Investigating the Potential of Recycled Aluminum with Origami Technology for the Modern Drone Ports
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | RISE Research Institutes of Sweden AB - RISE |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 499 980 |
| Project duration | October 2024 - April 2026 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | SME flights |
| Call | Strengthened Swedish aeronautical research and innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) |
Important results from the project
The iPOD project demonstrates how origami technology in recycled aluminium creates sustainable drone landing sites. We have validated the load-bearing capacity for heavy-lift drones through a semi-full-scale prototype. The central result is the shift from a concrete to a flexible, modular system in recyclable sheet metal that is easy to assemble. This radically reduces costs and environmental impact while laying the foundation for a new standard in scalable and circular aviation infrastructure.
Expected long term effects
The iPOD platform enables air mobility by cutting investment costs. Prefabricated modules allow rapid scaling of transport nodes. Sustainability is boosted by recycled aluminum and concrete-free anchoring, allowing land restoration in sensitive areas. Logistically, platforms ship globally in containers for civil, defense, or disaster use. These results set a new industrial standard for circular aviation infrastructure.
Approach and implementation
The project was carried out through seven work packages in an effective, complementary collaboration between partners. We stayed on schedule until completion in April 2026. The design was updated three times to optimize assembly and load capacity, which was crucial for the final result. By integrating concrete-free anchoring and new locking systems, we achieved a higher level of sustainability. The work progressed as planned, meeting objectives with results confirming the technology´s potential.