An optimization model for just-in-time (JIT) delivery of precast components considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time

Mao, W; Ran, K; Wang, T K; Yu, A; Lv, H and Chen, J H (2025) An optimization model for just-in-time (JIT) delivery of precast components considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 32(5), pp. 3259-3284. ISSN 0969-9988

Abstract

Purpose: Although extensive research has been conducted on precast production, irregular component loading constraints have received little attention, resulting in limitations for transportation cost optimization. Traditional irregular component loading methods are based on past performance, which frequently wastes vehicle space. Additionally, real-time road conditions, precast component assembly times, and delivery vehicle waiting times due to equipment constraints at the construction site affect transportation time and overall transportation costs. Therefore, this paper aims to provide an optimization model for Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery of precast components considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time. Design/methodology/approach: In order to propose a JIT (just-in-time) delivery optimization model, the effects of the sizes of irregular precast components, the assembly time, and the loading methods are considered in the 3D loading constraint model. In addition, for JIT delivery, incorporating real-time road conditions in the transportation process is essential to mitigate delays in the delivery of precast components. The 3D precast component loading problem is solved by using a hybrid genetic algorithm which mixes the genetic algorithm and the simulated annealing algorithm. Findings: A real case study was used to validate the JIT delivery optimization model. The results indicated this study contributes to the optimization of strategies for loading irregular precast components and the reduction of transportation costs by 5.38%. Originality/value: This study establishes a JIT delivery optimization model with the aim of reducing transportation costs by considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time. The irregular precast component is simplified into 3D bounding box and loaded with three-space division heuristic packing algorithm. In addition, the hybrid algorithm mixing the genetic algorithm and the simulated annealing algorithm is to solve the 3D container loading problem, which provides both global search capability and the ability to perform local searching. The JIT delivery optimization model can provide decision-makers with a more comprehensive and economical strategy for loading and transporting irregular precast components.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: 3D loading constraints; JIT delivery model; precast components; real-time road conditions
Index terms: loading, heuristic, case study, simulated annealing, just-in-time, methodology, strategy, construction site, genetic algorithm, cost optimization
Subjects: economics, management, data collection methods, risk assessment, work location, research methods, algorithms, lean logistics, construction operations
Topics: Risk Management, Supply Chain Management, Research Practice, Cost Management, Business Strategy, Site Management, Digital Applications
Descriptive scope: 5 PCTEA

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