DJI Dock (application) in winter sports

Drones are increasingly being used for inspections and checks in hard-to-reach places. In Switzerland, DJI's first piste manager has recently started flying. This innovation with drones saves time and increases efficiency compared to traditional piste management methods.

First flying piste manager

In Melchsee-Frutt, Switzerland, the DJI Dock 3 has recently been put into daily use to monitor slopes, snow cannons and ski lifts.

Whereas inspections of snow cannons and slopes used to take a lot of time and manpower, a drone can now monitor large areas of the resort in just a few minutes. Any problems, such as defective snow cannons or irregularities on the slopes, are easily visible and sometimes detected earlier.

During inspection flights, the drone collects detailed images of slopes, snow cannons, ski lifts and hard-to-reach locations. The thermal imaging camera can be used to measure the temperature of the snow from the snow cannon and whether ice is forming on the ski lifts. It is also possible to zoom in on the ski lift mechanism from above to identify any defects or wear and tear.

The drone has a fixed docking station in the ski resort. From this docking station, automated flights are carried out every day and monitored remotely. Despite the challenging weather conditions (cold, wind), the drone can carry out various inspections on a daily basis.

After the flight, all images are analysed by the maintenance team. Any problems are identified so that repairs and maintenance can be scheduled.

How does the DJI Dock work?

The DJI Dock, DJI Dock 2 and 3 are drone boxes. Flights can be scheduled and automated. From the docking station (the drone box), the drone follows a fixed route with pre-programmed missions. The drone can be monitored remotely and, if necessary, controlled from a control room using a keyboard or radio controller.

The drone box is connected to a fixed power and internet network. The drone recharges itself after each flight and the images can be viewed during the flight via a live stream. DJI Docks can be used for many different purposes. These include securing a construction project or large industrial site, carrying out inspections in hard-to-reach places, or monitoring emergency situations such as a missing person or fire.