Liu, C and Lu, M (2015) Optimizing earthmoving job planning based on evaluation of temporary haul road networks design for mass earthworks projects. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 141(3), ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
As a critical component of planning mass earthworks projects, designing effective haul road networks is conducive to delivering the project on time and under budget. The research reported in this paper proposes a grid-based temporary road network design method applicable to a site for which grading design has been completed. Further adding to the existing body of knowledge, a quantitative methodology is proposed for optimizing the detailed planning of earthmoving jobs based on a particular temporary haul road network design. Each job is defined in terms of the source cell, the destination cell, the earth volume, and the shortest-hauling-time path between source and destination. Through seamless integration of the Floyd-Warshall algorithm and linear programming model, the shortest average haul time for a truckload can be obtained while automatically fulfilling site grading design specifications. Based on the resulting average haul time, cost equations are defined to account for (1) the direct truck-hauling crew cost; and (2) building, maintenance, and removal costs of temporary haul roads. As such, the cost associated with executing the optimized earthmoving job plan over a particular haul road network design can be readily assessed, making it straightforward for project managers to compare alternatives. The proposed methodology is demonstrated in steps using a numerical example and further applied in a case study based on a real-world project in northern Alberta.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | analytical techniques; earthmoving; optimization; planning; project planning and design |
| Index terms: | earthmoving, design method, linear programming, case study, project manager, project planning, body of knowledge, integration, design specification, methodology, earthwork |
| Subjects: | research methods, algorithms, design practice, organizational analysis, data collection methods, profession, design methods, control systems, construction methods, knowledge management, construction operations |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Project Management, Engineering Principles, Information Management, Roles and Professions, Design Practice, Digital Applications, Organizational Design, Site Management |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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