摘要: |
New low-cost approaches to monitoring the health of bridge and critical transportation infrastructure systems are critically needed. This study seeks to provide a solution by using novel sensing technologies that can be cost-effectively developed. The input from industry will direct the identification, selection, development, and testing of such technologies. The exposure of students and inspectors to low-cost technology and sensors will provide researchers with data to evaluate the implementation of cost-effective sensing technologies by the transportation industry. Moreover, this project will support the development of new sensing technologies generated by students enrolled in a suite of new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) classes. By engaging in this research, STEM students will develop their knowledge in the use of new technologies, infrastructure inspection, and will have opportunities to interact and train with transportation industry infrastructure owners (railroads and Departments of Transportation [DOTs]). Overall, this study will promote the sustainability and resilience of transportation renewal and upgrade by developing cost-effective technologies, that will be applied towards the maintenance of the transportation infrastructure in metropolitan and rural areas. In addition, this project will promote workforce development in the earliest stages of education in transportation engineering. |