Bridge Information Modeling Research Articles

A NoSQL data management infrastructure for bridge monitoring

Advances in sensor technologies have led to the instrumentation of sensor networks for bridge monitoring and management. For a dense sensor network, enormous amount of sensor data are collected. The data need to be managed, processed, and interpreted. Data management issues are of prime importance for a bridge management system. This paper describes a data management infrastructure for bridge monitoring applications. Specifically, NoSQL database systems such as MongoDB and Apache Cassandra are employed to handle time-series data as well the unstructured bridge information model data. Standard XML-based modeling languages such as OpenBrIM and SensorML are adopted to manage semantically meaningful data and to support interoperability. Data interoperability and integration among different components of a bridge monitoring system that includes on-site computers, a central server, local computing platforms, and mobile devices are illustrated. The data management framework is demonstrated using the data collected from the wireless sensor network installed on the Telegraph Road Bridge, Monroe, MI.

橋梁点検・保守のための国際標準に基づく橋梁情報モデルとそのweb配信システム（第2報）

橋梁点検・保守のための国際標準に基づく橋梁情報モデルとそのweb配信システム（第2報）

Development of new system for detection of bridges construction defects using terrestrial laser remote sensing technology

There are probable damages and defects happening throughout structure execution or transport and consignment. Defect experience in construction is precious and remarkable. This research work is a trial to develop an easy system to accomplish the most common tasks in the process of detection and monitoring of the as-built structure. However, assessment programmes involved cannot sufficiently detect and deal with defects that happen at construction process, as they are based on measurements at particular positions and periods, and are not included into full electronic techniques. Therefore there is an important requirement to always observe the construction developments to keep away from major rework prices and interruptions. This research represents an automated advance to register laser remote sensing data of as-built model, with BrIM (Bridge Information Model) for a constructed bridge. An experimental work is carried out to confirm the planned method for monitoring the structural defects through a case study was implemented in the design and inspection data in the Jacques Cartier Bridge in Canada. The outcomes demonstrate that the existing technique can be employed to sense the defected elements or structure imprecision fast and accurately.

Bridge Information Modeling for Inspection and Evaluation

AbstractThis paper presents a method and prototype implementation for tracking and assessing the structural condition of bridges. The method uses building information modeling (BIM) software to link and analyze data related to the inspection, evaluation, and management of bridges. In the proposed method, an inspector uses a custom software add-in, developed by the authors, to capture information on damage type, amount, severity, and location gathered during bridge inspection. Next, a custom tool in Microsoft Excel evaluates the structural performance and provides load ratings of the inspected bridge. The proposed method was validated through field testing on a case study bridge. Findings from this study suggest that BIM can effectively facilitate the inspection and evaluation of bridges, which may, in the future, enable transportation agencies to more efficiently manage bridge inventories and lead to a more automated practice.

Uso de la metodología BRIM (Bridge Information Modeling) como herramienta para la planificación de la construcción de un puente de concreto en Colombia

<p>En este trabajo se presenta la experiencia del uso de metodologías innovadoras para la planificación de la construcción de un puente de concreto en Colombia. Fue aplicada la metodología BrIM (<em>Bridge Information Modeling</em>), con el objetivo de mejorar el rendimiento y desarrollo de la planificación constructiva de este tipo de estructura. La elaboración del proyecto se dividió en tres etapas: la construcción del modelo conceptual, la simulación del proceso constructivo, y la cuantificación de materiales y costos. La experiencia demuestra que la elaboración de modelos paramétricos se puede convertir en una herramienta valiosa para la planificación, diseño y construcción de puentes de diferentes tipologías. Sin embargo, es necesario tener bases estructuradas sobre el uso del <em>software</em> y experiencia en la representación y dibujo de los componentes del puente, con el fin de satisfacer las necesidades de la industria constructora, que son mejorar la calidad, reducir costos, dar herramientas para un control adecuado de la construcción y acortar los tiempos de diseño y producción.</p>

Integrating a fuzzy-logic decision support system with bridge information modelling and cost estimation at conceptual design stage of concrete box-girder bridges

