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AbstractA Dutch SME offers a complete monitoring system for detailed stability measurements on infrastructural works like levees, roads and construction sites. The system collects real-time data on specified parameters (pore water pressure, waterflow and movement) to be analysed to manage infrastructural works and control risks. The technology is cost-effective and supports effective risk and asset management. Partners are welcome to integrate this technology into challenging projects.DetailsA Dutch SME develops and supplies innovative sensor systems for monitoring infrastructure works, such as levees, dams, roadways and construction sites. By combining know-how of geophysics, micro-electronics and data networks, they are able to offer substantial advantages compared to existing measurement devices and monitoring systems.The monitoring system that is offered is a sensor network solution for widespread, detailed stability measurements on infrastructural works. It uses semiconductor technology based sensors, which combine mechanical and electrical characteristics within microscopic size. Similar sensors have already been successfully applied in the demanding automotive and (petro)chemical process industries. For use in geotechnical areas, relevant parameters (pore water pressure, waterflow, movement) are selected and the sensors specifically tailored and qualified to measure these parameters. In order to facilitate placement and positioning in the monitoring environment, the sensor housing is designed such that they can be installed with proven, existing techniques. The user can align the monitored parameters with the requirements of a project through flexible selection of the sensors to be integrated into the sensor modules. In this way a modular system is achieved that can be assembled to perfectly match the specific situation of a monitoring project. The sensor modules can be interconnected in virtually infinite numbers to form a network covering a large area. Data from such a network contributes to fast integral analysis. One can also envision automated self-learning protocols. When certain parameter thresholds are being reached the network can activate all nearby sensors to increase their sampling frequency. In this way the information stream in critical situations and around critical positions is proactively enhanced. The sensor measurmentpoints can be tailored to needs. Depending on the monitoring task the company can select, modify, develop and test suitable sensors for the monitoring challenge at hand. Packaging and housing will also be tailored to the requirements of the project. Installation underground for prolonged periods of time requires special packaging and housing considerations. The company develops casings that provide both the ability to correctly sense parameters as well as the needed protection from the elements. For design of experiments there has been cooperation with well known and recognised Dutch research institutes. Data networks: Investigation into both wired and wireless communication standards is conducted in order to develop the optimal communication network for transferring data to a central database and control room. Such a network needs to be reliable, efficient (with power and bandwidth) and redundant in order to prevent downtime. Modern communication technologies ensures reliable, real-time, remote read-out. Data analysis: The SME conducts research on statistical analysis of real time data streams to detect anomalies and present useful information as an input for decision making. As the collected data on an infrastructural object increases over time, more insight into the behaviour of the object is gained. This may be used to build up intelligent analysis models that not only provide status but also prognosis. This monitoring technology, a smart combination of proven technologies and methods with new functionalities , functions as a carrier for innovation for the construction and civil engineering industries. It gives companies a state-of-the-art monitoring concept that makes them more competitive as they are better able to manage their activities and projects, monitor risks and prevent potential problems. Innovative Aspects: The innovative sensor network offers users attractive benefits compared to existing measurement tools: - All relevant geotechnical parameters captured in one sensormodule - From one to an unlimited number of sensormodules integrated in one network - Real time and continuous data read-out - Scalable measurement network at low cost per measurement point - Remote management to set measurement frequency - Data online available for direct insight - Identify trends and anomalies across large land areas
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