LIAISON project partners at TECNALIA introduce a cutting-edge, AI-driven method to monitor bridges at asset level with higher precision—and it’s already making waves in structural health monitoring.
Bridges are some of the most important parts of our transport system, but checking their safety is not always easy. Engineers usually rely on inspections and traditional sensors, which can miss small problems until they grow bigger. Now, researchers at Tecnalia, coordinators of the LIAISON project, have developed a new way to keep bridges safer – using artificial intelligence (AI).
Smarter eyes on our bridges
The study, developed in the LIAISON project for mechanical performance assessment, has carried out on the Infante Dom Henrique Bridge in Porto, tested how AI can learn what a “healthy bridge” looks like. By comparing new data from the bridge with this healthy baseline, the system can spot unusual changes that may signal damage.
Instead of relying on just one type of sensor, the researchers combined different sources of information:
- Local data – such as small movements or stress in specific parts of the bridge.
- Global data – such as how the entire bridge vibrates when traffic passes.
By combining these, the AI was much better at picking up early signs of damage – even in areas without direct sensors.
What they found
- Greater accuracy: The AI detected potential damage with very high precision.
- Better coverage: Even damage far from the sensors was identified.
- Practical use: The method works in real-world conditions, not just in theory.
How is this useful for Europe’s transport systems?
- Earlier repairs, lower costs: Spotting problems before they become serious helps avoid expensive emergency work.
- Safer journeys: Reliable monitoring means safer roads and rail for everyone.
- Smarter infrastructure: This is part of LIAISON’s mission to bring digital, sustainable solutions into Europe’s transport systems.
The next step will be to apply this AI-driven agnostic monitoring approach to other bridges and structural components. If successful, it could transform how we look after vital infrastructure – making it safer, smarter, and more sustainable.
