Project Status
As of June 2024, EPRI scouted Drone Dock solutions, developed and applied functional specifications, purchased, installed, and operated a Skydio Dock. Testing related to “System Integration and General Capabilities” is underway. These tests include electromagnetic tests, collision avoidance tests, and flight position monitoring. Additionally, the work expanded to consider safety, regulatory, and best practices for operating a Drone Dock beyond visual line of sight, BVLOS.
Deliverables (to date)
The deliverables for the project include:
Planned Tasks and Updates
The work will be performed in five tasks:
Task 1: Engage with utilities, technology service providers, and other industry groups to develop specifications and technology requirements for drone Dock utility applications.
Task 2: Scout, prioritize, acquire, and install hardware and software solutions that meet the functional specification.
Task 3: Perform general testing of Dock systems in the laboratory to understand performance in outdoor utility environments.
Task 4: Perform application-specific laboratory testing with representative utility applications (based on technical domain selection)
Task 5: Document the project results, and host periodic webcasts to update the members on the project status for each domain.