ThermoFly – OECON and partners start new drone research project
Automated thermographic and visual inspection of wind turbines using a tethered drone system
Development of a drone-based inspection system which, through the combination of several optical sensor systems (active thermography and laser measurement technology), is capable of automatically carrying out simultaneous 3D reconstruction and the inspection of depth and surface defects in wind turbines.
In this innovative project, active thermography at short ranges enables the detection of damage beneath the surface of the object being measured with a significantly higher resolution than is possible with passive, ground-based systems. The use of a tethered drone flight system ensures a direct power supply during the measurement, thereby reducing the overall duration of the inspection.
The aim is to monitor the condition of wind turbines and extend their service life.
The project began in April 2026. The planned duration is 3 years. (04/2026–03/2029)
picture source: Lennart Rackwitz, BIMAQ
| Funding programm: | 8. Energieforschungsprogramm der Bundesregierung – Förderschwerpunkt Windenergie |
| Funding authority: | BMWE – Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie |
| Funding reference number: | 03EE2100B |
| Project sponsor: | Projektträger Jülich |
| Partner: |
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