Worldsensing launches new Wireless Sensor to optimise vibration monitoring in civil engineering
Worldsensing, the global leader in IoT remote monitoring, launches its newest wireless sensor, The Vibration Meter, which measures vibrations in long-term, continuous vibration monitoring projects. The new product uses a tri-axial MEMS accelerometer with longer battery life, wider communications range and more competitive price point than existing vibration-related technologies on the market, while complying with key regulatory standards.
Expanding on Worldsensing’s existing portfolio of wireless monitoring devices, The Vibration Meter is uniquely positioned to help engineering service providers comply with regulations of building integrity such as the German standard DIN 4140-3, its British Analog BS 7385-2 and the ISO 2631-2 regarding the effect of the vibrations on people.
The product launch comes at a time when regulators are placing increased scrutiny on industries producing high-vibrational activities. To ensure safe and stable infrastructures in these industries including construction, mining, and off-highway, there’s been a shift to safeguarding both building integrity and the comfort of local communities in the surrounding areas of construction sites.
“With extreme weather events emerging across the globe, it’s imperative that infrastructure in our communities maintain the structural integrity it was designed to have. Worldsensing’s vibration device is a big step towards achieving this increased protection. As a result of the heightened monitoring of vibrational events, the engineering community can also commit to protecting the environment in their journey to uplifting local communities through their development projects.” Andrea Bartoli, Chief Technology Officer at Worldsensing.
Up to 2 years of unattended operations with up to 15 km network range
The Vibration Meter features an advanced algorithm that detects threshold breaches of vibration-based parameters such as LAW/PPV and frequency. The device continuously gathers this data at 1,000 MHz on site, which is then communicated through a cellular gateway to the management tools that engineering service providers use. This taps into Worldsensing’s Long Range (LoRa) antenna – providing up to 15 km of range and making it compatible with other Worldsensing devices and already deployed networks.
Equipped with a 3,6 V D-size user-replaceable, high energy density battery, The Vibration Meter has up to 2 years of battery lifespan at a 30-minute reporting period, with an event occurrence every 2 to 3 minutes. This technology has also been designed to work in all weather conditions, as it functions in -40 ⁰C to 80 ⁰C operating temperatures.
With more than 3,000 deployed networks and 170,000 active devices worldwide, Worldsensing has enabled real-time data acquisition of geotechnical structural sensors, allowing industrial companies to connect and wirelessly monitor infrastructures in remote locations.
Discussing the future of connectivity technologies at the Bentley Infrastructure IoT Summit 2023
Worldsensing proudly sponsored the 2023 Bentley Infrastructure IoT summit in sunny San Diego, CA, on October 25-27th. The conference focused on how IoT technologies provide cost-effective condition monitoring, maximize the safety of workers and the public, and boost operations efficiency.
International experts and innovators in geotechnics, geospatial, structural health and connectivity gathered for the 3-day event. Participants could enjoy speaking sessions from, among others, Bentley, Geokon, TopCon and Worldsensing, and networking times to share experiences.
Leading the way in connectivity
Ignasi Vilajosa, Worldsensing’s CEO, presented his “Journey Through Innovation”, from his hands-on beginnings to now leading the world leading company in remote monitoring. About his presentation and Worldsensing, Justin Schmidt, VP of Corporate Development at Bentley Systems, said “Worldsensing was mentioned in almost every presentation and discussion. Clearly the world leader in connectivity with the widest range of industry applications. Their partnership with Bentley Systems iTwin IoT digital twin software creates the most valuable combined full stack offering on the market!”
The conversations at the Summit led to solutions and actions to improve operations, provide monitoring conditions and help prevent risks.
New Early Warning System, the end-to-end solution for early detection of ground movements
Featuring wireless sensors and real-time data visualization software
Climate change and increasingly rigorous regulations are compelling infrastructure owners to better prevent and minimize the effect of natural disasters. The potential collapse of critical ground structures (such as slopes, embankments and alike) poses significant environmental and societal risks, requiring vigilant monitoring in industries such as mining, transportation, and construction.
