Large-Scale Bridge Structural Health Monitoring System Based on Smart Sensor Networks

Abstract

For structural health monitoring of large-scale bridges, the well-developed and widely-used wired structural health monitoring technologies have replaced traditional manual operations gradually, except for the difficulties in arranging cables and updating systems in practical applications. In contrast, the new developing wireless sensor network technologies for bridge structural health monitoring are easier to deploy and update, overcoming these defects that exist in the wired systems. However, in certain circumstances, the communication quality of wireless networks cannot be ensured, leading to an impact on the efficiency and reliability of system. A new heterogeneous structural health monitoring system is proposed in this paper. It has advantages over both wired and wireless health monitoring technologies. Then the paper analyzes its advantages compared to the single wired or wireless system specifically. The compositions of the heterogeneous structural health monitoring system are discussed in detail. In addition, some potential problems and corresponding solutions that may exhibit in the heterogeneous system are discussed. In practice, we have built a health monitoring system in Runyang Yangtse River Bridge, and according to the vibration data collected from anchor cable and box-girder of the bridge, the system can provide quantified information that can help in determining the structure health status of bridge, and give a warning if it is in danger.