SPTC Project 15.5-01

Towards an Open-Source Web GIS-based Bridge Management System using Advanced Geo-Spatial Data Visualization and Integration Technologies

Abstract

This research project developed and implemented a web GIS-based bridge management system that allows for advanced geospatial visualization and potential data integration on a centralized cloud platform.The specific tasks of this project were: 1) to provide a comprehensive review of current BMS development activities; 2) to identify available bridge-related data sources at the state DOT, which enable the further data integration needed for a variety of analytical purposes; 3) to build a more realistic model to represent the deterioration of bridge components by using a semi-Markov transition process. The semi-Markovian transition probabilities were derived directly by accessing and analyzing the NBI database; and 4) to develop a web GIS-based bridge management system that allows advanced geospatial visualization and potential data integration on a centralized cloud platform. The pertinent bridge maintenance data includes text, images, engineering documents, citizen reports,and remote sensing data.The research team used Esri™ technology-based ArcGIS Online as the major development tool and the developed BMS is designed as a bi-level platform. The upper level manages the overall bridge network based on two-dimensional (2D) vectors or images, while the lower level handles three-dimensional (3D) spatial information and real-time data streams for monitoring the health of individual bridges. One of the major outcomes of this project is an open source BMS prototype that can meet the need to create custom applications, provide a platform for integrating GIS with other business systems, and enable cross-organizational collaboration. The prototype provides an open-source architecture for the public. Its architecture and codes will be open to end users and thus can be easily customized by any transportation agencies for their bridge management needs.

Project PI:Hongchao Liu

 

Researchers:

Dayong Wu

Junxuan Zhao

 

Project Duration: 2017-2018

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