Hand-held multimedia documentation for tunnel inspections

Tunnel construction requires accurate documentation of as-built project information, such as progress, construction methods, resources used, site conditions, equipment, safety, and quality issues. Accurate as-built information not only prevents problems in claims and disputes, but also provides lessons learned for future projects. Most tunnel projects require that site personnel document accurately and comprehensively. Forms are usually used to ensure complete data entry, and photos are taken, if needed, to describe or document the details. This paper presents a computerized system that utilizes a hand-held PC, with an integrated digital camera, to allow tunnel inspectors to enter daily report directly into a database that can later be accessed through the Internet. This system, named Tunnel-Log, was field-tested by inspectors working on the L.A. subway project. Comments and feedback from these inspectors are presented, along with the discussion of hardware components and software design.