Integrated Remote Sensing and Visualization (IRSV) System for Transportation Infrastructure Operations and Management: Phase One, Volume 3, Use of Scanning LiDAR in Structural Evaluation of Bridges

This volume introduces several applications of the remote bridge inspection technologies using ground-based LiDAR systems. In particular, the application of terrestrial LiDAR for bridge health monitoring is studied. An automatic bridge condition evaluation system based on terrestrial LiDAR data, LiBE (LiDAR based Bridge Evaluation), is developed. The research works completed thus far have demonstrated that LiDAR systems have 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 other areas, have been evaluated using LiBE and quantitative bridge rating mechanisms are proposed. The proposed ratings are intended to demonstrate how LiDAR-based bridge evaluation can be applied to bridge monitoring consistent with existing state and federal bridge management approach. A cost-benefit analysis has been conducted that demonstrates the relevancy of Commercial Remote Sensing (CRS) technologies to the current nationwide bridge management problem, as well as the potential of reducing the bridge maintenance costs to stackholders. The results generated from these technologies are valuable for bridge maintenance decision making.