BIM-based resource trade-off in dam project scheduling using Atomic Orbital Search (AOS) algorithm

Dam construction projects are considered complicated, large, and heavy projects throughout the world, requiring a high number of workers, stakeholders, equipment, cost, and time. Hence, their resource management and trade-off are one of the most important tasks for project managers and schedulers. Concerning the Building Information Modeling (BIM) method and metaheuristic algorithm, this study proposes a framework for resource trade-offs in dam construction project scheduling. Atomic Orbital Search (AOS) is employed as a newly developed metaheuristic algorithm based on quantum mechanics principles. First, a 3D model of the dam construction project is modeled using the BIM process and project management software. Regarding the minimization of time, cost, risk, and maximum quality, an optimization problem is formed, and the AOS’s capacity to solve this issue is assessed, and its outcomes are compared with different four metaheuristic algorithms. Meanwhile, all optimization processes were carried out. To identify the statistical measures considering a predetermined stopping condition, 30 separate optimization runs are carried out. The outcomes show that the AOS algorithm can deliver competitive and exceptional results when handling trade-offs between various resource alternatives in dam construction. Consequently, project managers can use the AOS optimization algorithm in their large and intricate construction projects in dealing with resource trade-off problems.