Bridge Inspection

Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can meticulously inspect critical bridge components, including decks, piers, and cables. Utilizing LiDAR technology, they can swiftly generate BIM and digital twin models, facilitating faster and more cost-effective assessments. This technological approach aids builders, maintainers, and auditors in comprehending the bridge’s condition and in planning maintenance in a proactive manner.

Painpoints

  • Traditional bridge inspections often necessitate workers climbing the structures or utilizing aerial work platforms, presenting significant safety hazards, particularly under adverse weather conditions.

Advantages

  • Enable the inspection of hard-to-reach areas, such as high altitudes or confined spaces, without endangering inspection personnel.
  • Manual inspections can be time-intensive, especially for expansive bridges, leading not only to prolonged durations but also potential traffic disruptions.
  • Expedite the coverage of extensive bridge structures through automated mission planning or manual control, diminishing inspection durations and eliminating coverage gaps.
  • Bridge inspections demand considerable manpower and specialized equipment, such as aerial work platforms and hanging baskets, which escalate the costs.
  • Lower inspection costs and enhance inspection frequency with user-friendly and economical drone solutions.
  • Manual inspections might not encompass all bridge areas, particularly those that are challenging to access, potentially resulting in incomplete data and compromising the accuracy of the inspection outcomes.
  • Drones, outfitted with high-resolution cameras and additional sensors, can detect minute details, such as fine cracks, corrosion, and other structural issues. This data can be further analyzed using image processing software to heighten inspection precision.
  • The effective analysis and processing of extensive data collected remain a challenge. Conventional methods typically depend on manual recording and analysis, which are inefficient and susceptible to errors.
  • Produce high-quality data that can be archived and scrutinized for ongoing bridge health monitoring. By comparing data across different time points, it is feasible to detect trends in the bridge's structural integrity and preemptively alert to potential issues.

Solution

Bridge Visual Inspection

The Matrice 400, equipped with the Zenmuse P1, captures high-resolution images of bridge structures and key components to identify cracks or signs of deterioration. With integrated rotating LiDAR and mmWave radar, it provides a 360-degree obstacle avoidance sensor, enabling closer inspections without compromising flight safety.
  • The Zenmuse P1 features a full-frame sensor with interchangeable fixed-focus lenses mounted on a 3-axis stabilized gimbal for precision imaging.
  • Capable of carrying various payloads, the drone offers enhanced inspection capabilities.
  • Extended flight time allows for longer single-operation periods.
  • Dual-control operations increase reliability and enhance operational safety.
Contact us

Drone Platform

DJI Matrice 400
Weight: 9740±40 g (with batteries)
Max Takeoff Weight: 15.8 kg
Max Payload: 6 kg
Learn more

Payload And Software

Zenmuse P1
45 MP Full-frame camera.
Global Mechanical Shutter Shutter Speed 1/2000 Seconds.
Learn more
DJI Pilot 2
Ground control
DJI Terra
Modeling and flight mission plan
Learn more

Workflow

  1. Mission Planning:
    – Using third-party software, plan an inspection waypoint route based on bridge 3D models or use live mission recording with AI spot checking in the DJI Pilot 2 to create a routine inspection route.
  2. Data Collection:
    – Import the flight route into Pilot 2 and execute the mission. Turn on the RTK for better results.
  3. Data Processing:
    – Reconstruct vertical 2D models through DJI Terra. Improve model texture by editing it using DJI Modify.
  4. Data Analysis:
    – Analyze the inspection photos or detail modes to identify and locate any defects. Document the required maintenance using the images or model findings.

Bridge Digital Twin Asset Management

The Matrice 350 RTK, when equipped with the Zenmuse P1, can generate high-resolution 3D models for detailed visual inspection. With the Zenmuse L2 LiDAR attached, the Matrice 350 RTK performs laser point cloud digitization to model bridges accurately.

Utilize DJI Terra to produce both photogrammetry and point cloud models. Enhance your photogrammetry models by editing and correcting textures with DJI Modify.

  • Create detailed models of complex structures by combining photogrammetry and LiDAR scanning sensors on a single drone.
  • Easily share models with team members using a link.
  • Review and identify defects in the models from an overarching perspective.
Contact us

Drone Platform

Matrice 350 RTK
Weight: Approx. 6.47 kg(with single downward gimbal and two TB65 batteries).
Learn more

Payload And Software

Zenmuse P1
45 MP Full-frame camera.
Global Mechanical Shutter Shutter Speed 1/2000 Seconds.
Learn more
Zenmuse L2
Integrates frame LiDAR, a self-developed high-accuracy IMU system, and a 4/3 CMOS
Learn more
DJI Pilot 2
Ground control
DJI Terra
Modeling and flight mission plan
Learn more
DJI Modify
Intelligent 3D model editing software
Learn more

Workflow

  1. Data Collection:
    – Using the DJI Pilot 2 app and the 3D Mapping Flight Mission feature, captured the data with the Zenmue L2 to generate a 3D point cloud model of the bridge or generate a photogrammetry 3D model using the Zenmuse P1.
  2. Data Processing:
    – Input the data to DJI Terra, then reconstuct a high resolution 3D model.
    – Use DJI modify to remove the floating, black hole, which will improve model appereance.
  3. Data Analysis:
    – Share the models as digital twin BIM to get the overview enviroment and set up suitable maintanence plan.

Portable Maneuverable Inspection

The DJI Matrice 4E drones are compact and adept at navigating through the relatively narrow spaces found within complex structures. They are equipped with high-definition visible light cameras that can generate accurate 3D models and conduct detailed inspections of bridges, thereby reducing risks and manual labor.
  • The compact size of the drone facilitates navigation through confined spaces while adhering to safety regulations and providing optimal shooting angles.
  • The integration of multi-sensor technology and RTK positioning ensures high levels of positioning and modeling accuracy.
  • Automated flight paths, based on pre-planned routes, minimize the need for manual operation.
Contact us

Drone Platform

DJI Matrice 4E
Weight: 1219 g (with propellers)
Max Flight Time (without wind): 49 minutes
Learn more

Payload And Software

DJI Pilot 2
Ground control

Workflow

  1. Mission Planning:
    – Using the DJI Pilot 2 app and the 3D Mapping Flight Mission feature, generate a model of the bridge to be used as a reference for detailed inspection planning.
    – Use software like DJI Terra or DJI FlightHub 2 to plan inspection flight routes based on high-definition 3D models of the bridge using Slope Mission and Geometric Flight Mission.
  2. Data Collection:
    – Upload the flight path to the Matrice 4E drone. The drone automatically execute pre-planned flight route, capturing inspection photos. Complement the data collection by manually flying into hard to reach locations and capture different angles of the bridge.
  3. Data Analysis:
    – Review the images manually or import to a third-party software to identify structure defects using model detection.

Request for a Quote