Automating inspection data from bridge management system into bridge information model

Abstract

This paper presents an approach to enhance the implementation of the Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) methodology during the operational stage by automating the integration of inspection data from Bridge Management Systems (BMS) into BrIM models. While the data from BMS is available and retrievable from spreadsheets, the 3D bridge model is represented according to the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) data model. Then, this paper introduces an algorithm that ensures seamless interoperability between the spreadsheets and the IFC data model. The semantically enriched BrIM models are achieved through a set of rules and procedures that are established to simplify the matching of the modeled objects with the components that characterize the bridge in the BMS. The openness of the IFC data model allows the identification of appropriate entities to store the corresponding information that comes from the BMS. This automated process removes the need for manual attachment of inspection data into IFC files, which is prone to errors, reduces the complexity of moving towards BrIM-based bridge management practices, and increases the efficiency of creating BrIM models for existing bridges. Finally, the proposed approach is a scalable and transferable solution that transportation agencies worldwide can adopt to manage bridge assets.