Strategies for Maximising the Value of Digital Twins for Bridge Management and Structural Monitoring: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) extends its utility to infrastructure management during the operational phase and can evolve into a Digital Twin (DT) when coupled with specific technologies or systems. In Engineering, Construction, and Operations (EC&O), BIM and DTs are strongly interconnected research topics. Especially for bridges, this relationship is represented by Bridge Information Modelling (BrIM) and Bridge Digital Twin (BDT). However, while this connection is recognised, it lacks developments regarding modelling strategies or data flow and integration. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to conduct a review of the current state of BrIM as an extension of BIM and its relationship with BDT, encompassing strategies for creating BrIM models of existing bridge assets. Additionally, it will explore integrating technologies or systems for structural performance monitoring and management (SPMM) to form BDTs. A systematic review was conducted using PRISMA protocol. Of the 3459 articles that were initially retrieved from a query of academic databases, 152 were assessed and classified manually, and 128 of these were selected for full content review. Analysis of the selected articles demonstrated the growing value of BDTs in SPMM of bridges, evolving from BrIM. Along with release of IFC4.3, BrIM development initiatives include IFC entity extension, IFC property sets usage, ontology development, and OpenBrIM implementation. Point cloud approaches are the most prevalent among different as-is BrIM modelling techniques, while parametric and data-driven approaches are gaining traction. Key challenges to BDT adoption, with respect to technological integration include interoperability, real-time performance, model updates, cost, and skill gaps.