Structural health monitoring

Through structural monitoring of a variety of different types of infrastructures the aim is to check and maintain structural integrity, which is a core aspect of structural engineering.

There are several types of structural monitoring systems:

Static Monitoring: measures long-term changes such as deformation and settlement.

Dynamic Monitoring: observes short-term responses to dynamic forces like wind, earthquakes, or vibrations.

Periodic Monitoring: involves scheduled inspections and measurements.

Continuous Monitoring: provides real-time data collection, often used for critical infrastructure such as bridges.

Remote Monitoring: utilises wireless sensors, satellites, or drones for monitoring inaccessible or large structures.

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is the process of continuously or periodically assessing the condition of structures to detect damage, deterioration, or stress.

At Fugro we carry through structure inspections and structural control and health monitoring.

To provide society with structures like bridges, tunnels, buildings, dams and so on that are safe, perform well and are long-lasting the use of sensing technology is vital. Sensors ensure data provision for data analysis and modelling.

Generally, the most common methods used are signal processing, machine learning, or statistical methods. Being able to provide structural analysis for damage detection, predictive maintenance, as well as information for management systems. In bridge monitoring there would be an added aspect of geo-monitoring for example.

Geo-monitoring refers to observations regarding geological conditions such as ground movement or surface deformation. Its subset is geotechnical monitoring which is for example used for offshore wind turbines.

Whereas structural monitoring refers to build structures to assess their integrity, detect damage, and ensure their safety and performance.

As mentioned above with e.g. bridge structural monitoring services both geotechnical and structural monitoring would be needed.

Here some of the benefits and impacts that SHM using the lens of ESG:

Environmental: SHM helps reduce the environmental impact by optimising maintenance schedules and extending the lifespan of structures, leading to resource conservation.

Social: SHM ensures public safety through early detection of structural damage and protects communities from infrastructure failures.

Governance: SHM provides compliance with regulations, promoting transparency and accountability in managing infrastructure assets.