Self-centering landing platform

Abstract

Exemplary landing platform systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a landing platform includes a top plate configured to support a drone (UAV), wherein the top plate has a plurality of slots therethrough. A rotating plate is positioned adjacent to the top plate and includes a plurality of centering pins extending therefrom and through the plurality of slots in the top plate. A motor is capable of rotating the rotating plate, which causes the plurality of centering pins to center the UAV on the top plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for supporting the landing of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Background Technology

[0002] Landing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in a specific location can be difficult. Precise landing is hampered by turbulence generated by the air expelled from the UAV's propellers and reflected off the landing surface. Precise landing becomes even more challenging if the UAV is to land on a moving surface, such as a moving vehicle. In many cases, the UAV must be precisely positioned for successful payload loading / unloading, attachment of charging systems, and other operations. Therefore, it is essential to correctly position the UAV on a landing platform to support payload loading / unloading and other activities. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A landing platform includes a top plate for supporting an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), wherein the top plate has a plurality of slots passing through the plate. A rotating plate is adjacent to the top plate and includes a plurality of centering pins extending through the slots in the top plate. A motor rotates the rotating plate such that the plurality of centering pins center the UAV on the top plate. Attached Figure Description

[0004] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of this disclosure are described with reference to the following accompanying drawings, wherein, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals refer to the same parts in the various drawings.

[0005] Figure 1 It is a block diagram depicting an environment in which exemplary embodiments may be implemented.

[0006] Figures 2A to 2D An embodiment of a landing platform capable of receiving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is shown.

[0007] Figures 3A to 3C An embodiment is shown. Figures 2A to 2D Additional details about the landing platform.

[0008] Figure 4A to Figure 4E It shows how to make UAV in Figures 2A to 2D An embodiment of the landing platform.

[0009] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a UAV.

[0010] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a UAV management system.

[0011] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method for landing and centering a UAV on a landing platform. Detailed Implementation

[0012] In the following disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this disclosure and illustrate specific embodiments through which the disclosure can be practiced. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments described by reference to "an embodiment," "an example embodiment," etc., in the specification may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but each embodiment may not necessarily include said specific features, structures, or characteristics. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, whether or not it is explicitly described, it is believed that implementing such a feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments is still within the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0013] Implementations of the systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein may include or utilize dedicated or general-purpose computers including computer hardware such as, for example, one or more processors and system memories discussed herein. Implementations within the scope of this disclosure may also include physical and other computer-readable media for carrying or storing computer-executable instructions and / or data structures. Such computer-readable media may be any available media accessible by a general-purpose or dedicated computer system. A computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions is a computer storage medium (apparatus). A computer-readable medium carrying computer-executable instructions is a transmission medium. Therefore, by way of example and not limitation, embodiments of this disclosure may include at least two distinct types of computer-readable media: computer storage media (apparatus) and transmission media.

[0014] Computer storage media (devices) include: RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, solid-state drive (“SSD”) (e.g., RAM-based), flash memory, phase-change memory (“PCM”), other types of memory, other optical disc storage devices, magnetic disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0015] The apparatuses, systems, and methods disclosed herein are implemented via computer networks. A “network” is defined as one or more data links capable of transmitting electronic data between computer systems and / or modules and / or other electronic devices. When information is transmitted or provided to a computer via a network or another communication connection (hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired and wireless), the computer appropriately considers the connection as a transmission medium. The transmission medium may include networks and / or data links that can be used to carry desired program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and are accessible by general-purpose or special-purpose computers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0016] For example, computer-executable instructions include instructions and data that, when executed at a processor, cause a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or special-purpose processing device to perform a function or a set of functions. For example, computer-executable instructions can be binary files, intermediate format instructions such as assembly language, or even source code. Although the subject matter is described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological behavior, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the described features or actions. Rather, the described features and actions are disclosed as exemplary forms for implementing the claims.

[0017] Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure can be practiced in networked computing environments using many types of computer system configurations, including personal computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, message processors, handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, mobile phones, PDAs, tablets, pagers, routers, switches, various storage devices, etc. This disclosure can also be practiced in distributed system environments where both local and remote computer systems perform tasks, linked by a network (via a hardwired data link, a wireless data link, or a combination of hardwired and wireless data links). In a distributed computing environment, program modules can reside in both local and remote memory storage devices.

