Portable inclinometer – system components & use
The system
MEMS technology
Our Inclinometer system measures tilt using MEMS sensors, the technology which has become the standard technology within the industry.
The benefits of MEMS sensors are that they offer faster more rugged systems than the old servo-accelerometer systems and are virtually unaffected by temperature.
Communication
Utilising modern communication and Smart devices it enables the tilt data generated by the probe to be managed, stored and transferred directly from site to various visualisation platforms providing near real time data.
IncloPRO App
The IncloPRO app allows the user to take readings, visualise various plots and send data form site via FTP, API, email
Consistency of operation is key to data quality
Ultimate data quality
The AUTO mode ensures that the time to take and process readings is always the same thus providing the ultimate in data quality. Manual override is also available.
Lightweight & rugged
The lightweight but rugged construction of all components means that a 100m system can easily be carried by one person.
Wireless communication
Data from the probe is transferred from the reel by Bluetooth connection to the Android Smart Device (ASD).
On-board probe calibration
Calibration is embedded into the MEMS conditioning board in the probe which means that only the probe itself needs to be returned for re-calibration or calibration check unlike a system where the probe is attached to the reel where the complete system has to be re-calibrated. This has a significant saving on delivery costs especially from overseas.
Any probe can be used with any cable reel and any handheld data recorder
Interchangeable probe
If you have an existing 50 metre system and now need a 100 metre system you only need to buy another cable and reel as you can use your existing probe and hand-held data recorder.
The spiral probe can also be used with any reel and hand-held data recorder.
Data visual at the borehole
The Android Smart Device (ASD) allows data sets to be viewed and compared at the borehole.
Battery life of the system
The Android Smart Device (ASD) offers up to 35 hours talk time and the reel can be used for a minimum 15 hours continuous.
Compatibility with other manufacturers’ casing
The probe can be used with casing from all other manufactures, from 48mm to 85mm.
SELECTION
Probe range
- Vertical ± 30º from vertical
- Inclined ± 30º from 35º from horizontal
- Horizontal ± 30º from horizontal
Cable length
Standard cable reel lengths are 30, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150m (other lengths available on request)
The cable weighs 5.8kg per 100 metre.
Basic operation tips
Cable gate
It is always recommended to use the cable gate supplied with the system as it not only protects the cable from damage but also provides the most accurate and repeatable readings.
On installations deeper than 40 metres it is recommended to carry out a spiral survey using a spiral probe
Spiral survey
The data can then be input into software to correct any spiral effects
The A axis is defined as the direction of expected movement. If it has not already been done, identify the A axis on the casing and clearly mark it.
Always fit the cable gate onto the top of the casing.
Take the first set of readings is taken in the A+ direction. This is the orientation of the casing groove into which the leading wheel of the inclinometer probe is located.
Lower the probe to the bottom of the casing and allow it to stabilise for a few minutes.
Raise the probe at 500mm intervals resting the cable grips in the cable gate each time.
The readout has a visual stability scale on the left of the screen. Once the scale shows maximum stability the reading should then be confirmed on the Android Smart Device (ASD).
Once the probe has reached the top remove it from the groove and rotate it 180º and lower again to the base of the casing and repeat the survey.
Getting the data from your Inclinometer
Data is stored within the Android Smart Device (ASD) in a simple CSV format which can either be manipulated using Excel or imported into software.
Verifying your results
Checksums can be viewed on the Android Smart Device (ASD) during the survey so that the quality of the data can be verified.
Do I need to use the same probe to survey the same hole?
We believe in being realistic and practical about the levels of accuracy that should be expected and can be achieved on a working construction site. Although every Inclinometer probe leaves the factory with the same accuracy specifications they are unique and acquire individual characteristics over time as a result of many factors.
Therefore we would concede to get the “perfect” results it would be “ideal” to use the same probe. However since this isn’t always possible especially if they are hired so we support the practice of using different probes but having consistency in the taking of the readings.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Some common problems and their solutions are outlined below.
| Fault | Possible cause | Remedy |
| PROBE | ||
| Difficulty in connection cable | Lack of lubrication | Lubricate with silicon grease only |
| Wheel set does not return to fully extended position: | Presence of dirt
Lack of lubrication |
Clean
Lubricate wheel bearings with light machine oil If system persists replace wheel sets |
| Wheels do not turn freely | Presence of dirt
Lack of lubrication |
Clean
Lubricate wheel bearings with light machine oil. |
| REEL & CABLE | ||
| Reel will not turn on | Flat battery
Fault with battery |
Charge battery
Replace battery pack |
| Cable becomes kinked/twisted | Allowing probe to freefall and stopping abruptly | Replace cable
Do not allow probe to freefall |
| ASD READOUT | ||
| ASD will not turn on | Flat battery
Fault with battery |
Charge battery
Replace battery |
| The ASD cannot find the reel | Reel not turned on | Turn on the reel |
| The ASD cannot connect with the reel | Bluetooth fault | Return to Geosense for investigation |
| Bluetooth fails to connect | Incorrect connection sequence
|
ALWAYS use the App to connect the ASD to the Reel, NOT the phone software |
| Bluetooth fails to connect despite using App | Bluetooth fault | Return to Geosense for investigation |
| The display freezes after extended periods of use | Bluetooth connection | Re-set the Reel (turn it off and on again) and re-connect using the APP to continue the monitoring |
| Fluctuating readings | Faulty signal from probe
Site conditions |
Check probe connection
Check cable for damage Check Bluetooth connection Check ASD Change from AUTO to MANUAL mode to record best data |
| Bluetooth fails to connect | Incorrect connection sequence
|
ALWAYS use the App to connect the ASD to the Reel, NOT the phone software |
| Bluetooth fails to connect despite using App | Bluetooth fault | Return to Geosense for investigation |
| The display freezes after extended periods of use | Bluetooth connection | Re-set the Reel (turn it off and on again) and re-connect using the APP to continue the monitoring |
| Fluctuating readings | Faulty signal from probe
Site conditions |
Check probe connection
Check cable for damage Check Bluetooth connection Check ASD Change from AUTO to MANUAL mode to record best data |
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