A* algorithm for GIS-based pipeline route selection in Veracruz, Mexico

This article presents the application of the A* algorithm for GIS-based pipeline route selection. The problem proposes finding the minimum cost route for an oil pipeline in a geographic space. A comparison of six heuristic functions within the A* algorithm, considering different topographical characteristics for route selection, is reported. Realistic problem instances and solved in the experimental evaluation, considering existing information of Veracruz, Mexico. Experimental results indicate that the Diagonal heuristic computed the best results for instances with high impact costs (29.5% in average) and the Manhattan and Chebyshev heuristics computed the best results for less restrictive instances (2.2% in average) and improved over a real-world pipeline design in the studied area. The proposed approach contributes with the design of alternative routes for linear facilities planning in the decision-making process.