An application of an optical measuring system to reinforced concrete beams analysis

This paper presents the possibility of using optical measuring system ARAMIS for reinforced concrete beams behaviour studies. Measurements of spatial deformations (horizontal displacements and rotation of the cross section) and cracking process (width and number of cracks) of these elements were taken into account. Such measurements are very difficult to do with the use of traditional methods. System specification has been prepared in order to, test a large area of reinforced concrete beams. It was possible among other things, to use of two sensors/two sets of cameras. Due to this fact and the unusual use for testing of reinforced concrete elements, it was necessary to develop a procedure for reinforced concrete elements measuring. To evaluate the accuracy of measurement, uncertainty of the measurement system was calculated for the configuration used in the studies. The analysis of crack formation and corresponding displacements was based on results of tests performed on 14 single-span reinforced concrete beams monotonically loaded until failure. During studies all data were collected using optical measuring system based on ARAMIS software. On the basis of research and analysis it was demonstrated that the asymmetrical distribution of rebar in reinforced concrete beam section affects on horizontal displacements and the process of crack formation on the surface of the beam.