[0018] Furthermore, where appropriate, the functions described herein can be performed by one or more of the following: hardware, software, firmware, digital components, or analog components. For example, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) can be programmed to perform one or more of the systems and programs described herein. Certain terms are used throughout the specification and claims to refer to specific system components. As those skilled in the art will understand, components may be referred to by different names. This document is not intended to distinguish between components with different names but identical functions.

[0019] It should be noted that the sensor embodiments discussed herein may include computer hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof to perform at least a portion of their functions. For example, a sensor may include computer code configured to execute in one or more processors and may include hardware logic / circuit controlled by the computer code. These example devices are provided herein for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented in other types of devices.

[0020] At least some embodiments of this disclosure relate to computer program products that include such logic (e.g., in software form) stored on any computer-usable medium. When such software is executed in one or more data processing devices, it causes the devices to operate as described herein.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a block diagram depicting an environment 100 in which exemplary embodiments may be implemented. An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 102 can land and take off from a landing platform 104 mounted to a vehicle 106 (e.g., mounted to the roof of the vehicle 106). The vehicle 106 can be any type of vehicle, such as a car, truck, van, bus, train, etc. In some embodiments, the vehicle 106 may be moving when the UAV 102 lands on the landing platform 104. In a particular implementation, the vehicle 106 is a delivery vehicle carrying at least one item to be delivered by the UAV 102. In alternative embodiments, the landing platform 104 can be mounted to any type of device or structure, such as a building, loading platform, loading dock, etc.

[0022] UAV 102 can be any type of unmanned aerial vehicle capable of landing and taking off on any type of landing platform. In some embodiments, UAV 102 is a multi-rotor helicopter with two or more rotors (e.g., motors) and associated propellers. In a particular embodiment, UAV 102 has a single rotor and associated propeller. UAV 102 may also be referred to as an unmanned aerial vehicle or a remotely controlled aircraft. As discussed in more detail herein, landing platform 104 provides a temporary location for one or more UAVs 102 to land and receive payloads, deliver payloads, recharge, “carry” on vehicle 106, transmit data (e.g., image data collected by UAV 102) to or from UAV 102, etc.

[0023] like Figure 1As shown, vehicle 106 includes a UAV management system 108 capable of wirelessly communicating with UAV 102. Communication between the UAV management system 108 and UAV 102 can be performed using any communication protocol, such as 3G, 4G LTE, WiFi, etc. In some embodiments, the UAV management system 108 provides flight guidance to UAV 102 during landing or takeoff on landing platform 104. Additionally, as discussed herein, the UAV management system 108 can provide instructions to landing platform 104 to position (e.g., center) UAV 102 on landing platform 104. In some embodiments, the UAV management system 108 communicates with server 110 via data communication network 112. For example, the UAV management system 108 can transmit data associated with UAV 102, vehicle 106, payload, etc., to server 110. Furthermore, the UAV management system 108 can receive data associated with UAV 102, payload delivery instructions, etc., from server 110. Other types of data received by the UAV management system 108 may include the calculated flight path of the UAV 102, temporary flight restrictions, airspace flight restrictions, and local models of obstacles near or in the flight path of the UAV 102. Although in Figure 1 The landing platform 104 and the UAV management system 108 are shown as separate systems or devices, but in an alternative embodiment, the management system 108 is integrated into the landing platform 104.

[0024] Data communication network 112 includes any type of network topology using any communication protocol. Additionally, data communication network 112 may include a combination of two or more communication networks. In some embodiments, data communication network 112 includes a cellular communication network, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, or any other communication network.

[0025] In some embodiments, UAV 102 communicates directly with UAV management system 108. In other embodiments, UAV 102 communicates with server 110 (via data communication network 112), which in turn communicates with UAV management system 108.

[0026] It should be understood that Figure 1 The embodiments shown are given by way of example only. Other embodiments may include fewer or additional components without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the components shown may be combined with or included within other components without limitation.

