Project Details
Projekt
Optical Distributed Sensor Interrogator
Subject Area
Construction Engineering and Architecture
Term
Funded in 2019
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 420351665
In construction engineering, buildings and structures are designed on the basis of engineering models and additional construction rules. To derive calculation models, such as physically-based engineering models and to validate non-linear finite element models, precise knowledge of the load transfer and the corresponding deformations of structural components is required. In these analyses, usually, experimental tests are carried out. Besides the applied load and deflections, the strains in structural steel, reinforcing steel and concrete are highly relevant. For strain measurements, usually local values are obtained using strain gauges or averaged values are recorded using displacement transducers. Local strain measurements strictly limit the possibilities to improve existing engineering models and to validate non-linear finite element models. Therefore, a fibre optic measurement system is to be acquired by the Institute of Structural Concrete, the Chair of Structural Analysis and Dynamics as well as the Institute of Steel Construction. With this equipment a continuous strain measurement with improved data is possible. By means of glued glass fibres, strains inside and on the surface of structural components (for example made of reinforced or prestressed concrete as well as steel composite constructions) can be measured. In addition, the system allows for the first time to measure strains of fiber composite materials, such as fabrics made of carbon fibre reinforced polymer in concrete. Until now, these measurements are difficult to perform due to lack of space and weakening of the cross-section during application of strain gauges. Moreover, the fibre optic measurement system can significantly simplify measurements on existing structures, so that a more precise prediction of the service life can be ensured. Continuous measurements with fibre optic systems provide a new dimension of resolution and detail, allowing significantly deeper insights into actual load transfer mechanisms. Such detailed strain measurements are an excellent basis for the targeted derivation of physically-based models. Although there are already many good physically based models, it is to be expected that many models will be reconsidered and further developed using this measurement technology. Due to fiber optic measurement system, the costly and expensive attachment of many strain gauges can be omitted.
DFG Programme
Major Research Instrumentation
Major Instrumentation
Ortsaufgelöstes Faseroptisches Messsystem
Instrumentation Group
8710 Optische Längenmeßgeräte (außer 062-067 und Meßmikroskope 503)
Applicant Institution
Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen
