Passenger drone for transporting winter sportspeople with winter sports gear strapped to their feet

Abstract

Disclosed is a passenger drone (1) for transporting winter sportspeople (45) with winter sports gear (46) strapped to their feet, the passenger drone (1) comprising a load drone (2) to which a suspension structure (3) can be preferably detachably fastened, wherein at least one seat (4), preferably at least one chairlift seat, for at least one winter sportsperson can be fastened, in particularly directly, to the suspension structure (3).

Description

[0001] Passenger drone for transporting winter sports enthusiasts with strapped-on winter sports equipment

[0002] The invention relates to a passenger drone for transporting winter sports enthusiasts with strapped-on winter sports equipment, comprising a cargo drone, wherein a suspension device, preferably detachably, can be attached to the cargo drone. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for transporting winter sports enthusiasts, in particular with strapped-on winter sports equipment, with at least one passenger drone.

[0003] Passenger drones, also known as autonomous flying taxis, are already known from the state of the art. They are characterized by the ability to transport passengers and enable autonomous flight, as is the case with unmanned aerial vehicles. Flyable models with an enclosed passenger cabin are already known from the state of the art, such as the EHang 184 model for one passenger and the EHang 216 model for two passengers.

[0004] The patent application WO 2020 / 184602 A1 shows a passenger drone for rescuing people, whereby a person can be transported standing up in an open sling on a cargo drone.

[0005] The transportation of winter sports enthusiasts to a higher exit point is usually accomplished by lifts, cable cars, or chairlifts. A disadvantage of transport by lifts, cable cars, or chairlifts is that the exit point is fixed at the mountain station. This makes it impossible to achieve a personalized descent, as desired by off-piste skiers or freeriders.

[0006] An alternative is the transport of winter sports enthusiasts by helicopter, a process also known as heliskiing / snowboarding. Here, a pilot takes one or more winter sports enthusiasts to a chosen drop-off point, often a summit. The disadvantage of this method is the high cost, which is due, among other things, to the high fuel consumption and the need for a pilot. In addition, heliskiing / snowboarding pollutes the environment with loud engine noise and helicopter exhaust fumes. Therefore, heliskiing / snowboarding is prohibited in many areas, particularly in most parts of the Alps.

[0007] These disadvantages can be partially avoided by using passenger drones to transport winter sports enthusiasts. Patent application WO 2019 / 209132 A1 shows the use of a passenger drone with a closed cabin in the mountains, particularly disclosing its use by winter sports enthusiasts for off-piste skiing or freeriding.

[0008] A disadvantage, however, is that exiting is difficult in impassable, steep and / or exposed terrain, such as on narrow peaks or ridges or in steep gullies, where landing the passenger drone is not possible. Winter sports enthusiasts therefore often have to exit a flying passenger drone. Since there is no space in passenger drones to strap on winter sports equipment such as skis or snowboards, winter sports enthusiasts have to exit without strapped on winter sports equipment and strap on the winter sports equipment in the terrain. This represents a considerable safety risk for the winter sports enthusiast in impassable, steep and / or exposed terrain. Getting into the passenger drone is also difficult.

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to avoid these disadvantages. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to create a passenger drone that enables safe egress in exposed terrain.

[0010] Therefore, in a passenger drone according to the invention, at least one chair, preferably at least one chairlift chair, for at least one winter sports enthusiast can be attached to the suspension.

[0011] A method according to the invention provides for the transport of

[0012] Winter sports enthusiasts, especially those with strapped

[0013] Winter sports equipment, with at least one such passenger drone.

[0014] This allows a winter sports enthusiast to be transported, similar to a chairlift, with their winter sports equipment at least partially strapped in. This allows for safe exit from the passenger drone in steep terrain. It also allows for jumping from the drone in particularly inaccessible locations.

[0015] In particular, the at least one chair can be attached directly to the suspension system. The at least one chair cannot be attached to a cabin attached to the suspension system. In particular, it is a chairlift chair on which a winter sports enthusiast can be transported with their winter sports equipment strapped to them.

[0016] In one embodiment, a safety bar is arranged and / or fastened to at least one chair and / or to the suspension system. This protects a winter sports enthusiast from falling out of the chair during transport. It is preferably provided that a footrest is arranged on the safety bar. A winter sports enthusiast can rest his feet, in particular his strapped-on winter sports equipment, on this. The safety bar can be pivotable and thus have an open position and a closed position. This allows a winter sports enthusiast to get in and out with the safety bar open, whereby the safety bar can be closed during a flight of the passenger drone.

[0017] The footrest can also be attached directly to the chair and / or the suspension.

[0018] The suspension system can have a curved shape, at least in sections. This allows the suspension system to also be used for a chair on a chairlift.

[0019] The seat and / or the suspension system can be made at least partially, preferably largely, of fiber-reinforced plastic, in particular carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. This keeps the weight of the passenger drone low while simultaneously achieving a stable design.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the seating area of ​​the at least one chair is at least partially open to the outside. In particular, the chair is not arranged in a closed capsule or cabin. Rather, the seating area of ​​the at least one chair can be at least partially surrounded by a rod system, wherein the rod system can be, for example, parts of the chair, the safety bar, or the suspension device.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the at least one chair can be partially closed by at least one openable, preferably pivotable and / or partially transparent protective hood. It is preferably provided that the seating area of ​​the at least one chair is at least partially open to the outside when the protective hood is closed and when it is open. This provides the winter sports enthusiast with simple protection from wind and weather. The feet with the winter sports equipment strapped on could protrude outwards and in particular be placed on a footrest because the seating area of ​​the at least one chair is at least partially open to the outside even when the protective hood is closed.