[0027] Figures 2A to 2D An embodiment of a landing platform 104 capable of receiving UAV 102 is shown. Specifically, Figure 2A This is a side view of landing platform 104. (As shown) Figure 2AAs shown, the landing platform 104 includes a top plate 204, a rotating plate 206, and a motor 208. In some embodiments, the top plate 204 and the rotating plate 206 are made of metal or plastic materials such as aluminum, titanium, ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), acrylic, nylon, etc. The top plate 204 is adjacent to the rotating plate 206. The rotating plate 206 is attached to the motor 208 such that when the motor 208 is activated, it causes the rotating plate 206 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. The motor 208 can be any type of motor, such as a stepper motor, a servo motor, a DC motor, etc.

[0028] As described herein, a plurality of centering pins 202 extend through slots in the top plate 204. The centering pins 202 extend from the rotating plate 206 such that when the rotating plate 206 is rotated by the motor 208, the centering pins 202 move along the slots. In some embodiments, the centering pins 202 extend through slots in the rotating plate 206, as discussed herein. Therefore, the centering pins 202 need not be rigidly mounted to the rotating plate 206. As discussed in more detail herein, the movement of the centering pins 202 causes the UAV (UAV) to move. Figure 2A (Not shown in the image) Centered on top plate 204. Top surface 210 of top plate 204 (i.e., the surface opposite to rotating plate 206) is a landing surface that allows one or more UAVs to land on landing platform 104.

[0029] Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional side view of landing platform 104. Figure 2B In this configuration, a pinion 212 attached to motor 208 engages with an internal gear 218 attached to rotating plate 206. When motor 208 is activated, pinion 212 rotates on the shaft associated with motor 208. The engagement between pinion 212 and internal gear 218 causes rotating plate 206 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the direction of rotation of the shaft associated with motor 208.

[0030] Figure 2C This is a side view of landing platform 104, with UAV 214 located on landing platform 104. (See image.) Figure 2C As shown, UAV 214 has landed on the top surface 210 of the top plate 204. UAV 214 is approximately centered on the landing platform 204 by multiple centering pins 202.

[0031] Figure 2D This is a cross-sectional side view of landing platform 104, which includes UAV 214 located on landing platform 104. (See attached image.) Figure 2DAs shown, UAV 214 is approximately centered on holes 216 in the top plate 204 and the rotating plate 206. Holes 216 allow access to the bottom of UAV 214 for loading and unloading payloads, charging UAV 214, etc. Motor 208 is offset from hole 216 so that the motor does not obstruct access to the UAV through the hole.

[0032] like Figures 2A to 2D As shown, the landing platform 104 includes a motor 208 to control the movement of a plurality of centering pins 202. Since all centering pins 202 extend from the same rotating plate 206, all centering pins 202 move synchronously with each other. This method eliminates the need for multiple motors (e.g., one motor controlling each centering pin) and a control system for synchronizing said multiple motors. In some embodiments, the motor 208 may be mounted above the landing platform 104, for example, to the top of the top plate 204. In this configuration, the shaft of the motor 208 will extend, for example, through an opening or hole in the top plate 204.

[0033] Figures 3A to 3C An embodiment is shown. Figures 2A to 2D Additional details about the landing platform. Specifically, Figure 3A This is a top view of landing platform 104. (As shown) Figure 3A As shown, the top plate 204 has a plurality of slots 304, 306, 308 and 310, wherein a plurality of centering pins 202 extend through slots 304-310. Figure 3A In this embodiment, each slot 304-310 is curved (or arcuate), and when the rotating plate 206 is activated, the plurality of centering pins 202 follow the curvature of the slots 304-310. For example, activation of the motor 208 that causes the rotating plate 206 to rotate results in the plurality of centering pins 202 moving in a helical motion toward the center of the top plate 204. Figure 3A As further shown, the top plate 204 has an opening 302 approximately in the middle of the top plate 204. As discussed herein, the opening 302 provides access to the bottom of the UAV that has been landed on the landing platform 104.

