TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: Digital Seismic Switch (DSS)

The Digital Seismic Switch (DSS) is a compact, fault tolerant seismic detection system designed for the protection of critical infrastructure. Unlike traditional threshold switches, DSS continuously monitors ground motion and its own operational integrity. When seismic activity exceeds preconfigured limits, DSS sends out a real-time, microsecond-scale signal to trigger protective measures such as system shutdowns or isolations.

How it Works:

At its core, DSS uses a safety-rated microprocessor and redundant MEMS g-force sensors to monitor seismic activity. When motion surpasses the set thresholds, it delivers a switched output signal for immediate response. Key features include:

• Fault tolerance: Internal health checks with active failure alerts


• High availability: Continuous uptime during and after seismic events


• Smart interface: Real-time data and diagnostics via fiber optic link


• Remote logging: Seamless seismic data capture in compliance with ANSI/ANS-2.2

DSS is a modular, plug-and-play external component, designed to integrate seamlessly into existing safety architectures.

Key Advantages:

• High reliability: SIL-2 certified with internal redundancy


• Fast response: Microsecond-scale signal triggering


• Compact and integrated: Combines sensing, logic, and interface in one unit


• Data-rich output: Continuous streaming of seismic and operational data


• Standards compliant: Meets ANSI/ANS-2.2 and is scalable across safety platforms

Market Applications:

• Nuclear Facilities: Enables automated system response during seismic events


• Oil and Gas Production: Enhances fault detection in pipelines and refineries


• Data Centers & Infrastructure: Safeguards sensitive assets from ground motion disruption


• Medical & Pharmaceutical Equipment: Maintains equipment stability in seismic scenarios

Development Status: TRL 9

US Patent No. 11,852,764

Certified SIL-2 compliant by Exida (IEC 61508)

LA-UR-25-27015

LANL Tech Partnerships: Unlock the Innovative Potential

Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a wide range of cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that may provide your company with a competitive edge in the market and unlock the innovative potential that can enhance, refine, and revolutionize your products.

LANL’s licensing program focuses on moving inventions developed by our researchers to commercial innovations. Patented and patent pending inventions and copyrighted software are available to existing and start-up companies through exclusive and non-exclusive licensing agreements. For specific discussions, please contact licensing@lanl.gov.

Note: This is not a call for external services for the development of this technology.

https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/partner-with-us/licensing-technology

https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/tech-and-capability-search