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Bridges & Special Structures Design

Underbridge inspection units (UBIUs) that reach from above deck to below.
Department of Transportation

Bridges & Special Structures Design

Electronic Water Level Sensors for Monitoring Scour Critical Structures


Project Number: SPR-1740

Contract Number: 2019-0312 Z5

Status: Complete

Start Date: 04/01/2021

End Date: 06/30/2024


Summary:

This report details a research project aimed at developing and deploying a cost-effective water level sensor network for monitoring scour critical bridges in Michigan. The project involved a comprehensive review of existing water level monitoring technologies, followed by the selection and pilot deployment of Open-Storm sensors on over 30 bridges across the state. Real-time water level data was collected and transmitted, and system performance was continuously monitored. The results demonstrated that the sensors provided valuable realtime information, enhancing bridge inspection efficiency and decision-making. Positive feedback from bridge engineers highlighted the benefits of the technology in improving situational awareness and resource allocation. The report concludes with recommendations for scaling the technology statewide and integrating it with predictive models and other data sources to further enhance bridge scour management practices.

 

Publications:

  • Final Report
  •