Supported projects

Traditionally, modal analysis based on vibration recording has been used to monitor the state of structures. There are several restrictions on these records, which are typically predicated on the installation of sensors like velocimeters, accelerometers, or piezometers. On the one hand, some features of the sensors, such sampling frequency, sensor sensitivity, and signal-to-noise ratio, limit the information that the signal may offer. However, the use of these sensors is frequently limited by the accessibility of the structures to be inspected, which can be challenging when it comes to in-service structures like bridges, dams, or historic buildings, as well as limitations related to the sensors’ weight and size and the conditions under which they are coupled to the structure. The VIMAS project focuses on using a laser vibrometry tool, which allows for increased sampling frequency and remote measurements of material and structure vibrations. Laser vibrometry makes it possible to acquire vibrations (including accelerations and related modal deformations) even on hard-to-reach structural sections. This tool will be used on structures owned or managed by different entities (Parishes, LRMH, DIRIF, SNCF, etc.) in both R&D and academic research projects (most notably the ANR AMORGOS project). It will be used to achieve a number of goals, including damage detection (e.g., early detection of scouring), resilience-based assessment of a network, or monitoring the condition of heritage buildings in seismic zones.