I’ve been using the DJI Matrice 200 for inspecting solar PV installations, and it’s been really effective for the job.
Do you use thermal imaging to inspect them?
Sam said:
Do you use thermal imaging to inspect them?
Yes, I use the XT2 thermal gimbal for inspections.
Sam said:
Do you use thermal imaging to inspect them?
Yes, I use the XT2 thermal gimbal for inspections.
That’s a pretty cool use for drones. Do you inspect each panel manually, or is there software that helps detect issues automatically?
Sam said:
Do you use thermal imaging to inspect them?
Yes, I use the XT2 thermal gimbal for inspections.
Wow, over £3500 worth of equipment? That’s some serious gear! Ever try doing a barrel roll with it?
Sam said:
Do you use thermal imaging to inspect them?
Yes, I use the XT2 thermal gimbal for inspections.
How do you find using it? It looks like it could take over the world with just a wrong look. Has it improved your efficiency, or is it more work than you expected?
@ChristopherSmith
It’s been a massive improvement over the XT1, and it’s pretty straightforward to operate.
Zoe_Dixon said:
@ChristopherSmith
It’s been a massive improvement over the XT1, and it’s pretty straightforward to operate.
Glad to hear it’s worth the investment!
I hope these solar inspections pay off well.
Darby said:
I hope these solar inspections pay off well.
Trust me, we charge a lot more than a wedding photographer. Engineering and mapping work doesn’t come cheap.
Darby said:
I hope these solar inspections pay off well.
Trust me, we charge a lot more than a wedding photographer. Engineering and mapping work doesn’t come cheap.
How can a hobby drone pilot get into the commercial side of things?
@esleystanley
First, you’ll need a Part 107 license. From there, find your market. Since we’re already surveyors, adding drone services for our construction and engineering clients was a natural step. Mapping needs some training. Flying is easy, but creating accurate maps with elevation data that meet ASPRS standards is another skill.
When it comes to challenging inspections, like on cell towers or in high winds, it’s best to work with experienced pilots. I often hire a professional who can handle an M600 like a racing drone for tougher inspections.
@Vere
That sounds like an exciting career path! How did you get started?
That’s one impressive machine!
I currently do quality inspections in another field and fly drones as a hobby. Combining the two would be a dream job for me! What qualifications are needed for PV inspection work?
How much did that setup cost?
Darby said:
How much did that setup cost?
More than a new car, mostly because of the thermal camera gimbal.
My XT2 stopped working after the latest firmware update. Just a heads up.
TIMOO said:
My XT2 stopped working after the latest firmware update. Just a heads up.
What happened exactly? Gimbal motor issue or software-related?
TIMOO said:
My XT2 stopped working after the latest firmware update. Just a heads up.
What happened exactly? Gimbal motor issue or software-related?
It seems like a software issue. After updating both the Matrice 210 V2 and the controller, I got prompted to update the XT2 firmware. Now it’s not detected, even though the gimbal powers up and holds level. It just doesn’t connect with the pilot app.