ALTITUDE (automatic aerial network inspection using drones and machine learning)

About this project

<p><span style="font-size: 11pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif">Renel IKE provides solutions for energy and electromechanical projects and services.&nbsp;</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 11pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif">Keeping the power transmission infrastructure well-functioning and without faults is crucial for the reliable electricity transmission day-to-day. This is achieved through inspections followed by preventative measures and/or repairs if/when needed, depending on the findings.&nbsp;</span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif">Until now, the inspections are conducted manually, relying on human resources. Mapping and monitoring of the powerline infrastructure and, more specifically, High and Medium Voltage network, is carried out by inspection workers who need to be on-site (walk patrols) and fill out specific survey-based questionnaires that are designed to assess the condition of the network.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 11pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif">The ALTITUDE project aims to develop an innovative solution to perform inspections of the aerial network automatically, using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs - drones) and Machine Learning (ML) and AI algorithms. Using drones will make the inspections less time consuming, more reliable and safer for personnel involved. For this project, Renel has partnered with two Greek entities: Innora, a mico-enterprise that will be responsible to develop the communication protocol used by the UAVs, and the Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator (HEDNO), who will be the pilot user of the solution within the project.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 11pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif">The project will lead to increased competitiveness of enterprises registered in Greece. Through the project, 2 new jobs will be created and I new Intellectual Property Rights application is expected to be submitted.</span></span></p>

Project partners

• Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator S.A. Project partner· Greece
• Innovative Research Applications P.C. Project partner· Greece