NEC Corporation, a global leader in IT and network technologies, has recently unveiled a pioneering technology for measuring sea levels with exceptional precision from a greater distance using 3D Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR), a remote sensing technology. This innovative technology allows for reliable measurement of sea levels, even in the event of a tsunami or ground movement at the location where the measuring equipment is installed.
In a recent demonstration test conducted in Tokyo Bay in June 2024, NEC confirmed the capability of this new technology to measure sea levels with high accuracy from a greater distance than traditional methods. This is a significant development, particularly in the context of natural disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes, where timely and accurate assessment of changes in sea levels is crucial for saving lives.
The current radio wave and float-type sea level measurement systems have a limited measurement range of about 20 meters from the surface of the sea. However, when ground movement occurs due to seismic activities or other phenomena, it becomes challenging to obtain accurate sea level measurements. This was evident during a major earthquake that took place on the Noto Peninsula of Japan in January 2024, whereby measurement equipment along part of the coastline was disabled, resulting in a delay before reliable measurements could be resumed.
NEC’s new technology utilises 3D-LiDAR infrared laser beams to target buoys floating on the sea, with reflected light being used to measure the distance. This cutting-edge approach, combined with advanced long-range, large-capacity optical transmission and reception technology, enables the acquisition of 3D point cloud data of objects from greater distances. The result is the successful measurement of sea levels from a distance of 60 meters from the sea with an error of about 2cm – an unprecedented achievement in the field.
Moreover, the development of 3D water level measurement technology allows for the precise classification of the shape of buoys and surrounding topography, which in turn enables the correction of positions and estimation of buoy heights. This breakthrough not only ensures accurate measurements from various locations and angles but also facilitates the installation of 3D-LiDAR equipment in a wider variety of locations, making the system more resilient to disasters and enabling continuous monitoring of sea levels.
Looking ahead, NEC plans to further enhance this technology by extending the measurable distance to several hundred meters and improving measurement accuracy by comparing 3D-LiDAR data with map information of the surrounding area. The company aims to achieve practical application of this advanced technology by the end of FY2025.
In conclusion, NEC continues to lead the way in technological innovation, striving to orchestrate a brighter world by enabling businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes in society and the market. This revolutionary development in sea level measurement technology holds great promise for ensuring the safety and security of coastal areas, in line with NEC’s commitment to promoting a more sustainable world where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. For more information about NEC, visit https://www.nec.com.