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Remote and Autonomous Inspection in High-Voltage Substations with Drones

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Remote and Autonomous Inspection in High-Voltage Substations with Drones

Sponsor: Fábio Nepomuceno
Leader: Junior Ferreira Torres

How can we remotely and autonomously inspect assets in a power transmission substation using drones safely and efficiently?

Brief Challenge Description:

We seek an innovative technological solution to enable the inspection of high-voltage equipment in power substations using drones. This solution must operate remotely and autonomously, equipping drones with advanced sensors to monitor assets with precision and identify potential defects.

The proposed solutions must address the specific challenges of substations, such as intense electromagnetic radiation, energized assets, adverse weather conditions, and strict safety requirements. The drones must perform autonomous flights and capture detailed data to ensure efficiency and safety in operation and maintenance activities.

Mandatory requirements for the solution:
  • Mandatory drones: The solution must exclusively use drones for inspections.
  • Autonomous navigation: Capability to perform flights without human intervention, including obstacle detection and optimized routes.
  • Advanced sensors: Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras (RGB) and thermal sensors, along with other relevant sensors to identify important variables, such as vibration and potential anomalies in the assets.
  • Connectivity: Support for Wi-Fi networks and at least 4G for real-time data transmission.
  • IP resistance: Minimum IP55 classification, ensuring protection against dust and water.
  • API communication: Seamless integration with existing corporate systems, such as SCADA and ERPs, for data processing and analysis.
Business Impacts:
  • Safe and frequent inspections: Drone-based inspections reduce safety risks and increase the frequency and quality of inspections in restricted access areas.
  • Maintenance optimization: More accurate asset data allows for proactive corrective actions and maintenance planning.
  • Reduced downtime: Early fault detection minimizes operational impacts and enhances asset reliability.
  • Operational efficiency: Drone usage boosts productivity and inspection quality while reducing costs and operation time.
Expected Benefits:
  • Reduction in operational and Variable Portion costs: Automated and remote inspections lower field team expenses and penalties for asset unavailability.
  • Extended asset lifespan: Detailed monitoring helps identify issues before they cause permanent damage.
  • Innovation and competitiveness: Implementing drones and advanced Technologies enhances technical capabilities and positions the company as a leader in innovation.
Drones | Transmission | Substations | High Voltage | Asset Management | Remote and Autonomous Inspection | Operational Efficiency | Safety