Potential applications for image-based systems in structural engineering

Abstract

This paper presents a series of examples where systems based on images have been used to quantify deformation and strain fields for different applications. The objective of this work is to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of these technologies compared to more traditional systems. In particular, two image-based technologies have been studied: a Digital Image Correlation (DIC) device and a high speed camera. The former has been used in three different static tests: a compression test, a 4 points bending test and a tensile test. The latter was employed in a vibration analysis where the DIC could not be used due to its particular camera specification. Both technologies potentially produce easy to interpret results, which with commonly used alternative technologies usually require a significant post process effort. On the other hand, for effective and reliable results, the image-based technologies can require a previous treatment of the sample and a very careful experimental setup. Moreover, the possibility of performing global measurements compared to more local ones carried out by conventional sensors make these systems very attractive for structural engineering.