Automatic Monitoring of Bridges using Electronic Inclinometers

The paper presents a new method for the automatic monitoring of bridges deformations. Based on the use of electronic high precision inclinometers, this method permits to accurately reconstruct the deflected shape of the bridge and to follow its long-term evolution. A practical and efficient method for the reconstruction of the deflected shape from measured rotations is proposed. The example of an actual bridge in Western Switzerland, in which the system is operational, is described. The results obtained correspond well with those obtained from independent measurements.