A Holistic Approach to Structural Health Monitoring of Bridges: International Bridge Conference 2009

摘要

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) has been increasingly discussed over the last decade. Largely because of limitations in available monitoring devices and data interpretation, the vast majority of the discussion has followed the traditional reductionist philosophy that to understand the whole it is necessary to understand each part. This paper discusses an approach that uses fewer sensors designed to evaluate structures by monitoring the performance resulting from component interactions. This paper describes and makes a case for a holistic methodology that is rooted in such successful approaches as health care and condition-based maintenance strategies for mechanical equipment. We provide a rational analogy with the medical diagnosis and treatment procedure, in which there is a sequence of more specific inspection techniques (exams) and maintenance activities (treatment) based on monitored performance signatures deviating from a normal base signal. Quantification of signature patterns in bridge SHM will allow engineers to determine if and where subsequent maintenance activities are appropriate.