How can drones improve structural inspections?

1 Benefits of drones

Drones can fly over, around, and under structures, capturing high-resolution images and videos from different angles and perspectives. This allows inspectors to assess the condition of the structure without having to climb, scaffold, or use other access equipment. Drones can also access areas that are otherwise inaccessible or hazardous, such as cracks, corrosion, or damage. By using drones, inspectors can save time, money, and resources, while reducing the exposure to risks and hazards.

2 Types of drones

When it comes to structural inspections, there are various types of drones available depending on the size, shape, and location of the structure. Fixed-wing drones, for example, have wings and propellers and are suitable for inspecting large and linear structures. Multi-rotor drones, on the other hand, have multiple rotors and can hover, maneuver, and change direction easily making them ideal for inspecting small and complex structures. Lastly, hybrid drones combine the features of fixed-wing and multi-rotor drones allowing them to switch between modes depending on the situation; they are suitable for structures that require both long-range and close-up inspection.

3 Sensors and cameras

Drones can be equipped with various sensors and cameras that can collect and transmit data for structural inspections. Optical cameras capture visible images and videos of the structure, allowing you to detect surface defects, cracks, or discoloration. Thermal cameras capture infrared images and videos of the structure, which can be used to detect heat signatures, temperature variations, or moisture. Lidar sensors emit laser pulses and measure the reflected signals to create 3D models of the structure, as well as measure distances, dimensions, or deformations. Additionally, ultrasonic sensors emit sound waves and measure the echoed signals to detect internal defects, cracks, or voids.

4 Data processing and analysis

Processing and analyzing the data collected by drones can be done using various software and tools, such as image stitching, image enhancement, image recognition, and data visualization. Image stitching combines multiple images and videos into a single panoramic or 3D image, while image enhancement applies filters, contrast, or color adjustments to the images and videos. Image recognition uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to identify and classify objects, features, or defects in the images and videos. Lastly, data visualization creates graphs, charts, or maps from the data to display and communicate the results of the inspection. All of these software and tools can enhance the quality and accuracy of structural inspections.

5 Challenges and limitations

Despite the many advantages of drones, there are also some challenges and limitations that need to be considered and addressed for effective and reliable structural inspections. Regulations and permissions, weather and environment, and battery and connectivity are all important factors to consider. For example, inspectors must obtain the necessary permissions and licenses to fly drones legally and safely. Additionally, they must monitor and adapt to changing conditions to avoid damage or interference to the drones. Furthermore, inspectors need to plan and manage the battery and connectivity of the drones to ensure continuous and uninterrupted inspection.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?