Bridge Information Modeling Research Articles

BIM-based mixed-reality application for bridge inspection and maintenance

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to develop a building information modelling (BIM)-based mixed reality (MR) application to enhance and facilitate the process of managing bridge inspection and maintenance works remotely from office. It aims to address the ineffective decision-making process on maintenance tasks from the conventional method which relies on documents and 2D drawings on visual inspection. This study targets two key issues: creating a BIM-based model for bridge inspection and maintenance; and developing this model in a MR platform based on Microsoft Hololens.Design/methodology/approachLiterature review is conducted to determine the limitation of MR technology in the construction industry and identify the gaps of integration of BIM and MR for bridge inspection works. A new framework for a greater adoption of integrated BIM and Hololens is proposed. It consists of a bridge information model for inspection and a newly-developed Hololens application named “HoloBridge”. This application contains the functional modules that allow users to check and update the progress of inspection and maintenance. The application has been implemented for an existing bridge in South Korea as the case study.FindingsThe results from pilot implementation show that the inspection information management can be enhanced because the inspection database can be systematically captured, stored and managed through BIM-based models. The inspection information in MR environment has been improved in interpretation, visualization and visual interpretation of 3D models because of intuitively interactive in real-time simulation.Originality/valueThe proposed framework through “HoloBridge” application explores the potential of integrating BIM and MR technology by using Hololens. It provides new possibilities for remote inspection of bridge conditions.

Integrating discrete event simulation and genetic algorithm optimization for bridge maintenance planning

To minimize agency and user costs in a bridge repair project, a bridge maintenance manager should develop an appropriate project schedule considering real-world constraints such as resource limitations (e.g., workspace and crew). This paper presents a new framework called Simulation-based Bridge Maintenance Optimization (SiBMO) by integrating Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Discrete Event Simulation (DES) to identify the optimum maintenance plan taking into account crew limitations. The framework optimizes the sequence of repair-activities in the repair interventions considering workspace limitations and predecessor relationships. SiBMO also develops a high-level schedule of the interventions regarding the project calendar and the Traffic Management Plan (TMP). The Bridge Information Model (BrIM) based user interface developed in this study visualizes the high-level schedule. The results of applying SiBMO on a real case study demonstrates its capability in finding the optimum maintenance plan, its efficiency in optimizing the high-level schedule, and its accuracy in estimating user costs.

A Decade of Modern Bridge Monitoring Using Terrestrial Laser Scanning: Review and Future Directions

Over the last decade, particular interest in using state-of-the-art emerging technologies for inspection, assessment, and management of civil infrastructures has remarkably increased. Advanced technologies, such as laser scanners, have become a suitable alternative for labor intensive, expensive, and unsafe traditional inspection and maintenance methods, which encourage the increasing use of this technology in construction industry, especially in bridges. This paper aims to provide a thorough mixed scientometric and state-of-the-art review on the application of terrestrial laser scanners (TLS) in bridge engineering and explore investigations and recommendations of researchers in this area. Following the review, more than 1500 research publications were collected, investigated and analyzed through a two-fold literature search published within the last decade from 2010 to 2020. Research trends, consisting of dominated sub-fields, co-occurrence of keywords, network of researchers and their institutions, along with the interaction of research networks, were quantitatively analyzed. Moreover, based on the collected papers, application of TLS in bridge engineering and asset management was reviewed according to four categories including (1) generation of 3D model, (2) quality inspection, (3) structural assessment, and (4) bridge information modeling (BrIM). Finally, the paper identifies the current research gaps, future directions obtained from the quantitative analysis, and in-depth discussions of the collected papers in this area.

