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44 U nmanned systems are often touted as safety- critical investments for carrying out inspections and surveys from a distance or altitude, so that human workers don’t have to put themselves in harm’s way. Now, a new generation of autonomous vehicles stands to take that case further, by providing critical assistance in emergencies and disaster situations. Whether supporting the life-saving work of first responders or securely transporting medical goods or even patients, unmanned systems could make huge contributions to the well-being of humanity in the near future. Some are already doing so. Medevac Based on a concept by Canadian engineer and entrepreneur Charles Bombardier, the Ambular is a series of autonomous aerial ambulances being developed by a team that includes volunteers from the International Civil Aviation Organization. The team’s engineers aim to prototype and prove the technical and operational viability of self- piloting medevac vehicles, including their ability to transport patients safely and comfortably to the nearest hospital faster than by road. The project encompasses a few different vehicle ideas. Of these, the main point of focus is the Ambular 2.0, an X-8 octocopter with four pairs of coaxial, 1.5 m-diameter carbon fibre props. Each prop will be driven by a 150 kW electric motor, and together the vehicle will produce 800 kg of thrust, with a cruising speed of 100 kph. The prototype’s hull is being built from carbon fibre, with the central pod (for carrying a patient and enough batteries for 35 minutes of flight time) produced as a monocoque shell and the motor arms being detachable for replaceability and ease of maintenance. Up to 200 kg (ideally one patient and one paramedic) carrying capacity will be available, for a 400 kg MTOW. “We’ve also partnered with The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology for CFD and additional Unmanned systems are emerging to help first responders in a range of emergency situations. Rory Jackson examines some initial applications for them When life’s at stake December/January 2021 | Unmanned Systems Technology