Drone flight in the sewer at Frederiksberg Forsyning
In this case, we explore how we used drones to inspect the large sewer pipes at Frederiksberg Forsyning, and how we combine drone inspection with AI and 3d LiDAR data.
Key points from the case:
About the case:
Introduction:
Frederiksberg Forsyning wanted to optimize their workflows and processes to reduce their resource consumption. That’s why they contacted Drone Eksperten. Frederiksberg Forsyning had an idea to fly drones through the sewer pipes and use image recognition to revolutionize sewer inspection.
After a long period of development and preparation, we went to Frederiksberg Forsyning to test the new collaboration and setup.
After the trial at Frederiksberg, we can conclude that the new innovative method is a great success.
Below we describe the traditional method of sewer inspection and how the new method with drones and artificial intelligence is a better solution.
The traditional method:
Traditional sewer inspections such as TV inspections and in-person inspections are time-consuming, resource-intensive and dangerous for human inspectors.
These inspections require a large amount of planning and typically involve large machinery and many people.
After the inspectors are done, it requires additional time and resources as an inspector must review all the video footage, which is time-consuming and expensive.
The new method:
We have developed a unique solution that saves utilities time and money while eliminating the danger to people.
Using our custom-built drone for demanding indoor inspections, we can easily and quickly fly through sewer lines, which is much faster than sending down a TV tractor or people.
The drone is equipped with a 4k camera that captures the smallest details in one quick flight. In addition, the drone has a LIDAR function that generates unique 3D maps of the wire, making it quick and easy to identify the location of the damage.
Most importantly, we have developed a unique image recognition model. This artificial intelligence takes the video footage from the drone and splits it into images (1 second generates 24 images). The model saves utilities huge amounts of time and money as it detects any faults and damage in the sewer pipes in no time at all.
The image below shows how the drone creates live 3D maps in flight.
Results and benefits:
This innovative solution has many advantages and improvements over the traditional method of sewer inspections. Here are some of the key findings and benefits:
1. Time savings: With our drone and AI technology, the inspection can be done faster and more efficiently. This means we can inspect larger areas in less time and reduce labor time.
2. Reducing costs: This new method is also more cost-effective. It requires less equipment and fewer employees than the traditional method. In addition, faults and damage can be identified and repaired earlier, which also reduces overall costs.
3. Safety: Drone inspections eliminate the risk of human error and hazards. Inspectors don’t have to go deeper into the sewer system, eliminating the risk of physical injuries and workplace accidents.
4. accuracy: Our drone and AI technology delivers more accurate results than the traditional method. The image recognition model can identify defects and damage that the human eye may have missed.
Future opportunities:
This technology has the potential to revolutionize the sewer inspection industry worldwide. Not only is it more cost-effective and safer, but it’s also more accurate and faster.
We see opportunities to expand our collaboration with more utilities and municipalities, helping them optimize their workflows and reduce costs.
We also see potential in integrating our technology with other inspection systems, such as water pipes, wells and building structures, where it can deliver the same accuracy and time savings.
Conclusion:
We have developed a unique solution for sewer inspections by combining drone inspections and artificial intelligence. Our technology has revolutionized the way sewer inspections are carried out and has created great benefits in terms of time savings, cost reduction, safety and precision.
Our collaboration with Frederiksberg Forsyning has shown that our technology works, and we see great opportunities to expand our collaboration with more utilities and municipalities. We are convinced that our technology has the potential to revolutionize the sewer inspection industry and create significant improvements for society as a whole.