The key objectives of the project are as follows:
Geophysical Survey (GS) and Pipeline Monitoring (PM) services, using remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) flying beyond line of sight, are targeted at the following End Users:
- The oil and gas exploration and production companies such as the Shell Group
- The mining exploration companies, such as Anglo American and BHP Billington
We propose the introduction of a disruptive technology based on the use of light (<45 kg) RPA using satellite communications and navigation services to enable the RPA to operate beyond line of sight, and yet remain in contact with the Ground Control Station (GCS). The periodic introduction of innovations will enable year – on – year GS and PM service price reductions.
The demonstration concept involves the use of a RPAS in a GS demonstration in the UK, so the data quality, the logistical requirements, the regulatory burden and all of the costs can be compared with equivalent metrics for manned aircraft performing the same task.
The aim of the PM tests, to take place in Norway, and PM demo, to take place in Barcelona in Spain, is to evaluate the effectiveness of detecting anomalies on a road, during both day and night time.
It is clear that potential customers want to see the data we plan to get from this User driven Demonstration Project. We need evidence to back the benefits to be gained through the use of a satellite communications + GNSS enabled RPAS based service.