BrDSS: A decision support system for bridge maintenance planning employing bridge information modeling

Effective bridge maintenance reduces bridge operation costs and extends its service life. The possibility of storing bridge life-cycle data in a 3D parametric model of the bridge through Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) provides new opportunities to enhance current practices of bridge maintenance management. This study develops a Decision Support System (DSS), namely BrDSS, which employs BrIM and an efficient optimization model for bridge maintenance planning. The BrIM model in BrDSS extracts basic data of elements required for the optimization process and visualizes the inspection data and the optimization results to the user to help in decision makings. In the optimization module of the DSS, the specifically formulated Genetic Algorithm (GA) eliminates the chances of producing infeasible solutions for faster convergence. The practicality of the presented DSS was explored by utilizing the DSS in the maintenance planning of a bridge under operation in the southwest of Iran.

Life-Cycle Maintenance Management Strategies for Bridges in Kuwait

To meet the requirements of 21st century, Kuwait ministry of public works have realized that they should use modern technologies and management system to face challenges of modern world. So, they maintenance Administration has launched a massive program which helps to meet development needs and helps to maintain the infrastructure’s sustainable growth. Thus, it is very necessary to develop appropriate bridge maintenance strategies to meet serviceability criteria and life cycle cost optimization of new bridges. And main purpose was to meet the requirements of development needs. Bridge management system (BMS) is a software or we can say a management tool which helps us to maintain or manage the bridges. These are the following main points which helps decision makers to make a best decision. Defines bridge condition, identifies bridge needs for like if we need replacement of any material or renovation can be identified by BMS, cost of bridge during maintenance and management of the bridge, identifies bridges for Replacement and rehabilitation programs (MR & R) and also identifies for the assessment of bridges. According to replacement and rehabilitation programs minor changes or maintenance of the bridges is done by Work management system (WBS). This paper proposes a framework that can enhance the effectiveness of Kuwait’s Integrated Maintenance Management System (KIMMS). A survey for bridge contractors around the world was used as the research method for this study. This contains questions regarding their current bridge management system (BMS) and what are the input and output parameters it considers in the process. BIM (Bridge information modeling) technology is used to reduce the errors in designing and construction of the bridges by using BMS, BRIDGE OWNER may have a sustainability in the maintenance and enhancement of its bridge. We can determine the cash flow to be used in future for the replacement and repairment of bridge. It helps to adopt maintenance program to maintain life-cycle costs for the community. Helps to review the replacement and rehabilitation strategies. Helps to improve the economic life of infrastructure assets. After evaluating the BMSs used by the respondents, it turned out that the most effective procedure should have three main processes to be followed; maintenance planning, maintenance optimization, and maintenance decision support. Overall, the conceptualized framework considers an optimized procedure for maintenance management considering the balance in cost and quality of the process.

Streamlined bridge inspection system utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and machine learning

Abstract Recently, the rapid development of commercial unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has made collecting images of bridge conditions trivial. Measuring the damage extent, growth, and location from the collected big image set, however, can be cumbersome. This paper proposes a streamlined bridge inspection system that offers advanced data analytics tools to automatically: (1) identify type, extent, growth, and 3D location of defects using computer vision techniques; (2) generate a 3D point-cloud model and segment structural elements using human-in-the-loop machine learning; and (3) establish a georeferenced element-wise as-built bridge information model to document and visualize damage information. This system allows bridge managers to better leverage UAV technologies in bridge inspection and conveniently monitor the health of a bridge through quantifying and visualizing the progression of damage for each structural element. The efficacy of the system is demonstrated using two bridges.

Application of BIM in Bridge Engineering and Its Risk Analysis

Based on the BIM technology, the bridge information model and its related basic data are collected, so that the bridge project is applied to the entire project life cycle. This article explores the development characteristics of BIM technology in the bridge industry; combined with the current status of BIM in bridge engineering, it is found that it brings greater value in the design, construction, maintenance, and inspection stages; This article proposes and provides reasonable risk analysis and countermeasures on these aspects of technology and policy environment.