Integrating 3D bridge information modelling (BrIM) with construction technologies had inspired many researchers for the past decade. In this study, research objectives are intended to demonstrate the viability of integrating a 3D computer-aided design (3D-CAD) model with a structural analysis application and bridge cost estimation framework without compromising interoperability matters. An integrated model that relates a fuzzy logic decision support system with cost estimation for concrete box-girder bridges is presented. Model development methodology comprises an integrated preliminary cost estimation system (IPCES), and complex quality functions and deployment of a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) approach. An actual case project is used to validate and illustrate model corresponding estimating capabilities. The proposed model is engineered to enhance existing techniques implemented by bridge stakeholders and designers to prepare cost estimates at the conceptual design stage by taking into consideration box-girder bridge project site preparations, substructure, and superstructure. The proposed model is anticipated to be of major significance to designers and its contribution resides into the integration of BrIM technologies with cost estimation approaches.

Implementing earned value management using bridge information modeling

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has widely become an effective tool in engineering and construction fields. It could be used in: generating shop drawings; detecting clashes; estimating quantities; and controlling documents. Applying BIM technology on bridges is named Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM). Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) is an intelligent representation of bridges since it contains all information needed about bridges through their whole lifecycle. This paper presents the use of Building Information Modeling in cost and time management of infrastructure bridges. BIM-based cost estimation application is presented which is capable to carry out approximate cost estimate; and detailed cost estimate. The application is designed in a flexible manner to be used with default values, or user defined values. Different performance measurement indexes are used in order to control the cost and schedule during execution phase of construction projects. This application integrates BIM with Earned Value (EV) concept to determine the project status at specific reporting date. A case study is presented to demonstrate the use of the developed modules.

Applications of bridge information modeling in bridges life cycle

The purpose of this paper is to present an Integrated Life Cycle Bridge Information Modeling that can be used throughout different phases of the bridge life cycle including: design, construction, and operation and maintenance phases. Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) has become an effective tool in bridge engineering and construction. It has been used in obtaining accurate shop drawings, cost estimation, and visualization. In this paper, BrIM is used as an integrated tool for bridges life cycle information modeling. In the design phase, BrIM model can be used in obtaining optimum construction methods and performing structural advanced analysis. During construction phase, the model selects the appropriate locations for mobile cranes, monitors the status of precast components, and controls documents. Whereas, it acts as a tool for bridge management system in operation and maintenance phase. The paper provides a detailed description for each use of BrIM model in design, construction, and operation and maintenance phases of bridges. It is proven that BrIM is an effective tool for bridge management systems throughout their life phases.

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

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.

Development of Alignment-Based Parametric Data Exchange Schema for Bridge Geometry

The benefits of using building information modeling to integrate the project delivery process by exchange of project data between industry stakeholders stimulate the bridge industry to develop bridge information modeling. However, the existing data exchange methods, formats, and standards that are used by the building industry cannot be directly borrowed and used “as is” for bridge projects. Bridge projects involve specific definitions of structural geometry (e.g., roadway alignment–driven bridge layout) or definitions of bridge member geometry that are not usually used in building projects (e.g., camber data for steel plate girders). These bridge-oriented geometries cannot be described by using current building-oriented data exchange formats. Because bridge geometry depends on the geometry of the roadway carried by the bridge, it is beneficial to define a bridge as a parametric model that can be manipulated by modifying a manageably small number of independent parameters (e.g., station and skew). However, the existing data exchange standards do not support the exchange of parametric geometry. To overcome these technical limitations, this paper presents a software-neutral schema for the exchange of alignment-driven bridge-oriented parametric geometry data using eXtensible Markup Language. The application of this formalism is then illustrated via three high-priority use cases that occur during the steel bridge life cycle.

