Thermography Training

• To acquire basic knowledge of the principles of thermography.
• To acquire basic knowledge of aerial thermographic image capture techniques using drones.
• To get an overview of the required equipment (thermal cameras, drones), the current market, and various applications.
• To acquire basic knowledge of interpreting thermographic data and understanding false color imagery.

• Valid EU remote pilot certificate A1/A3.
• Valid EU remote pilot certificate A2.

Basic Principles:

• What is thermography? Introduction to infrared science.
• Principles of aerial thermography: advantages and limitations.
• Understanding false colors in thermal images.
• Thermal Radiation - Wavelength Range relevant to UAS sensors.
• Concepts of remote thermography.
• Emissivity, reflection, and transmission: their impact on accurate measurements.
• Image resolution (thermal sensor) and its relation to flight altitude and object detection.

Flight Planning and Preparation for Thermography:

• Specific considerations for thermography of buildings (facades, insulation).
• Planning thermographic inspections for roofs (leak detection, heat loss).
• Introduction to 3D building thermography concepts.
• Mission planning: optimal flight paths, overlap, time of day, environmental conditions.

Equipment for Aerial Thermography:

• Market Overview: Common drones and thermal cameras (e.g., FLIR).
• Key FLIR (or other brand) Camera Specifications: Resolution, thermal sensitivity (NETD), lens options.
• Understanding thermal image resolution and its implications.
• Importance of temperature sensitivity (NETD).
• Sensor calibration principles and importance.
• Choosing appropriate equipment: considerations for beginners vs. professionals.
• Practice Part I: Hands-on with equipment, camera settings, and pre-flight checks.

Flight Operation for Thermographic Data Capture:

• Legal framework and restrictions relevant to thermographic operations.
• Detailed flight planning and risk assessment.
• Identifying and mitigating possible operational restrictions.
• Optimal meteorological conditions for thermographic surveys.
• Executing flight missions for thermal data acquisition.
• Practice Part II: Simulated or actual flight exercises for capturing thermal data.

This course includes dedicated practical sessions designed to build foundational skills:

• Practice Part I: Familiarization with thermal cameras and drone systems suitable for thermography. This includes understanding camera settings, calibration checks (if applicable), and pre-flight preparations specific to thermal sensors.
• Practice Part II: Simulated or actual flight exercises focusing on techniques for capturing quality aerial thermographic data. This includes planning flight lines, adjusting altitude for desired resolution, and considering environmental factors.
• Review and basic interpretation of captured thermal imagery.

Assessment for the Thermography Training focuses on understanding and practical application of basic concepts:

• Active participation in discussions and practical exercises.
• Demonstrated understanding of fundamental thermographic principles and terminology.
• Ability to plan a basic aerial thermographic mission.
• Competence in setting up equipment and simulating/executing basic thermal data capture during practical sessions.

Professionals and individuals involved in Thermography and Building inspections. Also suitable for those new to aerial thermography needing foundational knowledge to collaborate with experts or to begin accurately flying thermal sensors.