A new method of survey for historic bridges is being trialled in Spain, as part of a European project exploring infrastructure management, using ground-penetrating radar supported by a detailed geometric survey performed through a terrestrial laser scanner.
The work is carried out by researchers at the University of Vigo.
A paper describes the work as follows:
Bridges are considered necessary engineering structures because they connect separated lands to improve economic and social development. In Spain, many of the bridges in service within the network of transport are masonry arch bridges built in ancient times. In addition to their age, the stability of these remaining bridges is questionable because of the changing loading conditions; therefore, they require periodic assessment of the condition state. Moreover, some of these bridges are considered a part of the cultural heritage of a region, so nondestructive evaluation is required to preserve their historical character. In this work, a medieval stone bridge in the Galician territory of Spain was evaluated using ground-penetrating radar, supported by a detailed geometric survey performed through a terrestrial laser scanner. The results revealed unknown geometrical data and hidden characteristics, including the thickness of ring stones in the interior of the vault, as well as the presence of ancient arches and restorations. To assist in the interpretation, finite-difference time-domain modeling was used, where realistic models were built from the accurate geometry provided. The synthetic data obtained were compared with the field data, which allowed for the identification of unknown structural details.
Read more about the technology and methods being trialled
Revisit IHBC newsblog items on laser scanning and digital technology for historic building surveys
Revisit the IHBC newsblog on the COTAC/ CADW Heritage cottage 3D models
