Image based surface damage detection of renewable energy installations using a unified deep learning approach

Smart Grid technology as a platform can encompass several advanced technological features across the spectrum of the power system. Smart Grid may introduce an early warning system for structural damage on the surface of large-scale power utility facilities providing crucial information to maintain the safety of the plant. To achieve such a cost-effective structural health monitoring system, a holistic smart inspection implementation framework is required. Using recently available sophisticated inspection technologies, high-resolution images covering the structural condition of large infrastructure can be routinely acquired as a remote monitoring process. Automated analysis of these inspection images can significantly reduce the inspection cost, provide an effective detection mechanism, and shorten reporting time, as a result, reducing overall maintenance costs, and improving safety…