The inspection of transportation structures is a necessary project for ensuring the public safety. Nevertheless, it is demanding and time-consuming procedure. Recent years, the evolution of measuring techniques and equipment allow faster data collection, minimal traffic disruption, and detailed detection of structural damage and the pathology of the constructions, e.g. microcracks as small as 0.1 mm. Given the number of the vehicles that cross road infrastructures annually, systematic monitoring is important to maintain their operational safety. This study presents the creation of a digital twin (DT) of a bridge, located on the Athens–Corinth highway, a major transportation axis of Greece. The methodology integrates terrestrial 3D laser scanning with aerial protogrammetry from a UAV. After processing the acquired data, a highly detailed digital twin of the bridge was produced, enabling thorough technical inspection and identification of structural pathologies. The field measurements, data processing, and generation of the final digital model are described thoroughly. The results show that combining terrestrial laser scanning and UAV photogrammetry, a reliable digital twin of a bridge can be produced and furthermore use it for its inspection. This, not only improves the accuracy of defect detection, but also this approach enhances long-term monitoring, facilitates condition assessment, and supports maintenance strategies.

Laser Scaner, UAV, Digital Twin, Bridge inspection, Construction pathology, Crack detection

geodesy engineering

Presentation: oral presentation