Simulation-based lift planning model for the lift transfer operation system

Producing adequate lift plans for a transfer operation system (TOS) used in irregularly shaped high-rise building constructions is a more complex task than for an all-floor lift operation system. In the TOS, a resource whose destination floor is higher than the current zone must transfer to one of the lifts of the upper zone at the transfer area after passing through the current zone. This transfer process requires waiting time at the transfer area, which is repeated until the resource arrives at its destination floor. However, the current lift planning method for the TOS considers each zone to be completely independent, which underestimates the required number of lifts and results in the late delivery of resources to the work floors. Therefore, this study proposes a simulation-based lift planning model for the TOS. The proposed model helps a lift planner to find an optimal lift plan for the TOS with the lowest cost while satisfying the constraints of the total lifting time and average journey time within a short planning time. Furthermore, the proposed model contributes to successful project completion by transporting resources to work floors in a timely manner.