Embedded Computer/Communication SubSystem for bridge vibration control

Abstract

We describe an embedded computer/communication sub-system that is used to implement semi-active control. The objective of the control is to reduce the vibrations in a steel-girder bridge and so increase the lifespan of the bridge. An ancillary goal of the control is to increase the dynamic load-carrying capacity of the bridge. We use a wireless-interconnected network of computing nodes, with a remote logging capability for maintenance and performance monitoring. Using this vibration-control system, the life-span of bridges can be extended more than double.