Project Info

Monitoring and Characterizing Rock Slopes Using Remote Sensing Techniques

Monitoring rock deformation is a critical component of any geotechnical instrumentation program from slope risk management. Photogrammetry and laser scanning (LiDAR) technology represent potentially valuable tools for making such measurements. By taking advantage of the large volumes of data collected at regular time intervals, highly accurate slope deformation measurements can be made. Ultimately, it may be possible to use such measurements to forecast rockfall events before they occur.

This project has both the potential to transform our understanding of rockfall hazards and their management, as well as to advance remote sensing techniques that have potential monitoring applications beyond the rockfall application area (for example, a continuous fixed photogrammetric monitoring system recently developed at Mines).

More Information

Here is a relevant publication: http://eprints.whiterose.ac.uk/137261/

Here are two links to news stories relevant to the motivation for the proposed research:

https://www.aspendailynews.com/news/crews-reopen-i–westbound-through-canyon-after-rockfall/article_996e3852-294f-11e9-af88-4793b7efce59.html
https://www.denverpost.com/2016/02/16/i-70-will-be-closed-until-thursday-after-glenwood-canyon-rock-slide/

Grand Engineering Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery

Student Preparation

Qualifications

There are no strict requirements for student participation. Experience with computer programming and/or working with remote sensing or point cloud data would be considered an asset.

Time Commitment

20-40 hours/month

Skills/Techniques Gained

– Management and analysis of point cloud data
– Photogrammetric modeling skills

Mentoring Plan

I currently have an active research group working in this area, including a Postdoctoral researcher, two Masters students, and an undergraduate research. I meet with each undergraduate researcher once per week for both technical and non-technical mentorship purposes. My Postdoctoral researcher will also meet with the undergraduate researcher at least weekly (with the current student, it is common for them to meet multiple times per week for shorter meetings). Undergraduate researchers in this topic area also receive informal mentorship from graduate students, as their office space is co-located with the graduate students.