SSS installed tension flaps on the bridge in June 2021. Due to external conditions and changes in test scope from our side, the measurements were finished after 3 days. In addition to functioning as an internal test for the new Smart Sensor communication unit for SSS, there was a desire from both parties to see what such measurements can provide in terms of relevant information for the Swedish Road Administration.

The sensor technology we have used here shows that we can measure how vehicles, even small vehicles such as motorcycles, affect a bridge structure. When measuring over time, one will be able to follow changes in mechanical deflection and thus see a change/weakening in the construction's load-bearing capacity. In practice, the sensor technology we have used here can be used on all components of a bridge structure. The advantage of our equipment is that the sensors (tension flaps) can be permanently mounted on bridges, while the sensor communication (our Smart Sensor box) can be easily moved between the bridges. Thus, a single person can collect measurement data from several bridges in shorter intervals. This will still provide full information on the weakening of and development in the bridge's carrying capacity.

The assembly team at work

Stretch tabs fitted