3D Model-Based UAV Inspection Routing for Higher Flight Autonomy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current infrastructure inspection methods using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face challenges in energy consumption and payload capacity due to the need for real-time on-board processing of data, limiting their flight autonomy and competitiveness with helicopters, especially in linear infrastructure inspections.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a 3D model of the infrastructure to configure a precise inspection route for UAVs, allowing them to automatically follow pre-programmed waypoints without on-board data processing, reducing energy consumption and increasing autonomy by using LiDAR or photogrammetric sensors for initial scanning and basic obstacle detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If real-time on-board processing of data is implemented using LiDAR or vision sensors, then measurement precision and detection capability are improved, but energy consumption increases and flight autonomy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-generating a 3D model of the infrastructure and pre-planning the inspection route with predetermined stopping points and sensor orientations before the UAV flight. This eliminates the need for real-time on-board data processing during flight, as the UAV simply follows pre-computed instructions, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining detection precision through the use of the pre-established 3D model for accurate positioning and sensor targeting.
2Productivity
If complex on-board processing systems and sensors are installed on UAV, then data acquisition capability is improved, but device complexity and payload weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the complex real-time data processing functions from the UAV platform and relocating them to ground-based systems. The UAV is equipped only with basic sensors (LiDAR, cameras, GPS) for data collection and simple obstacle detection, while the complex processing, 3D model generation, and route optimization are performed externally on the ground, thereby reducing device complexity and payload weight while maintaining high data acquisition capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise positioning and sensor orientation are achieved in real-time, then manufacturing precision of inspection accuracy is improved, but energy consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a pre-generated 3D model of the infrastructure as a mediator between the UAV's simple positioning system and the requirement for precise inspection accuracy. The 3D model provides pre-computed geometric information and predetermined stopping points that guide the UAV's basic GPS positioning and sensor orientation, eliminating the need for complex real-time positioning and orientation systems while maintaining high inspection accuracy through the intermediary 3D model guidance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables efficient and fast data acquisition with higher UAV autonomy, reducing energy consumption and weight, allowing for longer inspections without the need for complex on-board processing systems.
Implementation Method 1
These means comprise at least a LiDAR sensor
Implementation Method 2
utilize a 3D model of the infrastructure to configure a precise inspection route
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system and method for infrastructure inspection, comprising means for generating a 3D model of a specific piece of infrastructure, such as a LIDAR or photogrammetric sensor on board a helicopter or UAV, the model acting as a basis for creating a waypoint sequence according to which a route will be programmed, which will later be followed by vehicles for inspecting the piece of infrastructure. The vehicles are preferably multi-rotor UAVs that carry out their inspection by gathering data without a LIDAR sensor and which, when performing their programmed route, will be able to dispense with complex on-board electronic processing equipment, all of which results in greater flight autonomy.