Mass-haul diagrams and experienced engineering judgement, together with deterministic methods, have been the key factors in planning and estimating earth moving operations. Although, simulation and linear/integer programming (LP/IP) models have been developed to overcome some of the limitations of these methods, those available hitherto are relatively fundamental. This Paper describes a comprehensive model produced by a combination of the above techniques in order to optimize the entire earthmoving system. The model has three stages: simulation, to provide realistic unit costs and production rates using balanced plant teams; LP/IP optimization, to provide optimum material distribution incorporating constraints such as project duration, plant availability, sequence of operations and so forth; and network scheduling providing a construction plan. The potential of the model is demonstrated in a separate paper (Part II), which outlines its application in two case studies. These demonstrate possible cost savings, minimum project completion time, the cheapest project cost and the corresponding earth moving plans achievable with the resources available.
展开▼
