Contactless optical measurement methods for glass beams and composite timber-glass I-beams

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is to briefly present the concept of timber-glass I-beams and the accuracy of optical measurement methods for structures made from glass. The concept of timber-glass I-beams combines the best features of both materials and maximises of their safety. Previous investigations of glass beams and composite timber-glass beams and optical measuring methods are briefly discussed at the beginning of this paper. The investigation of simply supported glass beams using quasi-static four-point bending tests was the next stage of the examination to compare contact and contactless measurement methods. Composite timber-glass I-beams were then investigated in the same manner as the glass beams. The composite timber-glass I-beams were constructed from fir, laminated float glass and polyurethane adhesive – offering the best performance when used with both timber and glass.