Drones for Inspection of Bridges

Drone technology is becoming increasingly useful in civil engineering for inspecting infrastructure in environments with combinations of full, limited or no GNSS signal. Drones play a critical role in inspecting various types of bridges, viaducts, and other structures where human intervention is risky.

Regular inspections are required, with time frames that vary from structure to structure. Traditional inspection methods can be inefficient, costly and time-consuming, making it difficult to detect and assess all potential defects. Integrating drone technology facilitates real-time data collection and analysis, enabling civil engineers to make informed decisions quickly. The ability to capture high-resolution images and video allows for detailed assessments that can be reviewed multiple times, ensuring that no potential problems are missed. In addition to improving safety and efficiency, drones can navigate complex environments where traditional equipment may struggle or be unable to operate effectively.

When inspecting bridges, it is important to note that the DNSS signal may not always be fully accessible. In order for a drone to effectively locate damage in close proximity to the bridge structure, it must be able to fly under the bridge structure and transition between areas with full GNSS signal and areas with insufficient or completely denied GNSS signal. This navigation process requires careful planning and a flexible approach to ensure that accurate positioning data is maintained throughout the flight.

While remotely operated equipment runs the risk of crashing into the bridge due to the human factor, Fly4Future autonomous drones can quickly and easily navigate around the bridge structure using advanced algorithms and flexible obstacle avoidance technology. This reduces the risk of collisions and increases overall operational efficiency. In addition, the use of a swarm of Fly4Future drones contributes to the overall shorter time frame required for inspection, as well as saving resources that would otherwise be spent on manpower and scaffolding.