An algorithm for the calculation of feasible mobile crane position areas

Optimal locations of mobile cranes in a construction site amongst known obstructions and boundary limits taking into account dimensions of the cranes, are evaluated and calculated on a construction site plot plan. A general algorithm has been developed to determine the workspace area in the construction site by preselecting data input satisfying the required crane-fitting distance and by calculating the crane body area to a given clearance distance. For each lifted object, the crane minimum and maximum radii based on capacity are overlaid on this work area to produce the feasible mobile crane position area. This is the first function of an automated crane selection and positioning program that runs independent of a CAD (computer aided design) system. The algorithm is implanted in the industry partnerʹs crane application and a case study is presented demonstrating the benefit of the algorithm.