Abstract:
Bridge Information Modelling (BrIM) is currently an innovative technology in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry for integration and collaboration across the entire bridge life cycle. Nevertheless, it is difficult to achieve the practical effectiveness of BrIM at this moment due to both technical barriers and old fragmented workflow. The aim of this paper is to propose a new BrIM framework to embrace collaboration and interoperation between different design and construction processes. Despite previous efforts have appropriately removed some technical obstacles for applying information technology into bridges, the detailed implementation framework and governance model in terms of BrIM need to be further explored. A critical literature review focusing on Building Information Modelling (BIM), traditional design and construction flow of bridges, and relevant standards was first conducted to identify the fundamental requirements of BrIM in the UK. A methodological BrIM framework for the design and construction stages was then developed, and applied into a bridge project for refinement and improvement. The framework can significantly facilitate integrating BrIM tools and practices, and increase the collaboration and productivity throughout the whole process of a bridge.