The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded Pitch Aeronautics Inc., a veteran-owned small business, a $274,853 STTR Phase I grant under the NSF Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP) program (CFDA 47.084). The grant supports the development of techniques for localizing drones with respect to power lines and control strategies that enable the installation, removal, and maintenance of dynamic line rating (DLR) sensors on power lines. This project aims to alleviate the backlog of renewable energy projects needing to connect to the power grid by providing an efficient method of installing and replacing power line sensors, bird diverters, and other line components using innovative drone technology. Boise State University is a sub-awardee and will develop navigation, state estimation, and control algorithms for stable drone operation near power lines, as well as provide system integration, testing, and reporting support.
Generated 2/25/25, 5:05 AM