PSI - Issue 84

Roberto Acerbis et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 84 (2026) 765–772

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static and dynamic performance parameters (such as strains, rotations, displacements, and vibrational response) are defined and used as indicators to assess the consistency between actual behavior and theoretical predictions, as well as to identify suitable threshold levels consistent with acceptable safety levels for the structure.

2. Steps for the Monitoring System Implementation 2.1. Monitoring Project Implementation

Regardless of the adopted approach, structures are monitored continuously and sensors are permanently installed. The workflow for defining the monitoring project consists of five main steps, ranging from the definition of the monitoring strategy and asset selection (already discussed in the Introduction) to data analysis aimed at structural diagnostics. Intermediate steps include sensor selection and layout definition, IT network configuration, and data integration into a centralized platform. The steps are schematically illustrated in Figure 1.

Fig. 1. Monitoring Project Steps

In the following sections, only the steps most relevant to diagnostics and result interpretation are discussed in greater detail, with particular emphasis on the Data-Driven approach. 2.2. Proposed Instrumentation and Sensor Network Depending on the adopted approach, classified as Model-Based (MB) or Data-Driven (DD), the monitoring system is characterized by different objectives, instrumentation, and analysis procedures. Data acquisition frequency varies according to the monitored quantity: static variables are recorded at a rate of one sample per minute, while dynamic quantities are acquired at a sampling frequency of 100 Hz. Table 1 summarizes the instrumentation used and the corresponding monitored variables.

Table 1. Measued Variables, employed sensors, main Objectives and Data Stored. Measured variables Employed Sensors Objectives/Goals

Data Stored

Check for permanent deformations and anomaly subsidence Check for anomaly relative movements Correlation between temperature and structural deformations or vibrations Dynamic response, Modal parameters

Rotations

Clinometers

Continuously

Relative Displacements between bearing or joints

Displacements transducer

Continuously

Contact temperature sensors

Structural Temperature

Continuously

On Trigger, 1800s every day, 600s every 2 hours

Accelerations

Accelerometers