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(Vertisure): Vertical Displacement Monitoring and

Notification System for Fixed Structure

An Undergraduate Design Project Presented to the

Faculty of the Computer Engineering Department

College of Technology

University of San Agustin

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements of the Course

CpE413 - CpE Practice and Design 1

by

Vince Ginno B. Daywan

Gevic N. Bumanglag

Stephanie Azucena

Engr. Glenda S. Guanzon

June 2023
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INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Over recent decades, the rapid progress in industrialization and urbanization has spurred the

development of expansive industrial and civil construction projects, marked by their increasing

size and height. Unfortunately, construction activities on the ground are prone to wear and tear or

sudden structural issues in displacement and deformation, influenced by a variety of factors.

Consequently, the crucial task of monitoring these displacements and deformations in

construction works has become apparent. Recognizing real-time changes in building structures

not only mitigates the risk of accidents and potential harm to individuals but also plays a pivotal

role in preventing financial losses. This emphasis on the importance of monitoring is supported

by studies conducted by Bochen Zhang et al. (2018) and Deng Hui Wang et al. (2017). Studies

show and have examined the impact of these construction projects, with a particular emphasis on

displacements and deformations. For instance, Shitong Hou et al. (2019) The problem addressed

in this research lies in the limitations of traditional bridge displacement monitoring methods,

such as the high cost and labor-intensive nature of cable-based measurements and the constraints

of wireless approaches in terms of transmission distance, equipment maintenance, and data

management. To overcome these challenges, the study proposes an innovative solution

leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) to design a cost-effective sensor system capable of

accurately monitoring bridge displacements and transmitting data efficiently to a cloud server. In

conclusion, the development of a Vertical Displacement Monitoring and Notification System

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represents a critical step toward enhancing the safety and resilience of fixed structures. This

system combines cutting-edge sensor technology, data acquisition, real-time data analysis, and

communication systems to provide continuous and automated monitoring of vertical

displacement. By doing so, it empowers engineers, maintenance personnel, and decision-makers

with the information needed to take proactive measures and reduce the risks associated with

structural failures.

Rationale

The primary functions of a Vertical Displacement Monitoring and Notification System is

addressing the need for remote monitoring and data collection in various applications such as

monitoring and notification, measurement sensing, and automation. The system will be based on

a combination of hardware components, including sensors, LCD I2C for display measurement, to

develop an early detection gathering data. The reason for this study is to enhance safety and

structural integrity. This study aims to provide a means to monitor vertical displacements

remotely and continuously in critical infrastructure such as buildings, bridges, and dams. By

doing so, it enables the early detection of any potentially hazardous movements or shifts,

ultimately contributing to the prevention of structural failures and the safeguarding of public

safety. The study aims to develop a Vertical Displacement Monitoring and Notification System

for Fixed Structure “Vertisure”.

General Objective
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● To develop a Vertical displacement monitoring and notification system for fixed

structure.

● Continuously assess and report vertical displacement in fixed structures.

● Ensure the safety and structural integrity of those structures.

● Enhance the reliability and longevity of critical infrastructure.

Specific Objectives

The specific objectives of this study are:

● To build a prototype that is able to measure the vertical displacements.

● Select and implement appropriate sensors for vertical displacement measurement.

● Determine the functionality.

Significance of the Study

The implementation of a prototype for monitoring vertical displacement in fixed structures

carries immense significance in the realm of structural safety and infrastructure management.

This brief essay highlights the key reasons behind the importance of this undertaking.

One of the most significant benefits of continuous monitoring through the prototype is early

issue detection. The system's ability to identify deviations in vertical displacement serves as an

early warning mechanism for potential structural problems. This early detection allows for

timely interventions, preventing minor issues from escalating into major structural failures.
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In the context of infrastructure resilience, the prototype plays a role in enhancing our

understanding of how structures behave and respond to external forces, including natural

disasters. This knowledge is crucial for improving the resilience of infrastructure, making it

better equipped to withstand adverse conditions.

