Using a drone for pipeline inspections

One of the standout features of the Stereo2 drone is its small diameter of just 39 centimeters (approximately 15.35 inches), making it incredibly agile in confined spaces. This small size allows it to easily navigate through narrow pipelines and manholes, ensuring comprehensive inspections without the need for extensive manual labour. Moreover, the drone is equipped with a protective cage that enables it to make contact with walls without risking damage to the machine. This collision‑tolerant behaviour is crucial for maintaining safety and operational integrity in tight environments, where avoiding contact with surfaces is often unrealistic.

Lighting is a critical factor in confined space inspections, and the Stereo2 excels in this regard with its 10,000 lumens lighting system. Comprising four LED panels, the lighting can be adjusted from the remote controller and projects illumination 180° in front of the drone. This powerful lighting system ensures that even the darkest corners of pipelines are adequately lit, enabling the cameras to capture high‑quality images and videos. Additionally, the drone's dust resistance is a significant advantage in industrial environments. Its passive ventilation system and indirect lighting mode maintain visibility even in dusty conditions, allowing uninterrupted inspections.

Unlike many drones that rely on GPS for stabilization, the Stereo2 employs stereoscopic camera stabilization and odometry to maintain steady flight. This is particularly advantageous in GPS‑denied environments such as underground pipelines. Optical stabilization compensates for the absence of GPS signals, allowing the drone to record and reproduce its movements in real‑time. This capability not only enhances flight safety but also facilitates precise 3D reconstruction of inspected areas.

The Stereo2 is equipped with a 4K camera capable of capturing both high‑resolution photos and videos. The camera's hard focus is factory‑set to ensure sharp images, and the automatic ISO setting simplifies the pilot's task. Real‑time 1080p video feedback provides the pilot with clear, high‑definition views of the environment, enhancing situational awareness and decision‑making. The ability to adjust exposure by varying the power of the on‑board lighting further improves data quality. The inclusion of photogrammetry capabilities allows for the creation of 3D models, making it easier to locate defects and analyse the inspection data. Data from inspections are analysed using specialized software that can identify patterns, assess risks, and predict potential failures. This helps in making informed maintenance and repair decisions.

The Stereo2's robust radio and video link ensure reliable communication between the drone and the pilot, even in challenging environments. The access to flight logs is another valuable feature, enabling detailed analysis and reconstruction of inspected areas. This is particularly useful for post‑inspection assessments and for creating digital duplicates of the pipeline using software like Agisoft Metashape or Pix4D.