Inspecting high voltage overhead electricity transmission lines is a costly and potentially dangerous job; often requiring helicopter inspections. A robot assisted by solar power is being developed that will make the task safer and cheaper.
Researchers at the USA’s Electric Power Research Institute have designed a prototype robot covered in an array of solar cells to crawl along high voltage electricity lines. Weighing around 65 kilograms, the 1.8 metre long robot will be tested later this month.
The robot includes a high-definition camera and sensors to detect overgrown trees that could interfere with power lines. The device will also detect faulty connections and will listen for disturbances that may indicate other problems.
The device moves at around 4.8 kilometres an hour, primarily powered by the overhead line via electromagnetic induction; a “spillover” of energy emanating from powerlines during normal electricity transmission. It’s this spillover that also plays a major role in what is termed line loss.
Solar power was originally to be used to provide the energy to propel the robot, but the solar cells will still be used for backup power. Energy storage for the unit is in the form of a lithium polymer battery. Using electromagnetic induction will extend the robot’s capabilities in terms of night-time use and operation in unfavourable conditions.
When operating in remote areas, raw data collected by the robot will be transmitted back the electricity company via satellite. Closer to populated areas where cell phone signals are present, digital images will also be transmitted.
The robots will cost under under USD$500,000 each and while that seems expensive, it will work out to less than 70 percent of the cost of using helicopters for overhead power line inspections.
