Theme 1 Overview (2002-2006):
Intelligent Sensing and Structural Health Monitoring

Director: Dr. J.J. Roger Cheng, University of Alberta

PROJECTS IN THEME 1

ISIS Canada is establishing itself as a world leader in the design and application of innovative structures using fibre reinforced polymer (FRPs) and fibre optic sensing (FOS) systems in civil engineering infrastructure. Using FOS networks, many structures can be monitored regionally at a central site, with directed flows of information transmitted via the Internet. Applications of these technologies include bridges, structures, tunnels, pipelines, harbours, dams and buildings. The development of innovative structures, FRPs and networked sensor systems is the genesis of lightweight, corrosion-resistant “smart structures” with significantly longer service life and lower maintenance costs based on continuous monitoring of structural behaviour.

Sensors, combined with comparative structural response models, provide an enhanced capability for assessing long-term structural integrity. The research program of Theme 1 consists of three focus areas, each having several research projects. The first focus area builds on the FOS technologies developed in the first phase of the ISIS mandate. The vision is to complete the current sensor systems by enhancing ISIS Canada’s capability to measure strain gradients over short distances, and use the Brillouin scattering technique to develop a cost-effective distributed strain measuring system by remote monitoring over long distances using conventional telecom fibre cables. Tunable low-cost laser light sources are also being developed to power these instruments.

The second focus area on Structural Health Monitoring is designed to provide a vital link between monitored structures and a central monitoring site. This will allow many structures to be monitored at a central site, with information transmitted via the Internet. This eliminates costly permanent site installation and reduces the number of site visits. This area will also provide a structured approach to assessing the performance of various ISIS technologies and reporting on successes based on monitoring a number of field projects over extended periods of time. In addition to field projects, numerical modelling and identification of damage using the finite element method and, alternatively, damage detection algorithms, are also being developed. Acceptance of intelligent sensing and structural health monitoring as an essential part of infrastructure design, at a fraction of the capital cost of construction, will be key to developing 21st century “high-tech” civil engineering structures.

The third focus area is Demonstration Field Assessments. An integral part of ISIS Canada's mandate is to transfer technology from the research laboratory to practice. This is done on an on-going basis by liaising with industry and infrastructure owners in the formulation and undertaking of major field demonstration projects. The projects are all geared to achieving a specific objective involving actual functioning structures. Such demonstration projects are essential to bring about code changes, which will ensure that ISIS technologies are utilized by the user sector over the long term.

Completed Research 1995 to 2006