An interferometric radar for remote sensing of deflections on large structures

Recent progresses in radar techniques have favoured the development of microwave interferometers, suitable for the non-contact monitoring of large structures. The main characteristic of the new radar systems  entirely designed and developed by Italian researchers  is the possibility of simultaneously measuring the static or dynamic deflection of several points on a large structure with high accuracy. In this paper, some techniques implemented in the microwave interferometers are summarized in order to highlight advantages and potential issues of the radar-based measurement; afterwards, the accuracy and simplicity of the radar technology is demonstrated in applications to full-scale bridges.