Theoretical Framework

This study is grounded in the theoretical framework of embedded systems and explores

the vast and swiftly growing global Internet of Things (IoT) market. While the IoT has brought

significant opportunities in the field of technology, it has also exacerbated certain challenges. A

thorough analysis of the existing literature indicates a substantial surge in IoT applications across

a wide range of sectors, encompassing industries, residential spaces, healthcare, and information

management. The IoT enables the remote, real-time monitoring of diverse variables, including

temperature, humidity, natural gas, and other relevant parameters. (Nord, J. H., Koohang, A., &

Paliszkiewicz, J., 2019).

Cloud Server

Internet

Sensor

Real-time Monitoring
Light
Soun
Voltage
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Figure 1: IOT System Architecture

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The theoretical foundation for embedded systems in sensors encompasses hardware, software,

communication, and power, drawing insights from computer system architecture, software

engineering, communication theory, and power systems principles (Sengupta and Bhattacharya,

2019). This framework is vital for developing efficient and reliable embedded systems. On

another front, notification systems, characterized by a blend of rules and procedures involving

human and electronic elements, aim to timely disseminate messages. In simpler systems,

communication is streamlined through channels like email or text messages (Laukkonen, 2022).

Conceptual Framework

Hardware: Sensors LITERATURE REVIEW Development of

Microcontroller Vertical
QUICK DESIGN
Communication Module Displacement
Power Supply BUILD PROTOTYPE Monitoring and
Buzzer EXPERIMENTAL Notification system
Enclosure for fixed structure
Wiring and Connectors IMPLEMENT AND
EVALUATE
Software:
Arduino IDE

FEEDBACK & REFINING PROTOTYPE

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Scope and Delimitations

The study focuses on Development of Vertical displacement monitoring and notification

systems for fixed structures that are often utilized in industrial or commercial settings,

temperature, and humidity of the area within. Vertical displacement is different from horizontal

displacement due to the uncomfortable feeling that drivers get when traversing these. While

horizontal measurements are aimed at requiring drivers to lower their speeds to feel safe, vertical

measurements are aimed at drivers slowing.

Expected Result

The implementation of the "Development of Vertical displacement monitoring and notification

system for fixed structure" utilizing ThingSpeak for measuring and monitoring vertical

displacement is anticipated to provide valuable results for both industrial and commercial

settings. Holds the promise of numerous specific and impactful outcomes. These systems,

designed to safeguard the structural integrity and safety of buildings, bridges, dams, and other

infrastructure, are instrumental in providing a proactive approach to structural management. The

specifically expected results demonstrate the far-reaching benefits of these monitoring systems.

From early monitoring and preventive maintenance to enhanced safety, cost reduction, and

stakeholder confidence, the outcomes of these systems extend across various domains. They not

only address structural concerns but also have implications for environmental impact, operational

continuity, and even legal liability mitigation. Furthermore, the implementation of these systems
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aligns with sustainability objectives and community engagement, illustrating their broad and

positive influence on our built environment.

Review of Literature

Prior Arts

Table 1: Patents & Utilities ???

Reference Parameters Publication No. Publication Date

P1 Towards the Development Cost- PH12015500984A1 2015-09-07
effective
Earthquake Monitoring System
and Vibration
Detector with SMS Notification
Using IOT
P2 A portable fire alarm monitoring PH22018001521U 2018-12-13
system
P3 Ultrasonic sensor-based mobility PH22018050345 2020-10-21
aid system for the blind
P4 Monitoring of the Static and PH22323049355 2020-05-12
Dynamic Displacements of
Railway Bridges with the Use of
Inertial Sensors
P5 Monitoring Vertical Displacement PH34234534635I 2021-09-16
in Bridge Structures Using
Inertial Sensors: Validation and
Real-Time Assessment

Discussion

The development of Vertical Displacement Monitoring and Notification systems is a critical

advancement in ensuring the structural safety and longevity of fixed structures. Patents in this

domain offer essential methods and tools for precise measurement of vertical movements,

enabling a comprehensive understanding of structural behavior over time. These innovations,

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encompassing real-time monitoring and early notification systems, play a pivotal role in

proactively addressing potential structural issues, minimizing risks, and contributing to the

overall safety and resilience of urban infrastructure.

