Hi,
We are studying the possibilities of using UAVs (drones) for power line inspection. Our requirement in this regard will be as follows,
1) visually inspect the equipments installed in the power line and get clear footage. Special application in this regard would be Insulator inspection where it is necessary to see whether insulators are failed, cracked or damaged
2) autonomous flight on a given path to see the vegetation in power distribution line (to see if trees are coming close to the line) - some commercial drones has the way-point navigation facility but not sure if they can detect obstacles in a given path
The intention is of above is the hot line application, where you don't need to shut your power line and do visual inspections while supply is on. This can save time, reduce downtime and increase safety of workers.
we have tested something like below
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmaFt10slyQ
I have noted that most of the commercial suppliers manufactures are not recommending to fly UAVs near power lines. Hence it is doubtful if commercial drones can cater this type of application.
However there can be experts who has knowledge/information or can give us some guidance on this as this is a specific application (not just areal photography)
Looking for some advice on this
Regards,
Asela
Replies