A radar system for monitoring natural and engineered slopes, has been launched. The radar detects, tracks and analyses movements from rockfalls, avalanches and other fast-moving landslide debris flow.
Real-time alerts can be connected to on-site alarms such as sirens, automatic road closures or other alert devices. In addition, geo-referenced, recorded event data provides statistics and analytics for risk assessment and vulnerability zone mapping.
The system aims to enable users to leverage data to protect workers and the public in high-risk areas of potentially catastrophic events. It is designed to withstand all weather conditions and to provide continuous 24-hour monitoring.
Rockfalls can be identified up to 2 km from the slope and avalanches and other fast-moving events, such as mudflow and debris flow, can be detected up to 4 km from the slope. With a coverage field of 40° vertical and 80° horizontal, the system promises consistent monitoring of a mine wall or natural slope at high resolution with a single radar unit.
The alerts can be customised sector by sector using algorithms that distinguish rock movements from other moving objects, such as haul trucks, animals and people.
The IDS GeoRadar Rockspot radar system was recently launched by Hexagon.