As time passes by, many people using scaffolds have faced accidents. But, a few of these accidents are due to the climatic conditions. Hence, safety for the structure has to be improved.
On the other hand, supervisors can’t monitor everything on site. Here’s when IoT can play a vital role. So, scroll through the article to know about IoT smart scaffolding systems.
What is Scaffolding?
When a scaffold is used at a construction site, it is a temporary structure. This offers the requisite support to workers while repairing the buildings. They can also carry out construction tasks as they ascend the scaffold.
Usually, the scaffold is made from metal or wooden frames. As these materials are strong, they can ensure safety. Workers can also maintain stability while they reach different heights above the ground. Moreover, the construction team can adjust the scaffold to meet diverse project needs.
Now, let’s quickly go through the different aspects of scaffolding.
Designs
In today’s world, scaffolds are available in different designs. Among the most common types, you will observe mobile and fixed scaffolds. Trestle scaffolds may also be observed for low-level work. However, the scaffold has to be chosen depending on the work.
Engineers also have to plan the designs to ensure maximum stability.
Fabrication Materials
Scaffolds are usually made from durable materials like steel, aluminum, or wood. Several manufacturers prefer using steel as it sustains heavy loads. On the other hand, Aluminum scaffolding can be used for short-term tasks.
In case a certain scaffold is not available, then teams consider a wooden scaffold. But, the choice will depend on the nature of the project. The outdoor environment will also help determine the scaffolding.
Assembly
When you’re assembling a scaffold, you connect diverse components. These include platforms along with vertical and horizontal beams. But, to fasten the parts properly, you will need skilled workers. Safety precautions also need to be taken while erecting the scaffold.
Above all, toe boards and guardrails have to be added to prevent falls.
Why use Sensors to monitor Scaffolds?
Monitoring scaffolds using sensors helps to enhance safety. Once the technologies are integrated, signs of stress can be detected. The sensors can also alert workers about unsafe climatic conditions. Hence, the team can act faster even before the accidents occur.
On the whole, sensor-based monitoring reduces risks. They also ensure a safe working environment with IoT smart scaffolding systems.
What safety parameters must you consider?
While you erect smart scaffolding, you must consider some parameters. According to research, you must check the displacements. This is applicable to vertical and horizontal columns. Moreover, a proper tilting angle must also be ensured with columns. To keep a track of structural integrity, you must also install different sensors.
The axial forces exerted on columns also need to be gauged. As soon as you integrate the sensors, inspections will occur automatically. The team can then check whether certain criteria are met.
What Sensors are used in IoT smart scaffolding systems?
Various technologies are used for monitoring smart scaffolds. Let’s check the technologies ahead.
Strain Gauges
When such gauges are set up, they measure the scaffold’s deformation. Once the changes in strain are monitored, structural weaknesses are detected. As the technology offers warnings, it can prevent accidents.
Load Cells
Load cells help in measuring the exerted pressure on scaffolds. These also help to ensure that the scaffold is not overloaded. With continuous monitoring, construction managers can also make adjustments. They can further maintain safe conditions on site.
Vibration Sensors
Such types of sensors are useful for detecting oscillations. In case the vibration level is high, then the sensors help maintain integrity. By monitoring the vibrations, the sensors also ensure safe working conditions.
Motion Sensors
These sensors track the movement of workers. Besides, they also improve safety by ensuring that there’s no risk of falling. Accidental disassembly can also be prevented with the use of motion sensors.
Wireless Monitoring Systems
Through such systems, workers can monitor the status of scaffolds. They can also respond swiftly to any hazards. Once these are properly installed, they no longer have to be at the site.
How are Strain Sensors mounted?
When you set up IoT smart scaffolding systems, the sensors have to be attached well. The placement of sensors also matters most. This helps to monitor critical areas that sustain weight. While setting up the sensors, they are also mounted using clamps or brackets. Subsequently, the workers ensure that the sensors are stable. They also make sure that they don’t interfere with the scaffold’s structural integrity.
How are strain sensors connected?
Many steps are involved while connecting strain sensors. Once the connection is established, data is transmitted with ease. But, firstly, the sensors measure the deformation. They also have wireless communication modules to transmit data. Moreover, in the case of wired systems, a data acquisition system (DAQ) processes the signals into digital data.
A Bluetooth connection can further help to transmit data to a cloud-based monitoring application. The application then offers insights after data analysis.
How is Sensor Data Analyzed ahead?
Soon after the sensor data is gathered, it undergoes a detailed analysis. This helps to assess the condition of the scaffold. The raw data with different parameters is further processed through DAQs. A bit later, the data is analyzed through statistical techniques. Predictive models also help to identify the anomalies that indicate structural weaknesses.
Conclusion
Finally, many professionals are conducting research regarding the safety measures. While they are developing models, they are trying to reduce deployment time. However, individuals have to think about how the sensors can consume power effectively.
This has to be taken into account while monitoring the structure time and again. Even when this is true, diverse sensors will certainly ensure more safety.
Are you managing a construction project in the US? Well, you can connect with Scaffolds Supply for various components. As you browse through our website, you can choose parts for different scaffolds. These are known to be durable and are designed by prioritizing safety.