# An Integral Fuzzy Model to Evaluate Slab and Beam Bridges with a Preventive Approach
## 3 Methodology
### First Phase: Bridge Taxonomy, Modular Catalog, and Evaluation Manual
#### 3.1.2 Modular Catalog  
Based on the hierarchical organization of bridge elements, we developed a modular catalog of bridge elements and properties, presented in Table 3. This catalog establishes hierarchical relationships between elements, grouping them into modules to facilitate their organization and management. The modules are divided into five main components: drainage, deck, superstructure, substructure, and conditions. Each of these components classifies the elements it comprises according to their function within the structure, along with the properties that must be evaluated to determine the condition of each element. With this classification, we aim to assess bridge components integrally. The relationships between elements were established at different levels:  
* In the first level, the existing deterioration in the properties of the elements identified during field inspections is recorded, and the severity of each is determined. * Second level: At this level, the individual bridge elements are identified, assigning each a rating based on the deterioration observed in its properties. * Third level: At this level, the individual elements are grouped into components--drainage, deck, superstructure, substructure, and conditions--and are evaluated collectively to provide an integral assessment. In this catalog, an essential component is considered: drainage. Unlike other components, drainage elements are distributed across various parts of the bridge, such as the deck, approaches, support walls, and beneath the structure. This component prevents premature deterioration of the structure, ensuring safety and comfort during transit. Despite its importance, international manuals have not adequately addressed this aspect. The next component considered is the deck, which, although it includes some structural elements, mainly consists of functional elements such as the riding surface, railings, pedestrian accesses, sidewalks, curbs, and separator barriers. Advanced deterioration of these elements directly impacts user safety. The superstructure and substructure are structural components. However, certain properties, such as riverbed scour in the substructure and the bearing length of beams in the superstructure, are particularly critical. Severe deterioration, inadequate design, or construction aspects in these areas pose significant risks to the overall safety of the bridge. The conditions component evaluates the environmental and operational factors that influence material deterioration. These conditions are key to determining the optimal timing for inspections and maintenance activities. It is essential to highlight that the previously described components classify their individual elements based on the importance factor of each, determining how their deterioration affects the overall performance of the bridge. The classification of elements is divided into two categories: functional and structural. Functional elements do not contribute to the structural resistance of the bridge. Although their deterioration does not pose an immediate risk of collapse, it can significantly impact user safety and comfort. Structural elements support the loads applied to the bridge. Their deterioration requires immediate attention to ensure the safety of both the structure and its users. * Finally, the fourth level consists of the integral evaluation of the bridge, where all these levels are combined to provide a complete assessment of the bridge's condition. This evaluation enables the identification of the type of maintenance required for each element and the determination of the frequency at which these activities should be performed. This modular catalog aims to granularize the evaluation of bridges by determining relationships between their elements and classifying those that work together. However, to conduct a proper inspection, it is essential for the inspector to have clearly defined criteria for recording the deterioration present in the bridge elements.