Vehicle Optimisation for Drive-by-Bridge Inspection

Drive-by bridge inspection is an innovative technique that uses vehicles equipped with sensors to assess the structural condition of bridges as they pass over them. Unlike traditional bridge inspection methods, which often require lane closures, scaffolding, or specialized equipment, this approach allows for continuous monitoring without disrupting traffic flow. The vehicles—often regular cars, trucks, or specialized inspection vehicles—are fitted with accelerometers, GPS, and other sensors that record vibrations and dynamic responses as the vehicle crosses the bridge. These data are then analyzed to detect changes in the bridge's dynamic behavior, such as stiffness variations or frequency shifts, which can indicate structural damage or degradation. This method offers several advantages, including the ability to inspect multiple bridges quickly and cost-effectively. It also enables real-time or frequent monitoring, making it easier to track the progression of structural issues and prioritize maintenance. Although drive-by inspections may not yet replace traditional methods for detailed assessments, they provide a valuable, scalable tool for early damage detection and routine health monitoring of bridge networks. The performance of indirect SHM or drive by bridge inspection highly depends on the characteristics of the sensing vehicle. This project aims to gain knowledge on the best-performing vehicle to maximise the amount of bridge-related information from the vehicle-bridge interaction system.