Comprehensive review of advancements in low-cost sensor technologies for bridge deformation monitoring

Low-cost sensors have emerged as promising tools for bridge deformation monitoring, offering a more accessible and cost-effective approach compared to traditional methods. Recent advancements in low-cost sensor technologies, including digital cameras, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), accelerometers, and strain gauges, for accurately monitoring bridge deformation are explored in this review article. The evolving applications of these sensors in bridge monitoring are analyzed, with their potential to improve infrastructure safety and reliability. Furthermore, the challenges and opportunities associated with the implementation of low-cost sensor technologies in real-world bridge monitoring scenarios are critically discussed in this review. Despite their low cost, comparable efficiency and performance to high-end monitoring systems have been demonstrated by these sensors (excluding LiDAR), making them a good option for enhancing bridge safety and resilience.