Imaging Tools for Evaluation of Gusset Plate Connections in Steel Truss Bridges
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 18, Issue 5
Abstract
After the collapse of the Interstate 35W Bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 2007, transportation agencies began evaluating and rating their inventories of gusset plate connections. Connection evaluations require accurate drawings that detail the plate, member, and fastener geometries. These structural details should also accurately reflect the as-built conditions. For some connections, as-built information may not be available, or the available drawings may not represent the actual field conditions. To fill this gap, a new methodology was developed that enables rapid and accurate collection of field measurements for connection plate geometry. The method uses close-range photogrammetry techniques to rectify images taken with consumer-grade cameras using flat-field and fish-eye lenses. The technique has been demonstrated on full-scale gusset plates in the laboratory and in the field. Dimensional measurements from the processed images provided results that are as good as or better than conventional field measurements and with tolerances below what most engineers require for calculation of gusset plate connection capacity. This technique provides a new tool for bridge engineers to quickly collect gusset plate geometry that can be used in connection evaluations and rating and can further enhance bridge-management tasks.
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Acknowledgments
This research was funded by the Oregon Department of Transportation. The input and support of Bert Hartman, Jonathan Rooper, Jeff Swanstrom, Richard Groff, and Steven Soltesz were greatly appreciated. Quang Nguyen and Jason Killian of Oregon State University provided assistance during early development of the image-processing algorithms. The findings, conclusions, and recommendations presented are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the project sponsors or individuals acknowledged.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 18 • Issue 5 • May 2013
Pages: 380 - 387
Copyright
© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Sep 7, 2011
Accepted: Dec 6, 2011
Published online: Dec 8, 2011
Published in print: May 1, 2013
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