3D digital fabrication and erection technologies for prefabricated bridges

Creative design of bridge structures requires new approaches for digital fabrication and accurate geometry control during construction. This paper deals with prefabricated bridge piers which have unique creative shapes. 3D design models were created to realize irregular column shapes. Economic formwork for the precast column segments was provided by 3D printing technology. Panelized formworks were created from the 3D design models and were attached to common steel formworks. During fabrication of precast segments, key values of geometry were controlled by laser scanning. The design models were revised by the scanned data. Before assembly of the segments in construction site, instructions for geometry control were provided to ensure final target geometry of the bridge piers. Information delivery from design to maintenance can be achieved by 3D information models and new format of drawings including QR codes and 3D models