Wireless Accelerometer Architecture for Bridge SHM: From Sensor Design to System Deployment

Francesco Morgan Bono (), Alessio Polinelli, Luca Radicioni, Lorenzo Benedetti, Francesco Castelli-Dezza, Simone Cinquemani and Marco Belloli
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Francesco Morgan Bono: Mechanical Department, Politecnico di Milano, 20156 Milan, Italy
Alessio Polinelli: Displaid s.r.l. Società Benefit, 20122 Milan, Italy
Luca Radicioni: Displaid s.r.l. Società Benefit, 20122 Milan, Italy
Lorenzo Benedetti: Displaid s.r.l. Società Benefit, 20122 Milan, Italy
Francesco Castelli-Dezza: Mechanical Department, Politecnico di Milano, 20156 Milan, Italy
Simone Cinquemani: Mechanical Department, Politecnico di Milano, 20156 Milan, Italy
Marco Belloli: Mechanical Department, Politecnico di Milano, 20156 Milan, Italy

Future Internet, 2025, vol. 17, issue 1, 1-17

Abstract: This paper introduces a framework to perform operational modal analysis (OMA) for structural health monitoring (SHM) by presenting the development and validation of a low-power, solar-powered wireless sensor network (WSN) tailored for bridge structures. The system integrates accelerometers and temperature sensors for dynamic structural assessment, all interconnected through the energy-efficient message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT) messaging protocol. Moreover, it delves into the details of sensor selection, calibration, and the design considerations necessary to address the unique challenges associated with bridge structures. Special attention is given to the solar-powered aspect, allowing for extended deployment periods without the need for frequent maintenance or battery replacements. To validate the proposed system, a comprehensive field deployment was conducted on an actual bridge structure. The collected data were transmitted through MQTT messages and analyzed by means of OMA. Comparative studies with traditional wired systems underscore the advantages of the solar-powered wireless solution in terms of sustainability, scalability, and ease of deployment. Results from the validation phase demonstrate the system’s capability to provide accurate and real-time data needed to assess the health state of the monitored asset. This paper concludes with insights into the practical implications of adopting such a solar-powered WSN, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize bridge health monitoring by offering a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for long-term infrastructure resilience.

Keywords: wireless sensor networks; structural health monitoring; energy autonomous sensors; operational modal analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O3 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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