Project INDOOR: development of a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System for the smart transport of transplant organs and biological material

The INDOOR project (usINg Drones fOr Organ tRansportation) is an initiative led by the Fondazione D.O.T. (Donazione Organi e Trapianti) in collaboration with PIC4SeR (PoliTo Interdepartmental Centre for Service Robotics). This research explores the feasibility of using UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), commonly known as drones, for transporting transplant organs and biological samples between healthcare facilities in an urban environment, specifically within the city of Turin. The transport of biological material is a fundamental aspect of transplant medicine, ensuring timely accessibility to donated organs. Modern medical logistics require fast, reliable, and safe transport solutions, leading to the exploration of drones for rapid hospital connectivity. This study pioneers the integration of advanced air mobility technologies into healthcare logistics in densely populated areas, aiming to improve operational efficiency while minimizing time and costs. Although the technology already exists and continues to evolve rapidly, key concerns remain regarding safety and ethical implications, while ensuring the security of both the transported payload and the population along the flight path. The project's primary objectives are to assess the feasibility of operation implementation and ensure compliance with legislative regulations while adopting risk mitigation strategies, as transplant organs and biological samples are classified as "dangerous goods". Adhering to appropriate legal frameworks is essential for future standardized operations as it requires the establishment of a reliable procedure to connect infrastructures in the same geographical area. The thesis has been structured as follows: 1.??A comprehensive study of the state of the art was conducted to establish a foundation for the field. 2.??Vibration simulations were analysed to ensure the integrity of blood samples during transport. 3.??A specialized payload capsule has been designed to securely transport delicate biological materials, including blood samples and, eventually, transplant organs. 4.??Compliance with recent EASA regulations, particularly MOC 2511, was examined. This regulation mandates the enhancement of drone security through the integration of a flight termination system, a parachute, and designated buffer zones to maintain flight safety. 5.??A demonstrative test in extended VLOS (Visual Line of Sight) was conducted on October 1st 2024, between CTO and Molinette Hospital of Città della Salute. The test flight, which passed over the adjacent Po river, was executed in collaboration with the startup ABzero, which specializes in autonomous systems equipped with smart capsules for the transport of perishable medical goods. Further experimental trials and additional analysis will be conducted to refine the system and ensure its practical applicability in real-world medical logistics.