Genetic Algorithm–Simulation Framework for Decision Making in Construction Site Layout Planning

Abstract

Site layout planning is a complicated task in many construction projects due to the diversity of decision variables, conflicting objectives, and the variety of possible solutions. This paper describes a framework that facilitates decision making on site layout planning problems. The framework consists of three phases: 1) Functionality Evaluation Phase (FEP), which qualitatively evaluates using a new method, 2) Cost Evaluation Phase (CEP), which quantitatively evaluates the goodness of the layouts using simulation, and 3) Value Evaluation Phase (VEP), which selects the most desirable layout from both qualitative and quantitative aspects. This framework also takes advantage of heuristic optimization through Genetic Algorithm (GA) to search for the most qualified layouts within FEP. The main contribution of this research is to introduce a novel method for evaluating quality of layouts, which more realistically model the closeness constraints, and consider size and location desirability in the evaluating function. Also, using simulation for estimating project cost improves the effectiveness of the framework in practice, since simulation can model construction processes, uncertainties, resources and dynamic interactions between various parameters. Applicability of the framework is demonstrated through a case study of the layout planning of a tunneling project.

Optimizing Site Layout Planning Utilizing Building Information Modelling

“…The factors like safety are addressed in layout optimization in both ways [20]. To address the objectives in an efficient manner that were unaddressed due to the uncertainties involved were approached through the simulation technique integrated with optimization [22]. A few BIM based approaches for layout optimization of the construction site are also evident in the studies of recent past.…”

Adoption of Virtual Reality (VR) for Site Layout Optimization of Construction Projects

“…Planning the site layout of construction projects is a critical task that can significantly affect productivity and efficiency, and hence, the success of the project [2]. Site layout planning is a complex task in the majority of construction projects because of the diversity of decision variables, including but not limited to identification, sizing placing, and coordination of temporary facilities, plants, materials, and people within the boundaries of a construction site [3]. However, due to the heterogeneity of construction activities, that is in the nature of its organisation -project design, time constraints, work areas, environmental conditions, and facility locations, etc.…”

Analytic Network Process-Based Multi-Criteria Decision Approach and Sensitivity Analysis for Temporary Facility Layout Planning in Construction Projects

“…Generally, the construction site layout planning problem is to identify the number and size of temporary facilities to be laid out, and the spatial constraints between different facilities. The relative positions and relationships among the facilities are analyzed to construct the project effectively and efficiently [11][12][13][14]. To improve the ability for temporary facility layout planning, a number of research studies were conducted.…”

“…To improve the ability for temporary facility layout planning, a number of research studies were conducted. Different approaches and tools were applied to site layout planning, which mainly include: simulation methods, knowledge-based approaches, genetic algorithms, GIS and other optimization methods [5,14,15]. For example, EI-Rayes and Khalafallah [8] developed an expanded site layout planning model in order to maximize construction safety and minimize the travel cost of multiple resources in construction using multi-objective genetic algorithms.…”