The Fraunhofer Institute for Nondestructive Testing (IZFP) and Klaus Faber AG have jointly established the SmartWire-Sensor competence center to develop advanced sensors for the early detection of water damage in critical infrastructure. This innovative initiative aims to enhance the safety, longevity, and sustainability of aging infrastructure, addressing a growing global need for reliable monitoring solutions.
Structural damage caused by water ingress, such as corroding steel reinforcements in bridges, often goes unnoticed until significant deterioration occurs. The SmartWire-Sensor technology will enable early detection of water ingress, preventing costly repairs, closures, and potentially catastrophic failures like the collapse of the Carola Bridge in Dresden.
The competence center is focused on developing a self-sufficient, flexible, and intelligent monitoring system. Unlike current systems, which require manual signal evaluation, the SmartWire-Sensor will autonomously record and analyze data using advanced AI algorithms, ensuring real-time and accurate monitoring. Key innovations include:
- Efficient AI-Driven Data Processing: Robust algorithms for early detection and fusion of sensor data.
- Self-Sufficient Energy Supply: Enabling continuous operation without external power sources.
- Advanced Connectivity: Reliable data transmission via LoRaWAN, GSM, 5G, and other communication interfaces.
The SmartWire-Sensor system offers numerous benefits, including early damage detection before structural saturation, reduced maintenance costs, and minimal traffic disruptions. It represents a significant step forward in sustainable infrastructure management, potentially saving billions in renovation and reconstruction costs.
With infrastructure safety becoming a critical global concern, the SmartWire-Sensor initiative highlights the importance of technological innovation in addressing pressing societal challenges.
Reference: https://www.izfp.fraunhofer.de/de/Presse/Pressemitteilungen/SmartWire-Sensor_2024.html
