A measurement system applicable for landslide experiments in the field

Area of Science:

• Geosciences
• Environmental Science
• Geotechnical Engineering

Background:

• Field observation of gravity erosion on steep slopes is challenging due to environmental factors like strong sunshine and wind.
• Accurate measurement of surface topography is crucial for understanding erosion and landslide dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel topography meter and movable tent system designed to overcome challenges in observing gravity erosion on steep slopes.
• To enable digital 3D reconstruction of target surfaces for erosion and landslide analysis.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a novel topography meter for 3D digital reconstruction of slope surfaces.
• Employing a movable tent to shield the measurement area from environmental interference.
• Implementing a sight calibrator for precise adjustment of laser generator position and camera sightline.
• Using two methods to obtain clear video data on steep slopes: rotating the laser source or moving the camera with volume correction.
• Installing tent poles with concrete columns to manage altitude differences on steep terrain.

Main Results:

• The topography meter successfully measures gravity erosion on slopes with gradients ranging from 30° to 70°.
• Clear video data was obtained even on extremely steep slopes using the described methods.
• The system facilitates reliable digital reconstruction of 3D geometric shapes of target surfaces.
• The observed results in real landslide experiments were rational and reliable.

Conclusions:

• The developed topography meter and movable tent system effectively addresses the challenges of field observation of gravity erosion on steep slopes.
• This technology provides a reliable method for obtaining accurate 3D surface data in harsh environmental conditions.
• The system's results are validated by their rationality and reliability in real landslide experiments, advancing erosion and landslide research.