Webinar Archive

< Back to events

Unlimited Range Electrified Drones for Emergency Medical Response Activities

Date
2021-04-01
Location
Webinar - Online
Contact
Alicia Tomaszewski – tec@ieee.org
Presenter
Dr. Carolyn McGregor AM and Dr. Sheldon Williamson
Description

Abstract: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) will soon supplement traditional ambulances for emergency medical services. However, drones can only fly for about 20-25 minutes at a stretch, due to limited battery charge. Stemming from a design-oriented methodology, the objective of this webinar will be to introduce the design and implementation of next-generation drones to solve the problem of long-range emergency medicine delivery. The project involves complementary activities between researchers, trainers, practitioners, & industry partners from the fields of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, health informatics, kinesiology, & physiological studies. The unique & exploratory methods applied to each disciplinary perspective is summarized here, along with their complementarity to each other.

A.    Mid-air Wireless Charging: The idea will be presented based on electromagnetic inductive coils & antenna-based designs as well as electrostatic-based power transfer using capacitive plates. Optimal placement of the coils, plates, & antennas will be presented.

B.    Aerodynamics/Climatic Wind Tunnel TestingThe climatic wind tunnel studies examine the effects of crosswinds/gusts on control & stability in different charging positions, as well as examine the effects of high winds & varied temperatures on charging efficiency.

C.   Mechatronic Design and ControlA novel alignment mechanism & control strategy has been developed to maintain high levels of efficiency during mid-air charging. The mechanism will also provide visual guidance, collision avoidance, & adjustable magnetic force under high winds, dense smoke, & intense heat.

D.   Modeling, Testing, and Validation of Medical EmergenciesA real-time medical emergency response system that involves IoT-based medical sensors deployed on the human body will be used.

E.    Physiological Well-Being and Vigilance of Pilots: Examining the pilot’s physiological response to a medical emergency will be accomplished using a physiological monitoring device (capturing heart rate, electrocardiogram, breathing rate, minute ventilation), & performing cognitive function tests (vigilance/sustained attention and working memory) before, during, & after the scenario.


It must be noted that this webinar will be particularly useful for engineers and managers with entry-level and medium-level knowledge of transportation electrification, autonomous e-mobility, and IoT applications.

Event Recording
View Unlimited Range Electrified Drones for Emergency Medical Response Activities recording