Risk-based Optimization of Sensor Distribution in Roof Constructions – A Conceptual Study

Abstract

The objective of placing moisture sensors in roof constructions is to warn about leakage events, and thus avoid undesirable consequences. However, considering that placing an additional sensor is directly related to increasing the total cost of the solution, the distribution and placement of the sensor system should be sought as a risk-based problem seeking for the most optimal solution. This paper conceptualises a risk-based optimization methodology that seeks the optimal solution for the sensor system in roof constructions as the one that maximises the return of investment. The latter is sought as a function of the leakage risk, which is derived as a multiplication of the likelihood that leakage events may occur in a roofing system, and their consequences, defined as the amount of direct (and indirect) costs in case a leakage event occurs. The optimal solution is expressed as the total number of sensors and their geometrical distribution. This conceptual study intends to foster innovative usage of sensor systems within the construction sector to allow owners and contractors to identify and avoid consequences of leakage events in roofing systems.