NTU testbed for digital construction: smart sensing framework

• Main Author: Xin, Yu
• Other Authors: Fu Yuguang
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2023
• Subjects: Engineering::Civil engineering
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/166910
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

In the civil industry, it cannot be overstated how essential it is to have periodic building inspections that help ensure the structural safety of buildings. However, when it comes to conducting building facade inspections, the use of manpower can be both inefficient and costly. Moreover, the risk of working at heights can pose a potential danger to the inspector. To add to the complications, some internal defects cannot be identified through visual inspection, making it challenging to ensure the safety of residents in the building. However, with the implementation of an innovative and effective building facade inspection method in this project, these challenges can be mitigated. The method involves the combination of an accelerometer sensor and a remote drone. The process starts by mounting the accelerometer sensor onto a flying drone, which is then controlled using a Raspberry Pi device. Subsequently, the drone is remotely guided to collide onto the building facade, which in turn collects data through the accelerometer sensor. These collected data can be used by structural engineers to identify any internal defects in the building. This new method offers several advantages over traditional inspection methods. Firstly, it is more efficient and cost-effective compared to manpower-based inspections. Secondly, it eliminates the risk of working at heights and improves overall safety. Finally, it allows for the detection of internal defects that are unnoticeable through visual inspections, thus providing a more comprehensive understanding of the building's structural safety. With these benefits, the implementation of this innovative building facade inspection method will undoubtedly lead to a more secure and safe built environment.