Over the past decade, engineering and geotechnical monitoring technological innovation has experienced rapid development. Our journey from the initial research phase in 2014 to the mass application of automated inclinometer (Inclino-Robot) in 2024 is a testament to the power of iterative development, market testing, and global expansion. This article will outline the key milestones of our Inclino-Robot development, the challenges we faced, and the success stories that led to over 1,000 units sold globally.
The journey began in 2014, under the leadership of Pei Jie, a pioneering figure in the field of geotechnical monitoring technology. At this time, there was an increasing demand for more accurate and reliable data acquisition in geotechnical engineering, particularly for applications such as tunneling, dam construction, and slope stability monitoring. Recognizing this opportunity, Pei Jie directed a research initiative aimed at developing a new generation of sensors that could offer enhanced accuracy and durability in challenging environments.
The primary challenge in the early days was the technological gap between traditional sensors and the rapidly evolving needs of the industry. Existing sensors were often unreliable in extreme conditions, such as high humidity or severe temperature fluctuations. The team set out to design a product that could not only meet but exceed industry expectations.
After four years of research and development, the team launched the first-generation Inclinometer prototype in late 2018. This prototype showcased enhanced accuracy and reliability, suitable for large-scale infrastructure projects. Early tests at a subway station, which featured a 34-meter deep borehole, compared manual and automated measurements. The manual instrument achieved a resolution of 0.015 mm per 500 mm, while the automated version had a resolution of 0.02 mm. Both methods yielded consistent results within ±1 mm, confirming the inclinometer's reliability and boosting our confidence in its future adoption.
By 2020, after extensive feedback from the field, the second-generation inclinometer was developed. This version was not only more compact and easier to install but also offered wireless connectivity, a crucial feature for real-time monitoring in remote locations. It was during this phase that the Inclino-Robot was deployed in various projects.
One notable pilot test was used to a hydropower project, where the Inclino-Robot were used to monitor dam stability during construction. The wireless feature allowed engineers to monitor data remotely, reducing the need for on-site personnel and enabling real-time decision-making. The results were remarkable—there was a 25% reduction in project delays attributed to improved monitoring accuracy.
From 2020, the second-generation sensor gained significant attention from industry leaders, leading to pre-commercial orders and further market validation.
Projects Showcase
In 2021, the second-generation Inclino-Robot was officially launched for commercial sales. The early purchasers were primarily from the geotechnical and civil engineering sectors, particularly for projects such as highway construction, underground mining, and urban infrastructure development.
One of the early success stories came from a road construction project in Australia, where the Inclino-Robot was used to monitor slope stability along a mountainous highway. The client reported that the geotechnical inclinometer helped them detect potential landslides 48 hours before they occurred, enabling them to take preventive measures and avoid costly delays.
As word spread about the effectiveness of the inclinometer, demand increased rapidly. By the end of the year, sales had reached 500 units, far exceeding initial expectations.
By 2023, the company had emerged as an important role in the geotechnical monitoring industry, with a market presence across Europe, North America, and Asia. A significant milestone was the sale of the 1000th unit, highlighting the product's growing popularity. Throughout this 10-year journey, the technology has evolved from a basic data collection device to a sophisticated IoT tool that offers real-time analysis and predictive insights. The third-generation Inclino-Robot, set to be released in 2024, features predictive capabilities that alert engineers to potential failures, reinforcing its status as an industry innovator.
However, challenges persist. The product requires high-quality borehole installations; steps or jams can hinder its operation. To address this, we plan to enhance the motor power and friction of drive wheels and improve the pulley system.
Additionally, while our product can be installed for subsidence, construction methods can complicate installation. We aim to collaborate with construction teams to position molds effectively and develop a smaller main unit for easier placement. Lastly, we are researching automatic switching for bidirectional measurements to improve accuracy further.
Stay tuned for our fourth-generation automatic inclinometer, which promises enhanced accuracy and versatility in monitoring applications.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings in 2014 to its current status as a globally recognized product, the geotechnical monitoring sensor technology has proven itself time and again. Through continuous innovation, rigorous testing, and close collaboration with industry partners, the product has achieved widespread adoption across various sectors. With over 1,000 units sold and applications in multiple countries, the future looks bright for this cutting-edge geotechnical monitoring technology. This 10-year journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, innovation, and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing market.
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