The wind turbines planted in the middle of the ocean were a maintenance challenge. Until the scanner drone appeared.
European offshore wind maintenance is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by innovative drone technology. Previously, inspecting wind turbine blades required costly and time-consuming shutdowns, directly impacting renewable energy generation and operator revenue. A recent breakthrough by Danish startup Quali Drone has demonstrated the viability of continuous, non-contact inspections on operational turbines, promising to revolutionize efficiency in the sector. The successful demonstration occurred at the Rødsand 2 offshore wind farm in the Baltic Sea, operated by RWE. The AQUADA-GO project team showcased a large drone's ability to autonomously fly in close proximity to rapidly rotating turbine blades without interruption. This technological leap moves beyond laboratory concepts to proven, real-world application, enabling visual inspections even while the turbines are actively generating power. This advanced drone solution is equipped with high-resolution cameras, infrared thermography, and AI-powered visual systems for precise data collection. Its autonomous flight capabilities, guided by mission planning software and online data infrastructure, allow it to track the movement of the blades dynamically. Furthermore, the system utilizes "Digital Twins" to meticulously document findings and ensure adherence to industry reporting standards, offering a more comprehensive and efficient approach to turbine maintenance.
Curated and translated by Europe Digital for our multilingual European audience.
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