The Challenge

The core challenge involved accurately determining the culverts' locations beneath built-up areas and conducting thorough inspections without compromising safety. This required a non-invasive yet highly detailed and precise surveying method, capable of navigating the challenging environments of confined space water culverts.

Given the critical role these culverts play in urban drainage systems and their impact on public safety and infrastructure integrity, the urgency for a non-disruptive, accurate, and safe inspection method cannot be overstated. The approach must not only safeguard the safety of the personnel involved but also ensure the continued functionality and reliability of these essential urban infrastructure components.

The Solution

To meet these challenges, Team UAV used a specialised confined space drone equipped with a LiDAR sensor, a 4K camera, and ultra-bright LED lighting surrounded by a collision-tolerant cage that allows the drone to get up close visual data and dense point clouds from a single flight. The solution involved a comprehensive survey process, integrating above and below-ground data to create a detailed assessment of the culverts.

The initial planning stage commenced with a thorough analysis of the project requirements, facilitated by engaging discussions with the Environment Agency. These dialogues were crucial in gaining insights into the environmental considerations, regulatory framework, and specific concerns that could influence the project's execution. Team UAV also conducted a site recce before the task.

By understanding these elements, Team UAV was able to anticipate potential obstacles and integrate solutions proactively into the planning process.

Detailed Visual Inspection

The technology allowed for the capture of high-definition video revealing intricate details of the culvert interiors that are crucial for a comprehensive assessment. The visual data collected can provide clear evidence of structural dilapidations such as cracks, erosion, and other signs of wear that could threaten integrity.

Additionally, the inspections highlighted potential hazards, including water flow disruptions and the presence of obstructions like debris and sediment build-up, which pose risks to the culvert's functionality and overall safety.

By employing this advanced drone technology, Team UAV significantly reduced the risks associated with manual entry into these confined spaces, streamlining the inspection process while ensuring thoroughness and safety.

Advantages Over Manned Entry

The traditional method of manned entry for confined space inspections is fraught with hazards, potentially exposing inspectors to dangerous conditions and requiring significant safety measures. Compared to this approach, Team UAV's drone-based method offered numerous advantages:

Our pilots' familiarity with the operational environment, coupled with their quick thinking and problem-solving abilities, played a crucial role in overcoming these challenges during the flights. Their capacity to anticipate and mitigate risks not only safeguarded the integrity of the drone and the safety of the operation but also ensured that the data collected met the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Conclusion

Team UAV's use of confined space drones represents a significant advancement in the inspection and management of confined spaces.

By harnessing drone technology, Utility providers can now achieve accurate, safe, and efficient inspections, ensuring the longevity and reliability of their essential assets.

This project not only highlights the potential for modern technology to enhance infrastructure maintenance but also sets a precedent for future applications in various sectors, promoting safety, sustainability, and operational efficiency.