Deformation Monitoring of Terrain

Deformation Monitoring of Terrain : comprehensive, risk-free, and efficient

Accurate insights into movements and volume changes – without the need for on-site inspections

Knowledge of the processes occurring in the vicinity of dam installations is essential for their safe operation. Traditional monitoring concepts for natural hazards are based on the observation of individual points. Defining these monitoring points requires specific prior knowledge of the area, and their marking in the field is often time-consuming and also involves risks.

With modern area-wide surveying technologies such as drone-based photogrammetry or laser scanning, technologies are now available that provide precise information. The results of these surveying technologies enable large-scale analyses across entire areas, without the need for prior knowledge or on-site investigation by personnel.

We offer a complete service package

Flexible use

Without long lead times.
Secure data collection from the air or from the ground

Depending on the area of application.
High-resolution surface models

For detailed results.
Expert analysis

Expert assessment on request.

Comprehensive assessment of terrain conditions – digital results without any site visits

Details of the service package

Our area-wide monitoring approach enables precise analysis and assessment of movements (e.g., landslide areas) and volume changes (e.g., sediment deposits in water bodies during dry conditions). Upon request, our experts in the fields of environment, hydraulic engineering, mechanical engineering, and dam safety can professionally analyze and evaluate the results. Thanks to our modular service package, you can flexibly choose which services you require, tailored exactly to your needs.

Customized monitoring concepts

Execution by Axpo (with high accuracy using photogrammetry / TLS)
Planning and control point definition by Axpo
Independent drone flight with support from Axpo
Analysis and modeling by Axpo

Detailed results

Deformation maps
3D-Modelle
Orthophotos
Mass balances
Topographic contour maps

References:

«Thanks to the drone surveys and photogrammetric analysis, we were able to quickly obtain precise information about the difference in volume. At the same time, the area-wide evaluation enables extensive monitoring of the slope without the need to install control points. On one hand, this saves time and increases safety, as the potentially hazardous area needs to be accessed less frequently.»

Marius Bühlmann Division Dams, Axpo Power AG

«To assess sedimentation in mountain streams at water intakes and dam installations, we use drones. The high-resolution aerial imagery enables precise and transparent documentation of changes, making it possible to clearly demonstrate developments to third parties.»

Marco Baggio, Powerplant Linth-Limmern