Optimizing vertical logistics in multi-story construction: A rolling simulation-optimization framework for workflow-dependent elevator scheduling

Abstract

Vertical logistics is widely recognized as a critical bottleneck in multi-story construction, yet existing elevator scheduling approaches typically operate reactively without considering inter-trade workflow dependencies. This study proposes a rolling simulation–optimization framework specifically for robot-driven interior renovation logistics, in which autonomous construction and delivery robots generate workflow-dependent transport requests under strict task precedence. Within each rolling time window, a deterministic look-ahead simulation forecasts near-term requests based on the current workflow state, and a customized Pickup and Delivery Problem (PDP) formulation generates a coordinated hoist schedule. The framework is evaluated through a discrete-event simulation of a ten-story robot-led interior finishing project with two elevators serving three concurrent trades (plastering, puttying, and painting). Compared with the best-performing baseline in our previous study, the proposed method reduces bottleneck-induced delays by approximately 31% and lowers average construction-agent idle time due to material waiting by 11%. These results demonstrate the potential of proactive, workflow-dependent elevator scheduling in the tested robot-led renovation setting.

Keywords

lean construction / rolling optimization / workflow-dependent elevator scheduling / pickup and delivery problem / just-in-time delivery

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Higher Education Press 2026

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