Introduction

In this podcast summary, we highlight the modern technologies and concepts that are increasingly being used in structural maintenance. The focus is on innovative developments made possible by digitalization and advanced diagnostic methods. These technologies not only enhance the efficiency of maintenance work but also offer significant potential for improving the safety and sustainability of infrastructure. Key technologies discussed include digital models, drones, satellite measurements, and Building Information Modeling (BIM), all of which are transforming the way structures are monitored, maintained, and preserved for the future.

Innovative Technologies in Structural Maintenance

Professor Hajdin describes a range of modern technologies that are gaining increasing importance in structural maintenance:

• Surveying Technologies: Technologies like laser scanning and photogrammetry allow for precise documentation of existing structures. This serves as the foundation for many subsequent analyses and models.

• Digital Shadow: This is a digital model that reflects the state of a structure. In contrast to a “digital twin,” changes are only one-way, from the physical structure to the model, but not vice versa. This allows for efficient documentation and monitoring.

• Sensory Extensions: Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) enable a more detailed capture of structures, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. These technologies extend human senses and offer valuable insights for inspections and maintenance work.

• Drones and Structural Monitoring: Drones are increasingly playing a key role in building inspections, reaching areas that are difficult to access. Modern non-destructive testing methods and continuous monitoring also help to gain insights into components that were previously unnoticed. GPR, ultrasound, or eddy current help identify voids, cables, or reinforcement. “Structure Health Monitoring” (SHM) continuously measures the overall condition of a structure, similar to blood tests for humans. Concrete sensors continuously monitor critical points over time (like X-rays for humans). Image recognition and 3D scans detect moisture spots, cracks, or deformations.

• Satellite Measurements: Satellites offer new possibilities for monitoring the movement of structures over long periods and distances. This is particularly cost-effective and is already largely offered for free through programs like Copernicus.

Advantages of Digital Models

The use of digital models, especially finite element models (FEM), enables precise calibration and simulation of structures. By linking with sensor data, engineers can monitor structures in real time and make adjustments. This reduces uncertainties, which often lead to higher safety factors and, consequently, higher costs. Models that are maintained and updated over time allow for efficient tracking and historical analysis of the structure’s condition.

Digital Shadow

The digital shadow is described as a less complex version of the digital twin. While the digital twin enables two-way communication between the physical and digital objects, the digital shadow is a one-way process primarily used for observation and documentation. The large volume of data generated when creating a 3D model of a structure is no longer a barrier thanks to modern technologies. The challenge lies more in compressing and organizing this data to provide maximum value to the end user.

BIM in Structural Maintenance

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is playing an increasingly important role in structural maintenance. Professor Hajdin emphasizes that integrating BIM into maintenance not only facilitates the visualization and documentation of structures but also significantly contributes to the optimization of maintenance work. Particularly interesting are hybrid models, based on a combination of point clouds (captured through laser scanning) and existing plans. These provide a solid foundation for structural health monitoring and damage assessment.

Argumentation and Market

The introduction of new technologies into structural maintenance has often been associated with high costs. However, the shift to wireless systems and low-cost sensors has significantly changed the market. Much like in the field of medicine, where new technologies like MRIs and CT scans have revolutionized the understanding and treatment of diseases, modern structural technologies enable a more detailed and early diagnosis of problems. This leads to potential savings by allowing expensive maintenance measures to be planned in advance and unnecessary expenses to be avoided.

The Future of Digitalization in Structural Maintenance

The future of structural maintenance will be shaped by the further automation of data collection. Professor Hajdin expects that technologies like Augmented Reality, drones, and BIM will play a central role in automatically capturing inspection data and storing it in real time in databases. The challenge lies in the historical documentation of the collected data, allowing for a long-term, complete record of actions and changes to a structure. These developments are necessary to meet the growing challenges of aging infrastructure and the shortage of skilled workers.