Ensuring the stability of a slope, the safety of an urban excavation, or the integrity of a complex infrastructure requires accurate, timely, and continuous measurement data over time. In the field of geotechnics, inclinometer monitoring has always been one of the fundamental methods for detecting horizontal displacements and subsurface deformations.
However, traditional technologies based on periodic manual surveys present clear limitations: they require the constant presence on site of specialized operators, generate recurring operational costs, and provide discontinuous “snapshots” of a phenomenon that often evolves rapidly.
To overcome these critical issues, Earth System has developed VERTEBRA, an innovative modular inclinometer system designed for the continuous, distributed, and automated monitoring of soils and structures.
What is an inclinometer system and how does MEMS technology work?
To understand the innovation brought by VERTEBRA, it is useful to take a step back. An inclinometer is an instrument used to measure tilt variations and lateral ground movements at various depths, typically inside a guide casing (inclinometer or piezometer casing) installed underground.
In traditional systems, an operator manually lowers a probe down the casing at scheduled time intervals.
The VERTEBRA system, by contrast, replaces the movable probe with a permanent chain of measuring nodes positioned at fixed intervals along the entire depth to be monitored. Each node integrates an ultra-high-precision 3D MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) sensor.
A brief technical insight:
MEMS sensors are micro-electronic components capable of detecting tiny tilt variations along two orthogonal axes (X and Y). By converting these tilt angles into mathematical data, the system can reconstruct with extreme accuracy the 3D geometry and deformation profile of the entire casing over time.
The advantages of VERTEBRA: Why choose a modular system?
Engineered to meet real job-site requirements, VERTEBRA combines the rigor of scientific measurement with operational flexibility.
1. Total modularity (Mechanical and Electrical)
Unlike rigid or factory pre-assembled inclinometer chains, every VERTEBRA node is an independent element. The chain is assembled directly on site according to the specific needs of the measuring point. This structure allows you to:
- Choose the inter-node spacing (500 mm or 1000 mm) based on the required resolution;
- Add, remove, or replace individual elements at any time without having to replace the entire chain.
2. Rapid and error-proof installation
Time is a critical factor on any job site. VERTEBRA utilizes a 2-wire electrical connection, non-polarized, with joints via magnetic connectors. The absence of polarity eliminates the risk of wiring errors by operators and significantly speeds up installation phases, even in the presence of moisture or water inside the casing.
3. Carbon fiber lightness and stability
The use of carbon fiber structural rods and stainless steel joints ensures high mechanical rigidity and a low mass (approx. 130 g for a 500 mm node). This allows deep chains to be deployed without overloading the structure and eliminates the risk of unwanted chain sagging.
4. Wired or Wireless LoRa data transmission
The measurement function is kept completely separate from data management. The hardware interface of the VERTEBRA system can be connected to the central acquisition unit (such as the G802 datalogger) either via direct cable or via a Wireless LoRa radio module. This allows inclinometer casings to be monitored even in harsh or remote areas far from the main control unit, minimizing on-site cabling impact.
An open data architecture: Maximum freedom for the client
The data collected by the MEMS sensors along the VERTEBRA chain are transmitted in real time to management systems. For data archiving, visualization, and alarm threshold configuration, Earth System offers the dedicated web platform Geo-Atlas.
However, we firmly believe in data management freedom: VERTEBRA’s architecture is totally open and interoperable. Acquired data can be easily integrated into software platforms, databases, or IoT portals already utilized by the client or engineering management.
Application fields of the VERTEBRA system
Thanks to its high resolution and customizable sampling frequency, VERTEBRA is the ideal solution for:
- Landslide monitoring: Continuous tracking of slip surface depth and movement velocity;
- Retaining structures and urban excavations: Control of settlements or lateral pressures on diaphragm walls, tiebacks, and retaining walls;
- Embankments, dikes, and dams: Early detection of structural deformations or differential settlements;
- Road and railway infrastructures: Permanent monitoring of the stability of embankments and civil works.
Plan your next job site monitoring with Earth System
Transitioning from discontinuous monitoring to permanent measurement represents a fundamental investment for the safety and sustainability of any civil or geotechnical project. VERTEBRA was created to offer maximum precision at the lowest operational cost.
Want to check detailed technical data of the system or evaluate a specific application for your projects?
Download the Complete VERTEBRA Technical Brochure here
The Earth System engineering and technical team is at your disposal to analyze your job site specifications and guide you in configuring the most suitable system. Contact us today for a no-obligation technical consultation.
