UAV lifting photovoltaic panels pilot

Can unmanned aerial vehicle-based approaches support PV plant diagnosis?

This study aims to give an overview of the existing approaches for PV plant diagnosis, focusing on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based approaches, that can support PV plant diagnostics using imaging techniques and data-driven analytics.

Can UAV-based approaches support PV plant diagnostics?

Focus was shed on UAV-based approaches, that can support PV plant diagnostics using imaging techniques and data analytics. In this context, the essential equipment needed and the sensor requirements (parameters and resolution) for the diagnosis of failures in monitored PV systems using UAV-based approaches were outlined.

Which UAV is used in a PV simulation?

The UAV selected for this simulation is the DJI S900. The route is designed to analyse each PV panel in the same FOV conditions, adapting its hight depending on the PV positioning and FOV conditions. Therefore, the route is based on 432 points with different height and coordinates defined by the GPS and RTK systems to compare both results.

Why is a UAV inspection system important for a PV plant?

Therefore, early fault diagnosis (detection and classification) using a UAV inspection system is crucial for PV plant's O&M to ensure adequate performance, prevent extension of defects to healthy areas and reduce the monitoring cost.

Is a small fixed-wing hand-launched solar-powered UAV possible?

This project is aimed at the development of a small fixed-wing hand-launched solar-powered UAV. A remote-controlled (RC) model glider for leisure purpose available on the consumer market, a 759-2 Phoenix 2000 RC plane, is modified to be powered by a hybrid of solar power and battery-stored power.

Can a UAV be used to monitor a PV plant?

For autonomous operations, both single but also swarm type solutions can be used for efficient PV plant monitoring [ 115 ]. A fully autonomous collaborative scheme can be developed, where the UAV will work together and adapt their flight plan to cover possible gaps in full area coverage.