BIM for constructing bridges efficiently

Trimble’s construction modelling software Tekla Structures is a comprehensive bridge information modelling (BrIM) solution for bridges and other civil structures. With this, engineering and construction companies can deliver any type or bridge or civil structure; including beam or box girder bridges, truss bridges, arch or tied arch bridges, cantilever bridges, suspension bridges, cable-stayed bridges and underpasses or box culverts. “Users can create a constructible, parametric model, which means each object holds its own data that can then be used for fabrication, erection, construction on-site and asset management during the maintenance of the bridge,” says Paul Wallett, Regional Director, Trimble Solutions Middle East & India. “Further, this 3D parametric modelling environment automates repetitive tasks and change updates.

He adds, “This year, we also introduced Tekla Bridge Creator, a new extension for Tekla Structures BIM software that integrates complete bridge design workflow from conceptual design level of development (LOD 100) to truly accurate, fabrication-ready (LOD 400) and as-built constructible models (LOD 500).” It is capable of handling any structural design of bridge with any type of materials. It even allows reading the road alignment to produce complex deck geometries of varying width, depth or even super-elevation. Wallet shares more…

• Solution to delays: During the early design phase, changes to road alignment frequently cause avoidable delays. Later, construction teams often discover issues because of designs that do not include constructible models. These problems frequently cause delays even in the design stage; and such delays inevitably reduce the efficiency of the project and increase cost. The solution to these problems is a constructible model; the use of a purpose-built design workflow by everyone in the process will ensure these issues are eliminated.

  
  
  

• Overcoming cost pressures: By using constructible virtual models, the building can be constructed cheaper, better and faster. Trimble’s purpose-built bridge design workflow helps bridge designers build constructible models, which can directly be used by contractors. The 3D constructible models produced by BrIM ensure that processes are planned and scheduled more efficiently and errors on site are avoided, which further helps contain costs. The new Tekla Bridge Creator allows bridge designers to create and utilise BrIM that integrates the complete bridge design workflow from design geometry to constructible modelling and detailing.

  
  
  

• Building bridges: The railway bridge over Chenab River in Jammu & Kashmir, currently under construction, is being constructed on Tekla Structures. On completion, it will span the river at 359 m (1,178 ft) above the surface and cover a length of 1,315 m. Apart from geographical challenges, the project contained about 25,000 tonne of steel detailing, management of which was demanding. Tekla Structures was put to use from the beginning; all structures, temporary cables and related anchoring towers have been designed using constructible BIM and modelled in Tekla Structures. This also facilitated better logistics in the difficult terrain. Besides, constructible BIM has been utilised on site for erection sequence planning, geometry and quality control, and workshop drawings and CNC data are sourced directly from the model. The contractor employed the models in close cooperation with the designer, and the third-party inspector made use of it in the review process. In conclusion, the Chenab Bridge project has clearly demonstrated that constructible BIM can make even a highly ambitious project less complex to design, plan and construct.

  
  

  SHRIYAL SETHUMADHAVAN