INL Monitoring approach

Addressing the challenges listed under the Monitoring background section requires both a clear definition of stakeholder objectives and a validated technical approach which integrates all elements of monitoring in an effective manner.

Over the past several years, INEEL scientists have been working on systematic design and actual implementation of monitoring systems.

A diagram describing the flow of data in our monitoring systems is shown below (Figure 1). Several of these monitoring systems are currently operational and can be accessed through the Projects links. While the complexity and functionality of each system differs, they share a common approach and architecture.

Some of the key elements of this approach are:

• Tight integration of all the monitoring elements, including data acquisition, data management, processing, information generation and distribution.
• Web based interface to monitoring systems.
• Automation to the extent possible of all elements of the monitoring system.
• A transparent and reproducible approach to information and result generation.

Figure 1. Cartoon showing components of INL monitoring systems and data and information flows within these systems