Abstract
For global monitoring of large-scale civil infrastructures, it requires direct and accurate macro-deformation measurements to characterize the different performances of entire structural element. The conventional “point” static strain measurements are difficult to provide sufficient information for structural damage identification due to their localized behavior. In this regard, a novel packaging method for practical adaptation of long-gage FBG strain sensors in large-scale structures is proposed. Some static tests are carried out to verify the ability of the proposed FBG sensor for macro-strain measurements by comparing with that of foil strain gauge. Combined with a parametric identification method based on static macro-stain measurements, the applicability of the distributed long-gage FBG sensors in structural parameter estimation and damage detection is discussed. An experimental study of a beam specimen shows the advantage of the proposed sensor for structural identification over traditional strain gauge.
