INNOVATION September-October 2022

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predictive data on when bridges need to be reinforced by replacing soil around the riverbeds. “The response should never be binary. All of our sensor design has an incremental output that indicates when you are approaching a condition where something needs to be done to make remedial measures,” Banthia explains. In extreme circumstances, the sensor can notify when traffic must be diverted, heavy trucks denied access, or bridges shut completely to safeguard lives and bridges. “Data collected on bridges during small floods gives us a lot of information about how it may behave during a very large flood,” Farooq clarifies. The data collected is highly accurate, and the sensors are durable and reliable. A prototype at BCIT in the Guichon Creek, and one at UBC’s Botanical gardens, have been installed for more than three years. The sensor on the BCIT campus detected the erosion of supporting sediments near bridge piers and abutments at an over-water platform on Guichon Creek through tracking the soil/water levels. Although exposed to very rugged conditions, excessive rain, and all the climatic conditions, they both remain extremely sensitive and precise. Sensors have been extremely long-lasting and effective in transportation and other industries for decades. “There is little reason to suggest there would be any issues for many years,” says Banthia.

A sensor prototype installed in Guichon Creek at BCIT. P hoto : M ohammed F arooq , EIT

A sensor prototype installed at UBC's Botanical Gardens. P hoto : M ohammed F arooq , EIT

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