Tall structures deformation monitoring using RTK-GPS (Case study: Menara Sarawak Enterprise, Johore)

Abstract

The need for deformation surveys of large engineering structures (bridges, dams, tall structures, etc) often arises from concerns associated with environmental protection, property damage and public safety. For example, since there are many high buildings than in the past, it is therefore very important to monitor the buildings to ensure they are still under stable behaviour. The stability condition of high buildings can be achieved only through proper monitoring and deformation analysis. Conceptually, in order to sustain the engineering structures in safe condition, some deformation monitoring systems should be set up so that we can assess structural changes that may occur over the time. The geodetic sensors systems such as accelerometers, inclinometers, strain gauges, close-range-photogrammetry, precise levellings and total stations are familiar tools/methods to many professionals (e.g. engineers, surveyors) involved with structural monitoring. Recently, the Global Positioning System (GPS) has emerged as sensor for many deformation applications. The use of GPS for deformation studies has evolved rapidly especially Real Time Kinematic (RTK). This technique has been considered as a cost-effective tool to monitor safety and performance of engineering structures, including high buildings and to obtain high productivity in terms of accuracy and reliability. This paper highlights the concept and methodology of the RTK-GPS and its potential application for high building monitoring surveys. The experiments have been carried out on a high building, Menara Sarawak, Johore Malaysia. Some preliminary results is presented and discussed.