Wireless strain gauge network — Best-hall measurement case

Wireless sensor networks can be used to perform structural monitoring. Strain gauges, which can be glued on or integrated to the observed material, are the most common nondestructive sensing elements for measuring surface strain. Wireless strain gauge measurement system makes strain measurements more flexible while opening new targets of application in addition to those that traditional wired strain measuring systems can offer. We have implemented a long term strain measurement in a PVC-covered hall using wireless sensor network. In this paper we evaluate the functionality and suitability of the developed wireless system for this kind of monitoring. The paper discusses the experiences gained in the development and utilization of a wireless strain gauge measurement system. The calibration of measurement system as well as energy consumption issues are also brought under observation along with the reliability of communication aspects in the described measurement case.