Digital city project in Irkutsk developed by SLI-Group SLI-GroupThe project includes an innovative system for monitoring and digitalising the urban environment using drones. These drones will fly at a height of 7 metres above the asphalt surface and at a distance of 5 metres from buildings (vertically) and 2 metres horizontally. Their task is to read data and digitise sections of urban infrastructure, especially in places where the use of specialised equipment is not possible.

Drones will enable the collection of accurate data from hard-to-reach locations, providing a complete picture of the condition of city streets and structures. This information will be a key element for improving urban infrastructure and developing digital solutions for city management. SLI-Groupis committed to making Irkutsk more technologically advanced and convenient for living.

Main characteristics of the drone

1. Flight altitude:
   • Minimum height above the tarmac surface : 7 metres.
   • Vertical distance from buildings: 5 metres.
   • Horizontal distance from buildings: 2 metres.
2. Flight time (autonomy):
   • Minimum flight time: 45-60 minutes on a single charge, with the possibility of quick recharging or battery replacement.
   • An option to increase flight time is solar panels on the drone ‘s surface (if there is enough sunshine ).
3. Speed:
   • Flight speed: 15 to 30 km/h for efficient area coverage and data collection.
4. Load capacity:
   • Maximum load capacity: up to 2kg for mounting cameras and sensors.
5. Weather Resistance:
   • Operating temperature: -20°C to +40°C.
   • Wind resistance: up to 15 m/s.
   • Waterproof: IP67 (for operation in rain and snow).

Internal equipment of the drone

1. Cameras and sensors:
   • LiDAR (LiDAR):To create a three-dimensional map of surfaces and buildings, allowing accurate measurement of distances and digitalisation of data.
   • High quality cameras (4K or 8K):For photogrammetry, terrain surveying and recognising fine details on the surface.
   • Infrared cameras:For assessing temperature changes and detecting heat leaks or other anomalies.
   • Ultrasonic sensors:For precise detection of flight height and obstacles.
   • Multispectral cameras:For analysing the condition of asphalt pavement, vegetation and other objects.
2. Navigation systems:
   • GPS and GLONASS:For precise positioning and navigation.
   • IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit):To stabilise and ensure flight accuracy even when there is no GPS signal (e.g. in narrow urban areas).
   • Cameras with obstacle detection (front, rear, bottom):For automatic collision avoidance.
3. Data transmission system:
   • 4G/5G module:For real-time data transmission to servers and long distance drone control.
   • Wi-Fi or LTE for local data transmission:Possibility of data transmission in areas with limited access to the mobile network.
   • Radio module (in case there is no internet connection):For data transmission over limited distances via radio signal.
4. Trip computer:
   • Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled processor:For real-time data processing, including image analysis, decision making and prediction.
   • Memory for data storage:Minimum 128 GB for storing information before it is transferred to the server.
5. Battery:
   • Lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries:To ensure long flight times.
   • Fast charging module:To minimise downtime between flights.
6. Flight Control System:
   • Autopilot:For autonomous task execution along predetermined routes.
   • Manual operation mode:For applications requiring operator intervention or non-standard tasks.
   • Auto Return function:In case of low charge or loss of communication, the drone automatically returns to the base.
7. Additional features:
   • Collision avoidance system:Based on lidar and ultrasonic sensors for operation in densely populated areas and near buildings.
   • Night operation mode:Infrared cameras and thermal imaging cameras for low light conditions.

Software

1. Software for mapping and data analysis:
   • Ability to process Lidar and photogrammetry data to create 3D maps and analyse infrastructure condition.
   • Built-in analytics to assess asphalt condition, track changes and plan repairs.
2. Remote control and monitoring:
   • Apps to control your drone via your smartphone or tablet.
   • Monitoring panel for real-time flight monitoring and tracking of camera and sensor data.