Accelerated Storm Recovery: Drone-Powered Powerline Damage Determination at Detect

Joe Richard
Detect
3 min readDec 15, 2023

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In recent years, the increased frequency and severity of storms and wildfires, driven by climate change, have posed significant challenges to maintaining a reliable power supply. Severe weather episodes often disrupt power supply by damaging powerlines, necessitating a swift and effective inspection to restore electricity to the affected communities. With the escalating threat of climate-induced severe weather events, Detect has developed a suite of advanced solutions for utility asset inspections.

This method allows utility companies to rapidly outpace traditional methods, especially in the aftermath of adverse weather conditions, by providing them with the necessary tools for responsive and effective power restoration.

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1. Technology for Prompt Deployment

Utilities can utilize our technology solutions immediately after a storm subsides. Unlike traditional inspection crews which might require substantial time to mobilize, our planning, data collection and analysis solutions enable operations to commence within minutes, offering extensive coverage and rapid identification of damage points.

2. Comprehensive Data Collection

Detect’s collection solutions are designed with sophisticated mission planning and flight operation tools to capture high-resolution imagery and thermal readings among other data. This enables utility providers to gain a rapid and comprehensive overview of the damage, facilitating accurate identification and prioritization of repair tasks.

3. Enhanced Safety Measures

Our solutions reduce hazards for utility field crews in post-storm scenarios. By enabling remote inspections, Detect’s solutions minimize the need for personnel to navigate dangerous terrain or be exposed to electrical hazards.

4. Cost Efficiency

Using Detect’s solutions, utility companies can significantly reduce operational costs compared to traditional methods. This cost-effectiveness does not compromise accuracy or effectiveness, making it a financially prudent choice for utilities.

5. Lower Environmental Impact

Detect’s solutions offer a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional vehicular inspections, aligning with our goal to minimize environmental impact as we digitize infrastructure.

6. Enabling Preventative Maintenance

The data from our solutions is crucial for utilities in implementing preventative maintenance strategies. By analyzing this data over time, potential failure points can be proactively addressed.

7. Optimal Access Planning

Our solutions provide utility companies with data to determine the best access routes for repair crews. This insight is invaluable for expediting repair operations and ensuring a more coordinated approach.

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Utilizing our solutions for powerline inspections post-severe weather showcases Detect’s commitment to innovative solutions for enhanced utility asset management. Not only do these solutions significantly improve response capabilities to weather-induced power disruptions, but they also lay the groundwork for a robust, resilient, and reliable global power infrastructure. As we continue to develop our range of solutions, our focus remains steadfast on driving innovation in utility asset management and maintenance, contributing to a safer and more reliable power supply for communities.

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Interested in exploring how Detect’s innovative solutions can revolutionize your utility operations? Reach out to our team today to learn more and book a personalized demo. Let us help you enhance your powerline inspection and maintenance processes with cutting-edge technology. Contact us to see our solutions in action and discover how we can tailor them to meet your specific needs.

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