Applying optimal control model to dynamic equipment allocation problem: Case study of concrete-faced rockfill dam construction project

This paper presents an optimization method for solving a dynamic equipment allocation problem (DEAP) encountered during the implementation of a concrete-faced rockfill dam construction project. In contrast to prior studies, the uncertainties associated with equipment failures have been explicitly considered in the objective function of our mathematical model that maximizes construction throughput. Specifically, our research assumes that the equipment failure time is characterized by a Weibull distribution, which has been justified by a chi-square goodness-of-fit test. A failure probability-work time equation is also used to characterize the relationship between the equipment failure probability and mean time to work. Furthermore, our model considers multiple types of equipment, and each is capable of doing different jobs. The model is confined by the relationship equations, initial conditions, and constraint conditions. Then, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique is applied to search for the optimal solution of the DEAP. Finally, the Shuibuya Hydropower Project was used as a real-world example to demonstrate the practicality and efficiency of the optimization method.