Društvo za projektovanje, inženjering, konsalting i izvođenje radova

WIRELESS MONITORING OF CONSTRUCTION STRUCTURES: CONTINUOUS TRACKING AND FAULT ALERTING

Over the past 50 years, Serbia has undergone numerous political, technical, social, and industrial transitions. Many existing and newly constructed state infrastructure facilities have frequently changed management, resulting in a lack of technical documentation about their condition. This has led to insufficient monitoring of critical technical parameters that directly affect the safety of structures, the environment, and the population.

At Drago Projekt, we recognize the need for modern systems that enable continuous monitoring and fault alarming in cases of deviations from defined parameters. Our vision involves implementing advanced sensor technologies that facilitate constant supervision of vital parameters of structures and installations, with wireless alarming and timely reporting.

Inspired by the devices of the renowned company RESENSYS, with extensive experience in strategic infrastructure systems in the USA, we have tailored ideas and solutions to Serbia's specific needs.

One key application example is the use of the SeniMax™ Cellular Gateway and SenSpot™ sensors, particularly suitable for monitoring retaining walls and infrastructure structures, such as those in the Grdelica Gorge.

Advantages of the SeniMax™ Cellular Gateway

The SeniMax™ Cellular Gateway is a device designed for collecting and transmitting data from multiple sensors via mobile networks (4G LTE). Its key features include:

Wireless Communication: ZigBee technology enables communication with SenSpot™ sensors over distances of up to 300 meters, while 4G LTE ensures data transmission to remote servers.

Weather Resistance: With an IP66 rating, it operates reliably under all weather conditions (rain, snow, UV exposure), making it ideal for outdoor applications.

Long-lasting Battery Life: Thanks to redundant solar panels and batteries, the device can operate for up to six weeks without external power sources.

Camera Integration: The ability to connect a camera for automatic photography at regular intervals or based on sensor detection is particularly useful for monitoring landslides, traffic, or other dynamic processes.

Easy Installation: Flexible mounting options allow for straightforward installation on various surfaces and structures.

Mobility and Energy Efficiency: It is ideal for locations without permanent power supply, such as bridges, retaining walls, and remote infrastructure points.

Practical Application in the Grdelica Gorge

The SeniMax™ Cellular Gateway enables long-term monitoring of the stability of retaining walls in the Grdelica Gorge. Combined with SenSpot™ sensors, it provides real-time data and facilitates rapid responses to unforeseen changes.

In this way, Drago Projekt offers solutions that enhance the safety and reliability of critical infrastructure, utilizing the latest technologies for wireless monitoring and fault alarming.

Practical Application on High Dams

By 1970, approximately 110 dams in the USA had collapsed, 65% of which were earthen dams. During the same period, 12 dams failed across Europe and North Africa. Such collapses are typically accompanied by major or minor disasters. According to statistics (Gruner), the causes of dam failure include:

  • Foundation failure (40%)
  • Insufficient spillway capacity (23%)
  • Inadequate dam dimensions (12%)
  • Uneven settling (10%)
  • Other causes (15%)

Dam failure can be prevented through timely monitoring of deformations (auscultation), which can identify disruptions. This allows for forced reservoir drainage to mitigate disasters or even preserve the dam if the causes are addressed.

The measurement of deformations or auscultation of tall structures and hydropower plants aims to ensure safety against sudden and unpredictable occurrences at facilities (dams and power plants), and to protect the environment and downstream areas from damage and disasters.

In the early 1990s, Drago Projekt designed and periodically monitored measurement and alarm systems on dams across Serbia and Yugoslavia.

This experience enables Drago Projekt's expert team to innovate outdated systems and apply the latest technology of the Fifth Industrial Revolution to water system facilities (dams, intake structures, power lines, pipelines, pump stations, etc.).

For more information and collaboration opportunities, please visit our website:

www.dragoprojekt.co.rs | www.smart-me.rs

 

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