Highway vertical alignment analysis by dynamic programming

Abstract

In this paper, an optimization program developed to produce an optimum vertical highway profile for a preselected horizontal alignment is described. The aim of the program was to provide local highway engineers and planners in Singapore with a practical aid for highway geometric design and location analysis. A dynamic programming formulation was adopted to minimize the overall cost, which includes earthwork, land acquisition, materials, and vehicle operating costs. The program's versatility allows it to model most of the cost items important in highway construction and can also be used to provide quick information on the effects of different geometric design parameters on project costs and to determine the relative importance of different cost categories. A real-life numerical example is presented to illustrate program application.