MEMS-based system for structural health monitoring and earthquake observation in Sicily

Palermo

The implementation of systems for Structural Health Monitoring and
Earthquake Observation is increasing in the last years owing to the development
of new technologies which enable low-cost and small-size devices to be installed
in large-scale or high-density applications. This paper introduces the implementation
of monitoring systems, either for structural health assessment and earthquake
observation. The applications are based in Sicily (Italy), a region characterized
by a high seismic hazard and where the buildings are often old and vulnerable.
The system relies on a MEMS (Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems)
sensor, a 3-axial accelerometer which has been specifically selected in order to
ensure the suitability for the specific applications: accelerations from 100 to 102
Hz. We present the details of the designed monitoring station, of the network architecture,
and some of the recorded data.