InnerView Insights and LineSmarts have formally merged, combining complementary technologies to deliver an integrated approach to utility asset inspection and overhead line engineering.
The merger brings together ultrasound-based wooden pole assessment and overhead line measurement and load analysis, creating a unified engineering toolkit for electricity distribution and telecommunications operators.
Why This Matters for Utilities
Electricity networks are under increasing pressure:
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Ageing wooden pole populations
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Compliance obligations under standards such as NZECP34 and NESC
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Increasing storm events and reliability expectations
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Cost pressures on inspection and engineering teams
Historically, pole integrity and overhead line loading have been assessed separately. The combined InnerView and LineSmarts capability enables a more coordinated, data-driven view of structural risk.
Bringing UB1000 and Axonic Together
InnerView’s UB1000 ultrasound non-destructive testing system provides objective insight into the structural condition of wooden poles, including early-stage and advanced decay patterns.
LineSmarts’ Axonic platform enables precise measurement of overhead line geometry, conductor tension, sag, and structural loading — supporting compliance assessment and engineering decision-making.
Together, these tools allow utilities to:
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Understand both pole health and applied structural loads
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Improve maintenance prioritisation
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Support defensible compliance documentation
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Reduce unnecessary pole replacements
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Enhance safety for line crews and the public
Engineering Accessibility and Scale
Carl Rathbone, co-founder of LineSmarts and lead engineer behind Axonic, notes that the platform was designed to make overhead line engineering more accessible to those responsible for asset decisions.
Wayne Hall, Director at InnerView Insights and developer of the UB1000 technology, highlights that ultrasound non-destructive testing was developed to give utilities confidence in the structural integrity of their wooden pole fleets.
By merging, the companies extend their engineering support capability across inspection, measurement, and analytics — creating a platform for broader global deployment.
A New Zealand Base with Global Ambition
Both companies have established track records in electricity distribution and telecommunications networks. The combined entity will continue operating from New Zealand while expanding internationally.
The merger strengthens the ability to deliver:
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Advanced non-destructive testing solutions
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Overhead line measurement and analysis tools
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Integrated asset management insights
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Support for regulatory compliance frameworks
Looking Ahead
The integration of pole condition diagnostics and overhead line measurement represents a step toward more comprehensive asset management systems.
Further technical updates and research developments will be shared in future Insights articles.
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