Optimising earth moving by linear programming and computer simulation

The accuracy of planning and estimating of earthmoving operations in any highway construction is important for both successful tendering and high profit margins. Mass-haul diagrams and experienced engineering judgement together with deterministic methods have been the key factors in planning and estimating earthmoving operations. Despite this, the limited use of Mass-haul diagrams and inaccuracy of deterministic estimates are well known. Although Stochastic and Linear Programming methods were developed to overcome some of these limitations, those available hitherto are relatively fundamental and are not bold enough to incorporate most real-life problems. [Continues.]