Innovation and Applied Research
Through its innovation and applied research projects and the services it has provided in recent years, CREALP is working to improve understanding and management of natural hazards in Switzerland and abroad.
The use of new technologies (drones, Machine Learning, ODC…) enables us to offer cutting-edge products that aim to manage resource and natural hazard issues more effectively.
Our services
Drones and photogrammetry
We use a drone equipped with a thermal camera to access potentially dangerous areas. By coupling the thermal camera with a conventional high-definition camera, it is possible to reconstruct a three-dimensional image of an extended area, while maintaining very high quality. In this way, colder zones can be identified, indicating the proximity of ice bodies close to the surface. In addition, readings at the various outlets linked to preferential flow zones can be used to partially characterize the underlying flow.
Open Data Cube
The use of satellite data makes it possible to respond to environmental, economic and societal challenges through the production of data with significant local, regional and global impact.
Open Data Cube (ODC) enables access, management and analysis of large quantities of GIS-type data, particularly Earth observation data. This solution is composed of tools that facilitate the organization and analysis of large collections of raster data.
Machine Learning
CREALP is exploring the potential offered by Artificial Intelligence techniques for forecasting groundwater levels in the Rhône plain, as well as floods in the Rhône and lateral slopes.
An initial research project by two EPFL students investigated groundwater levels at various gauging stations using Machine Learning (ML) models. This study fills a critical gap in the risk management strategy of the canton of Valais, and will subsequently enable the implementation of a groundwater level forecasting tool. The same approach will be applied to flow forecasting for various rivers in Valais, offering a new perspective on flood management.
Environmental technologies (seismic sensors)
An innovative approach proposed by CREALP uses low-cost seismic sensors installed outside the riverbed to measure sediment transport. Measurements are based on the analysis of low-frequency signals generated by bedload transport.
This project receives financial support from the FOEN (Federal Office for the Environment) through its “Promotion of environmental technologies” program, and from the CEGDN (watercourses, geology and natural hazards) section of the SFCEP (Service des forêts, des cours d’eau et du paysage) of the State of Valais.