A High-Precision Distributed Microdisplacement Monitoring System: System Design and Data Processing Algorithms

Abstract

For large-scale constructions, micro-displacement may accumulate over time and it is possible that the large-scale constructions have disastrous consequences such as deformation, cracking, or collapse, resulting in irreparable losses. In order to avoid the occurrence of tragedy, it is crucial to monitor the micro-displacement of constructions timely and accurately, apart from the operation and maintenance of large-scale structures. There are several challenges to fully automatic monitoring of micro-displacements of large-scale structures, including the lack of reference points due to structural complexity, various environmental disturbances, and the trade-off between low cost and high precision. In this paper, a measurement device with low cost, high accuracy, and wide applicability is designed to provide real-time monitoring of the micro-displacement of large-scale structures. A comprehensive system is designed and a data processing algorithm based on data reconciliation is proposed to effectively alleviate the influence of measurement errors. This system is successfully applied to pier settlement detection for high-speed railways, which achieves the desired accuracy. The system we developed can be directly applied to many situations of micro-displacement monitoring of large buildings, with high accuracy and low cost.