Flight Evolved industrial data services represent a paradigm shift in not only data collection, but also in data delivery. LIDAR point clouds are an amazing resource for many industrial applications, however it can be difficult to find ways to maximize the value of this data without the right partners and knowledge. In this case study we discuss a novel way to utilize LIDAR datasets for electrical substation modeling and staff training.
A large Southern California utility company asked Flight Evolved to scan a mid-sized power sub-station and provide a dimensionally accurate color model. The initial goal was to verify that the substation was built according to the specifications provided by the engineering company. It was decided that a high density model would be required to adequately model individual small electrical components.
This small area, high density acquisition was ideally suited to UAV LIDAR techniques. With a single flight at low altitude and slow speed the data was collected in under 45 minutes.
In order to provide the highest degree of global accuracy possible full post processing with ground based correction samples was performed. The multiple flight lines were carefully matched to correct for any errors in boresighting and the whole model was then corrected with multiple ground control points. Finally the LAS was classified and colored using high resolution digital imagery.
The resolution of this scan was far beyond anything the client or their engineering partners had previously seen. With a point density of well over 3000 points per square meter this model was higher resolution than even photogrammetry missions could reasonably capture. When the client asked if it was possible to use this model in printed and video presentations used to train engineers for inspections Flight Evolved was able to offer something more… Working with our software and processing team Flight Evolved developed a virtual reality environment based on the scan. Additional macro level photogrammetry was used to capture inside panels and breaker boxes that weren’t visible during the scan. The result was a photo-realistic highly accurate 3d model of the substation that an engineer could walk through using virtual reality equipment. The virtual reality environment is a safe space to recreate potential inspection findings and show inspectors findings they may rarely see in the field but need to be able to recognize. Flight Evolved is working with the client to model additional locations using this technique to expand their virtual training environment. Future improvements include adding thermal imagery to allow an inspector to view the model in thermal mode and to see the thermal signature of certain fault conditions in VR.
LIDAR acquisition is becoming easier and cheaper at a rapid pace. The pace of innovation demands an agile and technically advanced company that can rapidly integrate emerging technology in new and exciting ways. Flight Evolved is committed to staying at the forefront of this developing market and assisting our clients to realize the full value of their investments in LIDAR and other advanced GIS products.
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