Smarter, Safer Dam Inspection in Thailand with Leica TS16 and Leica GeoMoS

Monitoring structural stability at large-scale infrastructure such as dams is essential for long-term safety and sustainability. To support government stakeholders with data-driven decisions, a leading geotechnical service provider in Thailand, a leading geotechnical service provider in Thailand, implemented a Leica Geosystems monitoring solution at Chao Phraya Dam in Chainat Province for the Royal Irrigation Department. The project was delivered by a leading geotechnical service provider in Thailand, with technical oversight from SDM Technical Support Team.

By deploying robotic total stations, automated sensors, and the Leica GeoMoS software suite, the project team now delivers real-time insights while significantly reducing the need for on-site inspections.

Establishing an integrated monitoring framework

As one of the most critical dams in Thailand, Chao Phraya Dam required a comprehensive monitoring system capable of detecting subtle movements with high accuracy. the project team was commissioned to develop a solution that could detect structural deformation in real time, transmit data remotely across long distances, and integrate with its existing internal monitoring systems.

The primary objective was to establish a foundation for predictive maintenance and risk mitigation. This would enable early intervention before any significant structural compromise occurs.

Implementing an automated, multi-sensor system

Leica TS16 Robotic Total Stations installed at strategic locations to measure positional shifts with sub-millimetre accuracy.

All components are connected via Leica GeoMoS Monitoring Soultion, which consolidates and visualises real-time sensor data through a single interface, enabling fast and accurate decision-making.

Simplifying integration without additional development

Before adopting our solutions, the project team relied on manual measurements and proprietary tools that required complex workflows. A key factor in the decision to implement this system was its immediate compatibility. Measurement data, particularly coordinates in TXT file format, could be directly imported into the existing the project team platform without the need for custom development.

Our solution addressed all technical criteria. It enabled automated data capture, consistent transmission over long distances, and seamless integration with the project team’s internal systems, while also reducing the operational burden of repeated field inspections.

Efficient operation in challenging conditions

Leica TS16’s automatic aiming capabilities, combined with the stability of Leica GeoMoS platform, allowed the project team to transition from manual routines to a high-frequency automated workflow. This shift improved both data consistency and overall operational efficiency.

The system proved reliable during continuous use in outdoor environments, offering dependable performance regardless of field conditions.

Achieving tangible improvements in monitoring operations

Since deployment, the project team has reported several key benefits:

• Real-time acquisition of precise, high-quality measurement data
• A reduction in site visits, lowering operational risks and resource usage
• Full compatibility with internal platforms, eliminating workflow disruptions
• Consistent long-term performance across all devices
• Greater confidence in decision-making for stakeholders managing dam safety

With enhanced visibility into dam behaviour, the project team and its clients can now proactively manage structural stability using accurate and timely insights.

Advancing infrastructure monitoring in Thailand

The successful implementation of Leica Geosystems technology at Chao Phraya Dam demonstrates the value of a fully automated monitoring approach. It shows how smart systems can improve efficiency and safety, setting a new standard for structural monitoring in Thailand’s critical infrastructure sector.

Learn more about our structural monitoring solutions with Leica Geosystems’ portfolio of sensors, software, and services. Interested in seeing it in action? Book a demo today here