Designing a product-service ecosystem in humanitarian aid
Utilizing eVTOL vehicles in immunization programs for East Africa
I. Bukai (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)
R.J.H.G. van Heur – Mentor (TU Delft - Human Factors)
R.G.H. Bluemink – Mentor (TU Delft - DesIgning Value in Ecosystems)
Luciana Ribeiro Monteiro – Mentor (EMBRAER)
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Abstract
A colossal amount of people around the world do not have access to basic health care. In order to reach the unreachable, humanitarian organizations assemble medical units that provide health service to the most outreach communities. Although, these units experience numerous challenges and drawbacks when it comes to traveling, questioning the effectivity and efficient of such operations. With advancement in new air mobility solutions, it is investigated whether it is time to push forward technological improvements in the humanitarian sector and allow the penetration of major aerospace companies in its market. The project focuses on designing a product-service that permits the immunization of remote communities by avoiding the obstacles of the current methods of transportation, and setting a new path in humanitarian aid. In collaboration with Embraer S.A., the product is based on the latest EVE eVTOL vehicle and has been adapted to fulfill the needs on the field. Equipped with supportive equipment and an integrated auxiliary station system, the vehicle provides a resource for the structuring of a service that puts immunization programs at its core. The service, known as Embraer Humanitarian Air Service (EHAS), is initiated in Kenya where its implementation is projected and planned to reach new heights. With well defined operation planning, business logistics and financial projection, the project demonstrates the potential of using eVTOL solutions in humanitarian aid, and defines a possible course to achieve profitability.