A genetic algorithm-based optimal resource-constrained scheduling simulation model

Abstract

Resources for construction activities are limited in the real construction world so that scheduling must include resource allocation. Furthermore, activity duration is uncertain due to the variation in the outside environment, such as resource availabilities, weather, space congestion, etc. A new optimal resource-constrained construction scheduling simulation model is proposed in this paper, in which the effects of both uncertain activity duration and resource constraints are taken into account. Probability distribution is used to model the uncertainties of activity duration. An optimal schedule simulation model is then established in which a genetic algorithm-based search technique is adopted to search for the probabilistic optimal project duration under resource constraints. The model can effectively provide the optimal averaged project duration, cumulative project completion probabilities and the impact of influence factors on the probabilistic resource-constrained scheduling problem.