Bridge engineering design involves numerous components, making the process inherently complex—especially at the connections between structural elements. These connection points often present challenges, such as clashes between reinforcement and other connection components, leading to frequent conflicts during structural design.
The design team utilizes software like Revit to develop a BIM model for the bridge project, following the “2015 BIM Application Guidelines for the Chinese Municipal Industry” and the Level of Detail (LOD) standards set by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). This BIM model is then imported into Navisworks, where the collision detection feature is used to identify clashes among structural components. The software generates detailed collision reports highlighting conflict points and elevation discrepancies within the project.
Based on these reports, the design team refines the various professional models, exports updated drawings, and produces design change documentation. The project owner reviews the updated model, and any remaining issues can be discussed with the design team via the BIM information management platform until the bridge model fully complies with contractual requirements.
Following this, the design team organizes a joint review involving the owner and construction parties to evaluate the drawings and models together. This collaborative review allows for dynamic visualization of the design results, offering a more intuitive understanding compared to traditional two-dimensional drawings. The team verifies the design’s feasibility and identifies any potential issues early, enabling resolution before construction begins.
This review process combines 3D models with 2D design drawings, providing a clearer and more detailed perspective than conventional methods. Using the 3D model’s walkthrough features, reviewers can observe the spatial relationships between structural components. Additionally, collision detection on models such as steel reinforcement and prestressed tendons within Navisworks allows for early identification of internal clashes, effectively enabling a three-dimensional design review.
The BIM model’s WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) functionality enhances communication efficiency between the owner, designer, and construction teams. Through this collaborative BIM-based design inspection and management process, all parties work together to ensure a successful bridge project.
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