Researchers develop intelligent mobile sensing system to monitor prefabricated structures during transportation

The prefabricated structure resembles giant concrete blocks made of concrete that are manufactured in a factory so that they can be built seamlessly at the construction site. Modern urban construction projects mainly rely on precast concrete structures (PCS) to complete quality and on schedule. PCS is manufactured in a controlled environment to ensure the highest quality.

However, during transportation to the construction site, they can be damaged by impact and unbalanced loads during lifting making them unstable. Sometimes, damage can go unnoticed during on-site construction. However, this can lead to a potentially dangerous situation over time.

Furthermore, the high replacement cost and long downtime make the remedies ineffective. “We have seen many cases of damage during transportation; therefore, we are working on a solution to solve this problem by using an IoT sensor system to monitor PCS in transportation,” said Associate Professor Jongwoong Park from Chung-Ang University, who used to work at Chung-Ang University. active research on Internet of Things (IoT) sensor system.

To this end, Dr. Park and his colleagues at Chung-Ang University recently developed an intelligent sensing system to monitor PCS during transport in real time. The system integrates IoT sensors that detect vibrations and deformations during movement. In a recent article published on Automation in constructionThe researchers detailed the development process of this specialized IoT-based sensor system.

Dr. explains: “We have enhanced the mobility of the sensor system and created a method to monitor the deformation of prefabricated structures during lifting and transportation. can help prevent any possible damage during transit, ensuring a safe and healthy delivery”. . Park.

New portable wireless sensor system capable of real-time recording of acceleration and deformation measurements during transport. Furthermore, the system generates a safety assessment report for the PCS to correct the initial strain deviation and calculate the absolute strain.

To demonstrate the capabilities of their intelligent system, the researchers conducted one more field test formed a 12-meter-long precast concrete interchange in 80 minutes and assessed its condition by measuring the structure’s acceleration, inclination and deformation in real time. Furthermore, the researchers processed and analyzed the measured data and conducted a safety assessment.

Interestingly, while the results indicate that the sensor system is effective for prefabricated monitoring, the system does not enable timely decision-making by supporting real-time data management. In this regard, future research is needed to develop a cloud-based monitoring system that can alert users to anomalies in real time.

However, the team’s new development has potential for immediate intelligent delivery monitoring applications in construction projects. Dr. Park concludes: “With an IoT-based prefabricated monitoring system, we can ensure the long-term safety and reliability of prefabricated structures. This technology will prevent problems like that happens, making our buildings safer and more efficient in the future.”

Provided by Chung Ang University