A DT-Ready Conceptual Framework for Condition Assessment and Scenario-Based Maintenance Decision Support of Road Embankments

Road-embankment maintenance decisions are often based on fragmented design, analytical, and monitoring information, limiting consistent condition assessment and timely intervention prioritization. This study develops a Digital-Twin-ready conceptual framework by integrating a structured database, analytical condition assessment, and fuzzy decision support. The road-embankment condition index (RECI) combines normalized settlement, static-stability, and seismic-stability indicators, while the IPI integrates the RECI with condition trends and data reliability. The framework was numerically demonstrated using documented computational data for three embankments along the E-863 Lučani–Požega motorway section. Because monitoring time series were unavailable, the trend was treated as a controlled scenario input. Changing trends from stable to rapidly deteriorating increased the intervention priority by two classes in all cases when the RECI and reliability were held constant. Reduced reliability also increased the IPI under less favorable condition-trend combinations. Variations of ±10% in RECI weights and coordinated ±5% variations in fuzzy membership parameters and IPI boundaries produced no classification changes, demonstrating local robustness within the tested ranges. The framework provides a transparent basis for condition-based maintenance planning and future integration of monitoring data, automated trend determination, and empirical calibration, thereby supporting more consistent, sustainable, and resilient road-infrastructure management.