A Methodological Framework for Bridge Surveillance – C.U.G.RI.
The article “A Methodological Framework for Bridge Surveillance” addresses the pressing need for modern approaches to monitor and maintain bridges, particularly in Italy, where the aging road infrastructure is both extensive and critical to the nation’s economic and social well-being. The collapse of the Polcevera viaduct in Genoa in 2018 served as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in outdated infrastructure. In response to such tragedies, Italy has developed comprehensive guidelines, such as the 2020 Guidelines for Risk Classification and Management, Safety Assessment, and Monitoring of Existing Bridges (LG20). These guidelines aim to standardize processes for bridge evaluation, integrate technological advancements, and ensure safety through systematic maintenance.
Italy’s road network, which spans over 180,000 kilometers and includes tens of thousands of bridges and viaducts, is uniquely challenging due to its age and geographical diversity. Many of these structures were constructed before the 1980s, often without detailed design documentation or adherence to modern engineering standards. This lack of historical data complicates current efforts to evaluate their safety and structural integrity. The LG20 guidelines seek to address these challenges by introducing a Building Management System (BMS) that consolidates historical and real-time data into a digital framework, streamlining the inspection and monitoring processes.
Age of italian bridges
The study presents an innovative methodology developed by the Inter-University Research Center for the Prediction and Prevention of Major Hazards (CUGRI) in collaboration with the Southern Highways Company (SAM). This methodology leverages cutting-edge technologies, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Building Information Modeling (BIM), to create comprehensive digital models of bridges. These models, developed using techniques like 3D scanning and georeferencing, allow engineers to examine bridges in unprecedented detail. The integration of BIM and GIS also facilitates the overlay of geographical and structural data, making it possible to assess the impact of environmental hazards such as seismic activity, flooding, and landslides on individual structures.
The framework was applied to the A3 highway, a critical 52-kilometer stretch connecting Naples and Salerno. This highway plays a vital socio-economic role and includes 207 bridges that require monitoring. The study categorized these bridges into macro-groups based on their size and function, with each category receiving tailored inspection protocols. For example, smaller structures like manholes undergo annual inspections, while larger bridges and tunnels are subjected to more frequent and detailed assessments. The inspection activities are coordinated through a multidisciplinary operational model that includes on-site surveys, data collection, and expert analysis, all of which are supported by a cloud-based BMS platform. This platform allows real-time data access and dynamic monitoring, ensuring timely interventions when structural issues are detected.
C.U.G.RI. Information System (IS), cloud (left), and APP (right) format
The methodology’s innovation lies not only in its technological components but also in its structured approach to training and collaboration. Inspectors receive specialized training to conduct standardized surveys, and the results are evaluated by expert committees to ensure consistency and accuracy. The collected data are organized into a hierarchical system, where each structural component of a bridge is assigned a unique identification code. This system enables precise tracking of defects and maintenance activities over time.
Preliminary findings from inspections on the A3 highway revealed a wide range of structural conditions. Many bridges were found to be in moderate to poor condition, with 62% of the inspected structures requiring medium-priority maintenance. About 4% of bridges were classified as high priority, necessitating immediate intervention. The study highlighted the importance of integrating traditional inspection methods with advanced tools like BIM and GIS. While the LG20 guidelines provide a robust framework for assessing risks, their heavy reliance on environmental hazard data can sometimes lead to overly conservative classifications. This poses challenges for resource allocation, as local managing bodies may lack the capacity to implement such detailed and frequent inspections.
BMS platform
The research underscores the potential of combining advanced digital tools with systematic inspection protocols to enhance infrastructure management. The use of BIM and GIS not only improves the accuracy of assessments but also enables better planning and prioritization of maintenance activities. The study also emphasizes the need for further refinement of the LG20 guidelines to balance the technical rigor of inspections with the practical constraints of time and budget.
Example of BIM model–Olivieri Bridge
In conclusion, the proposed methodology represents a significant step forward in bridge surveillance, offering a scalable and efficient approach to maintaining critical infrastructure. By integrating advanced technologies with structured processes, it provides a blueprint for addressing the challenges of aging bridges in Italy and beyond. However, the study also calls for continued research and adjustments to the regulatory framework to ensure that the methodologies remain practical and effective for widespread adoption. This dual focus on innovation and practicality is essential for safeguarding infrastructure and ensuring its reliability for future generations.
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