Software + Technology
Comsa Digitizes Renovation of Century-old Bridge
management model, Comsa is delivering the refurbishment and reconstruction project using a BIM methodology. Understanding Design and Construction Schemes The bridge features existing piles, walls, and slabs that need refurbishing and were poorly maintained. Additionally, the newly built infrastructure needs to be integrated with the existing renovation works. “The remodeling of the bridge combines existing renovated elements with new ones,” said Pardo. Faced with this complex integration challenge, Comsa realized the need to create a digital 3D model to better convey and understand the design and construction scheme. During the initial project phase, the bridge had not been modeled, making it difficult for engineers and construction staff to visualize and fully grasp the design intent and construction plans. “Although the blueprints, cross-sections, and longitudinal plans are intuitive, especially for experienced construction staff, this was not enough to provide a complete view of the project in the initial phase,” said Pardo. With a multidisciplinary team dedicated entirely to the development and implementation of BIM, Comsa set out to model the existing site and structure and, based on that model, generate an integrated project model for the bridge extension and accesses. They wanted to digitize project execution, coordinating layout and geometry of the structure, streamlining workflows, and monitoring construction
Bentley’s Integrated BIM Applications Optimize Design and Construction Monitoring, Reducing On-site Errors
By Amy Heffner, Director, Product Marketing, Bentley Systems
Reconstructing a Historic Bridge Over the Llobregat River Located in the Bajes region of Barcelona, the Cabrianes Bridge is a century-old structure spanning the Llobregat River along the Carretera B-430 road. To improve safety, service, and traffic flow, as well as to accommodate pedestrian and cyclist mobility, the bridge and roadway access points are being renovated and modernized. The EUR 2.4 million project consists of widening the bridge from 6 meters to 12 meters to include two-way vehicle traffic lanes and a pavement for non-vehicular transport. It also includes constructing a new deck supported by a central arch. “The works will improve the level of service and favor safety and fluidity in driving, as well as the mobility of pedestrians and cyclists,” said Santiago Martinez Pardo, surveyor and BIM modeler of linear infrastructure at Comsa. With a commitment to continually improving in construction processes and implementing an innovative project
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csengineermag.com
October 2023
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