Russian engineers use 3D laser scanning of power transmission lines from above the ground in order to detect possible failures.

      Laser scanning provides engineers with a large number of locations, each having unique geographical coordinates. Laser beam emits about 50-100 000 pulses per second, and special facility onboard an aircraft registers pulse reflection for elements of power transmission lines. These data help build a 3D model of a power transmission line.

      The technology, developed in Canada and improved in Russia, provides scanning of 200-400 km of power lines during one flight, which is equivalent to several weeks of work for a group of technicians.

      Source: ITAR-TASS