Simulation model incorporating genetic algorithms for optimal temporary hoist planning in high-rise building construction

Abstract

Temporary hoist planning is a key factor for successful project completion in a high-rise building construction. Inadequate plans for hoists in the early stages of a project can cause problems such as failing to hoist resources as required or leaving hoists idle. There are two existing approaches, simple formulas and simulation techniques, for planning temporary hoists. However, simple formulas cannot treat hoist arrangements consisting of different kinds of hoists, while the simulation technique is both time-consuming and tedious when there are many alternatives. In this study, a discrete-event simulation model incorporating genetic algorithms is proposed to support hoist planners while preparing optimal plans with minimal time and effort for high-rise building construction. To verify the applicability of the proposed model, it was applied to a real project and gave better results than a previous approach to temporary hoist planning. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.