Wireless sensor network for monitoring infrastructure adjacent to Metro de Medellín railway system

Abstract

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems using Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are common nowadays in infrastructure such as tunnels, buildings and highways. Information gathered from in-situ deployed sensors is useful for maintenance purposes, evaluating infrastructure response before particular situations and preventing catastrophic events, among others. The design and implementation of a wireless sensor network for monitoring infrastructure adjacent to Metro de Medellín railway system is presented. A wireless network constituted by a set of nodes involving 8-bit microcontrollers uses the IEEE 802.15.4-compliant MiWi Protocol for communications within the Personal Area Range. Measurement data can be retransmitted over longer distances, within the local area or metropolitan area range, through communication gateways connected to network coordinator.