ABSTRACT
The paper focuses on the economic benefits of the use of unmanned aerial vehicles compared to the existing monitoring system. Pipes, compressors and pumps are often found in difficult terrain, therefore their inspection is complicated. Progress in remote sensing solution, processing technology and image stabilization provides a basis for designing monitoring systems for pipelines using remote sensors and context-oriented image processing software. With an increasing age, pipelines are more susceptible to corrosion leading to the release of dangerous substances, which can have a negative impact on the environment, population, economy and the international oil market. The economic advantage of monitoring their operations is a matter of global importance. UAV’s monitoring systems regularly provide measured data important for characterization of structural and functional qualities of pipes and that might help detect problems in a sufficient period of time allowing, if necessary, take appropriate safety precautions.
