Kistler has unveiled a new cloud-based software platform that delivers a complete structural health monitoring (SHM) solution for bridges, integrating advanced sensor technology with its established weigh in motion systems.
The all-in-one platform allows for continuous, automated monitoring of bridges, providing highly accurate, real-time data to improve structural safety, extend service life, and reduce the risk of failure.
Traditionally, assessing a bridge’s condition has relied on manual inspections, which are often infrequent and provide only a qualitative snapshot of structural integrity. Kistler’s SHM system overcomes these limitations by offering a 24/7 monitoring solution that collects and analyzes a wide range of site-specific parameters, including vibration, strain, wind, and traffic loads.
“Every bridge is unique and requires tailored monitoring,” said David Cornu, head of traffic solutions at Kistler. “Our SHM and WIM systems ensure the collection of a comprehensive, robust, and synchronized dataset, allowing operators to directly compare a bridge’s capacity with the actual loads it experiences.”
At the core of this new system is Kistler’s advanced WIM technology, which records axle and vehicle loads at full speed without disrupting traffic. Integrated directly into the SHM platform, the WIM system continuously gathers key traffic metrics, such as total vehicle weights, overloaded vehicle counts, and cumulative traffic loads, feeding this data directly into the cloud-based monitoring software.
The software not only consolidates structural, environmental, and traffic data, but also offers bridge operators powerful analytics and alerting tools. Operators can set triggers for automatic notifications if thresholds are exceeded or structural changes are detected. These can be configured for real-time events or scheduled for regular intervals, enabling timely, informed decision-making.
Meanwhile, Kistler’s cloud solution ensures all collected data is securely stored and accessible at any time, from any location. This allows infrastructure managers to monitor bridge performance remotely, detect potential issues early, and plan proactive maintenance strategies.
Kistler also offers end-to-end support – from initial infrastructure assessments and system design to installation and ongoing operation. This full-service approach helps tailor SHM solutions to the unique structural and operational demands of any bridge.