Table 2: Existing Studies

R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 Vertisure
Title Flood IoT Based Flood Intelligent Obstacle Development
Monitoring Displacement warning System for Detection of Vertical
and Early Detection and Garbage System
collection: Displacement
Warning Using monitoring for
IoT Monitoring
System Wireless system Railways
technology and
Using Sensor utilizing with
using IoT
Ultrasonic System Internet of Sensors Notification
Ultrasonic
Sensor Things sensor and system for
Technolog Arduino fixed
y Mega structure

Authors - J G -Bajarangbali - Mohamad Najaf Ali , - Ahmad -S. Azucena

Natividad - Vinay Syafiq M. Awais, Akmal -VG.
Kumar Jadhav Mohd Sabre
-JM - Nagarur
M. Aziz Daywan
Mendez - Shahrum Muzammul - Khairul -G.
Druvitha Shah
- Pavan and Anuar Bumanglag
Abdullah
Kumar S
- Dominic
Ayesha Mohamad -G. Guanzon
Roco Zafar - Afishah
- Arun Alias
Rajesh
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Table 3: Components of Existing Studies

Reference Parameters (Sensors) Microcontroller IoT Platform Notification

System
R1 -Ultrasonic Sensor Arduino Uno None SMS with
(HC-SR04) R3 software

R2 -Ultrasonic Sensor NodeMCU Blynk SMS and

(HC-SR04) (ESP8266) Email

R3 -Ultrasonic Sensor NodeMCU Blynk Email,

(HC-SR04) (ESP8266) Blynk
-Rain Sensor Applicati
on, and
Database
R4 -Ultrasonic Sensor NodeMCU Web Application SMS and Email
(HC-SR04) (ESP8266)
Arduino ATmega

R5 -Ultrasonic Sensor NodeMCU Favoriot Favoriot

(HC-SR04) (ESP8266) Applicati
on and
Radar
Display
Vertisure -Ultrasonic Sensor Esp32 Dev Kit Thing speak Email and Thing
(HC-SR04) speak Application
Notification
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Table 4: Differentiation Table

Components R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 Vertisure

Microcontroller

Buzzer

RGB LED

Ultrasonic
Sensor

IoT Platform

Notification
and Alert
System

Journal articles

Bridge structures are subjected to various external forces and environmental conditions, leading

to continuous and gradual vertical displacements over time. Timely and accurate monitoring of

these displacements is crucial to ensure the structural health and safety of bridges. Conventional
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monitoring techniques often lack the ability to provide real-time data, making it challenging to

assess structural behavior under dynamic conditions. Inertial sensors, known for their precision

and ability to capture dynamic movements, offer a promising solution for continuous monitoring

of vertical displacements in bridges.

METHODOLOGY

Build Testing Refining Implement and

Requirements Quick Design Prototype Prototype Prototype Evaluate

Figure 3: Prototyping Process

Requirements- in this phase the objectives of the study are stated, and all the parameters

will be identified and defined in detail.

Table 5: Materials and Specification of the components.

MATERIALS SPECIFICATION
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ESP 32 Model. ESP32 Dev

Module.

Type. ESP32.

Processor. 1 core at 240 MHz:

504.85 CoreMark; 2.10

CoreMark/MHz

SRAM. 520 kB.

Memory. 4 MB.

Wireless Standard. 802.11 b/g/n.

Frequency. 2,4 GHz.

Ultrasonic Sensor Power Supply: DC 5V

Working Current: 15mA

Working Frequency: 40Hz

Ranging Distance: 2cm – 400cm/4m

Resolution: 0.3 cm

Measuring Angle: 15 degree

Trigger Input Pulse width: 10uS

Dimension: 45mm x 20mm x 15mm

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Jumper Wires Male To Male,

Female To Female,

And Male To Female.