[0034] Figure 3B This is a top view of the rotating plate 206 and the motor mounting plate 312. (See attached image.) Figure 3B As shown, the motor mounting plate 312 provides a structure for mounting the motor 208 to the landing platform 104. Holes 318 in the rotating plate 206 are positioned to align with holes 302 in the top plate 204 to allow access to the bottom of the UAV on the landing platform 104. In some embodiments, the top plate 312 is made of metal, plastic, or wood materials such as aluminum, titanium, ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), acrylic, nylon, etc.

[0035] The rotating plate 206 has multiple slots 320, 322, 324, and 326, wherein multiple centering pins 202 extend through slots 320-326. Figure 3B In some embodiments, each slot 320-326 is curved (or arc-shaped), and when the rotating plate 206 is activated, the plurality of centering pins 202 follow the curvature of the slots 320-326. For example, activation of the motor 208 that causes the rotating plate 206 to rotate causes the plurality of centering pins 202 to move toward the center of the rotating plate 206 in a helical motion.

[0036] In some embodiments, the centering pins 202 are slidably attached (or slidably mounted) to the rotating plate 206 and the top plate 204. For example, the end of each centering pin 202 may be open (or otherwise enlarged) such that the end of each pin is wider than the opening in slots 304-310 and wider than the opening in slots 320-326. Therefore, even when sliding within the slots, the centering pins 202 will not fall out of slots 304-310 or slots 320-326. The centering pins 202 float freely within slots 304-310 and slots 320-326. The rotational movement of the rotating plate 206 and the fixed top plate 204 force the centering pins 202 to move towards the center of the landing platform 104 by following the slots in the rotating plate 206 and / or following the slots in the top plate 204. The spiral motion of the center pin 202 toward the center of the landing platform 104 is caused by the positioning of slots 320-326 relative to the positioning of slots 304-310. For example... Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, slots 304-310 are not directly aligned with slots 320-326. This particular alignment represents one embodiment of positioning slots 304-310 and slots 320-326 to induce a helical movement of the center pin 202.

[0037] Figure 3C This is a top view of the actuation mechanism, including the internal gear 314 and the pinion 316. (See attached image.) Figure 3C As shown, pinion 316 engages with internal gear 314, such that rotation of pinion 316 causes rotation of internal gear 314. Internal gear 314 is attached to rotating plate 206. Therefore, rotation of internal gear 314 causes corresponding rotation of rotating plate 206 and a plurality of centering pins 202 extending from rotating plate 206. As described herein, pinion 316 is attached to motor 208, which is activated and deactivated to move the positions of the plurality of centering pins 202.

[0038] Figure 4A to Figure 4E It shows how to make UAV in Figures 2A to 2DAn embodiment of centering pins 202 on a landing platform 104 is shown in Figure 4A. As shown, UAV 402 is approaching landing platform 104. In this example, multiple centering pins 202 extending through top plate 204 are positioned away from holes 302. This positioning of the multiple centering pins 202 provides a larger area for UAV 402 to land. For example, the area “inside” the multiple centering pins 202 is maximized by the positioning of the centering pins 202 as shown in Figure 4A. Holes 302 are shown at approximately the center of top plate 204.

[0039] Figure 4B shows the position of UAV 402 after it lands on landing platform 104. Multiple centering pins 202 are in the same position as in Figure 4A. After UAV 402 lands, as described below, motor 208 is activated to begin moving the multiple centering pins 202.

[0040] Figure 4C shows the movement of multiple centering pins 202 along multiple slots in the top plate 204 (i.e., multiple centering pins 202 move toward the center of the landing platform 104). Figure 4D Further movement of multiple center pins 202 along multiple slots in the top plate 204 is shown. Figure 4D In the example, the centering pin 202 in the upper left portion of the landing platform 104 contacts (or engages) the landing structure of the UAV 402. As a particular centering pin 202 continues to move toward the center of the landing platform 104, it causes the UAV 402 to move toward the center of the landing platform 104. In some embodiments, the UAV 402 has a generally circular landing structure. In other embodiments, the landing structure of the UAV 402 has any shape or configuration that allows one or more centering pins 202 to engage the landing structure and cause the UAV 402 to move toward the center of the landing platform 104 as the plurality of centering pins 202 move toward the center of the landing platform 104. For example, the landing structure of the UAV 402 can have any geometry that is fully closed or substantially closed. Exemplary geometries include circles, ellipses, squares, etc. In some embodiments, the landing structure of the UAV 402 is symmetrical about the axis of the UAV 402.

