SHM of Concrete Bridge Structures using Wireless Sensor Networks

This paper presents a localized information processing approach for long-term automated online structural health monitoring (SHM) using wireless sensor network (WSN). Feature-based Vibration examination is a powerful diagnostic tool for evaluating the structural performance. This paper presents vibration analysis of acceleration data collected by accelerometers at multiple locations of an old pre-stressed heavily loaded bridge that included healthy as well as un-healthy parts and is the main carrier of Karachi port traffic using signal processing techniques. All sensors have been linked to form a WSN network. The position for mounting sensors has deliberately been chosen in between the piers of bridge so the maximum impact of vibration can be felt on girders. This deployment demonstrates the potential of WSN networks for structure health monitoring of large scale civil infrastructures.