This project leverages wireless sensor networks to provide real-time monitoring of critical urban infrastructure. The Loadsensing platform, developed by Barcelona-based IoT scale-up Worldsensing, focuses on the structural health of bridges, tunnels, and heritage buildings. By detecting even minute movements and vibrations, the system identifies potential structural degradation far earlier than traditional inspection methods. This predictive maintenance approach offers significant advantages in extending the lifespan of vital infrastructure and preventing costly, disruptive failures.
Deployed across Barcelona, including its metro tunnels and the historic Gothic Quarter, the technology demonstrates the practical application of the Internet of Things in preserving urban assets. The platform uses robust, low-power wireless sensors to continuously collect data on parameters such as strain, tilt, and displacement. This information is then transmitted to a central platform for analysis and visualisation, providing city authorities with a comprehensive overview of infrastructure health. The project serves as a compelling example for other European cities grappling with aging infrastructure, offering a scalable and cost-effective solution for ensuring safety and resilience. By embracing this approach, cities can optimise maintenance schedules, reduce the risk of catastrophic events, and ultimately improve the quality of life for their citizens.