Approximate Bridge Modeling Automation

Project summary:

The goal of this project is to develop tools and workflows to automate the incorporation of LiDAR-derived bridge decks into Base Level Engineering (BLE) HEC-RAS hydraulic models. The tool is called LAS2RAS. The tool and workflows are designed to work with one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) HEC-RAS models. This project is funded by an inter-agency partnership between TWDB and TxDOT. Project execution is supported by our contractors: AECOM and Stantec, who are leading the overall product development. AECOM is focused on HEC-RAS 1D model automation while Stantec is focused on HEC-RAS 2D. Expected outcomes include a desktop tool, a single codebase for both 1D and 2D models and sensitivity analyses. The tool development aspect of this project is built on the outcome of another effort between TxDOT and University of Texas at Austin (UT), called TX-BRIDGE. TX-Bridge generates three-dimensional (3D) bridge profiles by combining high resolution LiDAR data and National Bridge Inventory (NBI). These 3D profiles provide the foundational input data source for the LAS2RAS tool. In addition to tool development, the LAS2RAS project includes sensitivity analysis of the tool and its outputs. These analyses include an in-depth comparison of model results under different scenarios - including and excluding bridges in the HECRAS models. The comparisons are expected to help assess the accuracy of automated bridge hydraulic calculations. Additionally, the sensitivity analyses are expected to quantify the range of effort (labor hours) that should be anticipated when applying the tool and its automated process.

Project deliverable(s):

Deliverables of this project include LAS2RAS code base, a desktop tool compatible with HEC-RAS (version: 6.3.1), sensitivity analyses and documentation. Documentation includes a suite of components including tool design and algorithm, user guide, tool limitations, and the results of sensitivity analyses. The deliverables also include virtual training sessions on how to use the tool.

Contractor (and Principal Investigator, if appropriate):

Stantec and AECOM

Contract amount:

Approximately $600,000

Project lead:

Srikanth Koka, P.E.

Project timeline:

Summer 2025