IFC Property Set-based Approach for Generating Semantic Information of Steel Box Girder Bridge Components

본 연구는 강박스교의 기본계획 단계부터 실시설계 단계까지를 범위로 하여, Building Information Modeling (BIM)을 위한 데이터 모델인 Industry Foundation Classes (IFC)를 통해 구성요소의 의미정보를 생성할 수 있는 방안을 제시하였다. IFC기반의 의미정보 생성에 필요한 항목을 정의하기 위해 강박스교 구성요소의 설계 단계별 분류를 수행하였고, 이를 구성요소의 기능에 따른 물리적 표현요소와 위상에 따른 공간적 표현요소로 구분하여 IFC 프레임워크 내의 사용자 정의 속성집합을 활용하여 IFC에서 지원하지 않는 추가적인 항목을 생성하였다. 추가적으로 생성한 사용자 정의 속성의 유효성을 검토하기 위해 BIM 소프트웨어와 본 연구에서 개발한 강박스교 구성요소 의미정보 입력 인터페이스를 통해 IFC기반의 강박스교의 정보모델을 생성하였고, 이를 기반으로 하여 의미정보 질의를 통한 구성요소의 식별이 가능함을 확인하였다. 또한 IFC기반 강박스교 정보모델을 통해 구성부재의 수량 및 물량 산출을 수행하고, 설계도서를 통해 산출한 수량 및 물량 산출 결과 값과의 비교를 통해 본 연구에서 제안한 방법이 실제 업무에서도 활용할 수 있음을 확인하였다. This study ranges from planning phase to the detailed design phase of steel box girder bridge and proposes ways to generate semantic information of components through Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), a data model for Building Information Modeling (BIM). The classification of components of steel box girder bridge was performed to define information items required for identifying semantic information based on IFC, and spatial information items based on topology and physical information items based on functions of components were classified to create additional properties that does not support IFC by applying user-defined property set within the IFC framework. Steel box girder bridge information model based on IFC was implemented through BIM software and semantic information input interface, which was developed in this study to examine the effectiveness of the additionally created user-defined property. Furthermore, the quantity take-off of components was performed through information model of steel box girder bridge, and the applicability of the proposed method was tested by comparing the quantity take-off based on design document with the result.

Development of Concrete Bridge Data Schema for Interoperability

The advancement of key aspects of bridge information modeling for software interoperability and data exchange has attracted increasing interest from various stakeholders in the bridge industry. Potential benefits include reductions in project delivery time, errors, and cost. However, a lack of standardized data exchange protocols hinders the development and deployment of such modeling. This situation causes the still-all-too-fragmented bridge industry to waste a large amount of money each year. The research presented in this paper was motivated by the advantages of using interoperability to streamline the approaches used to deliver concrete bridge projects. Every bridge project requires frequent communication; without improved software interoperability, projects can become bogged down with requests for information. This paper develops, demonstrates, and implements key aspects of interoperable data schema protocols that can be used to facilitate the exchange of bridge information in the planning, design, detailing, fabrication, and construction phases of concrete bridge projects. These protocols will be public domain and software neutral with their implementation being considered in various bridge software applications.

A hybrid model for selecting location of mobile cranes in bridge construction projects

Mobile cranes are considered one of main equipment in bridge construction projects. Choosing the best locations for mobile cranes in bridge construction sites is an important task that must be done efficiently. This paper presents a hybrid model that integrates Genetic Algorithms and Bridge Information Modeling to choose the best locations of mobile cranes in bridges construction sites, taking into account different constraints related to: safety, clearance, existing site conditions, construction schedule, and duration of erecting structural members. The proposed model is novel since it explores more features of Bridge Information Modeling such as decision making including location of mobile cranes and less boom maneuvers.

Three-Dimensional Parametric Data Exchange for Curved Steel Bridges

Improved software interoperability is key to realizing more fully the potential benefits of integrated and accelerated project delivery in a way that also somehow ensures product quality. The increasing appeal of three-dimensional (3-D) building information modeling (BIM) notions applied to bridges [known as bridge information modeling (BrIM)] motivates the need for principled prescriptions of associated electronic data exchanges between various project stakeholders and the various software applications that they use. Such data exchanges must be sufficiently precise to facilitate detailing for fabrication and construction while being sufficiently concise to facilitate parametric modeling and thereby avoid needless data duplication. The highway geometry to which bridges must conform distinguishes BrIM from the building column grid orientation of BIM at the outset of the bridge life cycle. In contrast to the over defined highway geometry in the LandXML data exchange standard, a 3-D control curve is defined, presented, illustrated, and recommended as the basis for parametric data exchange suitable through the life cycle of steel I-girder bridges on (straight and) curved alignments. This 3-D control curve combines in a single curve the traditional horizontal control line and profile grade line that bridge structural engineers receive from highway designers to define bridge geometry. Data exchanges associated with three distinct stages in the life cycle of a steel bridge are defined and illustrated: analysis and design, detailing for fabrication, and erection and construction. The data exchange based on a 3-D control curve provides the data integrity required through the life cycle of a steel bridge.

