Feb 10, 2009 9:21 AM

Engineering "smart" bridges that can discuss their health with inspectors is the goal of a new $19 million project led by the University of Michigan. The objective of the five-year project is to create the ultimate infrastructure monitoring system and install it on several test bridges.

The monitoring system is envisioned to include several different types of surface and penetrating sensors to detect cracks, corrosion, and other signs of weakness. It would also measure the effects of heavy trucks on bridges, which is currently impossible.

Through enhanced antennas and the Internet, the system would wirelessly relay the information it gathers to an inspector on site or in an office.