Integrating Bridge Information Modeling (BRIM), Bridge Sustainability Rating System (BRSRS), Bridge Environmental Performance Strategy Mapping (BREPSM) and Cost Estimating At the Conceptual Design Stage

Abstract

Bridges are crucial infrastructure for urban development as cities rely heavily on various modes of transportation for access and mobility. In an effort to fill the gap in the knowledge and methodology used in the construction of sustainable bridges, a model is developed using the concept of BrIM having the capabilities to develop bridges at the conceptual design stage, which offers ample versatility to influence stakeholders’ decisions towards sustainable bridge design. The model incorporates a knowledge-based decision support system and four modules namely: BrIM module; the first ever Bridge Sustainability Rating System (BrSRS) module; Bridge Environmental Performance Strategy Map (BrEPSM) module; and a conceptual cost estimating module. The model takes fundamental data input and processes it through the knowledge-based system established based on MTO’s Highway Geometric Design and the Navigational Waterways Clearance guidelines. The sustainability capabilities of the model are broken into two sub- modules; a BrSRS was developed by using the amalgamation of various existent highways and roads sustainability rating systems and by considering the introduction of bridge design. The system mimics the style of LEED as users can select from a weighted list of sustainable construction activities and materials to accumulate credits towards a sustainability classification. The second includes a BrEPSM that the forecasts footprints levels of bridge projects based on 5 footprint indicators namely; carbon; water; energy; emissions; and work environment with data obtained from Statistics Canada pertaining to each footprint illustrated on a radar graph. The third module takes the knowledge-based output and presents it in 3D mode via AutoCAD allowing users to alter the drawing’s dimensions and accordingly the model reiterates the calculations based on the changes made in the 3D CAD model. The final module generates an approximate cost estimate of the conceptually designed bridge, which is ideal for the feasibility study of the project.