Engineers require advanced early warning systems capable of real-time trend analysis and rapid response, but the complex integration of sensors, networks, and software often poses challenges for engineering firms.
The Early Warning System, a comprehensive solution for early detection of ground movements
In this context, Worldsensing has teamed up with Sensemetrics, the IoT data visualization platform, to launch the Early Warning System, an end-to-end solution designed to detect ground movements in real time and automatically trigger preventive actions.
This new offer is an easy-to-deploy, plug-and-play system, featuring wireless sensors and seamless data visualization software that minimizes IT resources and expertise..
Wireless sensors Worldsensing provides the Event Detection Tiltmeter solution, a robust device with edge-processing capabilities, delivering threshold-based alerts in a few seconds. This sensor is capable of transmitting data via long-range radio to a gateway connected to the Internet up to 9 miles/15 km away.
Data Visualization Platform The sensors seamlessly integrate with Worldsensing’s CMT and Sensemetrics platforms using MQTT protocols. Alert notifications are sent with a minimum 2-second latency, enabling engineers to activate cameras, sirens, or other alert control systems with precision.
Connectivity The system is complemented with a ThreadX3, enabling the connection of data-intensive sensors like cameras, weather stations, sirens, etc., that enhances overall system robustness and supports actions and response plans. This autonomous sensor connectivity device comes with an optional integrated 4G/LTE cellular modem and wireless mesh networking.
Worldsensing’s Early Warning System empowers our clients to proactively manage risks, respond in real time, and develop data-driven strategies to safeguard infrastructure, protect the environment, and ensure the well-being of local communities.
Worldsensing launches a new Flood Monitoring System
Disasters due to climate change are increasing in frequency and posing a global risk for civil infrastructure and the communities allocated nearby. Beyond the vital impact of these environmental events, the economic cost associated with such tragedies is escalating, further underscoring the urgent need for proactive mitigation measures and adaptation strategies.
The current public regulations and corporate ESG strategies are becoming increasingly stringent and are forcing regulators and infrastructure owners to be careful about risk prevention. Also, the destruction of homes and infrastructures represents a social and governmental cost, which makes it important for public institutions to be involved in the monitoring of damaged and at risk areas.
Engineering consultants and monitoring experts are in need of an all-in-one flood monitoring system that integrates a comprehensive suite of tools and technologies, enabling a more efficient and coordinated response to flood events.
A complete end-to-end system, from multiple data gathering to data management and visualization
Worldsensing collaborates with world leader technology providers and integrators to launch a remote monitoring system that offers a centralized connect-and-collect platform for automatic water monitoring for flooding control. Since all sensors, data and networks can be managed from a single platform hardware derived costs are minimized.
The complete system offers the possibility to set alerts and receive notifications when thresholds are reached. These capabilities will allow data-based decisions to be taken faster due to the continuous flow of accurate data and the integration of different parameters into a converged software system.
Enhanced monitoring capabilities for diverse water scenarios
The Worldsensing Flood Monitoring system can integrate the top-class sensors for water management and flood monitoring. This highest compatibility of sensors supports a variety of data coming from weather stations to water level sensors, temperature and humidity sensors or field cameras.
Besides data from monitoring instrumentation, the connectivity capabilities of ThreadX3 enable a simplified system deployment and offer robust and continuous monitoring in a fully autonomous station covering multiple modes of communication, including mesh and Ethernet.
Enhanced flood monitoring is an intersection of several essential requirements, including improved efficiency, result accuracy, and the ability to respond quickly to warning signals. Worldsensing and its partners have developed a technology system to comprehensively address water management monitoring requirements across a range of scenarios. This involves, among others, rapid changes in river flow rates, challenges related to terrain instabilities in lakes, which can elevate the risk of flooding, or dams and water reservoirs which are essential components of water management.
Worldsensing’s clients and integrators can now provide a data-driven strategy with immediate reaction for a better risk management of the unexpected and sometimes brutal effects of climate change events, thus contributing to prevent impact on communities and to protect infrastructure.
