New type of sound sensor system to predict likelihood of a landslide
October 22nd, 2010 - 5:07 pm ICT by ANIWashington, Oct 22 (ANI): A new type of sound sensor system, believed to be the first system of its kind in the world, has been developed to predict the likelihood of a landslide.
It works by measuring and analysing the acoustic behaviour of soil to establish when a landslide is imminent so preventative action can be taken.
The technique has been developed by researchers at Loughborough University, in collaboration with the British Geological Survey, through two projects funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
The detection system consists of a network of sensors buried across the hillside or embankment that presents a risk of collapse.
The sensors, acting as microphones in the subsoil, record the acoustic activity of the soil across the slope and each transmits a signal to a central computer for analysis.
Noise rates, created by inter-particle friction, are proportional to rates of soil movement and so increased acoustic emissions mean a slope is closer to failure.
Once a certain noise rate is recorded, the system can send a warning, via a text message, to the authorities responsible for safety in the area.
An early warning allows them to evacuate an area, close transport routes that cross the slope or carry out works to stabilise the soil. (ANI)
- GPS - a new tool to detect clandestine N-tests - Jun 08, 2011
- Coming soon: Clothes that can hear and speak! - Jul 13, 2010
- Southampton scientists develop control system to allow spacecraft to think for themselves - Feb 01, 2011
- Control system to allow satellites and spacecrafts to think for themselves - Feb 15, 2011
- Indian boffins' baby mp3 heart monitor could save many lives - Aug 29, 2009
- Young fish take cues from noisy neighbors before settling down - Jan 10, 2011
- Breath, sweat molecules to detect debris victims - Sep 12, 2011
- Children can read dog barks better than adults - Oct 14, 2011
- Student creates system that transmits data through metal using ultrasound - Mar 08, 2011
- China develops coal mine early-warning system - Mar 29, 2012
- Researchers develop device to save babies - Aug 29, 2009
- Sensors help track bird calls to monitor climate change - Jul 26, 2011
- Study sheds light on bats' ability to 'see' in the dark - May 11, 2010
- S&P; cuts India's outlook, warns of ratings downgrade (Lead) - Apr 25, 2012
- Motorcycle helmets could make you hard of hearing - Jul 31, 2011
Tags: acoustic behaviour, acoustic emissions, british geological survey, central computer, collapse, early warning, embankment, friction, hillside, landslide, physical sciences research, physical sciences research council, preventative action, sciences research council, sensor system, soil movement, sound sensor, subsoil, text message, transport routes