Design and Implementation of an Automatic Vehicle for Thermographic Inspections in Electric Distribution Network Using Deep Learning Based Software

Abstract

In this paper, the authors describe the design, development and implementation of a deep-learning based system mounted on a terrestrial vehicle roof-top. The main objective is to capture images of overheat elements from the distribution powergrid network during the travel. Initially the vehicle was equipped with nine cameras to cover inspection in both side of the road and also covers the front view. This solution results in the capability to inspect hundreds of miles of power distribution lines without the need to stop the vehicle and without the need for a human operator. In the near future autonomous vehicles could be equipped with such a system to perform a full automatic inspection.