Smart while also recording the volume
and weight of traffic passing over the bridge. The system
uses real-time data captured from ruggedized strain gauge
sensors. Embedded microprocessors and specialized mathematical
models and algorithms process and identify the signature
of micro-cracks and extrapolate an estimate of the bridge’s
“remaining life.” The system operates 24/7, providing
a continuous and reliable low-cost, low-power, low-maintenance
monitoring system.
The objective of this system is to identify
structural damage normally missed by visual inspection and
to record the volume and weight of traffic passing over
the bridge. The system will use real-time data captured
from ruggedized strain gauge sensors and embedded, on-board
computers to process the data. Mathematical models and algorithms
that will be able to identify the signature of micro-cracks
and extrapolate a bridge’s “remaining life”
are under development. The aim is to develop a sensor system
that can operate as a low-cost, low-power, and low-maintenance
bridge monitoring system.
The system is being developed by Erallo,
which specializes in wireless sensor network for critical
remote monitoring needs; and the Constructed Facilities
Center at West Virginia University (CFC-WVU), known for
their research and expertise in bridges, damage detection
systems, and structural evaluation algorithms.
Raj Zambre, CEO/CTO of Erallo Technologies,
commented: “We are very pleased to have the opportunity
to further the research and development of this smart sensor
monitoring system. Our ambition is that the system will
provide an accurate and inexpensive way to determine the
condition of bridges and remaining number of safe crossings.”
Dr. Hota GangaRao, Professor and Director of WVU-CFC, commented
further: “Visual inspections are time consuming, subjective,
expose soldiers in hostile environments – and can’t
achieve a reliable determination of early crack detection
at a mili-level, much less evaluate an entire bridge system
for the remaining number of safe crossings. With the number
of US Army controlled bridges in place, a reliable, remote
monitoring system could help safeguard the lives of our
warfighters.”