Active Buzzer Rated Voltage: 6V DC

Operating Voltage: 4-8V DC

Rated current: <30mA

Sound Type: Continuous Beep

Resonant Frequency: ~2300 Hz

20x4 lcd display I2C Item Description:

🏷 Backlight Color: Green or Blue 🏷
Characters : 20 columns and 4 rows or 16
columns and 2 rows 🏷 Supply Voltage : 5V
🏷 LCD Driver: HD44780
🏷 8-bit I/O Expander IC: PCF8574A
(PCF8574AT)
🏷 Default I2C Address: 0x3F/0x27
🏷 Configurable I2C address: Solder Jumpers
A0, A1, A2
🏷 Dimensions: 9.5 x 5.5 x 2.5 cm 🏷
Weight : 151 g
Operating temperature range: 32 to +131 °F
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(0 to +55 °C)

5mm RGB LED 5 mm Clear Transparent Round Small Lens

(Viewing Angle: 30 degrees)

Forward Voltage / Direct Current: DC 3 Volt 20

mA (Red Color is 2 Volt 20 mA) (Low Voltage

for DIY PCB Circuit)

Super Bright Tri Colors (Red and Green and

Blue) Lens: 5mm Diameter / Transparent /

Round

Emitting Color: RGB (Common Cathode)

Luminous Intensity: R:2000-3000mcd G:15000-

18000mcd B:7000-8000mcd

Viewing Angle: 30 Degree

Forward Voltage / Current: R:2V-2.2V G:3V-

3.2V B:3V-3.2V | 20mA (each color)

Common cathode

Polarity: Anode (Shorter Part) | Cathode

(Longer Part)

Common anode Polarity: Anode (Longer part) |

Cathode (Shorter part

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Quick Design- a block diagram of the proposed system is presented, which can help to visualize

the overall architecture of the system and identify any potential issues or challenges.

12C LCD

Ultrasonic Sensor RGB LED

Microcontroller

Buzzer

WIFI
ThinkSpeak Platform
Figure 4: Circuit Block Diagram
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Build Prototype -involves creating a working model of the system, which can be used for

testing and evaluation.

Prototype Design

Testing Prototype – the prototype is evaluated to assess its functionality and performance.
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Refining Prototype – Involves making any necessary changes or improvements to the prototype

based on the feedback received during the testing phase. This can involve fixing errors,

addressing usability issues, or making other modifications to improve the system.

Implement and evaluate – The system is implemented on site and evaluated to ensure that it is

working effectively in a real-world setting. This can involve gathering feedback from users,

monitoring performance metrics, and making any necessary adjustments to optimize the system.

Discussion

Both proposed approaches center on gathering requirements, creating and building a

prototype, testing it, and then iterating on it in accordance with the standard product development

cycle. However, one method also involves installing the system on-site and testing it. For a

successful product development process, it is crucial to take into account a number of elements

including project scope, timing, budget, and resource availability. It is also essential for team

members and stakeholders to collaborate and communicate effectively.

Template of Results Presentation and Statistical Tools ???

Time Distance

Month, Length

Year, and (mm)

Day
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Statistical Tools ???

- Descriptive mean

-Mode

- Median

- Standard Deviation

- Variance
Discussion??

Statistics tools like the mean, mode, median, standard deviation, and variance can be used to
analyze data and reveal details about its central tendency, spread, and distribution. These
methods can be applied to the given data on time, distance, measurementa

REFERENCE??

https://jmes.humg.edu.vn/images/paper/2020/61_3/09.%20Khai%20Cong%20Pham

%2072-84.pdf

https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1361-665X/ab2a31/meta

Najaf Ali , M. Awais, M. Muzammul and Ayesha Zafar

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Muhammad-Muzammul/publication/

331676073_Intelligent_System_for_Garbage_collection_IoT_technology_with_Ultrasonic_sens

or_and_Arduino_Mega/links/5c87a211a6fdcc88c39c383a/Intelligent-System-for-Garbage-

collection-IoT-technology-with-Ultrasonic-sensor-and-Arduino-Mega.pdf

Agus Diriyana Ucuk Darusalam

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Novi Dian Natasha https://www.medikom.iocspublisher.org/index.php/JTI/article/view/9

APPENDICES

Appendix A - TOTAL BUDGET

DESCRIPTION PRICE BRAND/SUPPLIER

₱203
ESP
32

₱219
Ultrasonic Sensor
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Buzzer ₱ 64

LCD I2C ₱199

RGB LED (KY-016) ₱35

Total Budget
₱720.00
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Appendix B - TIMELINE (GANTT CHART)

Table 2- Gantt Chart for Project Timeline

Appendix C – Research Proponents and Adviser Profile

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Vince Ginno Daywan

Gevic Bumanglag

Stephanie D. Azucena