Access Using outdated 2D maps as their guide, the Elios 3 was deployed during low tide to access underground canals that had not been entered since construction. This allowed for a safe and efficient drone river inspection. Data Quality The team collected high-quality visual data, including photos, videos, and LiDAR scans, which exceeded the client’s expectations. The data was gathered efficiently without extra effort or time. Safety Entering these spaces is extremely dangerous due to fluctuating water levels and strong currents. The Elios 3 provided a safe alternative, eliminating the need for human entry into hazardous environments. Speed All data was collected in just one day, significantly faster than traditional methods that would require extensive planning and setup over multiple days. Drones like the Elios 3 are now widely used to safely explore confined and complex spaces. They're revolutionizing how we inspect underground infrastructure. Two parallel canals run beneath structures, and a drone inspection was essential before any surface work could begin. The pilot used the drone’s camera and LiDAR to navigate safely and bring it back after flying out of sight. This mission not only met the client's requirements but also exceeded expectations by providing a detailed 3D model of the pipes. The data was clear, accurate, and invaluable for future planning and maintenance. The LiDAR scan provided a clear map of the area, useful for future inspections and updates to existing records. power transformer,3 phase transformer,electric transformer Changzhou Dahua-Luckypower , https://www.czluckypowertech.comDrone River Inspection for Underground Canals
Key Benefits at a Glance
Planning a Drone River Inspection for an Underground Canal
Sater is a specialized company based in northern France, near Lille. As part of the SARP group, which is under Veolia, Sater has been working in water and wastewater management for over 30 years. With a team of 115 employees, they handle projects across France and are always looking for innovative ways to improve their services.
In recent years, Sater has started using sewer drones, such as the Elios 3, to access areas that traditional tools can't reach. This has helped them deliver more accurate and efficient inspections, especially in challenging environments.
At a recent project in Rouen, Sater needed to inspect underground canals before a construction project could begin. Using the Elios 3, they were able to gather crucial data quickly and safely, ensuring the project could move forward with confidence.
Inspecting Canals with Drones
In Rouen, there's a large canal system beneath the Marché d'Intérêt National (MIN), running under buildings and streets before connecting to the Seine. A new construction project required an inspection of the water network to ensure its structural integrity.
This type of inspection is risky—divers can't easily navigate these spaces due to strong currents and changing tides. The Elios 3, however, was the perfect tool for the job.
The mission involved two parallel pipes, each 3 meters in diameter, stretching 540 meters underground. Sater planned the flight carefully, choosing times of low tide to minimize risks and maximize visibility.
Completing the Drone River Inspection Underground
With only historical maps to guide them, Sater flew the Elios 3 during low tide. The drone was able to navigate through tight spaces, capturing both visual footage and detailed LiDAR scans.
Each pipe had manholes spaced about 50 meters apart, making navigation challenging. But the Elios 3 proved highly effective, allowing the team to collect all necessary data in a single day.
Impressing the Municipality with Drone Results
The main goal of the project was to provide video footage of the pipes’ interiors. However, the additional LiDAR scans gave the client even more insight into the condition of the underground canals.
The 3D model created from the scan was precise and easy to interpret, offering a full view of the structure without putting any personnel at risk. This made the inspection not only effective but also cost-efficient and safe.
