Comparative Analysis of Bridges Construction Methods Using Bridge Information Modeling

Construction Methods Of Concrete Bridges In Egypt

Basha and Gab-Allah (1991) stated that the construction methods that are mainly utilized in Egypt include: erecting precast concrete girders using launching girders, cast-in-place (CIP) free cantilever, incremental launching, precast segmental on falsework, precast segmental free cantilever, and cast-in-place (CIP) reinforced or prestressed concrete on falsework. Youssef, Anumba, and Thorpe (2005) summarized construction methods used in Egypt as follows: stationary formwork (SF) either directly supported on the ground with full occupancy of the ground or by creating an elevated platform (EP) with no or limited occupancy of the ground; advancing shoring system; erecting beams using: heavy lifting, cranes, or launching trusses (LT); horizontal incremental launching; cast in-situ free cantilever (FC) construction using two travelers; and cast in-situ free cantilever (FC) construction using one traveler and stationary formwork on the other side. Detail description of these methods can be found elsewhere (Youssef, 2006; Marzouk, Zein El-Dein, & El-Said, 2007). Youssef (2006) developed a decision support system that provides a systematic and structured framework to improve the process of selecting the construction methods of bridges’ superstructure in Egypt.

Implementing Visualization In Construction

Visualization is considered an effective feature in construction projects. It simulates the construction process in 3D environment in order to be provide better understanding of project components, sequence, work flow, and equipment utilization; it supports and facilitates effective decision making. Visualization has been utilized in several construction applications. Rohani (2013) presented advanced visualization techniques for modern construction management. Castronovo, Lee, Nikolic, and Messner (2014) provided a set of visualization guidelines for representing the construction process. Lin, Zhang, He, and Hu (2015) presented automatic verification and visualization of a schedule driven 4D model in order to reduce rework and mistakes. Zhou and Wang (2009) applied 4D visualization in bridge construction management and control. Kamat and Martinez (2001) presented a system that supports visualizing the resulting products and the construction operations in a 3D environment. Kang, Chi, and Miranda (2009) presented a system that provides a detailed planning and visualization in a virtual construction environment which can be used to assist crane operators in real-time during erection. Kamat and Martinez (2005) presented an approach that allows 3D visualization and animation of construction equipment in construction operations. Chau, Anson, and Zhang (2004) provided a 4D model for visualizing daily activities for more effective planning and controlling. Kamat and Martinez (2005) utilized visualization for identifying conflicts that could happen among dynamic, static, and abstract construction resources in 3D animations of discrete event simulation models. Behzadan and Kamat (2010) presented augmented reality (AR) that utilizes graphical visualization to plan and design construction operations by creating and translating realistic visual outputs into 3D virtual contents (CAD model engineering) of the animated scenes.