The current landscape, marked by the increasing recurrence of extreme natural phenomena, combined with the accelerated ageing of key infrastructure such as bridges, dams, and roads, has created an urgent need for smarter monitoring systems. In this context, Worldsensing announces the launch of the SAFE-IoT project, a pioneering initiative designed to transform structural monitoring through a hybrid and autonomous technological architecture.
The challenge of structural safety in a changing global environment
Structural health monitoring currently relies primarily on discrete technologies, such as inclinometers, accelerometers, strain gauges, and differential GPS or satellite technology, among others. However, these technologies present limitations in terms of scalability, power consumption, the need for frequent maintenance, and, notably, cost. These factors hinder their application across extensive critical infrastructures.
In this framework, fibre optic sensor technology constitutes a cutting-edge solution for structural monitoring due to its electromagnetic immunity, high sensitivity, distributed monitoring capability, and resistance to adverse environmental conditions. These sensors enable precise measurements of critical parameters (like strain, temperature, vibration, or structural stress) in a reliable, continuous, and rapid manner.
The SAFE-IoT project is an initiative aimed at strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure by combining optical data with information obtained via inclinometers and other technologies established within the structural monitoring sector.
Adapting IoT devices for multimodal data capture
The efficient integration of vanguard technologies into real-world industrial environments is one of the sector’s greatest challenges. The SAFE-IoT project is not merely a hardware upgrade, but a paradigm shift in how structural health data is converted into critical decisions for asset managers.
The primary objective of SAFE-IoT is to advance structural monitoring through the integration of innovative technologies, including the development of new photonic chips, low-power IoT nodes, and analytical tools based on Artificial Intelligence. To achieve this, the project will develop data acquisition systems using highly sensitive multi-channel photonic chips integrated into industrial wireless IoT networks.
“SAFE-IoT presents a unique combination of technologies that positions it as a pioneering solution in intelligent and predictive infrastructure monitoring, with a clear focus on sustainability, public safety, and urban resilience.”
Dr. Francisco Hernández-Ramírez, Worldsensing VP of Innovation
The global solution proposed by SAFE-IoT is supported by Worldsensing’s IoT node family (Loadsensing) and its data management platform (CMT). Both will be expanded to incorporate optoelectronic sensor readings and advanced cloud-based data analytics capabilities.
International synergy: A bridge of innovation between Spain and China
The success of SAFE-IoT is underpinned by a bilateral alliance between Spain and China, highlighting the collaboration with Tiangong University, a world leader in photonics, under the direction of Professor Hongqiang Li.
This knowledge transfer not only drives Worldsensing’s technological innovation but also contributes directly to the creation of more sustainable and secure cities and industrial facilities with the ultimate goal of protecting the assets that connect our society.