Skip to main content

Advanced Constraints

Overview​

Learn to configure complex constraints for real-world scheduling scenarios.

Purpose​

Handle sophisticated scheduling requirements.

Prerequisites​

  • Completed first schedule tutorial
  • Understanding of basic constraints

Step-by-step Guide​

Time-Based Constraints​

No Early Morning Classes​

{
  "type": "time",
  "rule": "no-classes-before",
  "time": "09:00",
  "appliesTo": "all"
}

Lunch Break Protection​

{
  "type": "time",
  "rule": "no-classes-during",
  "start": "12:00",
  "end": "13:00",
  "appliesTo": "all"
}

Room-Based Constraints​

Equipment Requirements​

{
  "type": "room",
  "rule": "require-equipment",
  "courseType": "lab",
  "equipment": ["computers", "projector"]
}

Capacity Constraints​

{
  "type": "room",
  "rule": "minimum-capacity",
  "courseType": "lecture",
  "factor": 1.2
}

Instructor-Based Constraints​

Maximum Weekly Hours​

{
  "type": "instructor",
  "rule": "max-hours-per-week",
  "hours": 18
}

Preferred Time Slots​

{
  "type": "instructor",
  "rule": "prefer-time-slot",
  "days": ["Monday", "Wednesday"],
  "start": "10:00",
  "end": "14:00"
}

Group-Based Constraints​

Sequential Courses​

{
  "type": "group",
  "rule": "sequential",
  "courses": ["MATH101", "MATH102"],
  "minGap": "1 day"
}

Best Practices​

  • Document each constraint's purpose
  • Test constraints individually
  • Use constraint groups for related rules
  • Monitor solver performance

Common Mistakes​

  • Creating contradictory constraints
  • Not testing constraint combinations
  • Over-constraining the solver