Dynamic facilities planning model for large scale construction projects

Due to the ever-increasing complexity of construction site layouts, dynamic facilities allocation is proposed in this paper to account for planning changes throughout the construction process. A grid layout model is proposed to accommodate safety as a design parameter beside cost using a grid system for layout design based on the safety proximity level between facilities. This model is prepared using the Site Blocks Algorithm, a MATLAB computer code developed to account for travel distances of labourers and equipment. Then a Binary Integer Linear Programming Model is developed to optimise the site layout considering availability, overlapping, setup, dismantling, prohibited regions and relocation constraints. The model is validated by applying it on a large-scale construction project consisting of 25 twin buildings over an area of 500,000 m(2). Using dynamic allocation over three planning stages, a 20.68% reduction in total layout cost - consisting of cost of transportation, dismantling, setup and relocation of facilities - is accomplished.