Abstract: A sensor for structural health monitoring includes a tri-axis microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) accelerometer and a tri-axis MEMS gyrometer. Sampled 3D accelerometer data and 3D gyrometer data are processed using integration and sensor fusion to produce an estimate of 3D rotation of the sensor device and an estimate of 3D displacement of the sensor device expressed in a global reference frame. The sensor measurements may also be corrected using structural model information. Optionally, the sensor may include a tri-axis MEMS magnetometer and use the 3D magnetometer data to increase the accuracy of the estimates. The sensor transmits the estimates wirelessly to a central unit for assessing structural damage.

Abstract: Structural damage to a building is assessed based on measurement of point rotations using MEMS accelerometer sensors attached to structural columns of a building. The measured point rotations are wirelessly transmitted to a central unit which estimates residual drifts of the structural columns using a model of plastic deformation of the columns that incorporates empirically predetermined structural parameters of the columns such as a height of a column plastic bending point or a column curvature coefficient. The structural damage to the building is then estimated by determining a damage state from performance-based earthquake engineering performance thresholds that relate residual drift to damage. In some embodiments, multiple sensors are attached to each structural column of the building and measure corresponding point rotations at multiple points along the height of the column.

Abstract: A structural monitoring system comprises a plurality of modular, battery powered data acquisition devices which transmit structural information to a central data collection and analysis device over a wireless data link. The data acquisition devices each comprise mechanical vibration sensors, data acquisition circuitry, a digital wireless transmitter, and a battery for providing electrical power to the device. The central data collection device comprises a digital wireless receiver that receives data sent from the data acquisition devices, and a microprocessor for processing the data. A more powerful computer may be interfaced with the central device to provide more sophisticated analysis after a natural hazard or other extreme event. A methodology for operating the monitoring system is also disclosed.