detailed transparency through multiple parameters, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cost modeling system into distinct hierarchical levels with clear functional boundaries. First-level parameters are directly controlled by users, while second-level parameters are automatically derived through rule-based comparisons. This segmentation provides transparency in the modeling process while avoiding the complexity of a monolithic system that requires all parameters to be manually specified.
4Reliability
If traditional systems require comprehensive project information to reduce financial waste, then reliability is improved, but productivity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-storing rules and historical project data in the system database before cost estimation is needed. When a user provides first-level parameters, the system immediately compares these against pre-prepared rules and historical data to automatically determine second-level parameters and generate cost estimates. This preliminary preparation enables rapid, reliable cost estimation without requiring users to gather extensive project information in real-time, thereby improving both reliability and productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods, and computer program products for modeling and estimating costs for a project, such as a construction or remodeling project. For example, embodiments of the present invention provide a project cost modeling system having a communication interface configured to receive a first level input for a first level project parameter from a user, a memory configured to store a rule, and a processor operatively connected to the communication interface and the memory and configured to determine a second level project parameter and a second level input for the second level project parameter based at least partially on a comparison of the first level input to the rule. The system is further configured to compute cost estimates and provide cost models based at least partially on the first level input, the second level input, and/or information about other projects stored in the memory.