Intelligent sensor platform revolutionises monitoring of critical infrastructure

05/03/2025

In view of the growing importance of the safety of critical infrastructure, especially bridges, continuous monitoring of sensitive areas is becoming increasingly important. This development underlines the need to implement innovative solutions to detect potential risks at an early stage. 

Fraunhofer IZFP has created an innovative solution that meets current requirements with the multi-modal and self-sufficient MAUS sensor platform, which combines power supply, communication and sensor modules in a flexible system that can be adapted effortlessly and quickly to the specific needs of operators.

MAUS offers a comprehensive solution for permanently recording and analysing condition data to ensure the safe operation of critical infrastructures. The flexible sensor platform will not only change the monitoring of existing critical infrastructures but also set new standards for safety in the construction industry, it is claimed. 

MAUS enables secure and reliable storage and transmission of the collected data directly to the operators. This is extremely important for detecting potential damage at an early stage and taking appropriate maintenance measures. The modular design of the platform allows different sensors to be integrated depending on the condition data of interest, resulting in a customised monitoring solution.

	Implementation of ‘MAUS’ on a busy bridge in Munich                                                    Image courtesy of Fraunhofer IZFP

“With the development of MAUS, we are taking an important step towards the intelligent and safe monitoring of critical infrastructure structures,” explained Christoph Weingard, Research Associate at Fraunhofer IZFP. “Our platform not only offers a high degree of flexibility, but also the possibility of significantly extending the service life of bridges, for example by detecting damage at an early stage. To achieve this, we rely on reliable sensors to measure temperature, humidity, air pressure, displacement and other parameters. We also combine this information with data from non-destructive testing sensors, such as ultrasound, eddy current or micromagnetic methods. This produces high-quality results directly in the MAUS monitoring system, providing deeper insights.”

The introduction of the MAUS sensor platform represents a significant advance in the monitoring of bridges and helps to increase safety in the transportation sector.

The sensor platform uses an energy-efficient architecture that enables it to operate without a wired power supply. This makes the platform particularly suitable for use in remote or hard-to-access areas of structures.

The flexible monitoring system integrates state-of-the-art sensors that continuously collect data on structural loads, vibrations and temperature changes. This information is analysed in real time and fused into higher quality results to identify potential weaknesses and hazards at an early stage. As a result, this technology enables preventive maintenance and helps to avoid costly damage.

The innovative MAUS sensor platform is characterised by its flexibility. It can be adapted to different construction projects and materials, allowing it to be used in a wide range of applications, from bridges to tunnels and high-rise buildings. This makes it an ideal solution for builders who want to respond to individual requirements.

Another outstanding feature of MAUS is the use of various communication interfaces, which enables seamless connection to existing data rooms. This allows important information to be collected, analysed and evaluated in real time, enabling proactive maintenance and early identification of potential risks.

In addition to safety optimisation, the technology also contributes to sustainability in the construction industry. The precise monitoring of structures can optimise the use of materials and resources, which leads to a reduction in the ecological footprint.

www.izfp.fraunhofer.de

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