A drone river inspection for underground canals
Access With outdated 2D records as the only guide, the Elios 3 was flown at low tide to gain access to underground canals that had likely not been entered since construction. This enabled a safe and effective drone river inspection. Data Quality The team collected clear visual data including high-resolution photos and videos, along with a detailed LiDAR scan that exceeded expectations. The client was impressed by the quality and completeness of the data gathered without any extra effort. Safety Entering these spaces is extremely dangerous due to fluctuating water levels and strong currents. Human access is nearly impossible, making the Elios 3 the only viable and safe solution for this type of inspection. Speed All data collection was completed in just one day, significantly faster than traditional methods that would have required days of planning and equipment setup. Jiangyin Longchang Machinery Manufacturing Co,Ltd , https://www1.jylongchanggrinderline.comDrone River Inspection for Underground Canals
Key Benefits at a Glance
Planning a Drone River Inspection for an Underground Canal
Sater is a specialized company based in northern France, part of the SARP group under Veolia. With over 30 years of experience, they focus on water and wastewater management across France. Their team of 115 professionals works on complex projects, often using remote-controlled cameras and other tools to reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible.
Recognizing the growing importance of drones in water infrastructure, Sater invested in the Elios 3 to enhance their inspection capabilities. This decision proved invaluable when they were tasked with inspecting underground canals in Rouen ahead of a major construction project.
Inspecting Canals with Drones
In Rouen, the Marché d'Intérêt National (MIN) sits above a network of underground canals that feed into the Seine. Before any surface-level construction could begin, it was crucial to assess the condition of the water system. Traditional methods were not feasible due to the risks involved, especially with the tides affecting water levels.
The canals, each 3 meters in diameter, run beneath the area for 540 meters. Sater planned the mission carefully, choosing times of low tide to ensure the best conditions for the drone. Using the Elios 3, they were able to navigate the tight spaces and collect both visual and LiDAR data efficiently.
Completing the Drone River Inspection Underground
Despite limited historical data, the Sater team used the Elios 3 to explore the entire length of the canals. At low tide, the drone was deployed inside each pipe, reaching areas that would be impossible for humans to access. The mission was successful, delivering high-quality data that met the client's needs and exceeded expectations.
The LiDAR scans provided a detailed 3D model of the environment, which not only helped with the current project but also served as a valuable resource for future planning and maintenance.
Impressing the Municipality with Results
The client was particularly pleased with the additional LiDAR data, which offered a level of detail that went beyond a simple visual inspection. This information allowed them to make informed decisions without putting any personnel at risk.
For Sater, this project demonstrated the value of integrating advanced technology like the Elios 3 into their operations. It not only helped them complete a complex task efficiently but also set them apart from competitors. The success of this mission has inspired even more ambitious plans for the future. Without the Elios 3, such an inspection would have been far too risky and time-consuming.