| Surveillance & monitoring
it to Bentley’s cloud-based iTwin Platform, where the model was associated with the monitoring devices. The team was able to generate a digital twin that can visualize the sensor data in real time. “Bentley software was chosen because of its ability to collect monitoring data remotely and automate analysis and alerts based on predetermined thresholds,” said Truong. “The location of the dam is quite remote, so the ability to track the stability of the structure remotely is very valuable.” The digital twin visualizes, analyzes, and provides
automated decision support and thorough dashboards and reporting on structural integrity and reliability of the dam. Using Bentley’s iTwin IoT to incorporate sensor data within the model, Yuba Water can view the sensor locations within the geospatial context of the dam, determine if they have reached any alert thresholds, and monitor deformation and propagation of the dam structure. In addition, the team can now track direction of deformation using slope stability and graph sensor data directly on the digital twin without having to utilize multiple software platforms. The software allows Yuba Water Agency to track events, provide timely alerts, and report to stakeholders, all in one platform. It also provides peace of mind within a secure system, locking access to the total station for the majority of the time that live monitoring is not occurring.
Digital Twin optimizes dam operations “[The] Bentley solution has reduced the cost
and time associated with getting data from the monitoring system,” said Truong. The original legacy system took approximately one week to get a data point from a target and cost US$5000 for each manually collected data event. The new cloud-based system can collect a data point from over 80 prisms twice a day, and make it immediately accessible to the authorized users at no extra cost other than the purchase of the iTwin software. It has saved hours every week and improved workflows and productivity, all while eliminating risky on-site
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visits. Compared to a conventional monitoring system, the digital twin automated total station provides 1,000 times more data monitoring points per week and has significantly improved data accuracy and risk assessment. Moreover, the digital twin allows the team to closely monitor the structure, working toward the agency’s ultimate goal of ensuring public safety and protecting the surrounding environment. Using iTwin IoT, the dam can be monitored more closely and quickly during heavy rainfall and seismic events. “For Yuba Water Agency, there is nothing more important than public safety. Investing in a real-time, automated total monitoring station at New Bullards Bar Dam significantly improves our monitoring capabilities and is testament to our continued commitment to public safety and infrastructure resilience,” said Truong.
Above: Compared to the previous legacy system, Bentley’s digital twin solution significantly improved risk assessment Image courtesy of Yuba Water Agency
Author info
Sandra DiMatteo is the industry marketing director for water at Bentley Systems. She can be reached at
sandra.dimatteo@bentley.com.
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