Development of systems for monitoring stability of large excavations

摘要

Current methods of geotechnical data collection require the engineers and technicians to cover large areas of surface and underground excavations to take measurements and assess field conditions and ground support response. The analysis of this information is most often done in the office and correlations between production activities, ground conditions and ground response are produced. The frequency of data collection is often weekly and this causes delays between observation of deformation and the implementation of measures to control ground movement. In the case of large excavations where speed is of the essence, systems need to be developed so that the time between observation and recommendation is reduced so that necessary steps can be taken to prevent any shortfalls in safety standards or production levels. Automation of data collection also helps reduce personnel interaction with large production equipment. With the increase in the number of large excavations in the mining and civil construction sectors worldwide and the shortage of trained geotechnical engineers, the development of systems for monitoring ground stability in surface and underground excavations is challenging. This paper outlines the advances in technologies which can be used for safe and effective monitoring of the stability of surface and underground excavations.