PT2020 - SI I&DT - Collaborative R&D

MPP

Monitorização Persistente de Pista

ICT

The Persistent Track Monitoring (MPP) project focuses on an innovative airport runway monitoring and analysis solution in adverse weather conditions. It is a non-intrusive solution, designed to identify situations that may affect the runway's operations, triggering multichannel notification mechanisms given the risk and severity level associated with the type of occurrence. Using a web platform and based on the Analytics as a service (AaaS) paradigm as well as the use of data analysis techniques (Data Analytics) and LIDAR technology (TLS - Terrestrial Laser Scanning), the solution will allow the production of models to support the management of occurrences and ensure automated information flows for a faster circulation of knowledge and the resolution of identified occurrences.
MPP addresses three main objectives: 1) detect the formation of cracks or deformations in the runway pavement, which will allow the airport to adjust lane maintenance operations according to identified needs, reducing environmental impact (thus contributing to extend the lifespan of the infrastructure, mitigating the need for more substantial and more impactful interventions) and the costs associated with maintenance; 2) allow foreign object debris (FOD) to be detected that could significantly affect the operation of the runway; and 3) identify the risk of aquaplaning by monitoring the thickness of the water sheet on the track, using optical spectroscopy to calibrate this functionality.
The project, led by TECMIC in partnership with INOV and ANA, involves the execution of a pilot to test the touchdown area of aircraft on the runway, an area that is subject to greater stress (e.g. wear caused by the impact of the aircraft's wheels on the track), especially at peak times and on highly used runways.