Please could you present Observaero to us in a nutshell ?
Observaero is an all-in-solutions for rotor blade inspection. We combine state-of-the-art drone image recording with an AI-supported image data base and high-quality expert evaluation to generate conformity evaluation for our clients.
What type of information does Observaero provide to wind turbine maintenance experts?
The Observaero platform enables our technical experts to manage and evaluate the images recorded by drones. After upload, there are different possibilities of viewing and filtering the images. The results of the AI pre-selection of anomalies can be viewed, corrected, extended and detailed. Each point of interest could be assigned with a damage type, damage severity, response level and comment. The system offers a workflow to scan the images efficiently. Furthermore, there are different reporting structures to support client communication, from excel or word reports to direct client access.
Recently, an independent certification body decided that Observaero’s methodology fulfills the requirements of the German Authorities for regular inspection of rotor blades. What next steps do you expect following this decision? More generally, what developments do you envisage?
With the third-party confirmation that our OBSERVAERO service is compliant to regulative requirements and provides at least equivalent results to rope access inspection, we see a great potential to bring further value to the windfarm assets of our existing and future clients. Furthermore, now that the MVP development for the OBSERVAERO rotor blade inspection is finished, we both look into the development of additional features and adaption of the concept to other use cases, especially wind turbine nacelles, towers and foundations, as well as substations and converter platforms are of big interest to us. This would be lowering the overall inspection costs even more for the windfarm owners, since the synergy in drone inspection apart from human inspection of the whole turbine exterior is tremendous.
Can you tell us what types of skills Leonard’s Intrapreneur programme has enabled you to develop? What advice do you have for making the most of it?
The Leonard’s Intrapreneur Programme has given me valuable basics of how to create a business case and show its capabilities to my stakeholders. The programme provided an entrepreneurial mindset through its classes, gate presentations and – most helpful for me – the individual coach sessions to challenge and develop new ideas. Last but not least, through Leonard’s network, I made many valuable contacts through all parts of the VINCI network, which were really helpful for the Observaero project and will create synergies for the future.
To find out more about Leonard’s Parcours Intrapreneurs and to apply until October 15, click here.
