The EDC Technology involves the use of embedded sensors located inside the structural element – a wireless radio transmitter a receiver, and a laptop software to analyze the data. The EDC system does not require external wires and records the strain information inside the concrete structural element.

In case of a precast concrete pile, Embedded Data Collectors (EDC) are embedded both at the top and tip of the pile. Tip data along with top data is analyzed to measure the driving stresses in a pile and to provide independent tip and skin resistances and pile integrity in real time for every hammer blow. Depending on the requirement to monitor the sensor packs consisting of accelerometers, strain gauges and temperature sensors are embedded into the structural element during casting.

Sensor pack consisting of accelerometer, strain gauge and temperature sensor embedded before concrete placement (FDOT-UF 2002)

The sensors are embedded within the concrete elements during casting. Therefore, long-term monitoring of substructure or superstructure could be implemented during and post construction quickly and cost effectively as required. Continuous monitoring data from EDC sensors goes into Smart Structures cloud-based (Internet) Infrastructure Management System.

Long-term monitoring is simply a continuation of the data collection starting from the moment each sensor was cast into concrete. Long-term monitoring provides the data and insight needed to validate design, detect any structural distress, optimize maintenance & repair, and respond to events such as extreme weather and other types of disasters.

LIFE CYCLE MONITORING (LCM) OF SUBSTRUCTURES AND SUPERSTRUCTURES

With less budgets allocated for building new structures every year, implementation of the service lives of bridges and other critical structures has become a primary importance. Accurate and timely information on the strain, temperature, corrosion potential and other variables helps in preventing and mitigating any possible structural failures. are

The development of embedded sensors has made accurate long-term measurement of strain, temperature, corrosion potential in concrete deep foundations and in superstructure elements possible. Life cycle monitoring begins from the casting of the structural elements and extends through the installation, operations, and maintenance phases. Main features of Life Cycle Monitoring using embedded sensors in the pile, pile cap, pier cap and other structural elements are to

  • Acquire strain data at any time.
  • Data will indicate if there is any change in stress in the structure.
  • Compare changes over time

Life Cycle Monitoring provides long-term quality assurance of structural integrity in a cost-efficiently.