A Framework for Application of Genetic Algorithm in Productivity Optimization of Highway Equipments Using Evolver Software

Genetic algorithm is a tool to solve selection and optimization related problems. It is a heuristic search process which helps in optimizing productivity of highway equipments. This paper aims at developing an approach for optimizing productivity of hydraulic excavators and vibratory tandem steel drum rollers in highway projects using genetic algorithm. For analysis, EVOLVER 5.7add-in software of excel has been used. It has been observed that for hydraulic excavators, the difference between actual productivity on site and the productivity as computed through productivity equation is about 7.9 % and the difference between the computed productivity and the optimized productivity is about 7.8 %. For vibratory steel drum rollers, the total optimized productivity as given by EVOLVER 5.7 software is about is about 15.69 % higher than the computed productivity. Also, excavator Volvo EC 210 BLC, and roller L&T 1107D appear to be more feasible to be deployed in the project.