Infrastructure play a crucial role in the daily life of modern societies, so the need to maintain their functionality, efficiency and safety has become an unavoidable priority. To meet this challenge, advanced tools and technologies are being integrated into analysis and monitoring. Smart sensors, real-time monitoring systems, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics are playing a key role in improving decision-making and preventing failures in a wide range of sectors.
The intelligent sensors have become the eyes and ears of modern infrastructure. These highly specialised devices can measure a wide variety of parameters, from temperature and humidity to pressure and vibration. By strategically placing these sensors on bridges, buildings, roads and other elements, real-time data on their condition and operation can be collected. This information enables early detection of problems and the implementation of preventive measures before they become costly or dangerous failures.
The systems of real-time monitoring amplify the usefulness of sensors by allowing operators to constantly monitor the status of multiple assets. These developments use intuitive user interfaces to present real-time data, making it easy to instantly identify anomalies or anomalous behaviour. One example is power grid supervision, where monitoring systems can detect fluctuations in power supply and take corrective action automatically, minimising the impact of potential outages.
The accumulation of large amounts of data is often overwhelming for humans. This is where the artificial intelligence and big data analysis data come into play. These technologies can examine massive data sets and extract meaningful patterns, identifying trends that might have gone unnoticed by analysts. In the context of infrastructure, this means that deterioration trends in bridges or pavements can be identified at an early stage, allowing proactive interventions.
The convergence of smart sensors, real-time monitoring systems, artificial intelligence and big data analytics has led to significant improvements in infrastructure-related decision-making. Informed decisions can be made based on accurate data and predictive analytics, rather than relying solely on subjective assessments. In addition, the ability to anticipate failures before they occur not only saves considerable costs, but it also protects people's lives by reducing the risks associated with the collapse of structures or systems.
The project RosoMachine, in which he has collaboratedCTCONis a clear example of how advanced technologies can make a significant difference to infrastructure. This project uses state-of-the-art sensors to collect real-time data on various aspects of ground infrastructure, such as stresses, deformations and vibrations. Real-time monitoring systems allow this data to be transmitted and analysed instantaneously, providing essential information on the state of the infrastructure.
In other CTCON projects demonstrates the feasibility of new control tools in management: in particular in Healthy Building we use advanced sensors and analytics to improve the environmental quality of buildings, in BIMVet3 merges Building Information Modelling with innovative technologies to optimise the planning and control of construction projects and as in the project DigilabWe are working on knowledge transfer with these new tools. These projects exemplify how technology is transforming the way we control and manage.
The tools described above are improving decision making and failure prevention, paving the way for a future where our infrastructures more safe, efficient and reliable than ever before. However, it is essential to address ethical challenges and considerations to ensure that this technological transformation is carried out in a responsible manner that is beneficial to society as a whole.
