Optimizing the utilization of shareable equipment in multiple shifts for construction projects

Abstract

Construction equipment is often shared among many construction projects. In a real construction project, supply of this critical equipment is often limited, which often generates negative impacts on project performance. Multiple shifts are very effective and efficient for achieving schedule acceleration while resolving resource conflicts among project activities for shareable equipment. This paper presents a novel multiple-equipment shift-scheduling model that is capable of optimizing the utilization of critical and shareable construction equipment in multiple shifts for construction projects. The model is designed to help construction planners identify and generate optimal shift work plans and schedules that can simultaneously minimize the project duration and total shareable equipment utilization cost while complying with all of the availability constraints. An example is analyzed to illustrate the use of the present model and demonstrate its new and unique capabilities in optimizing equipment utilization in multiple shifts for construction projects.