Determination of Critical Chain Project Buffers Based on Maximized Comprehensive Utility

To address uncertainties in schedule, cost, quality, and safety management during building mechanical and electrical engineering construction, this paper proposes a buffer setting method based on maximizing comprehensive utility. First, a multi-attribute utility function is constructed to integrate multiple objectives through normalization, determining the optimal utility time for different work processes. Subsequently, the root mean square variance method and aggregation principle are applied to concentrate safety time at the project’s tail, forming a project buffer. Finally, Monte Carlo simulation experiments compare the buffer results with traditional methods, validating the reliability and effectiveness of this approach in complex engineering environments. The results demonstrate that this method reduces construction costs while enhancing construction quality and safety. It significantly improves overall utility, minimizes fluctuations in actual project duration, and markedly reduces project uncertainty, providing valuable reference for similar engineering projects.