Improved axle detection for bridge weigh-in-motion systems using fiber optic sensors

• Published in: Journal of civil structural health monitoring 2017-07, Vol.7 (3), p.325-332
• Main Authors: Lydon, Myra, Robinson, D., Taylor, S. E., Amato, G., Brien, E. J. O., Uddin, N.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bridge loads; Civil Engineering; Control; Dynamical Systems; Engineering; Fiber optics; Finite element method; Measurement methods; Measurement Science and Instrumentation; Motion perception; Motion systems; Optical fibers; Sensors; Three dimensional models; Traffic engineering; Traffic information; Vibration; Weighing in motion
• ISSN: 2190-5452; 2190-5479
• DOI: 10.1007/s13349-017-0229-4

Bridge weigh-in-motion (B-WIM) systems provide a non-destructive means of gathering traffic loading information by using an existing bridge as a weighing scale to determine the weights of vehicles passing over. In this research critical locations for sensors for the next-generation B-WIM were determined from a full 3D explicit finite element analysis (FEA) model. Although fiber optic sensors (FOS) have become increasingly popular in SHM systems there are currently no commercially available fiber optic WIM systems available. The FEA in this research facilitated the development of the first ever full fiber optic B-WIM and its potential has been demonstrated with the site installation of this system. The system combined nothing-on-the-road axle detection and alternative methods of measuring strain at the supports. The system was installed on a 20-m span beam and slab RC bridge in Northern Ireland and the results presented in this paper confirm the suitability of FOS in providing the clear defined peaks required for accurate axle detection in B-WIM.