Smart Sensors for Real-Time Bridge Monitoring

During Phase I, the hypothesis was verified (through lab test conducted at CFC-WVU) that structural faults (cracks) and their locations on bridges can be identified using strain gauges and a strain energy technique. This non-destructive, non-baseline evaluation method uses a bridge damage indicator model and a strain energy density indicator processed through a fuzzy expert system. Inputs for the model were obtained from simple, strain gage sensors placed at critical locations on the bridge. During Phase I, a low cost network was also designed to integrate the strain gages and pressure sensors with controlling electronics for collecting and processing sensor data for the bridge evaluation method. The focus in Phase II is to further the technique of identifying micro-cracks using a non-baseline, non-destructive methodology -- and to extrapolate from the analysis the remaining life of a bridge or bridge section, that is, how many additional crossings are possible over the bridge before it needs to repaired or replaced. Another objective of Phase II is to implement the system on deployable hardware. This includes developing the hardware/software to support a remote sensor data capture and processing system. At the end of Phase II, a prototype ready for field testing will be delivered the RDECOM-TARDECs facility.