07 March 2025
JOUAV, a leading manufacturer of industrial unmanned aerial systems (UAS), has partnered with the Guangxi Power Supply Bureau to introduce China's first "Fixed + Mobile" UAS autonomous inspection system for power grid operations. This innovative solution establishes a new benchmark in power line inspection by combining unprecedented operational efficiency with substantial cost reduction.
The system strategically deploys five JOUAV JOS-C800 VTOL hangars and two CW-15V drones to address inspection challenges in mountainous terrain. Each CW-15V VTOL drone is capable of automated missions within a 50-kilometer radius, featuring up to three-hour flight endurance. The two drones “hop” between hangars, autonomously recharging to sustain continuous operations. By utilizing autonomous drones and fixed mobile docking stations, the system is able to cover up to 15,000 square kilometers with seamless, fully remote operations.
"Power line inspections, particularly in rugged areas, have traditionally been a time-consuming and labor-intensive process," said Robert Lee, Power Utility Solutions Engineer at JOUAV. "Our Drone-in-a-Box solution transforms this process by enabling 24/7 automated inspections with less manpower while also speeding up response times, significantly improving inspection efficiency, and lowering operational costs—making multi-site inspections a reality. This pilot project demonstrates that large-scale deployments of multiple drones and docking stations can be highly effective, even in the most challenging environments."
The autonomous system marks a transformative advancement for power grid maintenance. By synchronizing multiple drones and docking stations through centralized control, this solution minimizes human intervention while ensuring consistent monitoring precision. Real-time data transmission allows operators to promptly identify potential issues, dramatically improving response capabilities.
Beyond routine inspections, the system has proven invaluable during emergency situations. Equipped with high-resolution 4K video and LiDAR technology, JOUAV drones enable rapid damage assessments within just a few hours—an immense improvement compared to the previous assessment period of several days.
The success of this pilot project showcases the potential of autonomous UAS technology in transforming traditional power grid inspections and underscores JOUAV’s commitment to innovation in the field of industrial drone solutions.