BrIM and UAS for bridge inspections and management

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop a novel and systematic framework for bridge inspection and management to improve the efficiency in current practice. Design/methodology/approach A new framework that implements camera-based unmanned aerial systems (UASs) with computer vision algorithms to collect and process inspection data, and Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) to store and manage all related inspection information is proposed. An illustrative case study was performed using the proposed framework to test its feasibility and efficiency. Findings The test results of the proposed framework on an existing bridge verified that: high-resolution images captured by an UAS enable to visually identify different types of defects, and detect cracks automatically using computer vision algorithms, the use of BrIM enable assigning defect information on individual model elements, manage all bridge data in a single model across the bridge life cycle. The evaluation by bridge inspectors from 12 states across the USA demonstrated that all of the identified problems, except for being subjective, can be improved using the proposed framework. Practical implications The proposed framework enables to: collect and document accurate bridge inspection data, reduce the number of site visits and avoid data overload and facilitate a more efficient, cost-effective and safer bridge inspection process. Originality/value This paper contributes a novel and systematic framework for the collection and integration of inspection data for bridge inspection and management. The findings from the case study suggest that the proposed framework should help improve current bridge inspection and management practice. Furthermore, the difficulties experienced during the implementation are evaluated, which should be helpful for improving the efficiency and the degree of automation of the proposed framework further.

Research on the Construction Process of a Steel Truss Arch Bridge Based on BrIM

This paper combined BrIM (Bridge Information Modeling) technology with the bridge engineering to parameterize the information of a through type truss arch bridge, and BIM technology is used for information management and construction process management. Firstly, the information such as the size and material of each member of the truss arch bridge was input to the family library to construct the three-dimensional model corresponding to the plane and elevation information, which could be used for the drawing review. Then the Navisworks roaming model was used for collision check, the design development phase of the construction drawings were achieved to component geometry and the detailed tables in Revit was used to manage the materials. At last, TimeLiner in Navisworks was utilized to design the construction process so Navisworks could simulate the construction process. It is found that BrIM technology of Revit combined with Navisworks can effectively improve the communication efficiency of all side such as construction, supervision, design and construction, facilitate the industrial prefabrication of components, reduce the component collision before the construction phase, control the schedule of construction and optimize the construction process.

A scalable cloud-based cyberinfrastructure platform for bridge monitoring

Cloud computing is a computing paradigm wherein computing resources, such as servers, storage and applications, can be provisioned and accessed in real time via advanced communication networks. In the era of Internet of Things (IoT) and big data, cloud computing has been widely developed in many industrial applications involving large volume of data. Appropriate use of cloud computing infrastructure can enhance the long-term deployment of a structural health monitoring (SHM) system which would incur significant amount of data of different types. This paper presents a cloud-based cyberinfrastructure platform designed to support bridge monitoring. The cyberinfrastructure platform enables scalable management of SHM data and facilitates effective information sharing and data utilisation. A cloud-based platform comprises of virtual machines, distributed database and web servers. The peer-to-peer distributed database architecture provides a scalable and fault-tolerant data management system. Platform-neutral web services designed in compliant with the Representational State Transfer (REST) standard enables easy access to the cloud resources and SHM data. For data interoperability, a bridge information model for bridge monitoring applications is adopted. For demonstration, the scalable cloud-based platform is implemented for the monitoring of bridges along the I-275 corridor in the State of Michigan. The results show that the cloud-based cyberinfrastructure platform can effectively manage the sensor data and bridge information and facilitate efficient access of the data as well as the bridge monitoring software services.

Improving Applicability for Information Model of an IFC-Based Steel Bridge in the Design Phase Using Functional Meanings of Bridge Components

The industry foundation classes (IFC) data model is the most important data schema in ensuring the interoperability of the information generated throughout the lifecycle of facilities. However, because the current IFC model is focused on buildings, there are limitations when this model is applied to bridge structures. This paper proposes a method that enables the information modeling of steel box girder bridges based on the current IFC. To select the required and core items, we classify the components of a steel box girder bridge by the design stage with reference to engineering documents. To generate functional meanings of each bridge component, we develop the rules of the unique identifier and information reassignment, and then apply a semi-automated naming algorithm. The generated bridge information model was used to confirm the functional semantic meanings of individual components, and it was checked whether additional external information, such as carbon emissions, could be linked for specific bridge components. It was observed that information retrieval and extraction for components is possible through a semantic-based query to the generated IFC-based bridge information model.

