The State of the Art of Bridge Information Modelling from Conceptual Design through to Operation

Abstract

Bridge engineering involves many discrete stages throughout the life cycle of a bridge, within both the delivery phase of the infrastructure project and the subsequent operation and maintenance of the asset. Each stage comprises multiple complex processes by large project teams and relies on the efficient exchange of information throughout. Bridge information modelling is a form of 3-dimensional product modelling and involves many of the same processes used in building information modelling. It presents the opportunity for improvements in information flow throughout a bridge life cycle. Significant developments have been seen in the area of bridge information modelling over the last decade. By identifying a number of case studies, this paper reviews how bridge information modelling is being used on current international bridge projects from conceptual design, through preliminary and detailed design, to construction, operation, assessment and maintenance. A literature review is performed on recent relevant academic studies in the areas of bridge engineering, site surveying, building information modelling, and information exchange.