Title: Modernization and development of transport applications of an autonomous airship

Authors: Maja Rudnicka, Michał Lasak, Franciszek Borgosz

Conference: International Students Scientific Conference TalentDetector2025_Summer

Abstract:

Autonomous airships have historically found their application in transport, before the technology was mostly abandoned. Since then, the demand for sustainable alternative transport solutions in the 21st century has reintroduced research on such aerial systems. More so, 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 and low-risk character, airship technology proves useful in low-wind environments [1].
This paper presents the design, modernization attempts, and functional expansion of a small autonomous airship—ACCA (Autonomous Cargo Containment Airhsip), with the aim to apply it in short-range cargo transportation. The project focused on improving the airship prototype’s propulsion and electronic systems, stabilizing the frame, as well as building the autonomous movement system which would ensure reliable navigation. The payload capacity was expected to 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 prospect for scalable deployment in last-mile delivery and emergency logistics.