New tools for inspection and evaluation of steel truss bridge gusset plates

C. Higgins*, Q. D. Nguyen, O. T. Turan

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

A new methodology was developed that permits collection of accurate field measurements, production of as-built CAD connection drawings, and direct finite element (FE) modeling and analysis of asbuilt gusset plate connections. The method uses close-range photogrammetry techniques to rectify fieldcollected digital images taken with consumer-grade cameras to produce scaled orthographic photographs (orthophotos) of the bridge connections. From these orthophotos, the user collects true-scale measurements and exports the plate and fastener geometric information. The geometric data are used directly to create CAD drawings thereby limiting data entry errors and these as-built drawings can be compared with design drawings or used in simplified analysis and ranking methods. The same geometric data are ported to ABAQUS using scripts that generate finite element models of the gusset plates to directly assess the connection capacity.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationBridge Maintenance, Safety, Management and Life-Cycle Optimization - Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Bridge Maintenance, Safety and Management
Pages621-627
Number of pages7
Publication statusPublished - 2010
Externally publishedYes
Event5th International Conference on Bridge Maintenance, Safety and Management, IABMAS 2010 - Philadelphia, PA, United States
Duration: 11 Jul 201015 Jul 2010

Publication series

NameBridge Maintenance, Safety, Management and Life-Cycle Optimization - Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Bridge Maintenance, Safety and Management

Conference

Conference5th International Conference on Bridge Maintenance, Safety and Management, IABMAS 2010
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPhiladelphia, PA
Period11/07/1015/07/10

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