Abstract:
DIGGS is an emerging data transfer protocol that uses XML and GML language format to facilitate exchange of data within the geo-profession. The format was originally developed to focus on geotechnical exploration (borings, cone soundings, test pits, and insitu tests) as well as laboratory testing and can now be enhanced with foundation and ground improvement technology data sets. As owners become more sophisticated, their expectations for data delivery in a timely fashion is ever increasing. Establishing industry standards for the data structure and transfer aids everyone in the deep foundation industry to meet these needs from the point of acquisition through storage. This common structure further allows experts at each step of the process to maximize their skills in handling and using this data for the betterment of the project and all team members involved, rather than converting data sets into usable formats. DFI Special Project fund supported a pilot effort to develop the extension of this data transfer format for rock grouting procedures as a model and educational tool. The rock grouting DIGGS scheme is now a baseline upon which many other technologies can be readily built into the system. With the scheme, every step of the construction process can be documented, and data handling expedited. From the drilling of the hole with monitoring while drilling data capture already in place on many drills, to packer setting and water testing data, to grout injection and mix properties, to closure tests, the data can flow efficiently if every step of the process using a common format. Currently, many of the steps required paper capture, downloading of data from loggers, translation in spreadsheets or CSV file formats, and manipulation from one software package to another to achieve the proper interpretation and visualization. With this common structure, the data is entered once and never touched again, saving time and eliminating opportunities for error.