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Statnett SF, Norway's state-owned power grid operator, has successfully completed their first fully remote drone inspection flight between Aura and Viklandet, including a detailed examination of the Viklandet substation. The entire operation was controlled from their Drone Operations Center in Sunndalsøra, demonstrating the practical benefits of autonomous drone operations for infrastructure monitoring.
This implementation shows how power utilities can improve inspection efficiency and data quality while reducing operational costs and enhancing worker safety.
Custom ADS-L Transponder for Airspace Safety
A notable aspect of this implementation is Statnett's deployment of their custom-developed ADS-L (Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Light) transponder. This proprietary solution weighs only 30 grams and measures 17x30x50 mm, featuring sealed USB/SMA connectors and conformal-coated PCB for weather resistance.
ADS-L technology serves a similar function to ADS-B systems in manned aviation but is specifically adapted for unmanned aircraft. It contributes to situational awareness in shared airspace, helps with airspace deconfliction between multiple aircraft, and supports integration with UAS Traffic Management (UTM) systems, particularly in regions with both drone and manned aircraft activity.
Integration with Drone-in-a-Box and FlytBase
The inspection operation utilized a drone docking station with FlytBase software. This technology combination enabled remote launch, landing, and charging capabilities fully integrated into Statnett's operations platform. The mission was supervised using joystick control alongside real-time software monitoring.
This integration allows for expanded operational capabilities, which can significantly improve the scope and efficiency of critical infrastructure inspections.
As stated by Espen Blomlie “The inspection flight was executed using Dock and FlytBase, with full support for remote launch, landing, and charging, integrated into our operations platform. The mission was supervised using joystick control and real-time software monitoring – a true showcase of the future of infrastructure inspections.”
Contributing to Airspace Safety
Statnett is actively participating in Norway's national drone strategy and the development of policy frameworks for emerging air mobility solutions. Their implementation of technologies like the ADS-L transponder demonstrates their commitment to advancing drone operations safety.
Practical Applications for Infrastructure Monitoring
This successful remote inspection demonstrates the potential for power utilities to transform their infrastructure monitoring processes. With autonomous drone technology, companies can perform more frequent asset inspections while reducing the need for personnel to access hazardous locations, ultimately improving both operational efficiency and safety outcomes.
As utilities continue to adopt autonomous drone technology, implementations like Statnett's provide valuable real-world examples of effective technical integration and safety-focused operations.
Source: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7316468403005743104
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Ayushi Mishra
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