Hydro-Québec Moves Forward in the Development of a Semiautonomous Drone for Power Line Inspection

Hydro-Québec

November 9, 2017

Hydro-Québec’s research institute IREQ continues to make progress with its LineDrone project. The drone can now land semiautonomously thanks to the addition of a new onboard vision system.

The vision system enables the drone to recognize power lines. This innovation provides invaluable support to the operator by ensuring safe deployment of the drone on power lines. In semiautonomous mode, the drone automatically aligns with the conductor, which means the pilot no longer has to stand directly beneath the power line to do so. This mode facilitates high-altitude landings, when operators lack the visual precision to line up the drone.

This major advance is an important first step towards a fully independent system.

Not only can the LineDrone land on and travel along a transmission line, it can also be equipped with tools and sensors to inspect power lines and spot corrosion.

IREQ is developing high-performance drones to inspect and maintain power lines.

Next step: equipping a drone that can operate on live lines with a brand-new measuring instrument!

Questions? Interested in participating in the development of this project?

http://news.hydroquebec.com/en/news/191/hydro-quebec-takes-a-major-step-forward-in-the-development-of-a-semiautonomous-drone-for-the-inspection-of-power-transmission-lines/

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    November 4, 2024 The total value of building permits in Canada decreased by $858.1 million (-7.0%) to $11.5 billion in August, following a strong July during which construction intentions rose sharply (+20.8%). The residential and non-residential sectors contributed to the decrease in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), the total value of building permits decreased 7.6% in… Read More…

  • A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    November 4, 2024 Investment in building construction edged up 0.2% to $21.0 billion in August, after a 1.6% decrease in July. The residential sector edged down (-0.1%) to $14.6 billion, while the non-residential sector was up 1.0% to $6.4 billion. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 7.2% in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), investment in building construction was… Read More…

  • When a Familiar Door Closes

    When a Familiar Door Closes

    November 4, 2024 By Keith Sones, seasoned utility industry executive Most of the articles I’ve written have been based on personal experiences, many of them occurring decades ago, which eventually translate into helpful life lessons. The years allow the events to marinate in a savoury stew of time and reflection, clarity never coming immediately, or even… Read More…

  • Regulatory Changes to Manitoba Apprenticeship and Certification System

    Regulatory Changes to Manitoba Apprenticeship and Certification System

    November 4, 2024 Effective October 30, 2024, Manitoba’s apprenticeship and certification system will undergo regulatory changes. These changes aim to enhance responsiveness to industry needs, align with Red Seal standards, and improve the quality of apprentice training and safety. Go HERE for more information Source Read More…


Changing Scene