Optimizing the Process of Bridge Inspection and Monitoring using Laser Scanner: Case Study of the Atina Bridge

With the majority of Italy's civil infrastructure, notably bridges, reaching the end of their designed lifespan, urgent attention for inspection and management is required. The alarming degradation and recent collapses underscore the critical need for robust protocols. This study addresses the challenges posed by aging bridges, emphasizing the imperative for proactive inspection and maintenance. Examining Italy's evolving approach post bridge collapses, the paper explores innovative methodologies, including laser scanning monitoring, to optimize assessment processes. The Atina Bridge in the MLazio Project serves as a pertinent case study, illustrating the potential impact of advanced technologies. The MLazio project aims to establish an innovative and efficient methodology, allowing the Lazio Region to develop a comprehensive plan for maintenance, management, evaluation, and monitoring of the safety of bridge structures within the regional territory.

This study focuses on the real-world case of the Atina Bridge, spanning the Mollarino stream and situated on the Regional rural road #509, chosen as a case study within the MLazio project. During the bridge inspection days, alongside routine assessments aided by ByBridge system, an innovative tool was employed: Polaris Long Range Laser Scanner, made available by the department. In less than half a day, a comprehensive scan of the Atina Bridge was executed. This enabled precise millimeter-level geometric measurements, crucial for subsequent post-processing and potentially capturing measurements of any defects not assessed on-site.
The utilization of this methodology allows for a detailed analysis of the point cloud data collected during the scan. Processing this data is facilitated by information such as the reflectance of the structural elements' materials, aiding in the identification of defects not necessarily evident during on-site inspections. The point cloud, offering both geometric and material information, becomes foundational for constructing the Atina Bridge's Building Information Modeling (BIM) model.

Infact, the construction of the Atina Bridge's BIM model, based on the acquired point cloud, represents a significant step toward optimizing inspection and maintenance processes, offering a comprehensive platform for data integration and analysis collected by the MLazio project during its inspection. This holistic approach, blending advanced scanning technology and BIM modeling, underscores the potential of innovative methodologies in streamlining the inspection and maintenance of bridges and viaducts throughout the Lazio Region. The seamless integration of advanced technologies, the creation of BIM models, and the detailed analysis of material reflectance collectively contribute to a heightened understanding of structural conditions. This comprehensive insight not only facilitates informed decision-making but also supports the formulation and execution of preventive maintenance strategies. The study conclusively underscores the significance of embracing cutting-edge methodologies, not only as a means to ensure immediate safety but as a proactive approach shaping the future management of bridges and viaducts.

Acknowledgements

This research is supported by the Projects “SIMICOM” accepted and funded by the Lazio Region, Italy (PR FESR Lazio 2021-2027 – "Riposizionamento Competitivo RSI"). In addition, this study was funded by Regione Lazio through the Project “M.Lazio”.