The Challenge

In January 2024, following the powerful Storm Isha, Ellesmere College required a rapid and accurate inspection of their extensive educational campus to assess potential storm damage. With over 160 acres and 30 buildings to inspect, traditional methods would have been time-consuming, costly, and limited by access challenges. Thanks to our advanced drone technology, Nationwide Drones was able to provide a swift and thorough roof inspection solution.

Storm Isha, with its high wind speeds recorded by the Met Office, likely caused damage to the roof structures and surrounding areas at Ellesmere College. A comprehensive inspection was necessary to identify any critical issues affecting the safety and integrity of the buildings. Traditionally, an inspection of this magnitude would take weeks to complete, especially given the scale of the campus and the height of many of the buildings. Additionally, the costs associated with scaffolding, manual inspections, and downtime posed significant barriers. Our challenge was to deliver a full inspection that was faster, more cost-effective, and equally as detailed as traditional methods.

Nationwide Drones Response

We conducted a comprehensive roof inspection of a large educational campus spanning 160 acres and encompassing over 30 buildings. Utilising multiple drones equipped for mapping and 360-degree panoramic imagery, we completed the onsite survey within two days. The collected data was meticulously processed and organised, culminating in the creation of a detailed, roof inspection report.

What we did

Mapping: Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras performed aerial surveys, creating detailed and accurate maps of the entire campus. This provided a comprehensive view of the roofs and surrounding areas.
360-Degree panoramic imagery: Drones captured immersive, high-definition panoramic images of each roof. This allowed for an in-depth visual inspection of roof conditions and any potential issues from various angles.
Survey execution: Completed the entire inspection within a two-day timeframe, ensuring rapid data collection without compromising on detail.
Data processing:
Compiled and analysed the extensive imagery and mapping data by sorting it into sections for different buildings and roof areas. Specialized software was then used to enhance the images, stitch panoramic views together, and generate precise maps.
3D Modelling: The collected data was used to create precise 3D models of the whole site.
Report generation: Produced a detailed roof inspection report, featuring comprehensive findings that documented any issues or areas of concern. The report included annotated images and maps to clearly illustrate and support the inspection results.

Project Deliverables

Area Mapping
3D Digital model
Drone 360 Panoramas
Roof Inspection
Area Mapping
3D Digital model of the whole site

Summary

Nationwide Drones delivered a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for Gateley Smithers Purslow, completing what would traditionally have been a lengthy process in just two days. With precise mapping, 360-degree imagery, and a detailed inspection report, we ensured that the college received comprehensive information about their building’s condition in record time. This project demonstrates the transformative potential of drone technology in large-scale infrastructure inspections, offering speed, accuracy, and significant cost savings.