A linear-discrete scheduling model for the resource-constrained project scheduling problem

For some specific types of construction projects, the classical CPM or PDM scheduling techniques are not the most suitable. Few specific scheduling approaches have been developed to cope with construction projects that are made of either repetitive activities or activities with linear developments. But real-world construction projects do not consist only of such activities. They are generally made of a mixture of linear and/or repetitive activities and of more conventional activities. To allow this, the linear scheduling problem is reformulated, so classical schedule calculation approaches can be used. The implementation of some Allen's algebra features to avoid adverse discontinuities and to allow crew/work continuity, together with a resource-driven and space-constrained scheduling are among the key features of the proposed approach. It is also a spin-off of off-the-field practices used for scheduling real projects in the particle accelerator construction domain; an excerpt from such a construction project is provided for illustrating the methodology.