Wireless structural health monitoring application notes

Application notes

Resensys solutions can be used for variety of applications. Three representative applications are:

Movements of structure members within certain ranges indicate the integrity and safe operation of that structure. The Resensys structural health monitoring (SHM) solution can be used for monitoring displacement in bridge and structure members. As an important application the displacement SenSpot can be used for crack monitoring which is an important part of SHM. Cracking may cause serious damage to the structure which deteriorates its integrity and safety. Resensys displacement SenSpots are able to monitor cracks in concrete, steel and composite materials. The displacement meter shown below consists of two parts which are to be installed on the two sides of the measurement spot. The relative distance between the moving and fixed sides of the SenSpot is measured with accuracy of one tenth of a millimeter. These SenSpots are available in different measurement sizes such as 1, 2, and 4 inches.

Resensys structural health monitoring (SHM) solution can be used for monitoring tilt of bridge piers to ensure the integrity and safe operation of the structure. Change in tilt can happen as a result of settling, deformation, or permanent change in loading. Resensys high precision wireless tilt sensors detect and report any unhealthy change in tilt that may affect overall safety of the structure.

Temperature variation causes a bridge deck and superstructure to expand and contract. Bearings are designed to accommodate the resulting thermal movements. In case that the accommodation is not performed properly a large amount of strain (stress) will be accumulated in bridge structural elements and in particular, in the girders and support beams. Accumulated stress as a result of malfunctioning bearings can result in damage in the form of fatigue cracks in steel and major damage or cracks in bridge piers and abutments. Resensys sensors provide accurate information about tilt, temperature and strain on bridge bearings; using the system can detect instances where the bearings are partially or completely frozen.