National Guidelines for Bridge Information Modeling and Automation

Purpose National bridge information modeling guidelines have been developed in Finland at the behest of the Finnish Transport Agency. The aim was to set, for the first time, national standard of producing and utilizing 3D-information modeling and automation in bridge engineering in Finland. Method In the guidelines, the terminology of different main design phases of bridges and information models is introduced. More specific information model contents and technical guidelines are then determined. A comparison is made between the Finnish guidelines and the draft Norwegian modeling guidelines. Results & Discussion In Finland and Norway these guidelines aim to promote the use of 3D-modeling and automation in the infrastructure, including bridges, roads, and railways. There are many reasons why these types of guidelines are necessary for the industry. More international collaboration will be needed in the next development phase to arrive at comprehensive and useful guidelines and standards."