Element-Level Optimization Module for Bridge Planning and Programming

The overall objective of this research is to support state departments transportation with their decision-making processes and transitions performance management performance-based planning programming mandated by the Moving Ahead for Progress in 21st Century Act. Accomplishing requires a systematic multiobjective optimization methodology. This proposes such methodology, referred as an “element-based optimization” (EB-MOO) which produces optimal or near-optimal sets short- long-term intervention strategies detailed at bridge element level programming. methodology currently focuses on asset class consists five modules: (1) data processing, (2) improvement, (3) element-level (ELO), (4) bridge-level (BLO), (5) network-level (NLO) modules. paper details ELO module, specifically: basic framework underlying concepts, alternative feasibility screening process, problem types mathematical formulations, heuristic algorithm used solve problems. also includes illustrative example using prototyping tool developed implement EB-MOO presents several problems under unconstrained scenarios. implementation demonstrated module’s capability producing solutions, recommending actions, predicting performance, determining funding requirements specified improvement type program year. broader uses results inputs BLO NLO