PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The Coming Data Revolution in Deep Foundations F or hundreds of years, data has been of vital importance to professionals in the deep foundations industry. Consider, for example, the use of geotechnical inves- tigation data such as SPT (standard penetrometer test) blow counts and hammer blow counts during pile driving. It has long been recognised that the soil would tell us things if we could develop the means of quantifying and then processing the data into information. That is, data does not transform into information (become useful) until it is processed — until it is organised and presented in a manner that allows someone to communicate and make comparisons and decisions with it. One of the first civil engineering applications of numerical (computer) technology was the measurement and analysis of pile driving hammer blows. This pioneering work in the 1950s by E. A. L. Smith of the Raymond Concrete Pile Co. was first published in the Proceedings of the Industrial Computation Seminar. This work, sponsored by IBM and held at its facility in Endicott, New York, was not just pio- neering in the development of foundation engineering, it was also pioneering for the application of computer technology to industry in general. Smith’s work inspired the Ohio Department of Transportation to sponsor work at the Case Western Reserve University that led to the many dynamic testing methods used today. So, as we embark on a new accelerated path to the incorporation of numerical data into our everyday lives in the deep foundations industry, it is fitting that computational aspects are intrinsic to this special issue on “Future Trends.” Engineers and academics have long used numerical methods and techniques to design and analyse geostructures and foundations. However, in the past there was little high- quality data coming from the field. It is this data interaction with the field that is now rapidly evolving. Technological advances allow for 3D imaging of the geotechnical data via holograms of underground site features, Revit 3D renderings that combine a proposed engineered structure with geotechnical strata and hydrological information. This information provides clear visual- isation of the available data, amplifies where additional data is required and, perhaps most importantly, allows a geoprofes- sional or contractor to communicate clearly with owners or representatives that lack the benefit of our acumen and experience, in order to visualise the risks we are trying to convey. Drones can also be used [email protected] Matthew Janes, M.B.A., P.Eng. President now to provide highly accurate, time-stamped records of site progress and conditions. This means key managers and professionals can be fully informed, instantly, without the phase lag of generating and circulating a detailed report. These technological advances can provide benefits that include reduced site visits, accelerated decision-making processes, more accurate design solutions, reduced carbon footprints and improved learning opportunities for young pro- fessionals through digital, real-time mentoring. Such technology will free us to manage more projects, and to do so remotely with greater confidence and accuracy, thereby reducing risk. … in the past there was little high- quality data coming from the field. It is this data interaction with the field that is now rapidly evolving. project design, research, emer- gency responses or risk reduction. And, with digital informa- tion that is easily com- municated, comes access to more intelligent deci- sions and risk reduction. The value of geotechnical informat ion becomes limited only by our imagi- nation in extracting it. Where will all this technology lead us? What will happen when a drone can be economically inte- grated with precision surveys? Will a drone flight tell us, in real time, how much a shoring wall or a neighbouring structure has moved? Can a young professional convey a complex problem to a senior staff member, while in the field, and get immediate support? Will PIMS and DIGGS information be integrated with our billing systems to allow for accurate and indisputable invoicing and improve on-time payment? Could that payment come in real time? And will my accounts receivable be reduced? I look forward to geotechnology But to optimize the use of imaging tools and other technology advances, you still have to turn data into information. That is why this special issue also covers a data transfer standard known as DIGGS, and data management and analysis systems, or PIMS. These essential tools are key to making massive amounts of data accessible and useful. Combining these platforms with a GIS (geographic information system) feature allows every past job (the jewels, if you will) to become treasure chests of information at the hands of designers and contractors. With DIGGS, any database can become accessible to any user, be it for improving my life and yours. I foresee an ability to provide higher-quality service to our clients, improved interactions with our project stakeholders, and higher-quality learning and mentorship to junior staff, all while we enjoy improved remote con- nectivity that enables us to spend more time with family. That is the kind of advancement that I have time for. As Albert Einstein once noted, “Imagination is just intelligence having fun.” May you enjoy the intelligent contributions provided in this special issue, and may the content spark your professional growth moving forward. DEEP FOUNDATIONS • MAY/JUNE 2020 • 7
