IFC-Based Semantic Segmentation and Semantic Enrichment of BIM for Bridges

The state-of-the-art PDF2BIM algorithms enable semi-automatic creation of 3D geometric building information models (BIMs) of bridges based on 2D bridge plans. However, this 3D geometric model is represented as one entity instance with no semantic information associated with it (e.g., concrete strength, structure type). To pursue the full potential of Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) representations in BIM for bridges, in this paper, the authors proposed a framework to segment the bridges into different components based on their semantic features and further assign semantic information to them accordingly. The proposed framework was tested on four bridges, which shows promising results. The semantically enriched bridge models can enable more accurate analysis and evaluation of bridge performance, facilitate better asset management and maintenance strategies, and enhance communication among stakeholders, including designers, engineers, contractors, and asset managers.