Comparative Analysis of Bridges Construction Methods Using Bridge Information Modeling

Bridge information modeling (BrIM) has widely become an efficient tool in the bridge engineering and construction industry. It has been used in pre-fabrication, obtaining accurate quantity surveys, and creating accurate shop drawings. This article presents the utilization of bridge information modeling (BrIM) in determining the optimum construction methods of concrete bridges in bridge projects in Egypt using systematic procedures taking into account: bridge physical properties, construction cost, and site conditions. Bridge information modeling (BrIM) has proven to be an effective tool in determining the optimum construction methods of concrete bridges. The proposed BrIM approach is capable of obtaining feasible construction methods and associated construction costs based on bridge physical characteristics.

BrIM 5D models and Lean Construction for planning work activities in reinforced concrete bridges

Integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Lean Construction (LC) can improve the reinforced concrete bridging planning process, due to the possibility of managing the project information with BIM to obtain accurate input data that benefit the application of LC principles. The application of BIM to bridges is called Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM). In this paper, we study the feasibility of jointly apply BrIM technology and LC philosophy, instead of the individual use of BrIM models for planning reinforced concrete bridges. We used an investigative approach based on a case study, divided into two stages: in the first, we planned the case study with BrIM 3D models; and in the second, with BrIM 5D models and LC. The integration of BrIM and LC improve the results of the project planning stage by early detecting problems and constraints; this detection has the visualization and information management advantages provided by BIM, which along with the application of LC principles improve project planning, and encourage waste reduction.

Bridge information modelling (BrIM) for a listed viaduct

Bridge information modelling (BrIM) invokes stakeholder collaboration, supported by policy and process frameworks, combined with interoperable technology, to manage information and enable effective decision making throughout the lifecycle of a bridge asset. This paper considers the application of BrIM for the proposed rehabilitation of a heritage listed viaduct. The structure under consideration is the landmark Chetwynd viaduct in Cork (Ireland), which formed part of the Cork–Bandon railway infrastructure constructed in 1851 and decommissioned in 1961. As with infrastructure of its type, few as-built records exist. Consequently, the geometry, material properties and condition of the existing structure are required to inform the initial feasibility assessment and subsequent design, construction and operation of this viaduct asset. Respective BrIM and traditional approaches to the data capture phase are outlined and compared in terms of time, expertise and deliverables. The significant deliverables from the traditional approach include a three-dimensional (3D) solid model and independent 2D drawings. Significant deliverables achieved using a BrIM approach include an intelligent parametric 3D model and associated 2D drawings, as well as integrated datasets representative of the ‘as-is’ structure. Based on reported research, the initial effort and time expended on model creation in particular will enable significant future benefits.

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5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5報）

An information modeling framework for bridge monitoring

Bridge management involves a variety of information from different data sources, including geometric model, analysis model, bridge management system (BMS) and structural health monitoring (SHM) system. Current practice of bridge management typically handles these diverse types of data using isolated systems and operates with limited use of the data. Sharing and integration of such information would facilitate meaningful use of the information and improve bridge management, as well as enhance bridge operation and maintenance and public safety. In many industries, information models and interoperability standards have been developed and employed to facilitate information sharing and collaboration. Given the success of building information modeling (BIM) in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, efforts have been initiated to develop frameworks and standards for bridge information modeling (BrIM). Current developments of BrIM focus primarily on the physical descriptions of bridge structures, such as geometry and material properties. This paper presents an information modeling framework for supporting bridge monitoring applications. The framework augments and extends the prior work on the OpenBrIM standards to further capture the information relevant to engineering analysis and sensor network. Implementation of the framework employs an open-source NoSQL database system for scalability, flexibility and performance. The framework is demonstrated using bridge information and sensor data collected from the Telegraph Road Bridge located in Monroe, Michigan. The results show that the bridge information modeling framework can potentially facilitate the integration of information involved in bridge monitoring applications, and effectively support and provide services to retrieve and utilize the information.

