Finite element model updating of a space frame bridge with mobile sensing data

Abstract

This research investigates the field performance of a mobile sensor network designed for structural health monitoring. Each mobile sensing node (MSN) is a small magnet-wheeled tetherless robot that carries sensors and autonomously navigates on a steel structure. A four-node mobile sensor network is deployed for navigating on the top plane of a space frame bridge. With little human effort, the MSNs navigate to different sections of the steel bridge, attach accelerometers, and measure structural vibrations at high spatial resolution. Using high-resolution data collected by a small number of MSNs, detailed modal characteristics of the bridge are identified. A finite element model for the bridge is constructed according to structural drawings, and updated using modal characteristics extracted from mobile sensing data.