Objectives Deformation monitoring of super-tall buildings is critical for ensuring the long-term safety and stability. Multi-source fusion deformation monitoring technology based on global navigation satellite system (GNSS) plays a vital role, but the application of GNSS multi-source sensors for such monitoring lacks a systematic approach. Current challenges include the narrow range of deformation parameters, incomplete GNSS/multi-source fusion models, weak data coupling capabilities, and low intelligence in monitoring and early warning systems.

Methods To address these issues, this paper proposes a GNSS multi-source fusion deformation monitoring method based on a perception-transmission-fusion-application framework. Key deformation parameters for super-tall buildings, including translation, settlement, vibration, torsion, deflection, and tilt, are identified. The development of GNSS deformation monitoring models is also reviewed. Furthermore, it improves inertial measurement unit (IMU) -based vibration, translation-settlement, and torsional deformation, and enables comprehensive monitoring of multiple deformation parameters.

Results The proposed method is validated using data from a large-scale shaking table simulation and a case study of super-tall buildings. The results confirm the effectiveness of IMU-based accelerometer integration model, Mahony complementary filter-based torsion monitoring model, and the applications of IMU for vibration monitoring in super-tall buildings.

Conclusions This paper offers a robust GNSS/IMU multi-source sensor fusion solution, and provides strong support for the safety monitoring and operational management of super-tall buildings throughout their lifecycle.