Unmanned aerial vehicle multifunctional load mechanism compatible with multiple lap joint modes and use method thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to an unmanned aerial vehicle multifunctional load mechanism compatible with multiple lap joint modes and a use method of the unmanned aerial vehicle multifunctional load mechanism compatible with the multiple lap joint modes, in particular to an unmanned aerial vehicle multifunctional load mechanism compatible with the multiple lap joint modes, and the unmanned aerial vehicle multifunctional load mechanism can carry multiple different load devices and can rapidly replace and adjust the load devices. The multifunctional platform body is provided with moving grooves for the internal fixing structural component and the dismounting disc to slide on, the multifunctional platform further comprises the internal fixing structural component, and the internal fixing structural component is provided with an internal spring structure. The internal fixing structure 2 is used for smoothly positioning the internal fixing structure 1 in the internal spring groove, retreating the internal fixing structure 1 in the retreating hole and enabling the internal fixing structure 2 to have restoring force for restoring a horizontal state, so that the mounting tool inserted into the platform main body can realize the functions of stable work and convenient disassembly; and the disassembling disc is used for contracting the spring structure 3 below the internal fixing structure 1, and the spring structure 1 can pull the internal fixing structure 1 to retreat to the retreating hole, so that the functions of reaming and disassembling parts are realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a multi-functional payload mechanism for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) compatible with multiple splicing methods and its usage method. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous advancement of drone technology, drones are increasingly widely used in military, civilian, and commercial fields. As a highly efficient aerial platform, drones can perform a variety of tasks, such as reconnaissance, surveillance, transportation, rescue, and seeding. To meet these diverse application needs, drone payload mechanisms require versatility and flexibility. Traditional drone payload mechanisms often only carry a single payload device, such as a camera or sensor, which greatly limits the drone's ability to perform complex tasks. Therefore, developing a multi-functional drone payload mechanism capable of carrying multiple different payload devices and allowing for rapid replacement and adjustment of these devices is particularly important. Simultaneously, with the rapid development of artificial intelligence and automatic control technologies, drones have made significant progress in autonomous flight and decision-making. These technological advancements provide strong support for the design and use of multi-functional drone payload mechanisms compatible with various mounting methods. By integrating advanced navigation, control, and sensor technologies, drones can more accurately locate targets, perceive their environment, and autonomously complete complex tasks. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to develop a multi-functional payload mechanism for drones that can carry various different payload devices and allows for quick replacement and adjustment of the payload devices, compatible with multiple mounting methods. This enables the mechanism to perform various tasks, such as reconnaissance, surveillance, transportation, rescue, and seeding. Based on its mounting method with the drone platform, it is divided into a compatible version and a standard version. The compatible version means that this multi-functional payload mechanism can be mounted on drone platform base plates of different shapes using a fixed claw, while the standard version can only be mounted on a specific drone platform base plate using bolts. See Figure 1 for details.

[0004] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems and meet the requirements of stable assembly, multi-tool compatibility, and rapid disassembly of the multi-functional platform in terms of structure and function, the present invention is achieved through the following technical solution: a multi-functional payload mechanism for UAVs compatible with multiple splicing methods, comprising a multi-functional platform body, internal fixed structure components, disassembly chassis, spring structure, top cover (including compatible version and standard version), top shaft, top transmission arm, fixed claw, claw, and pulley.

[0005] Its stable assembly utilizes some principles and ideas from the mechanical locks of Lu Ban, the master mechanic of ancient China. It consists of six partially constrained fan-shaped sub-blocks connected at 60 degrees to springs, which surround a rotating axis to form a large circular disc with a hole in the center. When the connecting tool is installed onto the multi-functional platform, it must first go through a process of enlarging the hole to remove it, and then go through a process of resetting the hole and fixing the tool. This is the installation and fixing principle of this multi-functional platform.

[0006] Regarding the quick disassembly function of this multi-functional platform, the design concept of this invention is to set a moving groove directly below each of the six partially constrained sector-shaped sub-blocks that make up a disc, and to further enhance the quick-release functionality of each sub-block, an internal spring structure is designed directly below each sub-block. When the multi-functional platform requires tool disassembly for quick part replacement, a quick-release plate is applied evenly upwards to the bottom of the platform. This quick-release plate moves along the quick-release plate moving groove connected to the sub-block moving groove, causing the internal springs at the bottom of each partially constrained sector-shaped sub-block to disengage from their slots. Then, the springs connecting the partially constrained sector-shaped sub-blocks, the ends of the sub-block moving grooves, and the inner wall of the multi-functional platform quickly pull the sub-blocks to their minimum limit. The six sub-blocks of the multi-functional platform retract radially, thereby expanding the radius of the holes for assembling the multi-functional platform tools to their maximum value. At this point, the tools mounted on the multi-functional platform can be quickly disassembled.