New VP Sales appointment to drive industry-leading technology advancements
The global leader in remote monitoring solutions, Worldsensing, is delighted to announce the appointment of Víctor Romaní as its new VP Sales, effective 01 October 2023. This strategic move is set to propel the company’s groundbreaking technology developments to benefit the infrastructure monitoring industry.
Víctor Romaní joins Worldsensing from Verizon, the American wireless network operator, and brings +20 years’ experience in the telecommunications industry, international experience in channel business, and deep knowledge on developing large accounts. With this stellar track record, he now takes on the challenge of leading the Worldsensing international sales team to accelerate growth while shaping the company strategy and vision.
“Victor’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment as we continue to scale up worldwide. His appointment signifies our commitment to foster industry growth by driving technological advancements. His vision will be instrumental in supporting our partners and clients to continue to expand and grow, and keep creating an ecosystem where together we push for more resilient infrastructures” said Ignasi Vilajosana, Chief Executive Officer at Worldsensing.
Notably, Matthieu Laville, Worldsensing departing VP Sales and the company Sales Director for 7 years, will remain onboard during the transition phase in an advisory capacity to ensure a seamless transfer of knowledge and expertise.
“We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Matthieu for his contributions to Worldsensing throughout the years. His industry knowledge and insights have been a strong driver in evolving Worldsensing from a technology-based start-up into the leading provider of remote monitoring solutions for the geotechnical and mining industry we have become,” highlighted David Deprez, Worldsensing Managing Director.
At Worldsensing we look forward to the exciting possibilities that will emerge under this new leadership. We are thrilled that Victor has decided to join us and would like to extend him our warmest welcome.
Worldsensing partners with Aqualabo, the world leader in water monitoring and analysis
New integration of Worldsensing’s digital logger with Aqualabo sensors
We are pleased to announce that Worldsensing is now compatible with Aqualabo, the world leader in water monitoring and analysis. This integration marks a significant milestone in the field of water management offering new monitoring applications.
This new integration provides our customers with a connect-and-collect solution for most of their water monitoring needs, using their existing Worldsensing deployed devices, and connecting them wirelessly to their data visualisation tools.
Water management, a critical monitoring area
Climate change is adversely impacting water management. It is becoming a key area to master for companies that want to gain more control in risk management.
Construction, oil and gas or even mining companies need to meet increasing regulatory constraints in most countries they are operating in. The evaluation and management of water is becoming increasingly important.
Compliance with regulations, risk mitigation, and maintaining competitiveness are leading operators to select a trusted water monitoring partner. That is why Worldsensing is partnering with Aqualabo, the leading brand for water monitoring and analysis worldwide.
Leveraging Worldsensing networks to deploy water monitoring solutions
Companies can now leverage their expertise in Worldsensing networks to deploy comprehensive water monitoring solutions, including the measurement of water quality parameters using Aqualabo sensors. This complements current water management applications, such as pore water pressure, phreatic surface levels, water and flow meters, pressure measurements, non-contact level measurements, and other parameters.
Using the combined solution of Worldsensing digital logger with the wide range of Aqualabo sensors, engineering companies can measure crucial water parameters, including:
Water temperature
Turbidity
pH levels
Conductivity, and more
The integration includes the following Aqualabo sensors:
NTU turbidity sensor. Temperature (ºC), Nephelo turbidity (NTU), Nephelo turbidity (FNU), TU turbidity (mg/L)
PHEHT. Temperature (ºC), pH (pH), Redox (mV), pH (mV)
OPTOD. Temperature (ºC), Oxygen (%Sat), Oxygen (mg/L), Oxygen (ppm)
ORP Annular. Temperature (ºC), Redox (mV)
Conductivity CTZ. Temperature (ºC), Conductivity CTZ (mS/cm), Salinity (g/kg), Conductivity CTZ without temperature compensation (mS/cm)
Turbidity Suspended solid. Temperature (ºC), Sludge blanket (%), MES (Suspended Solid) (g/l), Turbidity (FAU)
StacSense. Temperature (ºC), CAS254 (1/m), COD Eq. (mg/l), BOD Eq. (mg/l), TOC Eq. (mg/l)
The integration allows for connecting multi-parameter equipment like TRIPOD and enables the connection of chains with either the same or different types of sensors.
