CAREER: Distributed Multi-Objective Optimization for the Construction of Large-Scale Transportation Systems

摘要：大型交通运输系统建设的分布式多目标优化最近基于绩效的承包方法在交通运输系统建设中的应用给建筑行业的决策者提出了新的严峻挑战，要求：(1)优化施工资源的利用，以满足多个和相互冲突的合同目标；(2)解决大规模施工优化问题；(3)在动态施工环境中保持所制定计划的最优性。这个职业项目使用一个综合的研究和教育计划来解决这些新的和关键的挑战。该研究计划的重点是开发一个创新的信息技术框架，以优化交通系统资源的建设利用，称为IT-Focus。IT-Focus的主要研究目标是：(A)开发稳健的多目标优化模型；(B)制定可扩展的方法来解决大规模优化问题；以及(C)探索动态框架，以便随时随地根据需要修改最优计划。该教育计划促进了建筑工程和管理专业的优化和信息技术教育。这项计划的主要目标是：(A)将研究发展纳入新的和现有的课程；(B)将信息技术作为一种有效的教育工具；(C)扩大学生咨询和辅导活动；(E)增加来自代表性不足群体的学生的参与；以及(F)向建筑工程界传播研究成果。综合研究和教育计划对建筑工程研究、建筑教育和社会产生了广泛的影响。首先，这些研究进展对分布式多目标施工资源优化具有很强的促进作用。第二，教育活动将加强本科生和研究生的结构优化和信息技术教育。第三，优化交通系统建设资源利用的社会效益包括：提高交通系统公共支出的成本效益，加快老化交通设施的振兴，最大限度地减少与建设相关的服务中断，提高建设质量和安全，减少建设对环境的负面影响。

Abstract - CAREER: Distributed Multi-Objective Optimization for the Construction of Large-Scale Transportation Systems Recent applications of performance-based contracting methods in the construction of transportation systems present decision makers in the construction industry with new and serious challenges that require: (1) optimizing the utilization of construction resources to satisfy multiple and conflicting contractual objectives; (2) solving large-scale construction optimization problems; and (3) maintaining optimality for the developed plans in a dynamic construction environment. This CAREER project addresses these new and vital challenges using an integrated research and education plan. The research plan focuses on the development of an innovative Information Technology Framework for Optimizing Construction Utilization of Resources in Transportation Systems, named IT-FOCUS. The main research objectives of IT-FOCUS are to: (a) develop robust multi-objective optimization models; (b) formulate scalable methodologies for solving large-scale optimization problems; and (c) explore dynamic frameworks for revising optimal plans whenever and wherever needed. The education plan promotes the education of optimization and information technology in construction engineering and management. The main objectives of this plan are to: (a) incorporate research developments into new and existing courses; (b) use IT-FOCUS as an effective educational tool; (c) expand student advising and mentoring activities; (e) increase participation of students from underrepresented groups; and (f) disseminate research findings to the construction engineering community. The integrated research and education plan provides promising broad impacts on construction engineering research, construction education, and society. First, the research developments have strong potential to advance knowledge in distributed multi-objective optimization of construction resources. Second, the educational activities will enhance the education of construction optimization and IT for undergraduate and graduate students. Third, the societal benefits of optimizing the utilization of construction resources in transportation systems include: improving cost effectiveness of public expenditures on these systems, accelerating the revitalization of aging transportation facilities, minimizing construction-related service disruptions, improving construction quality and safety, and reducing negative impacts of construction on the environment.