Measurement of Vibration Characteristic of a Bridge Using Piezoelectric Bolt-Type Sensors

Abstract eng:
Piezoelectric bolt-type sensor was used to estimate predominant frequencies of vertical vibration of bridge located at Yurihonjo city, Japan. The equipment was first tested to observe the dynamic response of a provisional bridge. Then the measurement system was applied to evaluate the dynamic response of a target bridge. This structure is a continuous beam type bridge with steel beams of variable sections and reinforced concrete slabs to support the asphalt carpet. The bridge consists of seven spans with a total length of 256 m. The experimental measurements were performed on the first span near the left embankment. Natural periods of vibration are obtained by Fourier analysis of recorded signals from piezoelectric sensors. Since piezoelectric sensor emits a signal when a change in the stress condition occurs, the sensor was setup at the support of the bridge where large changes in the stress level is expected to occur. Signals from piezoelectric bolt sensors are transmitted to computer by means of a wireless module which contains a microcomputer board. The proposed system is simple and it is easy to install in-situ. Former measurements systems require a lot of equipment like energy generator, and signal amplifiers as is the case of measurements using accelerometers. For comparison measurements with conventional accelerometers were also performed. Responses were captured appropriately using the proposed system and they are comparable with responses obtained from accelerometers. The general response pattern was obtained appropriately however, it is necessary to improve the accuracy of the proposed system to have more reliable data. This experimental verification of dynamic characteristics of the target bridge will be useful to construct a reliable analytical model to perform seismic response analysis of the bridge.

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