European Diversity Charter: Worldsensing Renews Pledge to Foster Inclusion and Equal Opportunities
At Worldsensing, we are dedicated to fostering equal opportunities and promoting respect for a diverse workforce. This month, we have reaffirmed our commitment to the Diversity Charter, an European initiative that promotes the commitment of organisations that champion diversity and inclusion in the workplace, both internally and externally.
As a signatory since 2021, we have been actively advancing the principles of the charter, and we remain steadfast in our pursuit of fostering an inclusive environment for all. By renewing our adherence to this charter, Worldsensing affirms its commitment to complying with the directives of the European Union and local legislation concerning non-discrimination, equal opportunities, and diversity. The charter forms part of the European Union Platform of Diversity Charters, and through its renewal, Worldsensing continues to embrace the following ten principles:
Raise awareness about the principles of equal opportunity and respect for diversity, including them as company values.
Build a diverse workforce, without discriminating against gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, beliefs, age, disability or any other circumstance.
Promote inclusion, encouraging effective onboarding and avoiding any type of discrimination (direct or indirect) at work.
Take diversity into account in all human resources policies.
Promote work-life balance, establishing mechanisms to make staff’s work more compatible with family and personal lives.
Recognize the diversity of customers and leverage it as a source of innovation and development.
Share this commitment with staff and make sure the company adheres to the principles to which the organization is committing itself as a signatory of the Charter.
Share this commitment with supplier companies, inviting them to take on the voluntary commitment promoted by the Charter.
Share this commitment with administrations, business organizations, unions and other institutions.
Include activities to support non-discrimination—as well as the results obtained by implementing diversity policies—in the company’s annual report.
The Fundación Diversidad serves as the representative for the European Diversity Charter in Spain.
The diversity diploma
New EU Next Generation funded project for 6G networks and intelligent services
Worldsensing has been selected as a Consortium member to provide research and development services in 6G technologies within the framework of the project 6G-OASIS coordinated by the Centre Tecnològic de Telecomunicacions de Catalunya (CTTC).
The project “6G-OASIS: Open intelligent framework for 6G networks and intelligent services” aims to deliver a fully open and secured radio access network (RAN) framework with control programmability powered by an AI environment that third-parties can capitalise on to build their applications for vertical industries.
Throughout the three-year duration of the project, blockchain, deep learning and AI technologies will be utilised to enhance the security of network systems, while contributing to the continued growth of the Spanish research and innovation ecosystem in the field of 6G technologies.
Part of the Spanish Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan
Due to its innovative approach, the 6G-OASIS project was chosen to be part of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan of Spain (Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia, PRTR) funded by the Next Generation EU programme.
The Spain Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan (PRTR), designed to leverage the EU Next Generation fund, has been allocated a substantial sum of 140,000 million euros, which will be disbursed to Spain by 2026. A significant portion of these funds, a quarter to be precise, will be directed towards enhancing and strengthening the Spanish business and industrial ecosystem through different programmes. Numerous initiatives are specifically targeted at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the objective of improving their digital capabilities and promoting energy efficiency, in line with the European Union’s green and digital transition objectives.
In particular within R&D&I projects in the information and communications technology sector, grants are aimed at technologies related to telecommunications (5G, 6G, openRAN, edge computing, satellite, quantum communications networks, 5G cybersecurity, etc.) and digital infrastructures, including those activities that are close to the market and have a high potential for transformation and impact both sectorially and intersectorially.
Fostering Europe role in future systems generation
Each successive generation of mobile communications goes beyond a simple increase in speed or performance, bringing new and unique service capabilities. In the coming years, 5G technology and standards will evolve as 5G deployment progresses. 5G technology is expected to progress into new “standalone” 5G core networks that are cyber-secure and enable industrial applications such as Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) and Industry 5.0. These applications are the first step towards the digitisation and greening of our entire economy.
