The Changing Reality for Utilities
The utility sector is navigating a landscape filled with unprecedented challenges. From climate events, renewable integration and ageing infrastructure to increasing regulation and operating cost pressures, utilities are constantly under pressure to innovate and adapt. More is being demanded from operational asset performance, and so a re-think of traditional asset management is required.
Utility asset management typically involves dispersed teams, located across regions and departments, all answering to multiple stakeholders. As these stakeholders demand differing metrics, outcomes and reports, the need for integration and a single platform becomes increasingly important. This fragmented approach complicates collaboration and access to real-time data, highlighting the need for a unified platform to integrate inputs, outcomes, and expectations effectively. It’s never been more necessary for asset operators to access the right data in the right tools at the right time.
The desire for re-imagined models of delivery must address the considerations of decarbonization, digitalization, decentralization, and deregulation. The increasing use of digital technologies and data analytics is disrupting traditional business models, changing the way linear assets are designed, built, inspected, and operated. Utilities that use high-resolution imagery to assess field asset conditions are faced with common challenges in managing their data, optimizing the inspection process, and effectively sharing the information across the organization to maximize its value.
Having served a wide range of clients in the global transportation, utility, and government sectors, Tech Mahindra Altavec has been at the forefront of innovative geospatial data solutions for more than thirty years. Our extensive experience in creating asset management software and completing complex asset capture projects makes us experts in solving challenging industry issues. With global access, rapid solution development capabilities, and a commitment to excellence and innovation, Tech Mahindra Altavec has established itself as a trusted partner in delivering cutting-edge mobile and spatial technology solutions.
The Challenges Facing Utilities
Utilities are grappling with ageing infrastructure, stringent regulations, competition for right of way, and rising costs. They manage increasingly complex networks as a result of population growth, the transition to renewables, and emission reduction targets. There has also been a substantial increase in assets and data, creating further complications as different components have varying lifespans, depreciation rates, operating conditions, and maintenance needs.
A significant number of linear assets, such as pipelines and power lines, have reached the end of their lifespan and require replacement or refurbishment. Network owners faced with rising construction and maintenance costs are under pressure to find ways to reduce expenses while still meeting regulatory and customer requirements. Additionally, integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure compounds the complexity of managing more assets and exponentially more data.
Risk-averse corporate cultures and entrenched departmental systems exacerbate these challenges. Many businesses are unprepared due to behavioural norms such as territorial data hoarding and lagging technical capabilities. This often results in cumbersome master data management and extract, transform, and load (ETL) processes, increasing the latency at which data can be made available to applications and decision-makers.
The speed at which data can be delivered to users and applications is a significant challenge when data is distributed across various database platforms, applications, and other data sources—both on-premises and in the cloud. Fragmentation and silos of inaccessible data impact scalability and create latencies. Businesses frequently struggle with data integration and application modernization.
With the increasing frequency and severity of climate events causing significant damage to infrastructure and assets, the ability to swiftly access both current and past data from various systems is becoming more crucial than ever. Communities, regulators, and environmental groups expect rapid responses to such events, requiring asset owners to continually invest in reducing environmental impacts while maintaining safety and reliability.
Innovative Solutions for Complex Problems
Tech Mahindra Altavec leverages advanced spatial algorithms, machine learning, and precision surveys using LiDAR and high-definition imagery to create accurate 3D digital network models. The cloud-based AIMS (Advancing Intelligent Mapping Solutions) Platform integrates these capabilities, offering real-time insights that enable predictive maintenance and operational optimization. This empowers utilities to transition from reactive to proactive asset management, reducing risks and enhancing network reliability.
Using cutting-edge geospatial technologies, Tech Mahindra Altavec, delivers comprehensive solutions to address the utility sector’s most pressing problems. Our innovative applications and services cover network capture, vegetation management, asset management, risk assessment, network visualization, and lone worker safety. By digitizing asset management processes, we streamline operations, minimize on-site inspections, and improve safety outcomes for field personnel. Our digital transformation initiatives enhance efficiency and fosters collaboration across dispersed teams and stakeholders.
