Research and Development Office

Inaccessible Features Inspection at Glen Canyon Dam

Project ID: 2415
Principal Investigator: Matthew Klein
Research Topic: Public and Employee Safety
Funded Fiscal Years: 2016
Keywords: None

Research Question

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) have been rapidly increasing in reliability and
capability over the past few years. One particular application area for UAS is in
inaccessible feature inspections at Reclamation facilities.

Need and Benefit

Reclamation's specialized hydropower structures require regular inspections to insure
maintenance issues are properly addressed in a timely manner. However, many
components of these structures, referred to as inaccessible features, require
specific procedures and specialized training for safe entrance including rope
access, dewatering, and air quality control. UAS can access many of these
potentially hazardous areas safely and cost effectively.

Contributing Partners

Contact the Principal Investigator for information about partners.

Research Products

Please contact research@usbr.gov about research products related to this project.

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