A self-sensing magnetorheological elastomer-based adaptive bridge bearing with a wireless data monitoring system

摘要

This study presents an adaptive bridge bearing that can sense structural loads and tune its properties to mitigate structural vibrations. The bearing utilizes magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) layers which allow for an increased stiffness induced with a magnetic field. The system also features a MRE-based sensing system for sensing the structural wind and traffic load. The sensing system is capable of transmitting data wirelessly to a central logging computer for monitoring bridge performance and sending alerts in the case of a major event. The capability of the MRE-based sensing system for sensing structural loads and wireless transmission of data were investigated. The adaptive bridge bearing incorporates a closed-loop magnetic circuit that results in an enhanced magnetic field in the MRE layers. Results show the sensitivity of the MRE-based sensors and the performance of the wireless system, as well as the design and analysis of the tunable bridge bearing.