Multi-modal multi-echelon logistics optimisation planning for medical interchanges in the Solent region of the UK using drones, cargo bikes, and vans

The sustainability of urban logistics could be improved by a partial transition of urban freight delivery from ground-based vans and light commercial vehicles to cargo bikes and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Due to the benefits of UAVs in terms of transit speed, reduced emissions, and improved access to remote/rural areas, the healthcare sector could particularly benefit from the use of drones, as many medical products could have short shelf lives and therefore require a timely collection/delivery. The Drone Medical Logistics project, which is part of the Solent Future Transport Zone (FTZ) programme funded by the UK Department for Transport (DfT), focuses on developing a simulation environment for optimising and evaluating multi-modal supply chains involving land-to-UAV and UAV-to-land logistics interchanges. This study aims to develop multimodal logistics planning and optimisation tools that will enable a fleet manager to quantify in what ways drones can be used as part of integrated fleets to efficiently improve deliveries/collections of medical/healthcare products between hospitals and surgeries in the Solent region, whilst reducing emissions and mean receipt times at the pathology labs to improve patient care.