The Digital Solutions division of RES announced the launch of Smart Pilot, a new data capture tool designed to automate wind turbine blade inspections using drones.
The solution allows the process to be completed during a single turbine stop, reducing downtime and improving the efficiency of maintenance operations.
According to the company, the software uses standard DJI hardware and automates much of the inspection process, allowing for high-quality images without the need for additional proprietary equipment.
A single stop to inspect all three blades
Traditionally, blade inspections required stopping the wind turbine on three occasions to position each blade individually and perform independent drone flights.
Smart Pilot replaces this procedure with a single automated stop, allowing all three blades to be inspected during a single operation. RES estimates that this approach reduces total inspection time by approximately 25% compared to conventional methods.
The company noted that automation minimizes manual pilot intervention and contributes to maintaining uniform data capture across different teams and locations.
Compatible with standard DJI drones
One of the main features of the solution is its ability to function exclusively with standard DJI drones and payloads. The system does not require additional cameras, external sensors, or third-party stabilization systems.
This compatibility allows the tool to be deployed quickly in different markets and simplifies operational logistics for inspection teams.
Pilots only need to use the Smart Pilot application, while training can be conducted remotely. According to RES, teams can be ready to operate in less than a day and begin capturing data that is subsequently managed through the company’s digital platform.
Automation to improve wind maintenance
Rea Meisinger, Vice President of Digital Blades at RES, explained that the primary value of Smart Pilot lies in combining automation, reduced downtime, and high-quality data capture into a single solution based on standard hardware.
The company believes that this approach facilitates the scalability of inspections in wind farms across different regions, while reducing operational complexity and the costs associated with acquiring specialized equipment.
With the launch of Smart Pilot, RES expands its portfolio of digital solutions aimed at optimizing the operation and maintenance of renewable assets. Currently, the company provides services to approximately 45 GW of installed capacity in renewable technologies worldwide and continues to develop tools to improve wind farm performance through digitalization and data analysis.
Source and photo: https://www.res-group.com/
