Modernization and development of transport applications of an autonomous airship

Autonomous airships have historically found their application in transport, beforethe technology was mostly abandoned. Since then, the demand for sustainable alternativetransport solutions in the 21st century has reintroduced research on such aerial systems. Moreso, reviews point to blimps as a successful or even preferred platform in various missions,where heavier-than-air platforms have been commonly used. Due to its lightweight andlow-risk character, airship technology proves useful in low-wind environments [1].This paper presents the design, modernization attempts, and functional expansion of a smallautonomous airship—ACCA (Autonomous Cargo Containment Airhsip), with the aim to applyit in short-range cargo transportation. The project focused on improving the airship prototype'spropulsion and electronic systems, stabilizing the frame, as well as building the autonomousmovement system which would ensure reliable navigation. The payload capacity was expectedto be 5 kg. The results portray small autonomous airships as cost-effective and energy-efficient,contributing to the broader discourse on autonomous aerial transport. ACCA holds a prospectfor scalable deployment in last-mile delivery and emergency logistics.