Evaluation of MEMS-based in-place inclinometers in cold regions.

Details

• Creators:
  Darrow, Margaret M. ; Jensen, David D.
• Corporate Creators:
  Alaska University Transportation Center
• Subject/TRT Terms:
  Deformation Dip Needles--Testing Equipment Tests Inclinometers Microelectromechanical Systems Permafrost Slopes (Soil Mechanics)--Stability Slope Stability
• Publication/ Report Number:
  FHWA-AK-RD-12-28
• Resource Type:
  Tech Report
• Geographical Coverage:
  Alaska
• Edition:
  Final report.
• Corporate Publisher:
  Alaska. Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
• Abstract:
  Inclinometer probes are used to measure ground movement. While an industry standard, this technology has drawbacks, including costly trips for manual measurements,
  
  operator error, and limited measurements due to casing deformation. Relatively new MEMS-based in-place inclinometers (M-IPIs) consist of MEMS accelerometer
  
  segments separated variously by flexible joints or field-connection systems, and encased in watertight housing. M-IPIs provide nearly continuous ground movement
  
  measurements, accommodate greater ground movement due to their flexibility, and may contain temperature sensors. Two M-IPIs from different manufacturers were
  
  evaluated for three different vertical and horizontal applications in Interior Alaska. Each M-IPI was evaluated for ease of installation and subsequent retrieval, durability,
  
  and functionality in frozen ground. Measurements from both devices compared well to those from the inclinometer probe, indicating that these devices are suitable for
  
  use in cold regions. Field experience indicates that the installation procedure for each instrument is better undertaken at above freezing temperatures, due to required
  
  manual dexterity and the temperature requirements of casing adhesive. If used to measure both ground movement and temperature in frozen ground, the M-IPI
  
  temperature sensors should be calibrated. We recommend replacing cold-affected plastic components between installations to avoid unwanted breakage during reinstallation.
  
  
• Format:
  PDF
• Funding:
  INE/AUTC 12.38
• Collection(s):
  University Transportation Centers US Transportation Collection
• Main Document Checksum:
  urn:sha-512:6b1b47a333b9adbf1406c217f964237178e7b9db09c0040e8721026422d864a85fec494a166c735f5e0bf5e3f3c2cb42968338e07808e540866a38ec4bba1684
• Download URL:
  https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/25726/dot_25726_DS1.pdf
• File Type:
  [PDF - 22.99 MB ]