Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) used in the operation and maintenance of Civil Engineering Structures (CESs)

Abstract

Studies have shown a worrisome condition as to the conservation of Civil Engineering Structures (CESs) in Brazilian highways. This situation mainly results from the lack of an efficient system for managing such structures, specifically during their operational stage, when periodic maintenance is required. As a solution, the Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) has proven to be an efficient system for managing CESs, integrating different technologies into this process. The purpose of this paper is to assess how BrIM can contribute to improve the management procedures of these structures. The research methodology has been divided into two stages. The first one is the literature review detailing the management scenario of CESs in the country, as well as the analysis of the BrIM used as a tool to manage such structures in a general context. The second stage is a case study addressing the operational and maintenance process of CESs used by a highway concessionaire in an important Brazilian state. The analysis concluded that, although recent, the adoption of BrIM has been growing in several countries, and it can substantially contribute to improving the operational and maintenance stages of CESs.