Structural Health Monitoring
Bridge monitoring, a subbranch of structural health monitoring (SHM), focuses on the design, development, and implementation of strategies to detect and characterize damage in real time to examine structural conditions with a focus on safety and cost-effectiveness. Specifically, bridge monitoring systems typically encompass three essential stages:
The Bridge SHM (Structural Health Monitoring) system is designed to monitor the condition of a structure over a specific period. This includes detecting any damages, deflections, or settlements, whether it is short-term or long-term in nature. To achieve this, smart sensors and devices are used, which are capable of collecting and analyzing data.
NEXT Industries utilizes intelligent sensors in its bridge monitoring systems. These sensors are responsible for detecting and extracting data, which is then analyzed to determine the current state of the bridge structure. For example, it can identify any deviations or settlements in the ground of the poles from their original reference point. This data is continuously updated, and if the established thresholds are exceeded, alarms can be sent out to alert professionals.
Bridge monitoring systems can be categorized as either vibration-based or strain-based. Vibration-based systems focus on monitoring changes, degradation, and damages caused by vibration forces. On the other hand, strain-based systems primarily measure the strain or deformation of the structure.
In short, using smart sensors, structural control and monitoring of bridge structures can be achieved effectively and efficiently.
IoT technology offers tremendous benefits for bridge monitoring systems through the use of IoT sensors. This technology is particularly well-suited for applications where large volumes of digital data need to be managed. With IoT, it is possible to access, collect, and analyze data in real-time and remotely, eliminating the need for field inspections that require shutting down bridges and involving human workers.
By analyzing the data collected through IoT sensors, essential information can be derived for accurately interpreting the general structural state of the bridge. This is especially crucial for complex structures that may experience subsidence or degradation of concrete due to cracking. In such cases, 24/7 continuous monitoring is highly recommended to detect potential problems immediately.
Furthermore, remotely monitoring buildings using IoT technology lays the groundwork for effective predictive maintenance approaches. This data-driven approach enables proactive maintenance, allowing for timely interventions and minimizing risks associated with structural deterioration.
Overall, the utilization of IoT technology and sensors in bridge monitoring systems holds great potential for enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and safety of infrastructure maintenance for professionals in the field.