Tech Mahindra Altavec collaborates with industry leaders and conducts ongoing pilot programs to ensure that their solutions remain at the forefront of technological advancement. This commitment to innovation enables us to deliver tailored, scalable solutions that meet the unique needs of utilities worldwide.
AIMS Capture: Unlocking the Potential of Spatial Data
Existing field-based assets can be located across vast, remote, rugged, or densely populated urban regions. Digital options reduce the need for resource-intensive and lengthy on-site inspections. Remote sensing and digital asset data capture programs allow specialists to inspect captured asset data or digital images from the safety of the office, resulting in more efficient use of resources and reduced health and safety hazards for employees. AIMS Capture leverages advanced LiDAR and high-resolution imagery to create precise 3D digital network models, enabling accurate asset condition assessments, risk identification, and effective maintenance strategies.
AIMS Clearance: Empowering Smarter Networks
AIMS Clearance offers comprehensive features that optimize network performance, ensure safety, and reduce operational costs. It delivers quick results, high-quality data, and timely analytics, providing customers with immediate insights. Automated data processing and streamlined processes offer a precise 3D summary of the network for safer, more reliable, and cost-effective operations. Through its analysis of remote sensing and satellite data, AIMS Clearance proactively detects and mitigates vegetation risks along utility corridors, enhancing asset resilience and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
AIMS 3D: Democratizing Network Visualization
AIMS 3D empowers organizations by providing comprehensive spatial visualization tools, bridging the gap between technical and non-technical personnel. Through machine learning and spatial algorithms, AIMS 3D provides unparalleled accuracy in asset assessment, facilitating informed decision-making and streamlined infrastructure planning. This user-friendly platform enhances collaboration across teams, optimizing network performance and operational efficiency.
AIMS VAA: Pioneering Predictive Maintenance
AIMS VAA revolutionizes asset inspection processes with its cloud-based platform, automating image capture and analysis. Powered by machine learning models, AIMS VAA accelerates maintenance planning, reduces safety risks, and improves overall network reliability. This innovative solution facilitates real-time decision-making, enabling utilities to enhance predictive maintenance strategies further. AIMS VAA exemplifies Tech Mahindra Altavec’s commitment to innovation by integrating advanced analytics and predictive modelling.
AIMS Zero: Empowering Safety
AIMS Zero is an award-winning safety solution designed to prioritize the safety and well-being of lone remote workers. It combines a comprehensive web-based application with a wearable watch or mobile device, offering tools to stay connected, informed, and safe. AIMS Zero incorporates advanced spatial analysis capabilities, leveraging GPS sensors and satellite integration for accurate real-time location data, even in remote areas. This solution fosters a proactive safety culture, ensuring continuous improvement and alignment with specific organizational needs.
Looking ahead the future for utilities and Industry Impact
Advanced spatial systems like Tech Mahindra Altavec’s AIMS platform are changing the future of the utility sector. Weare dedicated to addressing the pressing challenges of the utility sector through innovative geospatial solutions. As utilities embrace digitalization and satellite data, the role geospatial data plays in asset management are becoming increasingly pivotal. Tech Mahindra Altavec continues to pioneer advanced technologies, setting new benchmarks in efficiency, safety, and sustainability. By leveraging geospatial intelligence, we empower utilities to navigate complex challenges and achieve operational excellence in an evolving energy landscape.
Tech Mahindra Altavec remains steadfast in its mission to redefine utility asset management through innovation, expertise, and a commitment to excellence. With a proven track record spanning continents, we stand ready to partner with utilities on their journey toward a sustainable and resilient future.
For more information on Tech Mahindra Altavec’s innovative geospatial solutions contact [email protected], or visit the website www.altavec.com
