Uali and heliguy: Driving innovation in asset management with DJI Docks

• heliguy providing 'extensive support' to help Uali integrate DJI Dock technology into its 'system of systems' to transform operations in the energy sector;

• Uali - with bases in the UK and Argentina - introduces the first DJI Dock 2 in Latin America, while monthly Dock installments are planned for the next two years;

• The drone data is fed into Uali's AI software which analyses the information for faults, risks, or inefficiencies;

• Uali is investing in DJI Docks because of their 'potential to redefine asset inspection';

• heliguy's support package to help integrators adopt and scale automated drone solutions includes consultation, operational and maintenance training, regulatory support, and equipment supply - powered by 35+ industry specialists.

“heliguy’s extensive support package for drone integrators, from training to technical assistance, has been instrumental in enabling us to maximise the potential of DJI Docks.”

That’s the view of award-winning cleantech company Uali, after recently introducing the first DJI Dock 2 in Latin America for automated oil-field inspections.

The innovative firm, which has bases in the UK and Argentina, specialises in integrating cutting-edge robotics and artificial intelligence to revolutionise asset management throughout the global energy sector.

DJI Dock drone-in-a-box systems have become an integral component of Uali’s ‘system of systems’ - thanks to their ability to collect remote, efficient, and reliable data at remote sites.

The drones connect to Uali’s proprietary platform via Starlink, enabling the transfer of real-time data. This is then processed through Uali's 12 AI models, which are trained daily to deliver increasingly precise and actionable insights.

This advanced technological integration - combining groundbreaking innovation in unmanned operations with AI - positions Uali as a South American tech leader.

Partnering with DJI Dock specialist heliguy has enabled Uali to seamlessly integrate these solutions into its inspection arsenal to deliver tangible benefits to its clients.

Uali has benefited from a package of support that includes technical training and maintenance, regulatory assistance, dedicated account management, and product supply.

Multiple Docks are already in situ - facilitating the inspection of more than 800 assets - while monthly installations are scheduled for the next two years.

Ian Bogado, Uali CEO, said: “Our mission is clear: Reduce environmental risks, optimise costs, and empower companies to analyse critical asset data quickly and seamlessly.

“Partnering with heliguy and incorporating DJI Docks into our ecosystem has taken this vision to the next level. Choosing heliguy as a partner was a natural fit, and this collaboration ensures we can continually innovate and deliver reliable solutions to our clients.”

Seamless integration for smarter workflows

DJI Docks are a game-changer in automated inspections, serving as platforms where drones can land, recharge, and securely upload collected data to Uali's system.

Uali has ensured that they integrate seamlessly into client workflows.

Amelia Balsamo, Uali CTO, said: “These docks are a vital part of our ‘system of systems’, enabling continuous, high-frequency, and remote data collection while minimising human intervention.

“Whether it’s inspecting wind turbines, monitoring oil fields, or surveying electrical grids, the combination of drone hardware and dock infrastructure creates a highly-efficient workflow.

“Our work with DJI Docks spans multiple industries, including renewable energy, oil and gas, and infrastructure management.

“While we can’t name specific clients, our solutions have made a tangible impact in Argentina, Latin America, and beyond - demonstrating the global relevance of our technology.”

Advantages of the DJI Dock 2 include the drones’ multi-sensor array, including RGB, telephoto, and infrared cameras; 10km range; automatic data transfer to the cloud for immediate analysis; and weather-related fail-safes. DJI Dock 2 also represents a 50% reduction in cost per flight thanks to its ability to endure more than 400 battery cycles.

Technology with purpose: Environmental and cost-saving benefits

Uali operates in some of the most challenging and demanding environments, including the vast oil and gas fields of Vaca Muerta, Argentina, a global energy powerhouse.

This speaks to the robustness of the projects managed by Uali, further showcasing the company’s capacity to handle complex, large-scale operations that require precision and reliability.

“Our commitment to sustainability drives every decision we make,” said Mr Bogado.

