An Inside Look: How Drone Medical Delivery Works
Pictured: UHCW NHS Trust x Skyfarer “Staff Workshops” 2021
As we continue to discuss the exciting world of Drone Medical Delivery, it's time to explore how this groundbreaking technology works. You might be wondering, how can a drone possibly deliver critical medical supplies quickly, safely, and accurately? In this post, we're going behind the scenes to reveal the intricate process behind drone medical delivery.
AUTHORISATION
Before each and every flight, Skyfarer must go through extensive authorisations to be able to fly within the airspace it needs to make such deliveries.
The Order Process
The journey of a medical drone starts with an order. Hospitals, pharmacies, or other healthcare facilities place an order for medical supplies through Skyfarer’s Order Management System. Customers are given time expectancies and a live view of the drone for the duration of its flight.
Preparing the Cargo
Once the order is received, medical supplies are prepared and packaged safely in special containers designed to protect them from damage during transit.
Drone Loading and Pre-flight Checks
The cargo is then loaded onto our drone. Before it takes off, several pre-flight checks are carried out to ensure the drone's systems are functioning correctly and it's safe for the flight.
Automated Flight
The drone's flight is automated using GPS navigation, allowing it to take the most direct route to the destination. Drones fly at a lower altitude than conventional aircraft, usually under 400 feet, to avoid air traffic. Drone flights are heavily monitored during flight and are tracked through Altitude Angels Unmanned Traffic Management software.
Real-Time Monitoring
Throughout the flight, our drones are monitored in real-time by Skyfarer’s team of operators who can intervene if necessary. However, our drones are designed to autonomously handle different scenarios, such as avoiding obstacles or navigating around bad weather.
Precision Delivery
Upon reaching the destination, Skyfarer drones deliver their cargo by vertically landing, before the cargo is taken safely from the secure cargo hold.
Return and Recharge
After successful delivery, the drone returns to Skyfarer HQ, where it's inspected, serviced if necessary, and prepared for the next mission.
Data Collection and Analysis
Data collected during each flight is analyzed to improve future operations. This can include everything from delivery times and routes to drone performance and weather conditions.
As you can see, drone medical delivery isn't a simple process, but a complex orchestration of various elements working together to ensure the safe and timely delivery of life-saving medical supplies. Despite the technical challenges involved, the potential rewards - improved patient care, increased accessibility, and enhanced efficiency - make it a worthwhile endeavor. Stay with us as we continue to unravel the captivating aspects of drone medical delivery in our upcoming posts.
To hear more about Medical Drone Delivery services, please email contact@skyfarer.co.uk