Demonstrated in this document are the UAV-based patrol inspection systems applied in operation and maintenance of transmission lines. The system compositions, application scenarios, functions and performance, test methods, and guidance for field applications are provided. This guide applies to the UAV systems used for patrol inspection on ac and dc overhead transmission lines.

This guide addresses the composition, general technical requirements, testing method, and testing rules of UAV-based patrol inspection systems. This guide applies to the UAV systems used for patrol inspection on ac and dc overhead transmission lines.

Patrol inspection on transmission lines is an arduous task involving high electrical safety risks, harsh working environments, and high workloads. The UAV-based patrol inspection is safer and easier than foot patrol inspection to identify the defects and risks in transmission lines and the surrounding environment. With optimized system functions and performance, UAV-based patrol inspection could realize high inspection quality, consistency, efficiency, and coverage. The purpose of this guide is to provide information on the system composition, applications, functions and performance, test methods, and operational procedures of the UAV-based patrol inspection system for overhead transmission lines, and thus help utilities to choose and use the right inspection system for a specific application.