Particle Swarm Optimization-Supported Simulation for Construction Operations

Abstract

This study proposes an integration of particle swarm optimization (PSO) and a construction simulation so as to determine efficiently the optimal resource combination for a construction operation. The particle-flying mechanism is utilized to guide the search process for the PSO-supported simulation optimization. A statistics method, i.e., multiple-comparison procedure, is adopted to compare the random output performances resulting from the stochastic simulation model so as to rank the alternatives (i.e., particle-represented resource combinations) during the search process. The indifference zone and confidence interval facilitate consideration of the secondary performance measure (e.g., productivity) when the main performance measures (e.g., cost) of the competing alternatives are close. The experimental analyses demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed simulation optimization. The study aims to providing an alternative combination of optimization methodology and general construction simulation by utilizing PSO and a statistics method so as to improve the efficiency of simulation in planning construction operations.