German urban air mobility company Volocopter and logistics group DB Schenker have drawn up an initial blueprint for the use of the VoloDrone. It is a step closer to the implementation of cargo drones in the supply chain.
A VoloDrone is an unmanned, all-electric drone capable of carrying an impressive and unprecedented payload. It is designed for challenging missions in various industries, ready to be deployed where conventional transport reaches its limits. The cargo drones are equipped to carry payloads of up to 200 kg. This makes them suitable for a wide range of heavy operations. With a range of up to 40 kilometres, they can operate within a wide radius from their take-off point. Combined with the payload, this opens up new possibilities.
They have 18 rotors and motors that power the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The cargo drones are 100% electric and fly emission-free.
Blueprint cargo drone
In early July, Volocopter and DB Schenker, with the support of the Fraunhofer Institute, produced the first blueprint for electric drones for freight transport. The parties tested how logistics operators can manage cargo, personnel, automated ground vehicles as well as cargo drones. This with the aim of creating an efficient process and a safe environment for future operations. The resulting blueprint serves as the basis for integrating cargo drones into logistics networks around the world. It is an important step to realise automation and sustainability ambitions in supply chains.
Simulation logistics network
Research teams from Volocopter, DB Schenker and Fraunhofer IML simulated the integration of the VoloDrone into a logistics network. This was done by examining ground processes, assessing safe loads and cargo, testing the drone's automated feeding by autonomous vehicles and identifying other necessary pre-flight cargo checks. The processes for transporting and loading the VoloDrone cargo were then carried out. This included identification of safe, standard procedures for employees on the ground preparing the VoloDrone for flight.
Next dimension in transport logistics
"By developing a blueprint for VoloDrone operations, Volocopter is pointing the way to the next dimension of transport logistics. [...] Our work with DB Schenker shows that they are a great investor, valuable partner and an enabler for our commercial VoloDrone business," said Christian Bauer, CCO, Volocopter
Urban aerial mobility
"The VoloDrone unlocks new opportunities for the logistics sector. [...] Volocopter's leadership in this emerging urban air mobility industry is most evident in their practical solutions, their customer-centric approach and their commitment to bringing UAM (urban air mobility, ed.) to life," said Erik Wirsing, Global Head of Innovation, DB Schenker
Image: Volocopter