Advanced 5G infrastructures are also an important starting point for 6G technologies in Europe. Market studies estimate that the potential growth in economic activity from 5G and 6G networks and services is expected to reach 3 trillion euro by 2030. The complete digitisation of the industry, the need to integrate technological and commercial enablers, and mainly the need to address European and global challenges across the entire value chain, create the basis for new research and innovation targets: the design of advanced 5G and 6G networks.
6G systems will move us from Gigabit to Terabit capacities and sub-millisecond response times. This will enable new applications, such as real-time automation or extended reality sensing (“Internet of Senses”), which collect data for a digital twin of the physical world.
As part of the overarching goal to bolster Europe’s digital autonomy in the field of advanced digital services and for the future generation of systems (6G), these grants are specifically targeted at increasing the leadership of Spanish research groups in 5G, and to be a benchmark in the technological development of 6G.
The project “6G-OASIS: Open and intelligent framework for 6G intelligent networks and services”, identified by file number CTTC-2022-20032, is part of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan of Spain (Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia, PRTR) funded by the Next Generation EU programme.
Worldsensing expands local presence in Malaysia to serve growing market demand
Following the appointment in January this year of Arnau Carbonell to lead growth across Asia Pacific region, Worldsensing, the Internet-of-Things (IoT) monitoring leader, is delighted to announce its expansion into Malaysia, reaffirming its commitment to global growth and delivering cutting-edge technologies to clients across the region.
Patrick Pang, our Product Sales Area Manager based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, discusses in this interview the increasing demand for digitization in the area.
What are the current needs of the monitoring industry in Malaysia?
Some are common to the monitoring industry globally, like the need for advanced monitoring systems that can provide real-time and reliable data, effective data integration and analysis tools, or programmes to strengthen the expertise and capabilities of professionals in the monitoring industry.
In particular for Malaysia, one of the primary needs is to progressively upgrade the traditional monitoring methods that use cables and manual labour to fully automated, real-time monitoring systems. This will help comply with the structural health monitoring standards which are crucial because by implementing these standards, proactive measures can be taken to mitigate potential risks, thereby enhancing the safety of critical civil infrastructures and communities.
Which are the main applications of IoT-based remote monitoring systems in the Malaysian industries?
In Malaysia, we are witnessing rapid growth in various sectors such as hydro dams, and landslides and flood monitoring. To ensure the success of these expanding projects, real-time monitoring is essential. This is where IoT-based remote monitoring solutions come into play. By implementing these systems, continuous and effective oversight can be maintained, enabling prompt actions to be taken when necessary.
Are there any special needs or particularities of the Malaysian market?
Malaysia is susceptible to floods and experiences frequent landslides, making it vulnerable to natural disasters. Unfortunately, the impact of these disasters is further exacerbated by global climate change. As a result, there is a growing demand for real-time monitoring systems. These systems are essential in effectively mitigating the impact of such disasters and ensuring timely responses to protect lives and assets.
At the same time, the Malaysian market requires high standards in the quality of technology products. Market approval for radio technology products in Malaysia is issued by the Standards and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM), a wholly-owned company of the Malaysian Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI). The SIRIM certification is required for market approval in Malaysia.
Our Worldsensing product family has recently been officially certified for conformity by SIRIM QAS International, demonstrating our compliance with Technical Code MCMC MTSFB TC T007:2020.
We are proud of this recognition as it underlines the confidence our clients can have in the reliability of our IoT-based remote monitoring solution, and compliance with international standards, as it is the case in several other countries where we hold national certifications.
“By staying at the forefront of innovation, we can continue to help enhance the resilience of infrastructures, ultimately contributing to the well-being of communities across Malaysia”, Patrick Pang, Product Sales Area Manager
What are your main projects in the area?