“With DJI Docks and drones working in harmony, we’ve enhanced our ability to help clients identify risks early, prevent environmental hazards, and make data-driven decisions faster.

“By automating inspections, we not only reduce operational costs but also minimize the environmental footprint of traditional methods.”

The power of Uali’s AI-driven software

Uali’s proprietary software sits at the heart of the data capture process.

After drones collect high-resolution images and videos, the Docks upload the data to Uali’s platform, where AI models analyse the information for faults, risks, or inefficiencies.

Mr Bogado said: “From detecting cracks in wind turbine blades to identifying methane leaks, our AI ensures accurate, actionable insights. Furthermore, our system is designed to integrate with third-party platforms, giving clients the flexibility they need for streamlined operations.”

A strategic partnership with heliguy

Uali describes partnering with heliguy as a ‘natural fit’.

It’s a glowing endorsement of the UK drone specialist, which has strategically invested in its internal capability to better empower drone integrators - providing them with the platform they need to confidently adopt and scale autonomous drone solutions.

This multi-faceted approach covers all bases: From initial consultation through to official DJI FlightHub 2 and DJI Dock operational training, DJI-accredited Dock maintenance tuition, regulatory support, equipment supply, and on-going assistance.

This support network is powered by heliguy’s 35+ team of in-house enterprise staff, including accredited DJI Dock technicians, regulatory specialists, drone surveyors, solution engineers, and dedicated project managers.

heliguy also recently obtained landmark approval for BVLOS DJI Dock flights in Atypical Air Environments - and will use this to help clients break down the barriers of automated, BVLOS drone-in-a-box missions.

Ruairi Hardman, heliguy™ Business Development Manager and account manager for Uali, said: “The benefits of drone-in-a-box technology are clear, but often the fundamental and challenging component for integrators is how can they seamlessly integrate these solutions within their existing infrastructure.

“At heliguy, we have funnelled our 20 years of drone-sector experience to help break down these barriers and provide integrators with all of the tools they need to utilise these autonomous solutions and blend them into their existing infrastructure.

“We’re proud to support Uali, a company that is combining robotics, IoT, and artificial intelligence to save time and costs for its clients, while reducing environmental damage.

“Uali is a success story, demonstrating how Dock systems can transform the energy sector. But we know there are hundreds of use-cases outside of this industry and we’d like to hear from integrators to find out how we can help them. Get in touch for a free consultation.”

Recognition for innovation

2024 was a landmark year for Uali.

The company received multiple recognitions for its pioneering work in AI and automation, including accolades from AI in Latam 2024, the Santander X Award 2024, and Free Electrons 2024.

Its commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology was also highlighted at AOG Patagonia 2024: Digital Transformation in O&G, where Uali showcased its role in optimising asset inspections.

Additionally, Uali was honored with the Premio BA Parque de la Innovación 2024, further solidifying its status as a key player in the energy and technology sectors.

Uali was also a finalist in the Innovative Startup Award in Green and Renewable Energies,, and a finalist in the South Summit: Most innovative company in the green energy sector.

Investing in the Future with DJI Docks

The awards are a testament to Uali’s innovative approach. But this ambitious firm isn’t stopping there, with a drive to continue to push the technological boundaries.

And DJI Docks are at the very heart of this ethos.

Mr Bogado said: “We’re investing in DJI Docks because we believe in their potential to redefine asset inspection. These platforms ensure drones can operate autonomously, collect data efficiently, and maintain their performance through automated charging and data transfer. "

Ms Balsamo added: “Their seamless integration into complex workflows makes them a cornerstone of our strategy. We’re confident that this technology, combined with our AI, will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in asset management.

“As we look ahead, we’re excited to further our mission of delivering sustainable, innovative solutions to industries worldwide—and our partnership with heliguy and DJI Docks will undoubtedly play a key role in achieving this.”

To find out how heliguy can help you integrate DI Dock systems into your workflows, contact us. To find out more about Uali and their work within the energy sector, click here.