The Smart Pebble: Real-time Geotechnical Analysis with Embedded AI

Session details:

In civil construction, stability and material integrity are critical, yet traditional geotechnical methods provide only static insights. The GeoVision™ Smart Pebble, developed by Tensar with embedded software developed by its partner, Alumnus Software, introduces real-time geotechnical analysis. Encased in a 3D-printed form resembling natural aggregate, each Smart Pebble integrates a 9-axis IMU (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer) to capture granular data on particle movement under stress. Data is transmitted via Bluetooth Low Energy to a hub for analysis, enabling continuous monitoring with or without Tensar’s Geogrid. Key innovations by Alumnus Software include optimized embedded algorithms (quaternion rotation, Kalman filtering), efficient memory and data handling, CRC-enhanced wireless reliability, and demand-driven power management that extends battery life. This breakthrough combines intelligent sensing, embedded SW optimized for resource-constrained (CPU, memory, storage, BLE interference, etc.), and HW engineering to deliver actionable, real-time insights, advancing infrastructure sustainability and smart manufacturing.