Drone-based rotor blade inspection
incl. Lightning Protection System (LPS) measurement
Presentation by Katja Weißbach
Revolution in rotor blade inspection: TOPseven’s drone-based technology with integrated LPS measurement
At TOPseven, a high-tech company specialising in globally patented solutions for automated drone-assisted inspections, we have paved the way for a new era in the inspection of wind turbine generators. With our advanced, drone-based rotor blade inspection, including innovative LPS measurement, we are setting new standards for efficiency and precision. In this article we will look at the various aspects of this technology and how it will shape the future of the wind energy sector.
Hardware: DJI Matrice 300 RTK and TOPseven 61 MP camera
Our approach is based on the integration of the latest hardware. The DJI Matrice 300 RTK, known for its reliability and precision, forms the heart of our system. This drone is supplemented with our in-house developed 61 MP TOPseven camera enabling us to acquire detailed, high-resolution images of rotor blades. This powerful combination permits us to acquire precise, visual data of wind turbine generators in real time and ensures we can precisely identify even the smallest irregularities and damage.
Digression on LPS measurement:
A unique aspect of our inspection method is our contactless LPS measurement. We use a signal generator that emits a high-frequency signal, which in turn generates an electric field. Our drone, equipped with a special sensor, measures this field at the tip of the rotor blade. Deviations from the nominal values are indicative of potential problems in the lightning protection system; these problems can then be analysed in more detail.
Software: data processing and analysis
Our software is the mainstay of our inspection processes. We have developed a comprehensive web interface that enables our customers to manage inspection tasks, reports and statistics. Our TOPseven ECO System is seamlessly integrated into our cloud storage solutions while TOPseven Inspector is used for planning missions, data analysis and reporting.
Calibration: precise flight path and data acquisition
Our drones are calibrated automatically by means of a model from our database. Photographs of the hub and rotor blade tips, combined with photogrammetry, form the basis for exact flight path calculations and guarantee highly precise data acquisition to safeguard automated drone flight without specialised pilots.
Visual inspection: assisted by AI
Our visual inspection profits from patented AI-assisted camera adjustment and exposure. This assistance permits consistent image quality and the exact detection of damage. By training our AI using manual damage detection, marking and categorisation, the analysis is becoming more and more reliable.
Lightning protection: exact localisation of anomalies
The drone-based inspection of lightning protection offers the advantage of the exact localisation of anomalies. Our innovative technology makes it possible to inspect the entire rotor blade quickly and thoroughly with emphasis on safety, reduced downtimes and low costs.
Report: comprehensive analysis and documentation
Every inspection is completed with a detailed report that contains comprehensive information about the condition of the rotor blades and lightning protection system. These data are crucial for planning maintenance and make a significant contribution to the long-term performance and reliability of turbine generators.
SUMMARY
Drone-based rotor blade inspection including LPS measurement from TOPseven represent the peak of innovation in the wind energy sector. By means of advanced drones, precise sensors and intelligent software, we are setting new standards for inspection accuracy and efficiency. It is our goal to operate wind turbine generators increasingly reliably and cost-efficiently, while at the same time contributing to the longevity of the turbine generators. At TOPseven we are proud to be at the pinnacle of this technological revolution. MAKING DRONES SMARTER.
