Dynamic Fleet Configuration Model for Optimizing Earthmoving Operations Using Mixed Integer Linear Programming

Abstract

Practitioners in construction management primarily focus on two key indicators of project success: total cost and completion time. Heavy equipment and machinery play pivotal role in determining these measures, representing significant cost elements in various heavy construction projects such as road construction. Consequently, there is a pressing need for an efficient approach to determining the optimal scheduling of these heavy resources to minimize costs and shorten completion times. This paper proposes an innovative approach to address this challenge by introducing a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model. The aim is to identify the optimal configuration for heavy equipment in earthmoving operations. The dynamic nature of the configuration process is adopted, enabling daily updates to the schedule based on the contractor’s available resources. Moreover, environmental considerations are integrated into the decision-making process, ensuring a comprehensive approach to project optimization. To demonstrate the superiority of the developed model, three case projects from the literature have been solved. The proposed model led to a significant improvement in project cost, with an average enhancement of 25%, and in completion time, with an average improvement of 50% compared with the literature case studies. This paper presents a novel MILP model designed to optimize earthmoving operations, focusing on dynamic fleet configurations and emission costs. Unlike existing models, this approach provides daily fleet setups for multiple cut and fill sites, considering the contractor’s available resources. It calculates optimal soil quantities to be moved, monitors soil levels at sites, and estimates daily trips between them. In the realm of project bidding and management, this model offers valuable insights and practical applications. It empowers project managers with a robust tool for optimizing fleet configurations during bid preparation, enabling contractors to determine the most cost-effective and time-efficient setups, enhancing their competitiveness. Moreover, the model facilitates the assessment of different parameters’ impacts, such as resource additions or equipment upgrades, on project cost and completion time. This dynamic approach enables contractors to make informed decisions during project execution, ensuring projects remain on track and within budget. Additionally, by considering emission costs, the model aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability in construction projects. Optimizing fleet configurations to minimize emissions not only reduces environmental impact but also helps contractors comply with stringent regulations and meet client demands for eco-friendly practices.