Integration of Information and Automation Technologies in Bridge Engineering and Management

The current U.S. practice of information transfer during the bridge design, fabrication, construction, and operation processes is fragmented. These processes involve repeated manual transcription of data, which is error prone; approvals (e.g., of shop drawings) that are time-consuming; and formats that beg for standardization to facilitate electronic information transfer. Without such standards, electronic information exchange is impossible. This paper surveys the shortcomings of current piecemeal applications of information and automation technologies. It then explores the promise of parametric three-dimensional bridge information modeling as an enabling technology for accelerating the design and delivery of bridges and articulates aspects of the envisioned accelerated bridge delivery process for two purposes: to provide a glimpse of current technologies available to streamline the process of bridge delivery and to articulate anticipated advances that can be expected to facilitate accelerated bridge delivery. In lieu of a complete industrywide modeling of bridge information in a standardized format, savvy bridge design–build teams can be expected to obtain a competitive advantage by integration of computer-aided design, computer-aided engineering, and computer-integrated manufacturing, which will result in rapid and better-quality project delivery and subsequent cost-effective life-cycle management. As a result, all three fundamental objectives of bridge delivery would be expected to be attained: higher quality, faster delivery, and greater economy.