Whitepaper - Augmented Helicopter Rescue Operation with Air2X and Virtual Infrastructure

Abstract

This paper describes current operational procedures, circumstances and challenges of rescue helicopter landings on highways and is dedicated to present the technological solution of a communication interface between aerial and ground vehicles for increasing safety and efficiency. While a direct communication link between both sides would be the preferred option, this paper provides a solution that allows a near-term implementation and deployment. Consequently, a translating unit is required to merge the different expected communication standards of both domains. For the temporary establishment of a safe exclusive landing zone without ground support, the concept requires a low number of highly automated ground vehicles in a mixed traffic, guaranteeing a foreseeable behavior of certain traffic participants. Besides the technical implementation, safety, security and regulatory aspects of the concept are considered.