[0007] To address the multi-tool adaptation function of the multi-functional platform, the design concept of this invention is to equip each tool used to install on the multi-functional platform with a connection intermediary, unifying them and facilitating the use of multiple tools, thus meeting the compatibility requirements of the multi-functional platform's performance indicators.

[0008] Preferably, the maximum outer diameter of the main body of the UAV multi-functional platform is designed to be 120mm.

[0009] Preferably, the non-fully constrained sector-shaped sub-blocks form a large circular disc with a hole in the center, the diameter of which is 16mm.

[0010] Preferably, each of the six non-fully constrained sector sub-blocks has a moving groove directly below it, with a depth of 4.5 mm, a lower width of 8 mm, an upper width of 8 mm, and a length of 41.8 mm.

[0011] Preferably, the radius of the hole in the large circular disc composed of six sub-blocks is increased to the maximum value, which is 32mm.

[0012] Preferably, when the tool with the connecting medium is installed on the multi-functional platform, it must first go through a process of enlarging the hole to remove the hole, and then go through a process of resetting and fixing the hole tool. During the whole process, the sub-block cannot touch the top cover.

[0013] In addition, the present invention also provides a method for using a multi-functional payload mechanism for drones that is compatible with multiple splicing methods. The method, employing the aforementioned multi-functional payload mechanism for drones compatible with multiple splicing methods, includes the following steps in sequence:

[0014] Step 1: Install the 6 internal fixing structures onto the 6 moving slots of the multi-functional platform body respectively;

[0015] Step 2: The internal fixing structure is connected to the main body of the multi-functional platform using springs;

[0016] Step 3: Secure the inner springs at the bottom of the 6 internal fixing structures into the holes of the 6 moving slots on the main body of the multi-functional platform;

[0017] Step 4: Install the quick-release plate at the bottom of the multi-functional platform and the top cover at the top. For compatible versions, also install the top shaft, top transmission arm, fixing claw, and claw.

[0018] Step 5: Insert the tool with the specific connection intermediary installed into the multi-functional platform installed in Step 4;

[0019] Step Six: Once the connecting intermediary on the tool is fully inserted into the multi-functional platform, it will reposition itself onto the internal fixed structure.

[0020] Step 7: When you need to change tools, simply press down evenly on the disassembly chassis. The internal fixing structure will be pulled to its minimum limit by the spring. At this time, the diameter of the platform body reaches its maximum, and the tools can be removed.

[0021] In summary, the present invention has the following significant advantages: 1. Versatility and Flexibility: This payload mechanism can carry various types of payload devices, including but not limited to cameras, sensors, communication relay equipment, and robotic arms. This versatility enables drones to perform a variety of tasks, such as reconnaissance, target tracking, environmental monitoring, and cargo transport. Furthermore, the payload mechanism's design allows for rapid replacement and adjustment of payload devices to adapt to different mission requirements, improving the efficiency of drone utilization. 2. High Efficiency and Reliability: The payload mechanism is meticulously designed and optimized to ensure the stability and safety of the payload equipment during flight. By employing advanced mechanical structures and materials, the payload mechanism can withstand flight missions in various harsh environments and extreme conditions, improving the reliability and durability of the UAV. Furthermore, the efficient design of the payload mechanism reduces the UAV's energy consumption during flight, extending its endurance. 3. Modularity and Scalability: The load mechanism adopts a modular design, allowing each component to be upgraded and maintained independently, reducing usage costs and maintenance complexity. Simultaneously, the modular design also means that the load mechanism can be expanded and customized as needed to meet future new task requirements and technological advancements. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 is an installation diagram of a multi-functional payload mechanism for UAVs compatible with multiple splicing methods according to the present invention (including a compatible version and a standard version). Figure 1(a) is an installation diagram of the compatible version of the multi-functional payload mechanism for UAVs, and Figure 1(b) is an installation diagram of the standard version of the multi-functional payload mechanism for UAVs.

