Risk monitoring of buildings with wireless sensor networks

Buildings are subjected to natural hazards, such as earthquakes and winds, and artificial hazards, such as fires and crimes, during their long-term use. Risk monitoring using a network of wireless sensors is one of the most promising emerging technologies for mitigation of these hazards. Recently, a smart sensor based on the Berkeley Mote platform was introduced, and an application to the next generation of structural health monitoring and control was proposed. The Mote has on-board microprocessor and ready-made wireless communication capabilities. In this paper, the performance of the MICA and MICA2 Mote is investigated through shaking table tests employing a two-storey steel structure. The acceleration sensor is tested, and its performance for wireless measurement and specific risk monitoring applications, such as damage detection in the structure, is presented. The MICA2 Mote is shown to have sufficient performance for the intended purpose.