The Science of Bridge Collapse Prevention

toddatcw writes "In the wake of the Minneapolis Interstate 35W bridge collapse this week, Computerworld investigates ongoing research which could someday help to prevent future disasters. Acoustic emissions detection systems, which listen for the sounds of metal snapping on structures, are already sold and fitted. Likewise, a new generation of detector systems that monitor for tilting of bridge columns and piers are being designed, prototyped, and researched. 'Sound waves move more efficiently through solid objects than through air, making any sounds easier to listen out for, Tamutus said. "It's not amazing. It's simple. Doctors use stethoscopes all the time. If you put your ear on a train track, you can hear a train approaching from far away... The Sensor Highway II systems, which are portable and can be moved from bridge to bridge as needed, usually cost between $20,000 to several hundred thousand dollars each. Typically, evaluations take between one day and a week.'"

Comments

Easiest solution

[Anonymous Coward]

instead of steel, harness the power of Cory Doctorow's ego.

Re:Political

[Kagura]

Well, it didn't take long before a government contractor came up with a fool-proof way to secure government funds. Er, I mean, to prevent future incidents...

Look at me, I'm cynical tonight. :)

Re:Barriers/Lights

[igny]

In the worst case scenario, the bridge closes itself.

Re:Reminds me of a lecture I once heard...

[king-manic]

I realize that this post is a bit off topic, but the problem of not supporting what is already there exists all through government. In the case of this bridge, shutting it down would have met with massive protest from all involved. Projects would have caused inconvenience, just as increased personnel staffing creates great cost for the government in many areas. People do the same thing all the time - buy new cars and toys, but never spend the money on maintenance, it all went to the toy. But if we build it or buy it we better be able to keep it in good shape.

I wish they didn't have a 5 karma max on modding.