Experimental validation of structural health monitoring for flexible bridge structures

The complex behavior of flexible structures such as cable-stayed bridges poses a challenge to the field of structural health monitoring. Modes are often closelyspaced and coupled translational and rotational motions hinder modal identification. This study proposes a structural health monitoring technique that uses vibrational characteristics to detect, identify and quantify damage. The technique can be automated using a procedure based on the finite element method. The technique is validated on an experimental model designed for this study representing a cable-stayed bridge. Accelerometers are employed to measure vertical responses of the bridge, and an impulse hammer provides the excitation to the structure. Damage is successfully detected in the experimental bridge model. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.