A non-contact method for robotic measurement of warping in steel girders: case study of I-95 overpass after fire

The recent collapse of the I-95 overpass bridge in Philadelphia, PA, resulting from a fire incident, has underscored the need for a rapid evaluation of infrastructure for decision making process. To gain insights into the nature and magnitude of the damage, a section of deformed I-girders from the disaster site was acquired for in-depth examination. This research introduces a methodology employing a laser scanner to measure warping in the procured 4-foot segment of the girder. The girder was originally situated in the mid-span of the closest southbound girder to the fire that caused the northbound collapse. This novel scanning approach offers a thorough evaluation of deformations and warping patterns that can potentially be used for rapid evaluation of bridges after fire. In this way, this study aims to equip bridge inspectors and assessors with advanced tools, paving the way for more informed decision-making in future bridge-related accidents, including fire incidents.