Drone Roof Survey Case Study: Crown BEVCAN by AAI Drones

Introduction

In a standout application of modern drone technology, AAI Drones conducted a detailed roof inspection at Crown BEVCAN’s factory situated in Peterborough, England. This case study elaborates on the objectives, methodologies, results, and valuable insights from the survey carried out on October 10th, 2023, highlighting the effectiveness of drones in industrial building inspections.

Project Overview

Client: Crown BEVCAN
Objective: To identify obstructions or issues on the factory roof to preemptively address potential operational disruptions.
Location: Peterborough, England
Service Provider: AAI Drones

Methods Employed

Equipment

The DJI Mini 3 Pro drone, equipped with a 1/1.3 inch sensor capable of capturing 48 MP images and recording 4K video, was utilized for its superior imaging capabilities ideal for detailed inspections in industrial settings.

Weather Conditions

The survey was conducted under overcast skies with light winds ranging from 7-11 mph, providing perfect conditions for stable and clear drone operation.

Survey Procedure and Highlights

Drone Operation Tactics

• Flight Pattern: The drone navigated in a systematic grid pattern across the roof area, ensuring comprehensive coverage without missing any sections.
• Focused Imaging: Targeted close-up shots were taken of critical areas needing further evaluation, providing clear evidence for areas requiring maintenance.
• Documentation: Each finding was meticulously documented with corresponding GPS coordinates, ensuring exact pinpointing for follow-up procedures.

Inspection Insights

• General Roof Condition: Thorough examination of the roof to detect wear or damage.
• Obstruction Detection: Identification of materials or debris that could potentially obstruct water drainage or damage the roof.
• Maintenance Checks: Assessment of pathways, ducts, and other structural elements to verify their condition and stability.

Results

Deliverables

• Detailed Report and Visuals: The client received a comprehensive report accompanied by high-definition images and videos that highlighted critical concerns.
• Photographic Evidence: 30 high-resolution photographs were provided, each pinpointing different areas of concern across the roof landscape.

Client Feedback and Impact

Feedback from Crown BEVCAN was highly positive, with the data enabling them to target maintenance efforts effectively. The survey identified several critical maintenance needs, including areas of significant erosion and potential structural weaknesses, which were promptly addressed to prevent further deterioration.

Additional Considerations

• Safety and Efficiency: Drone operations were executed with high regard for on-site safety and operational continuity. The entire survey was completed within a few hours, showcasing the efficiency and minimal disruption caused by the drone survey.
• Risk Mitigation: By identifying potential issues early, the survey helped in planning preventive measures, thereby reducing future repair costs and downtime.

Conclusion

The comprehensive roof survey conducted by AAI Drones using the DJI Mini 3 Pro drone offered Crown BEVCAN invaluable insights into the condition of their factory roof. This case study underscores the utility of drone technology in enhancing maintenance efficiency and proactive planning in industrial settings. The detailed, systematic approach adopted by AAI Drones sets a high standard for future inspections and is a testament to the strategic use of technology in industrial maintenance.