Transform powerline inspection with DJI Zenmuse L2

This detailed dataset shows how the Power Line Follow mode on the DJI Zenmuse L2 transforms powerline inspections.

This sophisticated feature - released as part of a recent firmware update - allows the drone to automatically follow power lines to streamline the data collection process and to help collect highly-accurate data and build a robust point cloud.

The heliguy™ in-house survey team recently put this mode to the test - flying the L2 with the DJI M350 RTK drone - and were impressed with the results.

The DJI L2 is a payload that combines a LiDAR module and RGB sensor. LiDAR is useful for powerline inspection thanks to its enhanced detection capabilities, including the ability to detect small wiring.

What is Power Line Follow Mode?

Powe Line Follow Mode enables the DJI L2 to autonomously track and follow powerlines with precision.

• Wire Recognition: Automatically identifies wire channels and branch lines, allowing users to select flight routes.

• Automated Flights: The aircraft automatically follows the power line according to the set parametres and collects LiDAR (and true colour) point cloud data.

• Real-time View: View the real-time 3D point cloud models of the power line on the remote controller.

• True-colour Point Clouds: The L2 enables operators to generate a true-colour point cloud, thanks to its built-in RGB camera.

• DJI Terra: Build the model in DJI Terra.

Key Benefits of Power Line Follow Mode

Advantages of deploying Power Line Follow mode include:

1. Increased Safety: Reduces the need for manual piloting close to high-voltage lines, mitigating risks of human error. It also enhances situational awareness through precise navigation along powerline routes.

2. Improved Data Accuracy: Ensures uniform scanning distance and consistent data collection across the entire inspection area. Captures high-resolution point cloud data, helping to detect faults such as broken strands, vegetation encroachments, and structural deformations.

3. Operational Efficiency: Automates flight paths, allowing operators to cover long powerline stretches with minimal manual intervention. This reduces inspection time compared to traditional methods like helicopter-based inspections.

4. Cost-Effectiveness: Minimises costs associated with ground crew logistics, heavy machinery, and expensive manned aerial operations. Allows for frequent inspections, ensuring better maintenance planning and avoiding costly outages.

5. Enhanced Reporting Capabilities: Generates highly-detailed LiDAR models (and true-colour point clouds) for in-depth analysis and predictive maintenance. Seamlessly integrates with post-processing software such as DJI Terra.

Power Line Follow Workflow

To deploy the Power Line Follow mode, ensure all of the firmware is up to date.

Tap the Power Line Follow icon on DJI Pilot 2 on the controller.

Key parameters include:

• Power Line Type: If the width of the on-site tower is less than 10 metres, set Power Line Type to Distribution Line. If the width of the on-site tower is greater or equal to 10 metres, set Power Line Type to Transmission Line.

• Power Line Follow Speed: Set an appropriate flight speed based on the distribution or transmission lines.

• Power Line Follow Altitude: This altitude is the aircraft's height relative to the top level of the wires and the aircraft will maintain this relative altitude to perform the Power Line Follow task.

• IMU Calibration: This will enable calibration. Following this, the Pilot 2 app will automatically identify the power lines when the drone is above the power lines.

• RGB Colouring: When enabled, the point cloud will be coloured using photographs captured by the RGB mapping camera.

• Other Parameters: Recommended that triple return, 240 kHz, and non-repetitive scanning mode are selected.

Summary

The DJI Zenmuse L2’s Powerline Follow Mode is a game-changer for powerline inspection operations.

By automating flight paths and enhancing data collection precision, it offers unprecedented efficiency, safety, and cost savings.

Whether you're a utility company or an inspection service provider, integrating this technology into your workflow can significantly improve asset management and reduce operational risks.

For more details and to add the L2 to your workflows, click here, or contact us.