Researchers
Terry Wipf
About the research
The objective of this project is to determine the state-of-the-art in nanotechnology and to determine if and how nanotechnology can be implemented in timber and the smart timber bridge concept.
Researchers
Terry Wipf
About the research
The objectives of the work are to develop and illustrate, through application to several different timber bridge fleets (i.e., each fleet represents bridges with similar geometrical, material and behavioral characteristics), the concepts of and information needed to adopt and implement fleet management strategies; to develop an implementation plan for fleet management strategies; and to illustrate the viability of fleet management strategies.
Researchers
Terry Wipf
About the research
The primary objective of this project is to identify, describe, and prioritize a list of research needs that will serve as a basis for developing and funding research related to the use of timber by both mainline and shortline railroads. Thus, this research needs study will guide research that should re-establish wood as a more significant construction material in the railroad industry and significantly influence research related to wood transportation structures over the next six years. The expected outcomes will be a series of proposed research projects that would address the identified research needs areas. It is anticipated that research needs will be classified as short-term (high-priority), medium-term (medium priority), and long-term (low-priority) such that research resources can be most efficiently allocated.
Researchers
Terry Wipf
About the research
The objective of this work is to develop an initial concept for a smart timber bridge and a 5-year research plan that will result in the initial development, beta-testing, and deployment of such a system. It is anticipated that this research plan will serve as the guide for future funding of efforts needed to achieve the goal of developing a ready to implement smart timber bridge.
Project Details
07/01/04
02/26/10
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Researchers
Terry Wipf
About the research
This work will consist of developing, deploying, and using a remote monitoring system for covered bridges in Madison County, Iowa. It is envisioned that with this system, proper authorities could be alerted, in real-time, to possible vandalism and/or arson. Additionally, it is thought that information from parts of the system could be made available to the general public via the internet. Specifically, streaming video of the bridges could be made available worldwide. It is felt that Madison County could use this web interface as a means of drawing attention to these bridges and increasing tourism revenue in the local community. To accomplish this, six general tasks will be completed: threat assessment, literature review, system development, system installation, and long-term monitoring, and final documentation.
