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The Robots4Green (R4G) system will significantly increase power grid efficiency and resilience by using advanced aerial robotic and IoT technologies to detect and predict potential failures.

The R4G system will ensure optimal utilization of the power grid through the development of robotic working tools attached to the aerial vehicle for operating on energized powerlines, and the development of new low-cost IoT multisensory units for estimating line characteristics and sensor network grid behavior. Both the robotic working tools and the sensors will be shielded against the strong electromagnetic fields of the high-voltage lines.

Currently, helicopters, cranes, and powerline bicycles are used to transfer workers to powerlines to mount components while the powerline is out of service. However, the R4G project introduces an advanced aerial robotic system that can mount various units, such as vibration dampers, spacers, and multisensory units, onto power lines easily, safely, and at a lower cost, all while the grid remains operational. This project also enhances worker safety by delegating high-risk maintenance tasks to robots, with human workers operating the robots from the ground.

The IoT sensors will be placed in locations that are prone to failures due to ageing or heavy weather conditions. The sensor network will provide real-time data about the operating conditions of the power line, including oscillations, instantaneous current, temperature, vibrations, ambient wind and temperature and line sag. The sensory data will be analyzed using AI techniques to predict any potential failures to the line and allow the energy company to take mitigation measures to protect the grid from potential outages.

No robotic or drone solution on the market can remove or install equipment on energized power lines without interrupting energy service. Thus, Energinet, the project advisor and end user, is setting up the requirements for advancing the powerlines capabilities to cope with the exponential growth of energy consumption that is expected to reach fivefold by 2050 to achieve the green goals objectives. In addition, Energinet sees great potential in immediately adopting the aerial platform for grid maintenance to replace vibration dampers and has expressed a dedicated interest in being a co-development partner with SDU. Besides Energinet, this project is based on the expertise of a strong consortium covering Becster A/S and Aarhus University as technology development partners for the multisensory unit and AI for failure prediction that will be a part of Becster A/S’ product catalogue, as well as WeFly as an aerial vehicle operator and a business partner.