Intelligent segments incorporate an autonomous stress monitoring system. The system is installed from the manufacturing stage of the element and is immediately operational, allowing monitoring of stress variations from concrete hardening to segment installation and throughout the entire life cycle of the segment.
Follow stress state of segments on a long term
The challenges related to prefabricated elements
Understanding the stresses in prefabricated segments is critical both during the construction phase of the structure (tunnel or viaduct) and for monitoring its health throughout its lifecycle.
During construction, it’s essential to monitor the stresses endured by the segments to ensure they do not exceed permissible limits. These forces arise from transport and handling, placement, assembly, and the construction sequencing of the subsequent structure.
In the final phase, monitoring the stresses in the segment helps to ensure it is not subject to new stresses due to environmental changes. The stress state also serves as a good indicator of the element’s aging condition.
Notre solution offre :
- Measures of microdeformation using vibrating wire strain gauges,,
- Stress calculation by Hooke’s law: σ = E x ε
- Strain gauges connected to a mini autonomous recorder integrated into the segment,
- Continuous recording,
- Data retrieval using an IoT communication gateway communicating via long-range radio with the recorders (range of 400 m),
- Option to adapt the measurement frequency depending on the construction and monitoring phases,
- Use of long-life batteries (lifetime > 10 years for an acquisition every 6 hours).
Access to the logger for battery replacement is available.
Applications
- Tunnel segments made using a tunnel boring machine,
- Segments for bridges and viaducts,
- Any other structural concrete element (prefabricated or cast in place).
The benefits of our patented solution
Long-term solution
Known stress state from the manufacture of the element throughout its lifecycle.
Automatic device
Automatic and continuous measurements, with possible alarms.
Solution for observational method
Knowledge of the stresses in the element allows for back-analysis and optimisation of future structures. It’s an essential measure for implementing an effective observational method.
Long-term monitoring
Intelligent segments facilitate long-term monitoring of the structures they comprise.
Solution for innovative materials
They are indispensable tools for monitoring structures made with innovative materials (low carbon, ultra-low carbon materials, and others).
Download the Intelligent segments solution datasheet
