Hegazy, T and Kassab, M (2003) Resource optimization using combined simulation and genetic algorithms. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 129(6), pp. 698-705. ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
This paper presents a new approach for resource optimization by combining a flow-chart based simulation tool with a powerful genetic optimization procedure. The proposed approach determines the least costly, and most productive, amount of resources that achieve the highest benefit/cost ratio in individual construction operations. To further incorporate resource optimization into construction planning, various genetic algorithms (GA)-optimized simulation models are integrated with commonly used project management software. Accordingly, these models are activated from within the scheduling software to optimize the plan. The result is a hierarchical work-breakdown-structure tied to GA-optimized simulation models. Various optimization experiments with a prototype system on two case studies revealed its ability to optimize resources within the real-life constraints set in the simulation models. The prototype is easy to use and can be used on large size projects. Based on this research, computer simulation and genetic algorithms can be an effective combination with great potential for improving productivity and saving construction time and cost.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | algorithms; computer applications; resource management; simulation |
| Index terms: | resource optimization, construction time, construction planning, resource management, case study, computer application, productivity, construction operation, project management software, simulation tool, genetic algorithm, scheduling, computer simulation, prototype, experiment |
| Subjects: | construction operations, construction planning, analytical methods, digital technology, modelling and simulation, operations research, control systems, data collection methods, project controls, management, algorithms, software systems |
| Topics: | Engineering Principles, Project Management, Research Practice, Business Strategy, Site Management, Time Control, Digital Applications |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCEA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here