Visual Information Processing for Status Assessment in Bridges

A highly efficient image processing technique can be used to document the status and damage/distress levels in bridges using high resolution images. The bridge deck images can be used to quantify deck distress conditions and deterioration progress. The paper provides insights about the important role of the image format in image processing techniques. The method can be extended for crack detection and quantification in roads. Using engineering models and analysis, we can evaluate the current performance level in terms of strength and life-cycle. Since the data obtained in these studies is static, or dynamic, the analysis depends on the quality and accuracy of the system used to capture the images. Consequently, the processing of this data needs to be done by looking into acquisition, enhancement and improvement, and later comprehension and interpretation so that it can be used in engineering analysis. These features are presented with diagnosis on the effect of damage in typical case studies done on some existing bridges.