[0024] Figure 2 is a structural explosion diagram of a multi-functional load mechanism for UAVs compatible with multiple overlapping methods according to the present invention (including a compatible version and a standard version). Figure 2(a) is a structural explosion diagram of the compatible version of the multi-functional load mechanism for UAVs, and Figure 2(b) is a structural explosion diagram of the standard version of the multi-functional load mechanism for UAVs.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a burst view of the internal fixing structure component in this invention;

[0026] Figure 4 is a half-sectional view of a multi-functional payload mechanism for UAVs compatible with multiple overlapping methods according to the present invention (including a compatible version and a standard version). Figure 4(a) is a half-sectional view of the compatible version of the multi-functional payload mechanism for UAVs, and Figure 4(b) is a half-sectional view of the standard version of the multi-functional payload mechanism for UAVs.

[0027] Figure 5 is a top view of the change in aperture size before and after pressing the disassembly disc of a multi-functional load mechanism for UAVs compatible with multiple overlapping methods according to the present invention. Figure 5(a) shows the minimum aperture before pressing the disassembly disc (top top view), and Figure 5(b) shows the maximum aperture after pressing the disassembly disc (top top view).

[0028] Figure 6 is a bottom view showing the change in aperture size before and after pressing the disassembly disc of a multi-functional load mechanism for UAVs compatible with multiple overlapping methods according to the present invention. Figure 6(a) shows the minimum aperture before pressing the disassembly disc (bottom bottom view), and Figure 6(b) shows the maximum aperture after pressing the disassembly disc (bottom bottom view).

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] 1. Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV); 2. UAV Multifunctional Load Mechanism; 3. Grappling Tool; 21. Multifunctional Platform Body; 22. Internal Fixing Structure; 23. Disassembly Plate; 24. Top Cover; 25. Pulley; 26. Top Transmission Arm; 27. Top Shaft; 28. Fixing Claw; 29. ​​Claw; 211. Moving Slot; 212. Maximum Insertion Hole; 213. Minimum Insertion Hole; 214. Retraction Hole; 215. Internal Spring Slot; 221. Internal Fixing Structure 1; 222. Internal Fixing Structure 2; 223. Internal Spring Structure. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0032] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0033] Please refer to Figures 1-4. The present invention will describe the above technical solution in detail through the following embodiments:

[0034] Example 1

[0035] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 Figure 3As shown in Figure 4, a multi-functional load mechanism for a drone includes a multi-functional platform body (21), an internal fixing structure component (22), a disassembly plate (23), and a top cover (24). The compatible version also includes a top transmission arm (26), a top shaft (27), a fixing claw (28), a claw (29), and a double hook spring. In this embodiment, the top cover (standard version) is connected to the base plate of the improved DJI F450 quadcopter drone (1) to carry the multi-functional platform with a load capacity of 4.7 kg. The drone base plate is equipped with a stepper motor to provide some of the rotational power required for the installation of tools on the multi-functional platform. The tool mentioned in this case is a gripper tool (3). The gripper tool (3) is provided with a connecting medium connected to the multi-functional platform. The connecting medium is connected to the rotating shaft of the gripper tool. When the gripper tool is inserted from the bottom of the multi-functional load mechanism, it goes through a process of expanding the hole and resetting the internal fixing structure component of the load mechanism. This process also realizes the stable installation of the gripper tool on the load structure.

[0036] In this embodiment, the connecting medium connected to the rotating shaft of the gripper tool is fixed to the load mechanism, and the gripper rotating shaft connected to it passes through the top cover (24) of the load mechanism. The gripping and releasing function of the gripper tool is powered by the motor of the UAV. Specifically, the motor shaft mounted on the UAV base plate and the rotating shaft of the gripper tool are connected by a shaft connection mechanism to drive the shaft of the gripper tool to rotate. The rotation of the rotating shaft of the gripper tool causes the drive structure threaded to it to move axially relative to each other, thereby realizing the opening and closing action of the gripper tool. At the same time, the UAV is equipped with control elements and sensors, so after the gripper tool is installed on the multi-functional platform, the ground operator can stop the UAV motor by operating the control handle.

