FBG Sensing Technology for SHM of Various Bridges

Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensing technology is a type of optical fiber sensing technology that uses fiber grating to measure physical and environmental parameters such as temperature, strain, stress, displacement, vibration, and shape. FBG sensors consist of a short segment of optical fiber that contains a periodic modulation of the refractive index of the fiber core, which acts as a wavelength-selective mirror that reflects light at a specific wavelength. When FBG sensors are subjected to physical or environmental changes, the reflected wavelength changes, providing information about the measured parameters.

Fiber grating sensing technology has been widely adopted in the smart city industry for structural health monitoring of various infrastructure systems, including buildings, roads, and bridges.  In this article, we will discuss the problems that fiber grating sensing technology can solve, and how Beijing Dacheng Yongsheng Technology Co., Ltd.(short for DCYS ) can help to do structural health monitoring(SHM) of various bridges in the smart city industry.

Fiber Bragg Grating Sensing Principle:

Fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) are periodic structures that are inscribed in the core of an optical fiber. These structures reflect a specific wavelength of light that is determined by the periodicity of the grating. When the grating is subjected to mechanical or thermal strain, the reflected wavelength changes in a predictable manner. By monitoring the reflected wavelength, changes in strain, temperature, and other parameters can be detected. FBG sensors can be used to monitor a wide range of parameters, including strain, stress, temperature, and vibration.

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Fiber Bragg Grating Sensing Principle - FBG Principle - FBG Sensor Principle - FBG Temperature Strain Stress Vibration Shape Sensing Principle

An Overview of Various Bridges Commonly Seen in the Smart City Industry:

Bridges are critical components of transportation infrastructure in the smart city industry, providing safe and efficient passage for people and goods. There are various types of bridges commonly seen in the smart city industry, including:

1.Suspension bridges - bridges that are suspended by cables from towers and anchored at each end.

2.Cable-stayed bridges - bridges that are supported by cables that extend directly from the tower to the deck.

3.Arch bridges - bridges that are shaped like a curved arch and supported by abutments on either end.

4.Beam bridges - bridges that are supported by beams that span between piers or abutments.

Physical Diagram of OFSCN® High-Range Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) Strain Sensor (Strain Gauge) - Single-ended, Length 1m­­

Why SHM is Critical for Various Bridges in Smart City Industry:

Structural health monitoring (SHM) of various bridges in the smart city industry is critical for ensuring the safety and durability of bridge structures. Bridges are subject to various environmental and operational loads, including traffic loads, wind loads, temperature changes, and seismic events, which can lead to structural damage, deterioration, and even collapse over time. SHM of bridges can detect early signs of damage, assess the structural integrity, and provide information for maintenance and repair, thus enhancing the safety and longevity of bridge structures.

Difficulties in Performing SHM of Various Bridges:

Performing SHM of various bridges in the smart city industry poses several challenges. Firstly, bridges are large and complex structures, making it difficult to access and install sensors for monitoring. Secondly, bridges are subject to dynamic loading, which can lead to sensor failure or measurement errors. Finally, the harsh environment of bridges, such as exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, and corrosion, can also affect sensor performance and reliability.

Physical Diagram of OFSCN® Capillary Seamless Steel Tube Single-ended FBG Strain Sensor/FBG Strain Gauge­­

What Problems can be Solved by FBG Technology:

Fiber grating sensing technology can solve a variety of problems related to structural health monitoring of bridges in the smart city industry. Some of the key problems that can be addressed with fiber grating sensors include:

1.Early detection of structural damage: Fiber grating sensors can detect changes in strain, temperature, and other parameters that indicate damage to a bridge. By identifying damage at an early stage, engineers can take preventive measures to avoid more serious problems in the future.

2.Real-time monitoring: Fiber grating sensors can provide real-time data on the structural health of a bridge, allowing engineers to track changes and respond quickly to any issues that arise.

3.Improved accuracy: Fiber grating sensors provide highly accurate measurements of strain, temperature, and other parameters, which can help engineers make more informed decisions about the maintenance and repair of bridges.

4.Reduced maintenance costs: By providing early warning of potential problems, fiber grating sensors can help reduce the need for costly repairs and maintenance on bridges.

Beijing Dacheng Yongsheng Technology Co., Ltd.:

Beijing Dacheng Yongsheng Technology Co., Ltd.(short for DCYS) is a professional manufacturer of fiber grating sensors, fiber grating demodulators and system software. Specializing in the production of various fiber grating sensors, including temperature, strain, stress, displacement, vibration, shape sensors, etc. DCYS also produces fiber grating demodulators, and can customize and develop related application software.

Recommended fiber grating demodulator:

Fiber Bragg Grating Demodulator - Fiber Optic Grating Interrogator - High-Speed/Frequency FBG Analyzer

This product is produced by DCYS, and it is a high-speed high-frequency fiber Bragg grating demodulator(Interrogator). The fiber grating demodulator is compatible with various specifications and models of OFSCN® fiber bragg grating sensors (temperature, strain, stress FBG sensors, etc.). It features adjustable port density (4, 8, 12, 16 channels) and high-speed high-refresh rate capabilities.

DCYS Helps to do SHM of Various Bridges in the Smart City Industry:

DCYS can help with structural health monitoring of various bridges in the smart city industry by providing high-quality fiber grating sensors and related equipment. DCYS's sensors are highly accurate and reliable, and can provide real-time data on the structural health of a bridge. By using fiber grating sensors from DCYS, engineers can identify potential problems early and take preventive measures to avoid more serious issues in the future. DCYS's customized application software can also help engineers analyze and interpret data from the sensors more effectively, enabling them to make more informed decisions about the maintenance and repair of bridges.

大成永盛光纤光栅传感监测系统框图

Other Points Need to Be Clarified:

Fiber grating sensing technology has revolutionized the field of structural health monitoring in the smart city industry, offering a range of benefits for engineers and city planners alike. By providing real-time data on the structural health of buildings, roads, and bridges, fiber grating sensors can help prevent costly repairs, reduce maintenance costs, and improve overall safety for residents and visitors to the city. Beijing Dacheng Yongsheng Technology Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of fiber grating sensors and related equipment, and is well-positioned to help cities around the world improve their structural health monitoring capabilities.

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