Comparison of using mixed-integer programming and genetic algorithms for construction site facility layout planning

Wong, C K; Fung, I W H and Tam, C M (2010) Comparison of using mixed-integer programming and genetic algorithms for construction site facility layout planning. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 136(10), pp. 1116-1128. ISSN 0733-9364

Abstract

The use of modular construction has gained wide acceptance in the industry. For a specific construction facility layout problem such as site precast standardized modular units, it requires the establishment of an on-site precast yard. Arranging the precast facilities within a construction site presents real challenge to site management. This complex task is further augmented with the involvement of several resources and different transport costs. A genetic algorithm (GA) model was developed for the search of a near-optimal layout solution. Another approach using mixed-integer programming (MIP) has been developed to generate optimal facility layout. These two approaches are applied to solve with an example in this paper to demonstrate that the solution quality of MIP outperforms that of GA. Further, another scenario with additional location constraints can also be solved readily by MIP, which, however, if modeled by GA, the solution process would be complicated. The study has highlighted that MIP can perform better than GA in site facility layout problems in which the site facilities and locations can be represented by a set of integer variables.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: facility layout; genetic algorithms; mixed-integer programming
Index terms: genetic algorithm, construction site, modular construction, site management, integer programming
Subjects: construction operations, work location, algorithms, building construction
Topics: Construction Technology, Site Management, Digital Applications
Descriptive scope: 1 P

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