Albert Reitsema, innovation manager: “We have been monitoring constructions since 2015 and are continuously innovating when it comes to the digitalisation of infrastructure. In the 60s and 70s, a lot of bridges, tunnels and viaducts were built due to rapid increase in mobility. At the time, people thought designs would have a life span of 50 years. But we do not know exactly when we will need to replace these constructions. Hence the need for ever smarter monitoring. Although these structures still have a lot of life left in them, we want to use them as effectively and safely as possible. This will help to cut costs, energy and CO2 emissions.”  

“Data from the railway bridge shows the relationship between forces exerted by the train and the behaviour of the bridge. How far does the bridge sink when the train passes over it? The bridge near Rosmalen is fairly new, so the condition was expected to be similar to the last measurement. As far as we were concerned, it was a way for us to test our measurement system. For instance, were our theories proven in practice? We can now roll out the system for other bridges and tunnels.”

“These parameters will offer a framework for how such constructions could be addressed in the future. The Netherlands is a transit country, which means accessibility and reliability are very important. That is why we want to keep using infrastructure and materials for as long as possible. There is no need to spend a load of taxpayer's money if we can use smart measuring to improve our predications.”