Development of a software-tool for the life-cycle management of bridges

Abstract

This paper introduces a software tool for the predictive life-cycle management of reinforced concrete bridges. The novel aspect of this particular tool is the integration of non-destructive inspection techniques in combination with fully-probabilistic deterioration models. The use of these models requires that the building under examination be subdivided into multiple levels of detail. We employ a 3D model of the building for creating and visualizing the different system levels. At the same time the 3D model forms the basis of any data acquisition, analysis and evaluation. The system is implemented by coupling a Java 3D front-end with a relational database, in which the construction geometry and all related information is stored. Due to the long life span of bridge structures, the software is required to satisfy special requirements in terms of its flexibility. It is shown how new materials, inspection techniques, deterioration models, repair procedures etc. can easily be integrated into the software tool.