Niricson, a software company specializing in machine learning and AI, is revolutionizing the field of infrastructure inspections through drone-based data collection. Daan Arscott, the Data Collection Lead at Niricson, highlights the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of machine learning compared to traditional inspection methods. Arscott’s firsthand experience in assessing hydro dams, bridges, tunnels, and airfields has demonstrated the enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and safety that machine learning brings to the table.
Machine learning offers several advantages for inspections, according to Arscott. Firstly, it provides a non-biased analysis of the collected data. By examining high-quality imagery with sufficient resolution, the technology can identify and quantify defects in an unbiased manner. This ability to take an impartial view of the data streamlines the assessment process.
Moreover, automation plays a crucial role in improving drone-based inspections. Arscott explains that while having a 3D model of a structure is beneficial, traditional manual assessments require individuals to painstakingly analyze the entire structure to identify cracks and deficiencies. Niricson’s automation process accelerates this task, delivering faster and higher-quality assessments.
Niricson has successfully undertaken drone-based data collection and inspection projects across Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. Arscott emphasizes their commitment to being a software company that specializes in utilizing machine learning and AI to identify and quantify defects on concrete assets. He stresses the significance of high-quality data, as it enhances the value and effectiveness of their machine learning and AI solutions.
The proprietary acoustic sounding payload developed by Niricson is a critical aspect of their work. Arscott explains that it not only simulates visual inspections through drone-mounted cameras but also mimics the auditory capabilities of an engineer. By tapping the structure with the help of a drone, the acoustic payload can identify concrete delamination, replicating the traditional concrete hammer test.
In his role, Arscott coordinates the various systems and personnel required for inspecting and monitoring large assets. He acts as a liaison between the operations pipeline responsible for processing and uploading the data to the cloud platform, and the sales team involved in business development and contracting.
Collaborating with drone pilots is a crucial part of Arscott’s responsibilities. By hiring trusted third-party pilots, Niricson maintains a global presence without the need for establishing service teams worldwide. Arscott also provides support and training to clients’ internal drone teams, enabling them to collect their own data using Niricson’s methodology. This strategic approach positions Niricson as a software solution provider in the future.
Finding reliable and qualified pilots is essential due to the need for high-resolution imagery to detect fine defects. Intricate flight plans are developed to collect data autonomously. Arscott personally visits sites, spending time with the pilots, sharing his expertise, and conducting quality assurance and quality control checks on the data before handing it over for processing. Niricson’s internal teams then analyze the 3D models, run machine learning algorithms, and upload the AI-generated defect maps to their cloud platform.
Through more than 50 drone-based data collection projects in the past three years, Niricson has created a comprehensive baseline of large infrastructure assets. This baseline allows them to rescan structures periodically, facilitating a comparison of the datasets and monitoring changes over time. Accurate change detection is the true value-add of Niricson’s solution.
Arscott’s positive outlook for 2023 reflects the company’s growth and success. They have already completed numerous projects in North America and have recently worked on major infrastructure assets in Australia and New Zealand. With their experience and expertise in these cutting-edge technologies, Niricson is poised for further advancements in the field of drone-based infrastructure inspections.
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