[0041] Figure 4E The image shows a UAV 402 aligned on landing platform 104. In this example, all four alignment pins 202 engage with the landing structure of the UAV 402. This aligns the UAV 402 above the holes 302 in the top plate 204 to allow access to the bottom of the UAV 402 for loading and unloading payloads, charging the UAV 402, etc.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of UAV 102. (As shown) Figure 5As shown, UAV 102 includes a communication manager 502, a processor 504, and a memory 506. The communication manager 502 allows UAV 102 to communicate with other systems such as UAV management system 108, server 110, data communication network 112, etc. The processor 504 executes various instructions to implement the functions provided by UAV 102, as discussed herein. The memory 506 stores these instructions, as well as other data used by the processor 504 and other modules and components included in UAV 102.

[0043] UAV 102 also includes a camera 508 that captures images of an area near UAV 102. In some embodiments, image processing module 510 analyzes the images captured by camera 508 to locate landing platforms, delivery areas, obstacles, etc. Additionally, image processing module 510 can assist UAV 102 in landing by identifying the location of a landing platform (or other delivery area) and determining the flight adjustments required for UAV 102 to successfully land on the landing platform. Flight path module 512 generates and maintains information related to the flight path that UAV 102 attempts to follow. In some embodiments, flight path information is received from UAV management system 108 or server 110. Rotor control module 514 controls the operation of a plurality of rotors 516 associated with UAV 102. In some embodiments, UAV 102 has three or four rotors 516 that assist UAV 102 in flying between multiple locations. For example, rotor control module 514 can control the rotational speed of each rotor 516 to steer and maneuver the UAV 102 to its destination, such as a landing platform or delivery location. Therefore, rotor control module 514 can assist in maneuvering the UAV 102 along a specific flight path, avoiding obstacles, etc. In certain embodiments, one or more of the functions performed by rotor control module 514 are alternatively performed by UAV management system 108 or server 110, which sends appropriate rotor control commands to rotor control module 514 for implementation. A particular UAV 102 can have any number of rotors 516.

[0044] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the UAV management system 108. Figure 6As shown, the UAV management system 108 includes a communication module 602, a processor 604, and a memory 606. The communication module 602 allows the UAV management system 108 to communicate with other systems and devices, such as UAV 102, server 110, data communication network 112, etc. The processor 604 executes various instructions to implement the functions provided by the UAV management system 108, as discussed herein. The memory 606 stores these instructions, as well as other data used by the processor 604 and other modules and components included in the UAV management system 108.

[0045] The UAV management system 108 also includes an image processing module 608 that analyzes images, for example, captured by a camera 508 in the UAV 102. The image processing module 608 assists the UAV 102 in landing by identifying the position and trajectory of the UAV 102 relative to the landing platform 104 and determining the flight adjustments required for a successful landing on the landing platform 104. A flight path module 610 generates and maintains information related to the flight path the UAV 102 attempts to follow. A platform control module 612 manages the operation of the landing platform 104, such as controlling the operation of motors 208 to move the rotary plate 206 and move multiple centering pins 202.

[0046] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method 700 for landing and centering a UAV on a landing platform. Initially, the UAV approaches the landing platform 702 and is maneuvered to land on it. After the UAV lands on the landing platform, a motor is activated to move a rotating plate 704, which has a plurality of centering pins extending from the rotating plate. As the plurality of centering pins move, they engage the landing structure of the UAV 706 due to the movement of the rotating plate. As the plurality of centering pins continue to move 708 along a slot in the top plate, the UAV is moved to the center of the landing platform.

[0047] When the UAV reaches the center of the landing platform, the motors are deactivated 710. The UAV is then serviced 712 by, for example, unloading the payload, loading the payload, or charging the UAV (e.g., via inductive charging). In some embodiments, if the UAV is "carried" on a vehicle to travel to a different location, the UAV may remain on the landing platform for a period of time. When the UAV is ready to take off from the landing platform, the motors are activated 714 to move multiple centering pins away from the UAV. In this case, the motors operate in the opposite direction to the activation described above, causing the multiple centering pins to move in the opposite direction (e.g., away from the UAV). Finally, the UAV takes off from the landing platform 716.

