Fang, Y and Ng, S T (2019) Genetic algorithm for determining the construction logistics of precast components. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 26(10), pp. 2289-2306. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose: Precast construction has become increasingly popular in the construction industry. Nonetheless, the logistics of construction materials has been a neglected topic, and this neglect has resulted in delays and cost overruns. Careful planning that considers all of the factors affecting construction logistics can ensure project success. The purpose of this paper is to examine the potential for using genetic algorithms (GAs) to derive logistics plans for materials production, supply and consumption. Design/methodology/approach: The proposed GA model is based on the logistics of precast components from the supplier’s production yard, to the intermediate warehouse and then to the construction site. Using an activity-based costing (ABC) approach, the model not only considers the project schedule, but also takes into account the production and delivery schedule and storage of materials. Findings: The results show that GAs are suitable for solving time-cost trade-off problems. The optimization process helps to identify the activity start time during construction and the delivery frequency that will result in the minimal cost. What-if scenarios can be introduced to examine the effects of changes in construction logistics on project outcomes. Originality/value: This paper presents a method for using GAs and an ABC approach to support construction logistics planning decisions. It will help construction planners and materials suppliers to establish material consumption and delivery schedules, rather than relying on subjective judgment.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | construction logistics; genetic algorithm; logistic cost; precast component |
| Index terms: | construction site, genetic algorithm, consumption, methodology, construction planner, cost overrun, project outcome, project success, judgment, construction industry, costing, time-cost trade-off, construction material, construction logistics |
| Subjects: | project management theory and practice, quantity surveying, algorithms, research methods, accounting and finance, industry analysis, construction logistics, consumer economics, dispute resolution, practitioner, project completion, financial and cost management, work location, building materials |
| Topics: | Site Management, Legal Issues, Digital Applications, Supply Chain Management, Risk Management, Roles and Professions, Stakeholder Management, Cost Management, Research Practice, Project Management, Engineering Principles |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCT |
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