Slope displacement detection in construction: An automated management algorithm for disaster prevention

Abstract

In construction sites, embankment slope failure has led to catastrophic events, necessitating advanced monitoring for disaster prevention. This study presents a novel Slope Displacement Inspection and Management Algorithm (SDIMA) that utilizes Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data to detect significant slope displacements automatically. SDIMA analyzes GNSS data to discern displacements in various directions (North-South, East-West, Vertical) and separate actual change points from measurement errors by employing a robust mathematical model called Displacement Detector. It successfully detected change points with displacements greater than two times the samples' standard deviation, and thresholds were set for displacements ≥ 25 mm. A comparative analysis showed promising efficiency in North-South detection, while certain limitations were identified. The proposed SDIMA outperforms existing models, achieving a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 3.157 mm, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 4.754 mm, Mean Absolute Scaled Error (MASE) of 0.294, and an average processing time of 0.578 min, making it a highly efficient and accurate expert system. The innovation of SDIMA lies in its ability to provide an automated decision support tool for site managers, laying the foundation for a low-cost anomaly detection system for slope failure disaster prevention. The algorithm's proficiency and its potential to integrate with existing practices herald a significant advancement in construction management and safety.