Visual Inspection Training

• To get an overview of the market and the diverse applications of drones in visual inspections.
• To learn how to meticulously prepare a visual inspection mission, identifying all key elements and points of interest for the inspection.
• To understand the different kinds of sensors (e.g., RGB, zoom, basic thermal considerations for visual context) that can be utilized for visual inspections.
• To know the different flight paths and maneuvering techniques best suited for various types of visual inspection tasks.
• To acquire basic knowledge of analyzing captured visual data (images/videos) and creating fundamental inspection reports.

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

Basic Principles:

• Introduction to drone-based visual inspection basics.
• Overview of different kinds of inspections (e.g., general visual inspection, close visual inspection, progress monitoring).
• Market & Application overview: common use cases in various industries.
• Safety protocols and relevant regulations for inspection flights.

Flight Planning and Preparation:

• Pre-analysis of the inspection mission: defining objectives, scope, and deliverables.
• Choice of equipment: selecting appropriate drones and sensors (RGB high-resolution, zoom capabilities).
• Detailed flight planning for inspection tasks: considering asset geometry, standoff distances, optimal angles, and lighting.
• Safety planning: risk assessment, emergency procedures specific to inspection environments.

Equipment for Visual Inspection:

• Overview of Drones & Sensors suitable for visual inspection (focus on RGB, zoom cameras; brief mention of thermal for context).
• Understanding camera settings for optimal inspection imagery (resolution, focus, exposure).
• Specific equipment and accessories for visual inspection tasks (e.g., specialized gimbals, lighting if needed).
• Practice Part I: Equipment setup, camera configuration, and pre-flight checks for inspection drones.

Flight Operation for Visual Inspection:

• Identifying and managing possible restrictions (airspace, weather, site access, magnetic interference).
• Implementing optimal flight paths and maneuvering techniques for inspecting various structures (e.g., facades, roofs, towers, linear assets).
  • Orbital flights, linear transects, close-proximity maneuvers.
• Techniques for effective data capture: ensuring image quality, overlap, and coverage of inspection points.
• Practice Part II: Simulated or actual flight exercises focused on visual inspection flight patterns and data capture.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Basic image and video analysis techniques for identifying anomalies, defects, or areas of interest.
• Fundamentals of creating clear and concise visual inspection reports.
• Overview of software tools for organizing, annotating, and presenting visual inspection data.

This course includes key practical components to build foundational inspection skills:

• Practice Part I: Hands-on familiarization with drone systems and camera payloads typically used for visual inspections. This includes setup, configuration of camera settings, and specific pre-flight checks.
• Practice Part II: Flight exercises (simulated or actual, depending on facilities) focusing on common flight patterns and techniques used to capture effective visual data of structures or areas.
• Introduction to reviewing and annotating captured imagery.

Assessment for the Visual Inspection Training is based on:

• Active engagement in theoretical discussions and practical exercises.
• Demonstrated ability to plan a basic visual inspection mission, including equipment selection and safety considerations.
• Competence in simulating or executing fundamental flight maneuvers relevant to visual inspection during practical sessions.
• Basic understanding of visual data review and reporting principles.

Professionals and individuals involved in Building Inspection, Infrastructure Management (e.g., bridges, power lines, pipelines), Solar Panel Inspection, and the Energy sector.