Drive‐by frequencies extraction by means of synchrosqueezed wavelet transform

Abstract Bridges and viaducts are facing growing traffic, increasing loads as well ageing deterioration. Nowadays, vibration‐based Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) represents an effective solution to extract quantitative information regarding bridge structural condition. Bridge frequencies fundamental parameters capable reflect summarize dynamics health Typically, their identification is performed by direct approaches, which rely on the use of sensors installed structure under analysis. A cost‐efficient, movable, flexible alternative offered drive‐by methods, consisting in instrumented vehicles frequencies. This paper presents experimental campaign carried out a multiple‐span mixed railroad bridge, with aim identify its through onboard measurements. set MEMS wireless accelerometers deployed vehicle, firstly allowing for vehicle pitch component mitigation. Vehicle accelerations were then used frequencies, means Most Probable Modal Frequencies approach, relying synchrosqueezed wavelet transform. At cruise speed 30 km/h promising results terms indirect frequency estimation found, no traffic disruption.