PiCUS TMSO Manual
33
6 Project Preparation
This chapter deals with the preparation and planning of a project.
Careful and comprehensive preparation is essential for a smooth workflow without annoying
repetitions!
Since several environmental factors can influence both the measurement result and the
function of the system the positioning of the individual system components in particular must
be well planned. Experience with the behavior of the system also plays a role here.
6.1 Site Visit, Visual Inspection of the Trees to be Monitored
At the beginning of each technical tree assessment is the visual inspection. Based on this initial
inspection a decision is made whether a thorough, technology based assessment is necessary
and, if so, method is appropriate.
For the uprooting safety assessment the system must be set up in such a way that the user
has the possibility to confirm or disprove assumptions about defects with the results.
For this purpose it is recommended not only to attach one or more sensors to each tree whose
safety is in question, but also to equip comparison trees with sensors. Ideally these are
specimens of the same species at a comparable location and with comparable wind exposure.
The results of these reference trees help to classify the recorded behavior of the suspect trees
during the evaluation.
You can now also already record the data of the trees such as height, girth, species, etc.
Alternatively record the data when you later install the instruments and enter the data into the
project in the telephone app (see
7.2Collection and Input of Project Data Into the TMSO. App
6.2 Selection of the Suitable Measuring Mode
The PTMSO can be operated in different measuring modes as described under
The appropriate mode must be selected according to the application or the monitoring task.
NOTE!
In the context of future developments, the system can be supplemented by further measuring
modes.
6.3 Recording of the Ambient Conditions
The ambient conditions at the place of use can influence both the function of the PTMSO and
the measurement result.
Comprehensive documentation of the situation on site is essential for the subsequent planning
of the use of the equipment and for the following interpretation of the measurement data.
NOTE!
Due to the complexity it is strongly recommended to document the situation with sketches, e.g.
supported by maps from the cadastre or satellite images!
Relevant information:
What are the dimensions of the area, what are the distances between the trees?
The PTMSO, like any other radio-based network, has a limited range (see chapter
13
Technical Information
). For proper functioning the TMSO.IM must not be too far away
from the TMSO.CU. The specifications of the maximum or effective range can only be
regarded as guidelines as the actual range always depends on the situation! Especially
in connection with the next point.
