Automatic Identification of Modal Parameters from Continuous Long-Term Monitoring of the Civic Clock Tower of Matelica, Central Italy

The detection and anticipation of the gradual degradation of structures, whether caused by natural material deterioration or unforeseen vibrations such as those triggered by earthquakes or fluctuations in climate, are paramount in ensuring structural integrity. Nonetheless, the task of recognizing structural damage by scrutinizing changes in modal parameters, while simultaneously mitigating external factors such as environmental influences, poses significant challenges and time constraints. A prompt recognition of a structure's evolving behavior is crucial for ensuring human lives safety and implementing precise and timely interventions, whose rapid application in critical situations can prevent prolonged disruptions in a structure's functionality and expedite recovery efforts, where feasible. In this study, the effect of availment of methodologies that directly analyze data obtained from a continuous monitoring system deployed on a civic clock tower in Central Italy. This approach reduces computational burden and provides nearly instantaneous feedback on shifts in dynamic behavior. These considerations are pivotal for establishing sustainable monitoring practices that are both cost-effective and time-efficient.