Agent-based modeling and simulation of earthmoving operations

Simulation has been used in construction for many years, especially in operations of large scale, such as earth moving, where heavy and costly equipment is used. Simulation can be used as a preplanning tool to anticipate and control time and costs of earthmoving operations. This paper introduces Agent-Based Modeling and Simulation (ABMS) as an effective tool for modeling earthmoving operations. It summarizes the literature review on the application of different simulation techniques in construction and explains the methodology of developing an agent-based model of earthmoving operations. The mode l utilizes the Java programming language to prepare its functions and visual elements. It assists in plann ing earthmoving operations based on inputs related to the availability and quantity of different resources involved in these operations and the type of interaction between these resources. The movement of all resources, such as soil, trucks, loaders, and spotters will be displayed by the model. The advantage of using ABMS in earthmoving operations is the ability to create realistic models that capture almost all asp ects of the real-life operations and overcome many limitations of current simulation techniques. ABMS eliminates the need to make various assumptions when simulating or to model certain parts of the operat ion on different platforms using different techniques. It also does not sacrifice the visual representation of the model elements and performance.