May 14, 2024

Critical Ops spoke with a representative of the Delaware Department of Transportation’s drone program regarding their growing use of the capability. The following is an overview of the information they shared.   

The world of drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), has soared in recent years, with their applications reaching far beyond military and recreational use. From capturing stunning aerial photography to supporting critical infrastructure inspections, UAVs are transforming industries and revolutionizing how we work.  

DelDOT’s drone program offers a glimpse into the future of our critical infrastructure capabilities. As UAV regulations evolve and technology advances, DelDOT’s pioneering efforts are paving the way for a future where drones are not just tools, but integral components of interconnected infrastructure management systems. This data-driven revolution holds the promise of a safer, more efficient, and resilient future for our roads, bridges, and the communities they serve. 

DelDOT’s Three Main UAVs: 

• DJI Mavic 3: This portable and user-friendly drone allows users to capture breathtaking visuals. Its Hasselblad camera delivers stunning photos and videos, while omnidirectional obstacle sensors ensure a safe flying experience. It even boasts a night vision mode that’s enabled through its advanced software.[1] 
• DJI Mavic 3T: Designed for professional applications, the Mavic 3T stands out for its thermal imaging capabilities. Unlike the Mavic 3, it boasts a thermal camera that can capture heat signatures, ideal for search and rescue or nighttime inspections. Additionally, the Mavic 3T packs a 56x zoom camera for detailed visual inspection, making it a problem-solver for various commercial and public needs.[2] 
• DJI Mavic 3E: This commercial drone prioritizes efficiency and precision in surveying and mapping tasks. It sets itself apart from the Mavic 3 and Mavic 3T with a mechanical shutter that eliminates motion blur in images, crucial for accurate data collection. The Mavic 3E also boasts centimeter-level precision thanks to an attachable RTK module that ensures detailed and reliable maps. With a long flight time, it can cover vast areas in a single mission.[3] 

DelDOT Drone Use: 

• Construction Monitoring: Drones provide a real-time, panoramic view of construction sites, allowing stakeholders to pinpoint potential issues, track material deliveries, ensure worker safety, and track progress all from a convenient location.[4] 
• Traffic Management: Drones with advanced traffic monitoring software provide DelDOT with a live feed of road conditions. This allows them to optimize traffic flow, identify bottlenecks, respond quickly to incidents, and even support police gathering evidence in auto-related crime scenes. [5] 
• Bridge Inspections: Forget risky scaffolding – drones can meticulously scan bridges for structural integrity and thermal imaging can detect hidden hotspots, revealing potential damage and enabling preventive maintenance before issues worsen, saving time and resources while keeping inspectors safe.[6] 
• Emergency Response: Minutes matter in critical situations, and drones are DelDOT’s secret weapon for rapid response. Whether locating missing persons in disaster zones or assessing damage after a storm, these agile aerial scouts navigate treacherous terrain and gather crucial information, guiding emergency crews to those in need quickly and effectively.[7] 

Looking to dive deeper into the world of drones and see how Critical Ops and help with your program? Reach out to our Aerospace Department today!