[0037] In this embodiment, when tool replacement is required, simply fly the drone onto a stable landing platform, then stop the drone's motors using the remote control. After ensuring safety, the operator applies uniform upward pressure to the center of the disassembly disc of the multi-functional load mechanism to disassemble the gripper tool. Through the interconnectedness of these components, the drone platform, multi-functional load mechanism, and gripper tool are integrated into a single unit, enabling tasks that would be impossible to perform individually, such as the drone grabbing objects from the ground or detaching objects mid-air.

[0038] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely preferred examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the present invention as claimed. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-functional payload mechanism (2) for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) capable of carrying multiple different payload devices and quickly changing and adjusting the payload devices, compatible with multiple splicing methods, comprising a multi-functional platform body (21), wherein the multi-functional platform body is provided with six radial moving grooves for internal fixed structural components (22) to slide thereon and axial moving grooves for disassembling the chassis to move thereon (collectively referred to as moving grooves 211), and the multi-functional platform body is provided with six corresponding retraction holes (214), characterized in that, Also includes: An internal fixing structure component (22) is provided on the main body (21) of the multi-functional platform. It is used to enable the mounting tools inserted into the main body (21) to work stably and be easily disassembled. The internal fixing structure component (22) is also provided with an internal spring structure (223) (including spring structures 1, 2, and 3), which is used to smoothly position the internal fixing structure 1 (221) in the inner spring groove (215), retract it into the retraction hole (214), and give the internal fixing structure 2 (222) a restoring force to restore the horizontal state. The disassembly plate (23) is located directly below the main body (21) of the multi-functional platform and is used to retract the spring structure 3 below the internal fixing structure 1 (221). The spring structure 1 can pull the internal fixing structure 1 (221) back to the retraction hole. The top cover (24) (including compatible and standard versions) is located directly above the main body of the multi-functional platform. The compatible version indicates that the multi-functional load mechanism of this UAV can be connected to the top cover and the fixing claw (28) via a double hook spring, so that the multi-functional load mechanism can be mounted on the base plate of UAV platforms of different shapes. The standard version can only be mounted on a specific UAV platform base plate by bolts. A pulley (25) is provided in the center of the top cover to assist in the connection between the tool shaft and the external motor shaft.

2. The UAV multi-functional load mechanism (2) compatible with multiple overlapping methods as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The internal fixing structure component (22) includes an internal fixing structure 1 (221), an internal fixing structure 2 (222), and an internal spring structure (223). The internal fixing structure 1 (221) and the internal fixing structure 2 (222) are connected by a shaft fitting, and the internal fixing structure 2 can rotate on the shaft of the internal fixing structure 1.

3. The UAV multi-functional load mechanism (2) compatible with multiple overlapping methods as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The disassembly plate (23) is connected to the multi-functional platform body (21) via a moving groove. The top cover (24) (including the compatible version and the standard version) is connected to the multi-functional platform body (21) via bolts. The top cover (24) (compatible version) is connected to the top transmission arm (26), the top shaft (27), and the fixing claw (28) via shafts. The fixing claw (28) and the claw (29) can be connected by welding.

4. The UAV multi-functional load mechanism (2) compatible with multiple overlapping methods as described in claim 1, further characterized in that: This invention provides a method for using a multi-functional payload mechanism for drones compatible with multiple splicing methods. The method, employing the aforementioned multi-functional payload mechanism for drones compatible with multiple splicing methods, includes the following steps: Step 1: Install the 6 internal fixed structure components (22) onto the 6 moving slots (211) of the multi-functional platform body (21); Step 2: The internal fixed structure component (22) is connected to the multi-functional platform body (21) by a spring; Step 3: Insert the inner spring structure 3 below the 6 internal fixing structure components (22) into the 6 inner spring slots (215) of the multi-functional platform body respectively; Step 4: Install the disassembly plate (23) on the lower part of the multi-functional platform and the top cover (24) on the upper part. For the compatible version, also install the top transmission arm (26), top shaft (27), fixing claw (28), claw (29) and double hook spring. Step 5: Insert the tool with the specific connection intermediary installed into the multi-functional platform (2) installed in Step 4; Step 6: After the connecting medium on the tool is fully inserted into the multi-functional platform, it returns to its original position and locks onto the internal fixed structure component (22); Step 7: When you need to change tools, simply press the disassembly disc (23) evenly. The internal fixed structure components will be pulled to the minimum limit by the spring structure 1. At this time, the diameter of the platform body reaches the maximum, and the tools can be removed.

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