Real-Time System for Stand-Off Measurement of Structural Stability

Summit Safety has developed a non-contact, ultrasound-based sensor capable of detecting small changes in position of a structure and small vibrations that may be precursors of structural collapse. The sensor uses two ultrasonic transducers - one for transmit, and one for receive - and processes the return echo in a manner similar to that of a laser interferometer to generate high-resolution position, velocity, and acceleration information about structural surfaces. By using ultrasound, the sensor operates even in the presence of thick smoke, dust, or fog, which could render an optical or laser-based system unusable. Because the sensor is non-contact, it can be installed quickly and potentially out of harm's way. Installation and alignment of the sensor can be accomplished in a matter of seconds. Summit Safety received initial funding from NIST and follow-on phase 1 and phase 2 SBIR contracts from DHS to continue the development of the monitoring system. Phase 1 focused on analyzing the accuracy and performance limitations of the sensor. phase 1 further identified particular collapse scenarios and different types of structures in order to best utilize the measurement capability of the system for collapse detection and prediction. During phase 2 (currently in process) the system is being converted from an engineering tool to a system capable of providing real-time measurement of structural stability and advanced warning of pending collapse for first responders and emergency personnel. The system will display structural stability data from wireless sensors on a central display system.