Geodaq

Dynamic and static data acquisition involves a number of complicated steps, including signal conditioning and filtering, analog-to-digital conversion, buffering data in high-speed memory, and communicating data from each sensor to a central computer. Our solution consists of multiple digital transducers (GST modules) connected to a central controller (GCM) using a single cable. Each GST module is an automated data acquisition unit in a self-contained waterproof housing including a powerful microprocessor, signal conditioning circuitry, 16-bit analog-to-digital converter, and a high-speed digital communication controller.

» Paper: Finite Element Model of Dynamic Pile Test Using Embedded Transducers

» Paper: Dynamic Pile Analysis Using CAPWAP and Multiple Sensors

A network of GST modules can be used in a wide variety of geotechnical and structural field instrumentation applications. A single controller module (GCM) can operate and collect data from more than 100 individual GST modules connected by a single cable over a length of about 1 mile.

Real-Time Structural Monitoring of Wind Turbine Towers

Multiple GST modules are currently monitoring multiple wind turbine towers. This wireless remote monitoring program simultaneously captures dynamic time histories of base strain, acceleration of the tower, foundation rotations, and lateral foundation movements 24 hours per day - every day. Our data viewer software is used to evaluate the on-going geotechnical and structural performance of these towers.

Dam Monitoring

Geodaq installed a real-time ground water elevation monitoring system using GST modules for Lake Perris Dam in Riverside County, California. The monitoring system included ten remote stations with wireless internet data transfer and web-based data viewing. Project team members viewed real-time plots of ground water elevation for ten piezometer stations during construction excavations and changes to dewatering efforts. Threshold levels were established and an alarm system was implemented to notify project personnel with a dynamically generated phone call message in the event threshold levels were exceeded.

Dynamic Structural Monitoring

Geodaq is performing real-time structural health monitoring on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge using a network of GST modules and a wireless internet modem to monitor dynamic strain and acceleration records on a continuous basis for Caltrans. Complete time-history data records are transmitted to a server database for secure storage with continuous backup. Our dataviewer software is used to analyze the data records with FFT and signal integration tools. Acceleration signals can be instantly converted to dynamic displacements using this flexible software tool.

Real-Time Foundation Monitoring

Geodaq provided system installation and real-time remote monitoring services for an emergency pipeline failure and landslide for the California Department of Water Resources. The project included monitoring potential foundation movements of a 60-foot high surge tank and potential subsurface shear failure movements using INC500 in-place inclinometers. Continuous monitoring of the surge tank foundation was accomplished 24 hours per day using GST modules with integrated tilt sensors and external linear potentiometer string pot measurements. Tilt sensor readings provided rotational foundation movement information while the string pot readings provided lateral foundation movement information. Threshold levels were established and an alarm system was implemented to alert project members via automated phone messages in the event threshold levels were exceeded.