The sensors in an INFRA system detect and measure vibrations and noise etc. and relay the data to a data-logger (master unit) located in the monitored area. Up to sixteen sensors can be connected via one cable to a single master unit. They are so easy to install that they can usually be set up by the customers themselves.

 
The sensors can be remotely configured (parameter settings) by the manager via laptop so that they measure according to desired requirements, such as measurement standards, trigger levels, and time intervals. The sensors then automatically send all data to the master unit, which sorts and stores the information and sends it on to designated recipients.

The master unit compiles the data and creates files that are sent to a database on the Internet. Selected recipients, such as blast managers, construction managers, machine operators  can also get immediate notification of measurement issues via SMS to their mobile phones. Others can view results automatically via the Internet, where data resides on a database, a server or a web portal using software that is designed for different kinds of presentations, for example in chart or table format. These presentations are then made available to designated users, such as measurement consultants or clients, on their own computers as shown in the sketch above.

A field measurement system must be highly durable, extremely reliable and not susceptible to magnetic interference. Operational reliability of the INFRA system is based on two basic concepts: All registration, recording and reporting of measurement data occurs using digital technologies that are programmed into the system and function automatically. All field equipment is physically designed to withstand even extreme weather and other natural conditions. This has contributed to the success of the INFRA system when operating in different parts of the world.

 
The master unit is normally powered by batteries, which also provide power to the sensors connected via cable. Battery life is extensive and usually you only need to visit the project site to replace the batteries or check on the equipment once or twice a month.

INFRA Net Manager is a tool for measurement consultants that lets them remotely monitor, manage and follow up measurement data. The measurement information is presented in the format you choose (message, tables and/or graphs). The settings and status of each sensor can also be monitored and adjusted from your PC anywhere in the world with an Internet connection, such as in your office or hotel room. It also alerts the operator for low battery, memory full, etc., and these alerts are displayed on the screen with warning colours. Measurement points and systems can be grouped according to projects and customers and thus contribute to effective management of the system.

The consulting firm, Ansvarsbesiktning, has several acousticians that work on the large City Line tunnel project in Stockholm. An acoustician, responsible for over 30 sensors at the same time says it best – “My job has been radically simplified with the INFRA system.”

 
“Now all data is fed in automatically to our reporting system and then displayed as graphs, tables and alerts on my computer monitor. I can also set parameters, monitor the battery levels and more. Out in the test area, I simply set up the equipment and change batteries once a month - in case there is no supply of electricity there.

Most of my work time I now use for planning and coordination of the measurements with construction managers, project managers, environmental administrators and to the analysis and reporting work. The densely populated inner city has many other sources of noise than the tunnel, and using the INFRA-equipment I can analyze the survey data and audio recordings to weed out other noise sources. Last winter, for example, there was so much noise from the snowploughs running at night that it caused misdirected complaints to our project. Each investigation results in a report from me to the environmental agency.”

Calibration service is second nature to Sigicom as a supplier of quality measuring instruments. Therefore, we track the calibration schedule for all sensors that we have delivered and we can give the customer an automated reminder before re-calibration is required. Customers also have the option of sending the instruments to our calibration laboratory in Stockholm for service.

 
It is often very important for the customer to get the calibrated instruments back as soon as possible. Therefore it is our principle to work quickly and efficiently. We have a small and flexible organization especially for this part of the job. We don’t want our customers to have to worry about the measurement precision of their sensors. If you choose Sigicom measurement systems, it is only the sensors that need to be calibrated - not the master units (data-loggers).

We support our users by phone, e-mail and web. We consider an active and effective support department as part of our mission to provide the best functionality and viability of the measurement systems we deliver. Our phone support is open weekdays 8-17 (closed for lunch 12-13). We have a separate e-mail address for support issues that guarantees acute support issues do not end up mixed with other mail. Every support request we receive is registered in our case management system. All activities and status of each case entered in the system stay active until the case is resolved.

Service needs for Sigicom’s own products are minimal. However, if the need for service occurs, for example due to damage or harm to an instrument, we can be contacted by phone or through our separate address for prompt service. We have excellent troubleshooting routines. After repair, upgrade or other major fixes we automatically re-calibrate the instrument before it is sent back to the customer.

 
Sigicom keeps calibration data for all delivered INFRA-sensors and calibrates them in our own lab in Stockholm. We can also calibrate UVS, ConReg and other brands of instruments on request.

Sigicom offers basic training programs for customers getting started with the INFRA system. We also arrange customized training courses as required.