Avery Peters

13 November 2023

Impact of AI in the process of bridge designs

Introduction

The development of Artificial Intelligence(AI) has ushered in a new period of revolution for

industries, businesses, etc. One of the industries that it has impacted significantly is the field of

bridge design along coastlines. With the intensifying climate change and the rise of sea-levels

along coastal regions, there is a demand for a sustainable framework. Therefore, this has caused

engineers and architects to turn towards AI-driven solutions. These new solutions can enhance

the adaptability, safety, and efficiency of construction, especially of coastal bridges. In this

study, we are exploring the ways that AI is revolutionizing the design process of bridges along

coastlines and its impact. Bridges have been around for centuries and over time they have

continued to adapt to societal changes. Yet, as technology continues to advance, how much more

can we improve? (Belton, Keith B. et al. “Who Will Set the Rules for Smart Factories?” Issues

in Science and Technology. Volume 35. Issue 3. 2019.) People are now trying to find a solution

on how they can bring new artificial intelligence into the designing of bridges in order to find the

most efficient process that can adapt to the ever-changing climate and sea levels. For this

research, it is necessary to consider both past bridge designs and the advancements that AI is

bringing to future designs. By examining past bridge designs (Ko, Sang-Woo et al “A

Framework for Evaluating the Load Carrying-Capacity of Bridges without Design Document

Using an AI Technique”), it allows us to create an understanding of traditional approaches and

the limitations that they provide for coastline bridges. Exploring the future AI bridge designs can

help represent the evolution and how we can anticipate the impact that technology will provide
(Zinno, Raffaele et al “The State of the Art of Artificial Intelligence Approaches and New

Technologies in Structural Health Monitoring of Bridges”).

Methodology

I tried finding both older and newer articles and sources to compare the different

perspectives that have changed throughout the years. It was easier to find more present day

articles on artificial intelligence due to the uprise in machine learning in the last decade. In

addition, it was difficult to find articles on the overall topic of bridge design along the coastlines.

Instead, most articles were bridge specific, like arch bridges or long span bridges. It was more

finding how concrete bridges are being improved with the use of technological advances through

artificial intelligence. When researching, it was difficult for me to find the correct citations for

some of the sources. Some articles had very little information on the author or might have been

named “Anonymous.” The past few days have been difficult for me to find the time to write this

piece as well.

Past Bridge Designs:

AI's impact on bridge designs along coastlines is still an evolving field, and specific applications

may vary depending on the project and available technologies. However, some insights can be

drawn from past and ongoing bridge projects where AI has played a role. One example was the

Rodanthe Bridge. This bridge used the “Advancing Rail System” method that allows gantry and

platform cranes to straddle the new construction so it has limited impact on the environment.

(Peterson, David. “Rodanthe Bridge Design-Build Project in Dare County, NC”. 6 July 2020.)

While these examples showcase the potential impact of AI on coastal bridge designs, it's

essential to note that the field is continuously evolving, and new applications and advancements
are likely to emerge as technology progresses. Each bridge project may present unique

challenges, and the integration of AI should be tailored to specific requirements and objectives.

Future Bridge Designs

The impact of AI on future bridge projects along coastlines is anticipated to be substantial, with

advancements in technology contributing to more resilient, efficient, and sustainable designs.

Future AI tools will likely offer more sophisticated generative design capabilities, allowing

engineers to explore an even broader range of design possibilities. AI algorithms will optimize

designs based on various parameters, such as environmental impact, material efficiency, and

construction costs. “Given that all existing bridges are designed based on a relevant design code,

it is natural to have a pattern of geometric characteristics determined for the expected load and

the design strength of the girders” (Ko, Sang-Woo et al “A Framework for Evaluating the Load

Carrying-Capacity of Bridges without Design Document Using an AI Technique”). By creating

an understanding of why these parameters are significant, the audience is able to comprehend

and begin composing a perspective of their own. The AI-based methodology introduced employs

artificial neural networks to predict response ratios in bridge evaluation, and suggests the need

for a more detailed explanation of the types of AI techniques used, data records, and

preprocessing methods in the context of the study.

AI Bridge Designs

This research used articles that were published after 2010, where artificial intelligence

has begun to change and improve from a societal point of view. These articles focused on

machine learning specifically and how engineers are learning to use the technology in their work.

Conclusion
In summary, AI technologies play a crucial role in enhancing the resilience, efficiency, and

sustainability of bridge designs along coastlines. Engineers can create structures that are better

equipped to handle the unique challenges posed by coastal environments, including rising sea

levels and extreme weather events.

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Figure1-1-1.png

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