Graph theory application to the layout of cable-carrying structures

This paper presents a web application tool for the efficient routing and sizing of cable trays and other cable-supporting structures, with the aim of finding concrete and quasi-optimal solutions to a highly dynamic and complex problem. This paper covers the development of the application, focusing on two large problems: the routing of cable trays, and their respective physical simulation. The core of the tool lies on pathfinding algorithms based on graph theory. A discussion on how to adjust them considering the applying constraints regarding real-life scenarios to produce practical solutions is described. The exploration of heuristic functions to achieve these solutions is commented as well. The application is developed in JavaScript, utilizing various frameworks such as Next.js for object rendering and interfaces, and the D3.js library for data processing, visualizations, and simulations.