BIM for Bridge Engineering

Bridge design is a unique discipline that fully deserves its iconic status. Using traditional materials to create advanced and spectacular structures in demanding environments that are subject to a variety of loads can be as difficult to construct as well as design. These needs stretch the capabilities of most structural engineering applications. But not all …

BIM-for-Bridge-Engineering-low

© Allplan GmbH, Munich, Germany © Foto: Bastian Kratzke

Allplan Bridge provides a powerful parametric 3D modeling solution to assist bridge engineers with the design of concrete, steel and composite bridges. Parametric technology is used to define the bridge using alignments, cross-sections, and any variations along the length of the alignment. This allows complex geometries – including double-curved alignments and variable cross-sections – to be easily created.

Changes Made Rapidly
During the bridge design process, design changes are frequent. With Allplan Bridge, design changes are no longer a problem. The parametric model technology allows changes to be made once which then automatically updates all linked elements. For example, if the geometry of an axis changes, the entire bridge superstructure connected to it is automatically adjusted. Changes to a construction segment affect all elements linked with it – even bridge piers that must be repositioned along the new axis.

Smooth Data Exchange
In Allplan Bridge, geometric data from road design (road alignments) is used as the basis for constructing the bridge axis. The bridge engineer can then use the tools within Allplan Engineering for further detailing, including pre-stressing, reinforcement, quantity takeoffs, and drawing generation.

Easy to Operate
Bridge design using Allplan Bridge is convenient, user-friendly, and time-saving, especially compared to traditional 2D bridge design. This is due to the range of functions available, the user interface, and the work processes which have been tailored to bridge engineering requirements. With other parametric software, several different programs may be required to design a complete bridge.

Parametric modeling in Allplan Bridge ensures that the model is clearly and accurately described within one program for every element of the design. All calculations are performed automatically and efficiently, irrespective of the complexity of the model – and all available and updated at the click of a button. Allplan Bridge stores its information in a database, continuously saving changes and automatically updating the existing data. This virtually eliminates data losses.

From the Model to the Schedule
One of the most critical elements of bridge design is the sequence and method of construction – which, sometimes, is as complex as the structure itself. Allplan Bridge overcomes this challenge by allowing the bridge model to be divided into individual construction segments. These can be transferred to Allplan Bimplus and linked with time-specific attributes, making it possible to create and visualize a complete construction schedule.

Work Smarter
If you’re a bridge engineer interested in optimizing your bridge design processes to work smarter, not harder, consider downloading a free trial of Allplan Bridge. See how your bridge design can become quicker, easier, and more accurate with our powerful parametric bridge modeling solution, specifically designed for bridge engineers.

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