Optimized Scheduling of Linear Projects
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 129, Issue 6
Abstract
This paper presents a model, designed to optimize scheduling of linear projects. The model employs a two-state-variable, N-stage, dynamic programming formulation, coupled with a set of heuristic rules. The model is resource-driven, and incorporates both repetitive and nonrepetitive activities in the optimization process to generate practical and near-optimal schedules. The model optimizes either project construction duration, total cost, or their combined impact for what is known as cost-plus-time bidding, also referred to as A+B bidding. The model has a number of interesting and practical features. It supports multiple crews to work simultaneously on any activity, while accounting for: (1) multiple successors and predecessors with specified lead and lag times; (2) the impact of transverse obstructions, such as rivers and creeks, on crew assignments and associated time and cost; (3) the effect of inclement weather and learning curve on crew productivity; and (4) variations in quantities of work in repetitive activities from one unit to another. The model is implemented in a prototype software that operates in Windows® environment. It is developed utilizing object-oriented programming, and provides for automated data entry. Several graphical and tabular output reports can be generated. An example project, drawn from the literature, is analyzed to demonstrate the features of the developed model.
Get full access to this article
View all available purchase options and get full access to this article.
References
Adeli, H., and Karim, A.(1997). “Scheduling/cost optimization and neural dynamics model for construction.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 123(4), 450–458.
Eldin, N., and Senouci, A.(1994). “Scheduling and control of linear projects.” Can. J. Civ. Eng., 21, 219–230.
El-Rayes, K., and Moselhi, O.(1998). “Resource-driven scheduling of repetitive activities.” J. Constr. Manage. Econ., 16(4), 433–446.
El-Rayes, K., and Moselhi, O.(2001). “Optimizing resource utilization for repetitive construction projects.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 127(1), 18–27.
Handa, V., and Barcia, R.(1986). “Linear scheduling using optimal control theory.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 112(3), 387–393.
Harmelink, D.(2001). “Linear scheduling model: Float characteristics.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 127(4), 255–260.
Harris, F., and Evans, J.(1977). “Road construction—Simulation game for site managers.” J. Constr. Div., Am. Soc. Civ. Eng., 103(3), 405–414.
Hassanein, A., and Moselhi, O. (2001). “Automated planning and scheduling of highway construction.” Proc., 4th Construction Specialty Conf., Canadian Society for Civil Engineering, Victoria B.C., Canada, C-20.
Hegazy, T., and Wassef, N.(2001). “Cost optimization in projects with repetitive nonserial activities.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 127(3), 183–191.
Herbsman, Z.(1995). “A+B bidding method—Hidden success story for highway construction.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 121(4), 430–437.
Johnston, D.(1981). “Linear scheduling method for highway construction.” J. Constr. Div., Am. Soc. Civ. Eng., 107(2), 247–261.
Leu, S., and Hwang, S.(2001). “Optimal repetitive scheduling model with shareable resource constraint.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 127(4), 270–280.
Moselhi, O., and El-Rayes, K.(1993). “Scheduling of repetitive projects with cost optimization.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 119(4), 681–697.
O’Brien, J.(1975). “VPM scheduling for high-rise buildings.” J. Constr. Div., Am. Soc. Civ. Eng., 101(4), 895–905.
Reda, R.(1990). “RPM: Repetitive project modeling.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 116(2), 316–330.
Russell, A., and Caselton, W.(1988). “Extensions to linear scheduling optimization.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 114(1), 36–52.
Russell, A., and Wong, W.(1993). “New generation of planning structures.” J. Constr. Eng. Manage., 119(2), 196–214.
Selinger, S.(1980). “Construction planning for linear projects.” J. Constr. Div., Am. Soc. Civ. Eng., 106(2), 195–205.
Stradal, O., and Cacha, J.(1982). “Time space scheduling method.” J. Constr. Div., Am. Soc. Civ. Eng., 108(3), 445–457.
Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Copyright
Copyright © 2003 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Feb 28, 2002
Accepted: Aug 23, 2002
Published online: Nov 14, 2003
Published in print: Dec 2003
Authors
Metrics & Citations
Metrics
Citations
Download citation
If you have the appropriate software installed, you can download article citation data to the citation manager of your choice. Simply select your manager software from the list below and click Download.