The first phase of research and manufacturing of bridge deformation monitoring equipment using position sensor: case study in Vietnam

This paper is the first result of an experimental study of manufacturing deformation monitoring equipment using a position sensor, an efficient solution for contractors in bridge monitoring during either process of construction or operation in the context of the increasing number of large bridges. The object of the research is bridgework. And the work is aimed at achieving two tasks, which include meeting the need of the surveyors in real-time monitoring and warning during the construction process with a suitable price and reducing the reliance on manufacturers in supplying and operating monitoring systems. The study used a KTR position sensor, a Linear Variable Differential Transformer, and an Arduino board for embedded coding. Data from the KTR sensor are acquired, processed, and controlled by a program written in Python. The results of the study are compared to the true observations from a Mitutoyo Palmer which has 0.01 mm accuracy in a laboratory. The initial results from the laboratory show prospects for applications in reality, and accuracy is suitable for technical measurements. This is also a good choice for surveyors in acquiring continuously monitoring data at high accuracy for bridge monitoring in general and structure in particular. The study is fundamental to expanding the number of channels from 1 to 8 or 16 for monitoring a full cross-section. At the same time, cable connection mode will be developed to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth mode for online observation. The results of the study confirm the scientificity, and feasibility of the solution. This solution can be applied for either bridge monitoring or other monitoring fields and can be produced by contractors. The cost of monitoring projects will be significantly reduced and there will be no more disruption of monitoring projects after suppliers leave as a new system will be quickly added or replaced.