ROBUST CYLINDER FITTING IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL POINT CLOUD DATA

Abstract. This paper investigates the problems of cylinder fitting in laser scanning three-dimensional Point Cloud Data (PCD). Most existing methods require full cylinder data, do not study the presence of outliers, and are not statistically robust. But especially mobile laser scanning often has incomplete data, as street poles for example are only scanned from the road. Moreover, existence of outliers is common. Outliers may occur as random or systematic errors, and may be scattered and/or clustered. In this paper, we present a statistically robust cylinder fitting algorithm for PCD that combines Robust Principal Component Analysis (RPCA) with robust regression. Robust principal components as obtained by RPCA allow estimating cylinder directions more accurately, and an existing efficient circle fitting algorithm following robust regression principles, properly fit cylinder. We demonstrate the performance of the proposed method on artificial and real PCD. Results show that the proposed method provides more accurate and robust results: (i) in the presence of noise and high percentage of outliers, (ii) for incomplete as well as complete data, (iii) for small and large number of points, and (iv) for different sizes of radius. On 1000 simulated quarter cylinders of 1m radius with 10% outliers a PCA based method fit cylinders with a radius of on average 3.63 meter (m); the proposed method on the other hand fit cylinders of on average 1.02 m radius. The algorithm has potential in applications such as fitting cylindrical (e.g., light and traffic) poles, diameter at breast height estimation for trees, and building and bridge information modelling.

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4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4報）

Developing a tailored RBS linking to BIM for risk management of bridge projects

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to address the current theoretical gap in integrating knowledge and experience into Building Information Model (BIM) for risk management of bridge projects by developing a tailored Risk Breakdown Structure (RBS) and formalising an active link between the resulting RBS and BIM. Design/methodology/approach A three-step approach is used in this study to develop a tailored RBS for bridge projects and a conceptual model for the linkage between the RBS and BIM. First, the integrated bridge information model is in concept separated into four levels of contents (LOCs) and six technical systems based on analysis of the Industry Foundation Classes specification, a critical review of previous studies and authors’ project experience. The second step develops a knowledge-based risk database through an extensive collection of risk data, a process of data mining, and further assessment and translation of data. A critical analysis is conducted in the last step to determine on which level the different risks should be allocated to bridge projects and to propose a conceptual model for linking the tailored RBS to the four LOCs and six technical systems of BIM. Findings The findings suggest that the traditional method and BIM can be merged as an integrated solution for risk management by establishing the linkage between RBS and BIM. This solution can take advantage of both the traditional method and BIM for managing risks. On the one hand, RBS enables risk information to be stored in a formal structure, used and communicated effectively. On the other hand, some features of BIM such as 3D visualisation and 4D construction scheduling can facilitate the risk identification, analysis, and communication at an early project stage. Research limitations/implications A limitation is that RBS is a qualitative technique and only plays a limited role in quantitative risk analysis. As a result, when implementing this proposed method, further techniques may be needed for assisting quantitative risk analysis, evaluation, and treatment. Another limitation is that the proposed method has not yet been implemented for validation in practice. Hence, recommendations for future research are to: improve the quantitative risk analysis and treatment capabilities of this proposed solution; develop computer tools to support the solution; integrate the linkage into a traditional workflow; and test this solution in some small and large projects for validation. Practical implications Through linking risk information to BIM, project participants could check and review the linked information for identifying potential risks and seeking possible mitigation measures, when project information is being transferred between different people or forwarded to the next phase. Originality/value This study contributes to the theoretical development for aligning traditional methods and BIM for risk management, by introducing a new conceptual model for linking RBS to BIM.

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3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3報）