A Quickly Deployed and UAS-Based Logistics Network for Delivery of Critical Medical Goods during Healthcare System Stress Periods: A Real Use Case in Valencia (Spain)

Abstract

On the one hand, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs) have experienced great applicability surge in the recent years, arising as a promising technology with a wide field of use. On the other hand, healthcare, a critical system in modern society, is subject to a heavy and unexpected pressure in the case of situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This article aims to leverage the flexibility of UASs as complementary support for healthcare logistic systems when under high-stress conditions, via quick deployment of an air delivery network. We have defined a logistics network model and created three scenarios based on the model and current needs in Valencia (Spain). Flight tests have been performed in these scenarios, which include urban areas and controlled airspace. Operations complied with requirements derived from the application of Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) methodology, recently adopted by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Flights were successful, being able to swiftly deliver medical goods without requiring any dedicated infrastructure. However, a moderate number of contingencies took place during the tests, mainly related to control link quality and Air Traffic Management (ATM) integration, forcing the use of dedicated procedures to cope with them. Although additional development is required to ensure the safety of large-scale automated operations, the use of UASs as part of logistic networks is a feasible means to support existing structures, especially in situations in dire need.

Quality Control of Red Blood Cell Solutions for Transfusion Transported via Drone Flight to a Remote Island

“…There are also no reports on the visual transport of heavy medicines using the multi-copter. For example, Garcia IQ et al reported excellent results with the Matrix 300 RTK, which is a multi-copter [19]. However, the Matrix 300 RTK cannot transport heavy-weight objects.…”

Appropriate transport of whole blood by drones for cases of massive bleeding

“…However, the transport capacity of the DJI MARICE 300 RTK used for this purpose is approximately 2 kg. 13 We aimed to transport blood in a temperaturecontrolled environment, and the M1000 permitted load of 24.9 kg, which means that it can carry a load of more than 10 kg after subtracting its own weight. However, for safety reasons, drones such as M1000 are too large for practical use.…”

The impact of COVID‐19 on logistics and coping strategies: A literature review

“…However, compared with physical movement, Simic et al (2021) specifically analyzed the Belgrade region when determining the optimal last‐mile distribution (LMD) mode, and determined that postal transport was the best mode of transport for LMD, followed by cargo bikes, drones, conventional couriers, self‐driving cars, and metro transport. Quintanilla Garcia et al (2021) also stated that drones are primarily concerned with control link quality and air traffic management (ATM) integration. It can be concluded that the deployment of drones as part of a logistical network is a viable method of assisting existing infrastructure, particularly in times of extreme need.…”