Three-Dimensional Information Delivery for Design and Construction of Prefabricated Bridge Piers

This paper reports on the development and fabrication of precast bridge piers with unique creative shapes and more accurate geometry control methods using building information modelling, a new form of information processing and collaboration in which data are embedded within 3D models. Panelized formworks were created by digital fabrication from the 3D design models and attached to common steel formworks. During fabrication of precast segments, key parameters for geometry control were captured by laser scanning. The design models from the algorithm modelling were compared to fabrication models to provide error adjustment during assembly. Before assembly of the segments at a construction site, instructions for geometry control were provided to ensure the final target geometry of the bridge piers. Information delivery from design to maintenance can be achieved by 3D information models and a new format for drawings that includes QR codes and 3D models.