A real-time prediction method using a multilayer feedforward neural network is proposed for estimating vertical dynamic displacements of a bridge from the longitudinal strains of the bridge when vehicles pass across it. A numerical model for an existing five-girder bridge spanning 36 m proved by actual experimental values was used to verify the proposed method. To obtain a realistic vehicle distribution for the bridge, vehicle type and actual headways of moving vehicles were taken, and the measured vehicle distribution was generalized using Pearson Type III theory. Twenty-five load scenarios were created with assumed vehicle speeds of 40 km/h, 60 km/h, and 80 km/h. The results indicate that the model can reasonably predict the overall displacements of the bridge (which is difficult to measure) from the strain (which is relatively easy to measure) in the field in real time.

The distribution of fibers in the composite (which takes into account both their locations and orientations) is one of the important factors that affect the mechanical properties of FRCs. However, this parameter depends on various factors during composite fabrication, and controlling the distribution of fibers in the produced material represents a significant challenge. In this study, the applicability of three-dimensional (3D) printing technique for controlling fiber distributions was evaluated. The fibers fabricated using a 3D printer were placed inside a mold to produce cementitious composites. Three-point bending tests were conducted and the results of the experiment were discussed.

Structural health monitoring (SHM) and safety assessment are very important areas for evaluating the behavior of structures. Various wired and wireless sensors can measure the physical responses of structures, such as displacement or strain. One recently developed wireless technique is a light imaging detection and ranging (LiDAR) system that can remotely acquire three-dimensional (3D) high-precision coordinate information using 3D laser scanning. LiDAR systems have been previously used in geographic information systems (GIS) to collect information on geography and terrain. Recently, however, LiDAR is used in the SHM field to analyze structural behavior, as it can remotely detect the surface and deformation shape of structures without the need for attached sensors. This study demonstrates a strain evaluation method using a LiDAR system in order to analyze the behavior of steel structures. To evaluate the strains of structures from the initial and deformed shape, a combination of distributed 3D point cloud data and finite element methods (FEM) was used. The distributed 3D point cloud data were reconstructed into a 3D mesh model, and strains were calculated using the FEM. By using the proposed method, the strain could be calculated at any point on a structure for SHM and safety assessment during construction.