International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 01 | Jan 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Airships as Transformative Tools for Power Systems Logistics: Addressing Infrastructure Challenges and Enhancing Disaster Resilience Stephanie Tomasik1, Peter Fuhr2 1 University of Tennessee Knoxville, Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37996 2Oak Ridge National Laboratory, One Bethel Valley Rd., Oak Ridge, Tennessee, 37831 USA
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Abstract – Airships represent a transformative
advancement in logistics, particularly for the power systems industry. Their unique ability to transport heavy equipment and personnel efficiently over remote or disaster-stricken areas, while requiring minimal infrastructure, addresses critical gaps left by traditional methods. Combining adaptability with environmental sustainability, airships offer a low-carbon alternative for routine operations and emergency responses. This review presents current developments in airship technology, such as rigid airships designed for large payloads, demonstrate their potential to revolutionize supply chains. Key Words: Airship cargo transportation, power systems logistics, infrastructure resilience, disaster response Fig-1: AI-generated image of an example case for airships delivering transformers using DALL-E.
1.INTRODUCTION The demand for innovative transportation solutions for industries has increased as logistical challenges continue to arise, particularly due to extreme weather events. In the power systems sector, the efficient movement of equipment such as transformers, breakers, or turbine blades is critical for ensuring reliable energy distribution and community resilience[1], [2], [3]. Traditional transportation methods often falter in scenarios involving remote locations or areas struck by natural disasters. Addressing these limitations requires new technology that can combine efficiency, sustainability, and adaptability. Among emerging technologies, airships meet both demands of versatility and quick response.
Timely intervention during power grid damages caused by disasters is crucial to prevent cascading failures that could exacerbate outages or infrastructure degradation[2], [4]. For example, the rapid delivery of substation transformers or emergency generators can stabilize grid operations and reduce downtime, avoiding further strain on both the interconnected system and the community. Delays in addressing these issues can lead to prolonged blackouts, higher repair costs, and extended disruptions to essential services such as hospitals and water supply systems[2]. Effective logistics mitigates immediate damage and accelerates recovery efforts. This paper reviews and explores the role of airships in modernizing the logistics capabilities of the power systems industry.
2. TRANSPORTATION GAPS Moving infrastructure, equipment, or humanitarian efforts requires a transportation system that can balance speed, cost, and accessibility. Freight and logistics systems rely on a mix of modalities, such as road, railway, water, and air, each with unique strengths and limitations[5]. Airplanes, for instance, are fast but costly and impractical for heavy or bulky cargo while also requiring a pristine runway to arrive and depart from[6]. Waterways and trucks, however, are a
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