Handbook for Bridge Inspections - TSP2

2 TERMINOLOGY
Location System
2.1 The location System
2.1 .1 General
It is important that everybody uses the same way to describe where
a damage is located on a bridge and where measurem ents and
material in vestigations are carried out. Therefore, on all bridges, a
localisation system shall be established to make this possible.
The following sections illustrate how such a system can be
planned by using axi s, the numbering of beams and the projection
of columns, superstructure etc ..
In case such a system has been prcviously establi shed for the
bridge, thi s shall be continued or integrated in the new system.
Divisio n by Axes
2.1.2 The Concept of Division by Axes
All bridges sha ll be di vided into an axis number by each abutment
and each column. The div ision by axcs shall be recorded in BRU­
TUS and thereby appear on the inspection fonns.
The main rule is that the di vision being used on the construction
draw ings or as built drawings shall be used.
Numbering the
Axes
Ifno system with regard to axes has been used on the drawings,
axis I (or axis 0) shall be placed at the abutment with the lowest
kilometre in relation to the kilometre direction on the road. On the
draw ings of the bridge, axis I shall be to the left. As a. reference,
designations like column axis 2, superstructure ax.is 2-3 etc. shall
be used.
At the abutments the geographical di rection or the closest village
sha ll be used to detennine the direction of a xes geographical. The
division by axes can with advantage be marked with s pray on larger
bridges. However, this must be done with care to a"Void a spoil-
Figllre 2.1-1: Exumple o/Numbering rhe Axes
Handbook f or Bridge Inspections 15