Ecotech Response 3 – RyanL + JakeB
- Biodegradable Drones, Everfly – OtherLab, February 14, 2017
- Currently, we have a system that allows medical supplies to be delivered to disaster areas such as Rwanda via drone. The issue is that sometimes these drones get destroyed or intercepted before reaching their targeted area. On humanitarian missions, it is vital for the drones to reach the areas so people can get medical supplies without littering the ground with drones. The solution here is simply put: biodegradable drones.
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- How will people get the supplies they need in emergencies? How can we deliver supplies more efficiently and environment-friendly?
- People around the world are experiencing war, natural disaster, illness, and issues. There is a need for medical supplies in places like Rwanda, and areas that cannot be reached by bike.
- The idea here is that there will be biodegradable drones dropped from planes high above, removing the need to return the drones to the place they came. These drones will drop, and spiral down within 33 feet of the GPS coordinates for the supply drop. This will allow blood, medical supplies, and food to be dropped into places that can’t be reached by bike, or vehicle. There would be electronics inside of the drone to allow it to be controlled more precisely, and DARPA is currently working on electronics that dissolve on impact.
- This solves the problem of drones being littered all over the ground from supply drops, and humanitarian missions. By having a drone that will dissolve soon after reaching the ground, we are protecting our planet.
- This project responds deeply, because we have already addressed the problem. The solution comes with the project itself, and the biodegradable drones that will be sent to areas in need.
- These supply drops can be dropped from electronic drones or planes. The best part about this, is that the drones will be made from cellulose (similar to cardboard), and lined with fungal spores to help it biodegrade even faster. In cases where the drones have to be delivered during storms, the drones can be coated with water-resistant material.
- The technology supports and collides with the intent. The technology they use is inside of the drones and will help the drones glide to the designated drop zone. The only issue with the project and technology is addressed, because DARPA is working on dissolve-able electronics that will eliminate the need to pick up after the drones drop.
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Jake and Ryan–excellent topic and solution idea. My only critique is this: you seem to be putting all your eggs in the DARPA basket. Remember: DARPA’s number one priority is advanced defense technology, not saving the environment. Their goals are not your goals. Your plan should include alternatives which take this into account. But again, nice work!