A new approach for optimizing earth-moving operations. Part 1

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.