Scheduling of linear projects with single loop structures

Abstract

In the last decade, a number of linear scheduling methods based on the theories of linear and dynamic programming were developed for the scheduling of linear projects. However, these methods are only suitable for the scheduling of serial linear projects (i.e. sequential activities). In this paper, a nonserial dynamic programming formulation for the scheduling and control of linear projects that involve single loop structures is presented. The objective is to provide for the selection of crew formations, interruptions, and lags for the production activities that result in the minimum project duration. The advantage of this nonserial dynamic programming approach is its ability to handle both serial and nonserial linear projects with variable crew formations and work interruptions. In addition, the system presented produces a graphical representation of the project schedule of minimum duration and updates the original schedule based on current information supplied by the user. A numerical example is included to illustrate the input and output of the system presented.