[0048] Although various embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and not as limiting. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited to any of the exemplary embodiments described, but should be defined only by the following claims and their equivalents. This description is presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit this disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the teachings disclosed. Furthermore, it should be noted that any or all of the alternative embodiments discussed herein may be used in any desired combination to form additional hybrid embodiments of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A landing platform, comprising: A top plate, configured to support a drone, wherein the top plate has multiple slots passing through it; A rotating plate, adjacent to the top plate and including a plurality of centering pins extending therefrom and through the plurality of slots; as well as A motor is configured to rotate the rotating plate so that the plurality of centering pins center the drone on the top plate.

2. The landing platform of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of centering pins engages the landing structure of the UAV.

3. The landing platform of claim 1, wherein the rotating plate is attached to the motor such that activation of the motor causes the rotating plate to rotate.

4. The landing platform of claim 3, wherein activation of the motor causes at least one of the plurality of centering pins to engage the landing structure of the UAV.

5. The landing platform of claim 3, wherein activation of the rotary plate causes the plurality of centering pins to move toward the center of the top plate in a helical motion, thereby causing the UAV to move toward the center of the top plate.

6. The landing platform of claim 1, wherein the plurality of centering pins are slidably attached to the rotating plate.

7. The landing platform as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: An internal gear attached to the rotating plate; as well as A pinion is attached to the motor, wherein the pinion engages with the internal gear to rotate the rotating plate when the motor is activated.

8. The landing platform of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of slots is curved, and wherein each of the plurality of centering pins follows the curvature of the corresponding slot when the rotating plate is activated.

9. The landing platform of claim 1, further comprising a hole located at the center of the top plate, wherein activation of the motor causes the centering pin to engage the landing structure of the UAV and center the UAV above the hole.

10. The landing platform of claim 9, wherein the drone is provided with access to the bottom of the drone above the hole for at least one of loading a payload, unloading a payload, and charging the drone.

11. The landing platform of claim 1, further comprising a hole located at the center of the top plate, wherein the motor is offset from the hole such that the motor does not obstruct passage into the drone through the hole.

12. The landing platform of claim 1, wherein the landing platform is mounted on the top of the vehicle.

13. A landing platform comprising: A top plate, configured to support a drone, wherein the top plate has multiple slots passing through it; A rotating plate adjacent to the top plate and including a plurality of centering pins slidably attached to the rotating plate, wherein the plurality of centering pins extend from the rotating plate and pass through the plurality of slots in the top plate; as well as A motor is configured to rotate the rotating plate such that the plurality of centering pins engage the landing structure of the UAV and center the UAV on the top plate.

14. The landing platform of claim 13, wherein the rotating plate is attached to the motor such that activation of the motor causes the rotating plate to rotate.

15. The landing platform of claim 14, wherein activation of the motor causes the plurality of centering pins to move toward the center of the top plate in a helical motion, thereby causing the UAV to move toward the center of the top plate.

16. The landing platform of claim 13, further comprising: An internal gear attached to the rotating plate; as well as A pinion is attached to the motor, wherein the pinion engages with the internal gear to rotate the rotary plate when the motor is activated.

17. The landing platform of claim 13, further comprising a hole located at the center of the top plate, wherein activation of the motor causes the centering pin to engage the landing structure of the UAV and center the UAV above the hole.

18. A method for an unmanned aerial vehicle, comprising: In response to the drone landing on the top plate of the landing platform, a motor associated with the landing platform is activated to rotate a rotating plate having a plurality of centering pins extending from the rotating plate, wherein the activation of the motor causes the plurality of centering pins to move along a plurality of slots in the top plate of the landing platform; Maintain the activation of the motor to continue moving the plurality of centering pins along the plurality of slots, so that the drone moves toward the center of the landing platform; as well as When the drone reaches the center of the landing platform, the motor is deactivated.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein maintaining the activation of the motor causes the plurality of centering pins to move toward the center of the landing platform in a helical motion.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein activating the motor comprises rotating a pinion attached to the motor, wherein the pinion engages with an internal gear attached to the rotating plate.

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