Chulalongkorn University Delivers “RUGON”(รู้ก่อน) Earthquake Sensors to Strengthen Bangkok’s Disaster Preparedness cx]

Chulalongkorn University, through its Faculty of Engineering, has developed and delivered the “RUGON” earthquake intensity warning sensors to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration for installation in public school buildings. The initiative aims to strengthen Bangkok’s disaster prevention and mitigation capacity by enhancing early warning mechanisms for earthquakes, while also promoting awareness and preparedness among students and educational personnel.

The RUGON sensor is a high-sensitivity accelerometer capable of detecting ground vibrations at levels below human perception. Installed at appropriate building locations, the device transmits real-time data to a cloud-based system when seismic activity occurs. The measurements, expressed in gravitational acceleration (g), can be used not only for early warning but also for assessing  building response and structural performance during seismic events.

By deploying these sensors across Bangkok, authorities can significantly shorten the time required to assess earthquake impacts, from several minutes to approximately one to two minutes after an event. The collected data are processed into a real-time “Live ShakeMap,” illustrating the distribution and intensity of ground shaking across affected areas. This system provides valuable information for government agencies to manage emergencies more effectively and supports long-term policy planning for urban disaster risk reduction.