The Client
The client, based in the UK, is a leading manufacturer of solar panels. They specialize in designing, manufacturing, installing, and maintaining solar panels for residential and commercial use.
Project Requirements
For solar panel maintenance, the client wanted to utilize an AI system that could assist in:
Defect Detection
Identifying potential issues like micro-cracks, delamination, or hotspot heating in solar panels through image analysis.
Efficiency Optimization
Analyzing shading patterns and other environmental factors to optimize panel placement and maximize energy output.
The client had over 5000 solar panel images (including RGB and thermal spectrums) captured by drones, which they wanted to be annotated accurately to train machine learning models.
Our Solution
After understanding the project's complexity, we engaged a dedicated team of 10 image annotators. We used the polyline annotation technique to mark defects and anomalies in both the RGB and thermal images.
We provided initial training to ensure our annotators were proficient in using the client's proprietary image annotation tool and familiar with the specific types of defects and issues that needed to be identified.
Based on the client's project specifications, we developed detailed image annotation guidelines. Our team divided the provided image datasets into manageable segments to ensure thorough inspection and precise labeling.
We employed a strategic human-in-the-loop approach: Initially, our annotators manually labeled datasets, which served as a reference for the client's proprietary annotation tool to tag all the images.
We maintained close collaboration with the client through regular feedback sessions, which allowed us to refine our processes and annotation criteria continually. We assigned a project manager to provide regular progress updates to the client.
Impressed by our service quality and the tangible improvements in their operations, the client signed a 1-year project contract with us. Key outcomes achieved by the client include:
35% increase in the accuracy of the client's defect detection algorithms
20% reduction in overhead cost as the client was able to proactively address defects and minimize downtime for repairs
Improved AI models facilitated swift identification of solar panel defects, streamlining maintenance processes