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Mapping 13 kilometers of underground technical galleries in Brussels
# Mapping 13 Kilometers of Underground Technical Galleries in Brussels
## Benefits in a Nutshell
### Safety
Venturing into the underground galleries posed numerous challenges, given the potential for unseen hazards like exposed wiring, old machinery, or dangerous materials. These unknown conditions made conventional data collection extremely risky. The Elios 3 emerged as a safe and efficient alternative, allowing us to gather essential data without putting anyone in harm's way.
### Speed
The drone expedited the data collection process significantly. By scanning various sections of the galleries—confined spaces, open areas, and pipe racks—we were able to streamline the entire operation. This efficiency proved invaluable when dealing with such an extensive network spanning 13 kilometers.
### Data Quality
Over nine intense days, the Elios 3 executed 241 flights, capturing 1,776 points of interest. These were meticulously analyzed by experts to assess the current state of the galleries. The high-quality data provided a clear picture of the infrastructure, enabling us to make informed decisions regarding maintenance and future planning.
### Access
Navigating the labyrinthine underground galleries was no easy feat. Some areas were flooded, while others were cramped and inaccessible. The Elios 3 demonstrated remarkable adaptability, proving capable of operating effectively in diverse environments. Its deployment allowed us to access previously unreachable areas and gather crucial data.
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Brussels, often referred to as the "Capital of Europe," is a city of immense influence. Home to the European Commission and hosting a vibrant international community, it serves as a hub for both business and culture. As a leader in urban innovation, Brussels naturally embraced the concept of smart cities. Smart cities leverage advanced technologies to enhance urban operations, ranging from intelligent traffic systems to sustainable architectural designs.
The Maintenance and Inspection Department at Brussels Mobility initiated a project aimed at surveying the vast network of technical galleries beneath the city. These galleries, many of which were constructed decades ago, lacked updated documentation. The department sought to create a comprehensive inventory detailing the layout, contents, and required maintenance of these spaces. This initiative would enable Brussels Mobility to optimize the utilization of these underground resources.
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## Building a Specialized Underground Survey Team
To accomplish this ambitious task, Brussels Mobility collaborated with several prominent companies. Each partner brought unique expertise to the table. SECO, an engineering and construction firm, focused on identifying structural defects in the concrete and aiding in data collection. Given the confined and potentially hazardous conditions, SECO anticipated complexities and hazards within the underground galleries. To address these concerns, they incorporated a drone-based inspection strategy into their approach.
Sweco, a leading engineering and architecture consultancy, was tasked with cataloging the underground structures used for utilities. Their role involved processing and analyzing the data collected during the inspections. Using LiDAR and visual imagery, Sweco created detailed 2D maps and 3D cross-sections of the subterranean locations.
Medexon and Flywel, drone inspection service providers, joined the project to facilitate the exploration of hazardous and confined spaces. Their specialized Elios 3 drone played a pivotal role in ensuring safe and efficient data collection.
With this expert team assembled, the stage was set for the ambitious surveying endeavor.
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## Exploring the Galleries with the Elios 3
The data collection team embarked on the project with three primary objectives:
1. **Document Unknown Areas**: Many galleries had minimal or no existing records. Up-to-date information on their layout, size, and condition was critical for understanding the full extent of the network.
2. **Identify Assets and Equipment**: The data gathered would provide insights into the assets and equipment housed within the galleries.
3. **Assess Concrete Condition**: Given the lack of maintenance over the years, the integrity of the concrete walls and structures needed evaluation.
Challenges abounded in the form of potential hazards, such as electrical cables submerged in water due to drainage issues or large equipment obstructing pathways. The Elios 3 drone became indispensable for scouting these areas safely and collecting vital data.
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## Navigating Complex Environments
Despite the frigid temperatures, the Elios 3 completed over 200 flights across 13 kilometers of underground spaces. In some instances, the team resorted to manually holding the drone to capture LiDAR data where traditional flight paths were unfeasible. The Elios 3 Surveying Payload proved instrumental in overcoming obstacles, including storm drains and other challenging locations.
The project spanned nine intensive days, resulting in 241 flights and the recording of 1,776 points of interest. The data collected required meticulous processing and mapping. While some datasets exhibited drift, collaboration with the Flyability team helped refine the results. Sweco subsequently generated a detailed LiDAR map overlaid with surface maps, providing a comprehensive view of the underground assets relative to the above-ground environment. This integration facilitated precise planning for maintenance and future operations.
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This collaborative effort has spanned a year thus far, fostering seamless teamwork among all stakeholders. The success of the project marks a significant milestone for Brussels Mobility, empowering them to plan the future of these underground spaces strategically.
Looking ahead, Brussels Mobility anticipates sharing this data with utility companies to support maintenance and repairs. Additionally, the maps will guide efforts to repurpose the galleries for public benefit.
Underground surveys using drones, whether in mines, sewers, or technical galleries, have become safer and more efficient thanks to specialized UAVs like the Elios 3. Its dual capability for data collection and situational awareness ensured the safety of the team, even in challenging, GPS-denied environments. Medexon-Flywel remains optimistic about deploying the Elios 3 in future projects, particularly with the enhanced capabilities of the Surveying Payload.
For those interested in learning more about the Elios 3 and its LiDAR payload, we recommend reading our accuracy report.
All images in this article are credited to CLP Power.