University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Transportation Policy Studies

United States. Dept. of Transportation. Research and Innovative Technology Administration

USDOT/RITA DTOS59-07-H-005

Tech Report

United States

University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Transportation Policy Studies

This volume introduces several applications of remote bridge inspection technologies studied in this Integrated Remote Sensing and Visualization (IRSV) study using ground-based LiDAR systems. In particular, the application of terrestrial LiDAR for bridge health monitoring is explored both in the laboratory and on-site. An automated bridge condition evaluation system based on terrestrial LiDAR data, LiBE (LiDAR based Bridge Evaluation), was developed. The research completed during this Phase One effort have demonstrated that LiDAR systems adequately address the functions of defect detection and quantification, clearance measurement, and displacement measurement during bridge static load testing. Several bridges in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, and to some extent in other areas have been evaluated using LiBE and quantitative bridge rating mechanisms. The ratings generated through what we describe as the IRSV System are intended to demonstrate, combined with other technologies - (see Volume Five) - how LiDAR-based bridge evaluation can be applied to bridge monitoring consistent with existing state and federal bridge management policies. A cost-benefit analysis was conducted as part of this project that demonstrates the relevancy of Commercial Remote Sensing (CRS) technologies to current nation-wide bridge management problems. It also has the potential of reducing bridge maintenance and repair costs that are incurred by a wide variety of stakeholders, both public and private. The results generated by our testing and developing a “proof of concept” for these technologies are valuable for those professionals involved in bridge management decision-making.

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DTOS59-07-H-005

US Transportation Collection