Solution(s)
ER RPAS
Client(s) or partner(s)
Country
Canada
Keys Mission Parameters
Drone(s) : Two ARA-405
flight mode : Fully automated
Total take-off weight : 15 kg
Cruise speed : 12 m/s
Range : 11 km round-trip
Challenge
The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) has collaborated with ARA Robotics to conceive a Remote Piloted Aerial System (RPAS), also known as a drone, to transmit visual data for power line inspection.
Solution
Drone inspection of power lines requires constant connectivity over long distances. To meet this requirement, ARA Robotics has developed a redundant communication system involving the use of two drones. The first drone features a Velaris satellite communication module and a high-definition camera , enabling instant video transmission to ground-based inspection teams. The role of the second drone is crucial: it serves to relay the radio frequency signal to the first drone when the satellite communication link becomes unstable.
Result
Flight tests conducted in the fall demonstrated the system's success, with multiple 11 kilometer round-trip test flights along power lines. These tests have validated that drones are a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to helicopters and ground crews for maintaining the integrity of Canada’s electricity distribution network.
Qualia now benefit from a system that not only simplifies multi-vehicle routing but also offers an unprecedented 4D airspace perspective. The precision and real-time tracking capability have elevated their RPAS functions, making them more secure and efficient than ever.
Guillaume Charland-Arcand | CTO & Co-Fondateur
Jocelyne Bois
Véronique is the Communications and Marketing Advisor at ARA Robotics. Having graduated from the University of UQAM with a degree in graphic design, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand's visual narrative and ensuring effective communication strategies.
Véronique Lapierre — Author
Qualia now benefit from a system that not only simplifies multi-vehicle routing but also offers an unprecedented 4D airspace perspective. The precision and real-time tracking capability have elevated their RPAS functions, making them more secure and efficient than ever.
Guillaume Charland-Arcand
CTO & Co-Fondateur
ARA-405 drone taking off for a power line inspection mission in Alma, Quebec
By optimizing the systems and configuration of our drones, we are confident in our ability to reach and even exceed 20 kilometers round trip-during our next tests.
Jocelyne Bois | Project Manager at ARA Robotics