Monitoring and analysis of the displacements of slender structures: A case study of the Wroclaw Iglica
1
Department of Geodesy and Geoinformatics, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology
2
Department of Geodesy, University of Agriculture in Kraków
Submission date: 2025-10-04
Final revision date: 2025-10-31
Acceptance date: 2025-10-31
Publication date: 2025-12-22
Corresponding author
Robert Gradka
Department of Geodesy and Geoinformatics, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Stanisława Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
Department of Geodesy and Geoinformatics, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Stanisława Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
Geomatics, Landmanagement and Landscape 2025;(4)
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
The article presents an analysis and comparison of geodetic methods used for the measurement and monitoring of slender structures such as chimneys, towers, cooling towers, and power line poles. Due to their slender geometry and considerable height, these structures are highly sensitive to environmental influences, including wind, temperature variations, and ground settlement. The study discusses the evolution of measurement techniques – from classical tacheometry and levelling, through satellite-based GPS and GNSS systems, to modern terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and digital photogrammetry. Recent research indicates integrating multiple surveying methods, known as a hybrid approach, guarantees improved accuracy and reliability of measurement results. The measurement of verticality of the Wrocław Iglica, a representative slender structure, is an example of the use of the described methods. Due to its geometry and the conditions in the field, a tacheometric survey was conducted to determine vertical axis deviations under different sunlight conditions. The results confirmed noticeable deflections of the structure’s top throughout the day, demonstrating the influence of thermal factors on its stability. The analysis of both literature and measurement shows that the most effective approach to monitoring slender structures is the integration of data from various geodetic techniques. Such hybrid monitoring ensures a comprehensive assessment of the structural stability and durability of slender constructions over time. The results highlight the importance of continuous geodetic monitoring as a key factor in ensuring the safety and reliability of engineering structures.
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| ISSN: | 2300-1496 |
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