Bridge information models for construction of a concrete box-girder bridge

Large construction projects involve collaboration among a large number of participants with different specialised knowledge from various construction processes. A readily accessible bridge information model is needed to enable engineers to innovate prefabricated bridge construction. Three-dimensional (3D) information models can include multi-layered information for different users such as designer, contractor and owner. A construction project life-cycle management system was suggested to integrate and to accumulate valuable information. In this paper, 3D bridge information models for an international concrete bridge construction project were built to integrate design and construction processes. The 3D bridge models were realised by considering work breakdown structure and product breakdown structure to enable digital mock-up and design enhancement and to shorten the learning time of construction engineers. The models were also utilised for the fabrication of precast box segments and for the geometry control during construction. Assessment from the construction director was discussed and additional usage of the bridge information models was suggested.

National guidelines for bridge information modeling and automation

Purpose National bridge information modeling guidelines have been developed in Finland at the behest of the Finnish Transport Agency. The aim was to set, for the first time, national standard of producing and utilizing 3D-information modeling and automation in bridge engineering in Finland. Method In the guidelines, the terminology of different main design phases of bridges and information models is introduced. More specific information model contents and technical guidelines are then determined. A comparison is made between the Finnish guidelines and the draft Norwegian modeling guidelines. Results & Discussion In Finland and Norway these guidelines aim to promote the use of 3D-modeling and automation in the infrastructure, including bridges, roads, and railways. There are many reasons why these types of guidelines are necessary for the industry. More international collaboration will be needed in the next development phase to arrive at comprehensive and useful guidelines and standards.

Full paper: National guidelines for bridge information modeling and automation

Full paper: National guidelines for bridge information modeling and automation

Applications of Building Information Modeling in Cost Estimation of Infrastructure Bridges

Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) is considered an innovation in bridge engineering and construction industry. This paper presents a methodology for using BrIM as an assisting tool in performing detailed cost estimates. The methodology depends on integrating visualization feature of BrIM with specific attributes of the BrIM model intelligent components. A program developed using C# language is used to extract the visualization conclusions and other components’ attributes to MS Excel spreadsheet. This sheet assists in performing detailed cost estimate, and reviewing the estimate. The paper also presents a methodology for generating cash flow and required payments. This methodology depends on integrating the developed program with 4D feature of BrIM.

Three-Dimensional Information Model-Based Bridge Engineering in Korea

Design, construction, and maintenance procedures require an integrated model that can provide an efficient collaboration environment. In this paper, three-dimensional (3D) bridge information models for bridge projects were developed to enable integrated and interoperable works throughout the life cycle of the bridge projects from planning to maintenance. In order to develop the model, object-based 3D models and neutral schema for interoperability were built for bridges considering work breakdown structures and product breakdown structures for different tasks. The constructed information models for the bridges were applied to cable-stayed bridge construction projects such as design check, structural analysis, automated estimation, four-dimensional (4D) scheduling, five-dimensional (5D) construction management, and digital mock-up. The developed information models and collaboration system can dramatically increase the productivity of the whole engineering process and reduce the risks in the project.

Integrated CAD System for Bridges Based on BrIM

The concept of BrIM (Bridge Information Modeling) is proposed and the technical features of BrIM are briefly described. A bridge CAD system based on BrIM concept is developed under the graphic platform of AutoCAD using ObjectARX. Data interface between 3D solid geometric database and each stage of bridge lifecycle is introduced. The essence of BrIM is realized that all informations including geometric data and non-geometric data are stored in the only knowledge database and all informations of bridges in different stages, such as design, construction and service, are obtained in the only database.