Hybrid sensor system for bridge deformation monitoring: Interfacing with structural engineers

Abstract

Analytical finite element (FE) modelling, modal testing and FE model updating are approaches which are employed to detect structural dynamic characteristics in the mechanical and aerospace engineering communities. Their application to civil engineering structures is more recent. To successfully apply these approaches, field data acquisition plays a very important role in validating and updating the analytical model. As one of the feasible data collection tools for modal testing, GPS has been employed with other sensors by the IESSG at The University of Nottingham to monitor large structural deformations. While demonstrating promising advantages in positioning precision and flexibility in instrumentation installation, the requirements from the structural engineering perspective need to be well defined before this technology can be fully implemented. In this paper prototypes of hybrid sensor systems coupled with a computational FE model are introduced. Data collected from a test bed bridge are processed and analysed to demonstrate the feasibility of proposed systems. The results reveal that it is possible to achieve 3D millimetre positioning precision for detecting high dynamic structural deformations, and obtaining a highly accurate FE model for the purpose of structural health monitoring (SHM).