DIRECT HELP FROM ABOVE.
SVAS DROP SYSTEM
HPI has pioneered the Super Versatile Airdrop System (SVAS - formerly "AERU") which allows humanitarian goods such as food, water treatment supplies, or medical items to be dropped using recycled emergency parachutes.
The system enables a large volume (payload 30-180 kg) of relief supplies to be deposited precisely and efficiently in areas that are difficult to reach. A modular concept allows the system to be compatible with various airplanes, therefore enhancing the flexibility of use worldwide. Our innovative system is highly simplified and can be operated by a crew after only a few days of training.
When other means of transportation are impossible, airdrops are the only way to reach people. HPI wants to offer this specific service first and foremost to small, local humanitarian organisations that themselves cannot afford to develop such a capable system.
COST EFFICIENT
All the parachutes we use are donated. Connected with the high payload to range ratio of an aircraft, we can provide one of the most cost-effective solutions to your logistical challenges.
VERSATILE PLATFORM
The air drop system can be operated from a variety of aircraft: All the way from a Cessna 182 or Caravan to a Twin Otter, especially skydiving aircraft are ideal.
LOW SINKRATES & HIGH PRECISION
The parachutes are used in paragliding and have to be certified under strict regulations. Therefore, the sink rates of our systems are as low as 2.5-5 m/s and the parachutes are load-tested. Our highly trained drop crew can guarantee a drop precision of 50 meters.
RECYCLED MATERIALS
SVAS uses recycled reusable rescue parachutes that are donated from the paragliding community all over Europe. Each year 1000s of parachutes have to be replaced by parachute riggers and are thus accessible. On demand we can also provide biodegradable parachutes.
VERSATILE PAYLOADS
SVAS is a modular system that allows to connect a variety of payloads, from cheap heavy-bags to highly protective containers that allow the deployment of sensitive equipment. Our air drop system can carry loads from 30-180kg.
OPEN SOURCE
HPI aims to provide this system to different humanitarian partners all around the globe. We can train your own drop crew and provide parachute systems to build your own capabilities. Our innovative system is highly simplified and can be operated by a crew that has been trained in a few days.
Download the full dossier here.
FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE
The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) has tested the SVAS and found it met all necessary requirements.
"The airdrop system is suitable for disaster missions under difficult conditions. The FOCA has not found any technical, systemic or material-related defects. The system is ready for use and can be used productively."
On September 11 and 12, 2018, the SVAS was successfully tested for the first time in St. Stephan (CH). HPI was able to test the system from an airplane with over 15 drops in order to gain the necessary experience. All tests were supervised and approved by the FOCA.
It worked according to plan in all respects and even exceeded expectations. Now the parachute and box system are ready to enter serial production.
In the beginning of 2021, we had the opportunity to test the system in cooperation with the ICRC and the Medécins Sans Frontières in Nairobi and could show that the system works.
We continue to work and improve the system.
HELP TO GET SVAS WHERE IT'S NEEDED
Following the successful tests, it is now time to launch SVAS into the world.
For this we need the support of private donors, companies, and foundations.
We are currently looking for financial support to mass produce the system.
Support us to make it possible and help people in need from the air.
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