Canary Systems® has designed an automated remote monitoring Rock Fence Monitoring system allowing for 24/7 surveillance of long stretches of rock barriers. Consisting of a 2g tri-axial accelerometer sensor module attached to the supporting cable ropes of the fence or barrier, and a solar or battery powered data acquisition enclosure (MLDAQ). The system is capable of self-sufficient operation for long periods of time in adverse conditions and remote areas without human supervision. The signal summing electronics and amplifier allow for mounting of the sensor assembly in any orientation while providing high sensitivity.

The accelerometer constantly monitors the barrier in low power mode. When a rock or rocks hit the fence, a high-frequency vibration event is triggered, recorded and transmitted to the data enclosure. Proper calibration and use of algorithms allow estimation of size, force and location of the rockfall that occurred. The system can be configured to send out notifications and alerts automatically to appropriate staff. Simple event triggers are supported as well as complex notification schemas based on frequency, force and location of impacts.