Framework for the Optimization of Flying Shuttering Bridges: A Hybrid Graph Theory and Simulation Approach

Bridge construction is considered as one of the major industries which reflect remarkable human evolution and creativity. Flying Shuttering is considered one of the robust techniques for a bridge’s deck construction because of its speedy construction feature. This paper presents a framework to help clients and consultants to make sound decisions regarding the selection of an optimized construction methodology in order to obtain better time and resource utilization. An intelligent framework with advanced computational tools and algorithms was designed to simulate and optimize bridge construction sequences for Flying Shuttering Construction Method, in order to obtain an optimized construction duration and resource utilization. It retrieves bridge elements geometric and topological information and maps them into the Bridge Elemental Graph Data Model (EGDM). By assigning the elemental construction method for each bridge element, the Bridge Elemental Construction Method Graph (ECMG) is formed. By searching the Bridge ECMG, possible Bridge construction sequences are retrieved, which are, then, simulated using a set of resource combinations in order to obtain the optimal Bridge Construction Sequence and, hence, recommend the Optimal Construction Method along with the Construction Schedule & Resources Utilization.