Linear construction planning model (LCPM): A new model for planning, and scheduling linear construction projects

Linear construction projects, such as highways and pipelines, consist of a small number of repetitive activities that move continuously from one end of the project to the other end. There are several planning and scheduling methods that can be used on linear construction projects. Unfortunately, each one by itself is unable to adequately resolve the planning and scheduling needs of linear construction projects. Therefore, this research had two objectives. The first research objective was to develop a deterministic resource-based planning and scheduling model that is customized to linear construction projects. The second research objective was to incorporate the variability in crew production rate estimate into the planning model. The Linear Construction Planning Model (LCPM) was developed both deterministically and probabilistically. The new model is resource-based. The linear models' graphical format is used to present the schedule. This helps the end user visualize the construction process. The new LCPM model has the numerical capabilities of network models. Some of the numerical data that can be generated by the new model include activity start and finish times, crew active and idle times, production information, resource usage, activity logic network, and production rate floats. The new model allows scheduling both discrete and linear activities. The model also solves the problem of production rate imbalance. The new probabilistic model is based on the deterministic LCPM and Monte Carlo simulation. The new model also allows the scheduler to input the production rate data as a probability distribution. Finally, the new model allows the scheduler to determine the probability that the project will finish within a certain time period. In order to facilitate the use of these models, a prototype computer software based on the new model was developed. The main element in the software is a database that contains relevant project information. Planning and scheduling algorithms were also developed to perform the calculations. These algorithms are included in the dissertation. The new model was validated through an actual experiment. The experiment included a model linear construction project that has five linear activities. Five crews were used to implement the experiment. Project duration, predicted form model, and the mean project duration, from experiment, were statistically equal.