Industrial Client ProjectCompleted

Earthquake Detection System Development

The acceleration and vibration a structure experiences during an earthquake is not measured by most standard safety systems — only the consequences are observed. HEFA Teknoloji A.Ş. developed TSE 12884-compliant, IMU-based earthquake detection hardware and embedded firmware at a client's request. The system analyses acceleration and frequency components transmitted to the structure in real time, makes alarm decisions based on the PGA and frequency thresholds defined in TSE 12884, and triggers connected safety systems via relay output.

What We Built

Hardware Design

  • STM32-based processor: STM32 series microcontroller for real-time signal processing and alarm decision. Low latency is a critical requirement for frequency analysis of the seismic signal.
  • IMU sensor: 3-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensor measures acceleration transmitted to the structure in three axes (X, Y, Z) at high sampling rate. Key selection criteria were sufficient sensitivity and noise performance in the frequency range defined by TSE 12884.
  • AC/DC converter: The device is designed to be powered from mains voltage (AC).
  • Battery charging circuit: A battery charging circuit and backup power support were added for the backup battery mandated by TSE 12884, ensuring continued operation during mains outages.
  • Relay output: When an alarm condition occurs, the device signals connected systems (elevator stop, gas shut-off valve, fire alarm panel, etc.) via relay output.

Embedded Firmware and Alarm Algorithm

  • PGA (Peak Ground Acceleration) calculation: real-time calculation of the peak value from instantaneous acceleration data
  • Frequency filter: digital filter layer that distinguishes the seismic characteristic frequency range (low-frequency ground motion) from high-frequency noise such as human activity and vehicle vibration
  • TSE 12884 threshold comparison: alarm/no-alarm decision based on the 'detection' and 'non-detection' threshold values defined in the standard
  • False alarm suppression: confirmation mechanism based on combined duration and magnitude conditions, not a single instantaneous spike

Technical Specifications

ParameterValue
Standard complianceTSE 12884
ProcessorSTM32 series
Sensor3-axis IMU
Measurement axesX, Y, Z (3-axis acceleration)
Alarm outputRelay output
Power supply220V AC
Backup powerBattery + charging circuit

Frequently Asked Questions

We have an existing product design — can we get support for specific modules only?
Yes — the project scope is shaped entirely around your needs. We can work on specific modules such as sensor integration only, alarm algorithm development only, or power management circuit design only.
How does the development process progress?
It begins with clarifying technical requirements. Hardware and firmware development proceed in parallel; functional tests are performed at the prototype stage. Final delivery includes production files, test reports and technical documentation.
Are sensor selection and hardware architecture determined project-specifically?
Yes — key components such as the IMU sensor, processor and power topology are selected based on the project's performance requirements, target cost and installation environment. The optimum solution is pursued within each project's technical constraints.

This project covers multi-layer embedded system development: IMU sensor integration, real-time signal processing, standards-compliant alarm algorithm development, and power management circuit design. If you have an embedded sensor device development need, we can evaluate your technical requirements together. end-to-end sensor product development service for more information.

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