Otherlab: Which of you would think that the airplanes made by children could one day save us?
A new drone made of paper and a bit of modern technology that could empower humanitarian organizations with a very useful tool in disasters. The paper drone is funded by a DARPA grant and manufactured by Otherlab company for aerodynamic research based in San Francisco.
The company uses lightweight materials and a clever design to create disposable transport vehicles that are capable of transporting medical supplies where they are most needed.
Unlike most drones, this one is not designed to make round trips. The flying vehicle has been stripped of all sorts of unnecessary weight-adding features such as the motor and battery which were necessary for the return.
With fewer mechanical parts, Otherlab hopes to offer rescuers more space and additional utility load which can be used to carry more essential supplies.
Due to lack of engine, the drone requires another aircraft to get up in the air. Once taken off it uses a travel computer and sensors that regulate its route as required.
Of course the computer also arranges for the landing of the aircraft.
Watch the presentation video:
Otherlab's design is incredibly clever. Each drone comes as a flat cardboard and is designed to be easy enough for anyone to assemble it.
