Cloud-based solution for nationwide power line mapping

Abstract

Automatic tools for power line mapping and monitoring are increasingly required by modern societies. Since traditional methods, like ground-based onsite inspections, are very labour-and time-intensive, the use of Geomatics techniques is becoming the most promising solution. However, there is a need for an all-in-one solution that allows the entire 3D mapping pipeline in a nationwide data context. The aim of this paper is to introduce a novel cloud-based solution for nationwide power line mapping. The innovative aspects of the system are threefold. First, to exploit image-based 3D reconstruction algorithms to derive dense point clouds over power line corridors, thus demonstrating the potential of photogrammetry as a promising alternative to costly LiDAR surveys. Second, to supply an all-in-one web-based pipeline that automatically manages all steps of power line mapping, from 3D data generation to clearance anomaly detection. Finally, to exploit cloud-computing technology, to handle massive input data. First tests show promising results for (i) 3D image-based reconstruction, (ii) point cloud classification and (iii) anomaly detection.