We are very active in the region in cooperation with our local partner BCN Smart Technologies Sdn Bhd. We successfully deployed our monitoring solutions in the Kuala Lumpur MRT 2 projects, the second mass rapid transit line and the third fully automated and driverless rail system in the country. Nearly 200 of our wireless data loggers were used to automate the data collection of various geotechnical sensors such as vibrating wire strain gauge, load cells, rod extensometers and piezometers.
Other recent projects in the area where our technology has been installed include the railway shuttle Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) and we are also working to help improve landslide monitoring for the Malaysian Public Works Department, which is responsible for construction and maintenance of public infrastructure in West Malaysia and Labuan.
Worldsensing’s local presence in Malaysia enables closer collaboration with Malaysian enterprises across various industries, including civil infrastructure, construction and natural hazards, among others. Combining Worldsensing innovative technology with local expertise, the company aims to address specific industry challenges and deliver tailored solutions that drive meaningful results for the digitalisation of the industry ecosystem.
New Worldsensing Chair on IoT at the University of Barcelona
The University of Barcelona and Worldsensing sign an agreement to create a Chair for the technological development in the area of IoT
Innovation and technology transfer to the industrial sector will be the priorities of the new Chair on industrial IoT, created by the University of Barcelona and Worldsensing with the aim of promoting research and thus contributing to the progress and dissemination of technology.
This new chair consolidates the collaboration that Worldsensing has maintained since its foundation in 2008 with the University of Barcelona (UB) and will allow the joint development of teaching, knowledge and research activities.
The main purpose of this alliance between university and company is to stimulate and strengthen innovation. “The university environment is an excellent reinforcement to help us nurture innovative technology in the industrial sectors we serve. With this chair, we will jointly promote research, development and innovation (R&D&I),” said Ignasi Vilajosana, CEO and co-founder of Worldsensing.
To achieve this goal, different initiatives will be implemented, including joint research projects addressing key technological challenges in the IoT field, a technical laboratory with experts from the company in the facilities of the Faculty of Physics and the joint organisation of national and international meetings with experts in the area of IoT, among others.
Strong educational support to increase student competitiveness
The Chair establishes a 3-year timeframe during which Worldsensing will play a prominent role also in the educational field. The company will host final projects and internships in order to improve the training of UB students and help align the contents with the current and real needs of the sector. In addition, it will also hold specialised seminars for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The Chair will also award prizes for the best final projects related to the subject, a prize programme that will be open to students from all the courses in which the Faculty participates. Worldsensing will also provide financial support to postgraduate students through a scholarship programme.
“We want our support to be tangible and visible in order to inspire and attract young talent, particularly women, to pursue careers in Physical Sciences, Geophysics, and Engineering” Ignasi Vilajosana, Worldsensing CEO
Presentation ceremony at the Aula Magna of the Universitat de Barcelona
The presentation ceremony took place at the Aula Magna of the historical venue of the University of Barcelona on the 21st June, where the collaboration agreement was signed. The event was attended by the rector of the University of Barcelona, Dr. Joan Guàrdia Olmos, the Chair Director, Dr. Manuel López de Miguel, and Dr. Ignasi Vilajosana, accompanied by a significant representation of Worldsensing staff.
During the ceremony, the rector, Dr. Joan Guàrdia Olmos, highlighted that “Worldsensing is a good example of how the university should generate talent, drive projects and pass on knowledge.”
The UB Worldsensing Chair of Industrial IoT will be housed at the Faculty of Physics of the University of Barcelona. “One of the chair’s objectives is to foster the development and dissemination of knowledge in order to become an innovation leader in Catalonia, Spain and Europe”, said Dr. Manuel López, Chair Director.
From right to left: Ignasi Vilajosana, CEO, Worldsensing // Mercè Segarra Rubí, Vice-Rector Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Knowledge Transfer, University of Barcelona // Joan Guàrdia Olmos, Rector, University of Barcelona // Xavier Lacasta, Head of Chairs, University of Barcelona // Manuel López de Miguel, Chair Director, University of Barcelona (Physics)
Press edition in Spanish and Catalan upon request.
