Infrared thermometers monitor bridge deck temperatures in real-time, strain gauges accurately capture structural stress changes, and acceleration sensors track vibration levels—these are just some of the smart sensing devices being installed on bridges in Xianning. On November 20, construction crews, organized by the Municipal Facilities Management Center of Xianning’s Urban Management and Law Enforcement Committee, worked methodically to install these devices on Dazhou Lake Bridge as part of the city’s Intelligent Bridge Sensing Equipment Installation Project (Phase I).

The project covers 11 bridges in Xianning, including Danfeng Bridge, Jingui West Bridge, Dazhou Lake Bridge, Guixiang Bridge, Xiaoquan Bridge, Yingui Bridge, Wenquan Bridge, Tongxin Bridge, Taiyi Bridge, Shuanglong Bridge, and Panlong Bridge. By deploying smart sensors, the system will integrate data on strain, deflection, acceleration, cracks, and video surveillance. A dedicated software platform will then analyze this data, establishing an intelligent bridge management system to monitor environmental loads and structural responses, thereby enhancing operational safety.

Key components of the project include strategically placing strain gauges, vibration sensors, accelerometers, displacement sensors, infrared thermometers, and high-definition cameras at critical points such as bridge sections, supports, and noise barrier columns. These devices act as the bridge’s "senses" and "nerves," collecting real-time data on structural stress, dynamic characteristics, vibration levels, support displacement, and deck temperature, while also tracking traffic flow and vehicle loads. This comprehensive monitoring network serves as a "health manager," enabling 24/7 surveillance.

Data collected by these smart devices will be transmitted in real-time to Xianning’s Intelligent Bridge Sensing System Management Platform. After analysis, the platform can issue early warnings, predict potential hazards, and preliminarily assess bridge conditions. The system facilitates seamless information sharing across construction, inspection, maintenance, and repair processes, ensuring visibility, responsiveness, and effective use of real-time health monitoring. This not only extends bridge lifespans but also strengthens public safety.

So far, partial installations have been completed on Dazhou Lake Bridge, Guixiang Bridge, Panlong Bridge, Jingui West Bridge, and Yingui Bridge, with work progressing smoothly on the remaining structures. The entire Phase I project is expected to be finished by December 20, when all 11 bridges will have their "health managers" fully operational.

Moving forward, Xianning plans to integrate this initiative with urban lifeline safety projects, aiming to establish a smart bridge management and maintenance system for all city bridges and culverts. This will further elevate safety monitoring standards, ensuring safer travel for residents and contributing to the development of a livable, resilient, and smart city.