As we know, the points on the surface of the earth that we live on are constantly in motion. These movements occur in horizontal and vertical directions, and observation measurements made when necessary to monitor the movement are called deformation measurements. The word deformation means the distortion of the original shape of an object due to various internal and external forces.
These measurements are carried out in areas such as dams, bridges, tunnels, high-rise buildings, landslide areas, industrial facilities, etc. that may be dangerous to human life and may cause material damage. Structures that are under the influence of large loads or earthquakes or are not on a solid foundation are constantly undergoing changes. These changes not only affect the type, species, and properties of the structure, but also the horizontal and vertical position. Surveying engineering plays a role in detecting these horizontal and vertical movements.
Measurement devices or sensors are divided into 2 categories, geodetic and geotechnical sensors, and data collected from both measurement devices can be seamlessly combined for data analysis in modern deformation monitoring.
Geodetic measurement devices can track movements both horizontally and vertically relative to their fixed positions outside the deformation area. These measurement devices are called:
Total Stations
Nivo
Laser Scanners
GNSS Receivers
HOW IS A DEFORMATION MONITORING NETWORK DESIGNED?
The most important and essential rule to follow when designing a deformation monitoring network is to establish control and measurement points on safe and stable ground outside of the deformation area. In this way, reference and measurement points located outside of the deformation area can be regularly read and movements can be plotted on a graph.
Therefore, fixed reference points are established in areas outside of the deformation network. After the necessary geodetic measurements are completed and their accurate coordinates are calculated, several readings are taken to calculate the exact coordinates of the deformation points placed on the movement surface.
Following this process, the deformation points are regularly read at regular intervals without disturbing the same network, and the coordinate information is analyzed in the office. The horizontal and vertical movements of the structure over time are plotted on a graph, and necessary analyses are conducted.
In addition to deformation monitoring using geodetic methods, 3D point cloud data obtained through laser scanning systems are utilized for tracking deformations in industrial facilities or reinforced concrete structures.
This method, which is used for detecting unusual bending and flexing on the structure by using the point cloud data obtained through surveys conducted around the relevant structure, enables us to perform precise analyses.
Changes occurring on the surface of structures can be detected using software tools (such as Leica 3DR and Faro As-Built) and necessary reporting can be presented on a 3D dimension.
In this article, as KG Engineering team, we have discussed the role of surveying engineering in creating deformation monitoring networks and observing the movements of structures. If you would like to learn more about the topic or have any questions, you can reach us at info@kgmuhendislik.com or leave a comment.
Until next articles, goodbye.
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