Fully Automatic and Reliable Real Time Monitoring Systems for Steep Slopes, Embankments, and Structures

摘要

A major concern involving any steep embankment is its stability. This is the case whether it is the side wall of an open pit mine, a steep slope next to a highway, or a man made structure like a dam or dike used to contain tailings or generate hydroelectric power. In general, for each case there is a slow movement of the formation before a failure actually occurs. With the continuous monitoring of a phenomenon's creep, particularly its acceleration, critical displacements can be detected before the object reaches its failure point. Among new technological developments, robotic total stations (RTSs) give one possible cost effective solution to creating a near real time monitoring system. Repeated surveys at predetermined time intervals can automatically generate warnings if slope movements exceed a preset tolerance level. In addition, the system can be augmented with GPS or geotechnical sensors to make it a more reliable system. The strengths of each sensor type can be exploited to optimize the cost and efficiency of the monitoring system to ensure pre-failure detection. The latest monitoring techniques apply the principles of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), using both satellite and portable ground based systems, to determine complete surface deformations rather than the few discrete points that are obtained with the current systems. A methodology has been developed at the Canadian Centre for Geodetic Engineering (CCGE), in cooperation with ACA Ltd, for optimizing the design of monitoring systems by combining geometrical and deterministic modeling methods to ensure proper sensors are installed at proper locations and utilized correctly. The methodology has been realized in the creation of a software package that has been successfully implemented at large earthen dams and open pit mining operations around the world.