A new approach for optimizing earth-moving operations. Part 2

Part I of this Paper describes the development of a comprehensive model (RESOM) achieved by combining computer simula­tion and linear/integer programming (LP/IP) techniques. In Part II, the application and experi­mentation with RESOM is sytematically explained using two case studies. The first case study reveals that about 20% of earthworks costs estimated by contrac­tors could be saved through the applica­tion of RESOM. The advanced use of RESOM is illustrated using a second case study and involves the testing of different plant teams for individual haulage operations, the setting up of new borrow/disposal sites, the incorporation of project dura­tion constraints and the determination of the optimum construction plan for various optimality criteria. A sensitivity analysis performed to investigate the effect of average sectional interval and plant selection is also presented.