[0022] Another positive effect of the protective hood is the protection of winter sports enthusiasts sitting on at least one of the seats from what is known as prop wash. Prop wash is the airflow generated by the rotating rotor, which can be particularly strong during takeoff.

[0023] For the two embodiments of the previous two paragraphs, a typical chairlift seat can be used, which often has openable protective hoods.

[0024] The protection of winter sports enthusiasts from prop wash of the rotors can be realized additionally or alternatively in other ways. Generally, at least one cover can be arranged between the at least one chair and at least one, preferably all, rotors of the cargo drone to protect the winter sports enthusiasts sitting in the at least one chair.

[0025] The cover is preferably at least partially transparent.

[0026] The cover is preferably curved toward at least one chair, particularly preferably partially spherical. This allows a winter sports enthusiast, for example, to be at least partially enclosed, thus providing good protection against prop wash.

[0027] As stated above, the cover can be designed as an openable protective hood, as is often provided on chairlift chairs. A parking device can preferably be arranged on the suspension and / or the chair, wherein the parking device extends into an area below the at least one chair and / or the suspension. This allows the chair and / or the suspension or the entire passenger drone to be parked. The cargo drone can be uncoupled in this case. The cargo drone can also be coupled and switched off.

[0028] Preferably, the parking device has at least one skid and / or at least one wheel. A skid allows the passenger drone or the chair and / or the suspension to be moved in the snow. A wheel allows the passenger drone or the chair and / or the suspension to be moved on snowless ground.

[0029] The parking device can also be used as a footrest. A cross brace can be provided on the parking device for this purpose.

[0030] In one embodiment, the cargo drone has a connecting part, with the connecting part being able to attach the hanger to the cargo drone.

[0031] In one embodiment, the suspension has a fastening device for connection to the cargo drone at the end opposite at least one chair.

[0032] Using the fastening device, the suspension system can be attached to the cargo drone, preferably detachably. Various fastening methods are conceivable.

[0033] A joint can be arranged between the cargo drone and the suspension. The joint is preferably designed as a hinge, pivot bearing, universal joint, or ball joint. This allows the suspension to hang straight down despite the cargo drone being tilted, for example, during flight.

[0034] Such a joint can be arranged on the fastening device and / or on the connecting part and / or on the hanger.

[0035] The joint can be designed to be lockable. For example, the joint can be locked when the passenger drone lands, preventing a switched-off cargo drone from tipping over. The joint can be locked electronically and / or mechanically, and automatically and / or manually.

[0036] The joint can be damped. This can reduce or prevent oscillation of the suspension while the passenger drone is flying.

[0037] A weight detection device can be arranged between the cargo drone and the suspension system, preferably with the weight detection device comprising strain gauges. This can be used to measure whether one and / or more winter sports enthusiasts are sitting in the passenger drone's seat. It can also be detected whether at least one winter sports enthusiast has exited.

[0038] The suspension system can be attached to the cargo drone via a cable section and / or a rail. This allows fastening devices commonly used on chairlifts to be used to attach the suspension system to the cargo drone.

[0039] The suspension device can be attached to the cargo drone via a clamp, preferably with the clamp being held in a closed position by a spring and / or being transferable from a closed position to an open position by means of an actuating lever. The clamp can be designed according to a design commonly used in chairlifts. By actuating the actuating lever, the suspension device can be released from the cargo drone. In particular, it is provided that the clamp can be attached to the cargo drone via a cable section.

[0040] It can also be provided that the clamp can be suspended in a rail, just as the usual clamp designs on chair lifts are guided in rails in the station.

[0041] In one embodiment, the cargo drone has at least one, preferably four, six, eight, or sixteen, rotor(s), wherein the at least one rotor is preferably attachable to at least one boom, and wherein, particularly preferably, exactly one and / or exactly two rotors are attachable to each boom. The cargo drone can thus be designed as a multicopter.

[0042] Various boom shapes are conceivable, with all rotors preferably arranged on an imaginary circle. In particular, a plus configuration is conceivable, in which one rotor is arranged at the front in the forward flight direction. A cross configuration is also conceivable, in which two rotors are arranged at the front in the forward flight direction.

[0043] It can be provided that two propellers are mounted on each boom and can be operated coaxially in opposite directions.

[0044] The cargo drone can have at least one electric motor, wherein the at least one electric motor can be supplied with electrical energy by at least one rechargeable battery. It can be provided that several electric motors can be supplied with electrical energy by one rechargeable battery. However, it can also be provided that one rechargeable battery is assigned to each electric motor. It is particularly advantageous that one rotor or two coaxial rotors can be driven by one electric motor. The cargo drone can thus be controlled by different speeds of the electric motors without a transmission gear and without tilting the rotors.

[0045] In one embodiment, the cargo drone is provided with at least one sensor.

[0046] The cargo drone can have at least one position sensor, in particular at least one pressure sensor. This can be used, for example, to determine the altitude of the cargo drone.

[0047] The cargo drone can have at least one motion sensor, in particular at least one gyro sensor and / or acceleration sensor. A gyro sensor can be used to determine the rotation of the cargo drone. An acceleration sensor can be used to determine the acceleration of a drone.

[0048] The cargo drone can have at least one environmental sensor, in particular at least one camera, at least one LIDAR system, and / or at least one RADAR system. This allows it to avoid obstacles such as trees, rocks, masts, or the ground.

[0049] In one embodiment, the cargo drone has a control unit for controlling at least one electric motor, wherein the control unit is connectable to sensors. The control unit can process sensor signals and, by means of a control algorithm, control the motor speeds such that the cargo drone flies stably in the air, flies in motion and / or performs another maneuver. The passenger drone can have at least one communication unit, preferably wherein the communication unit has an antenna for communication, wherein electromagnetic signals

[0050] - from a satellite, in particular a navigation satellite, and / or

[0051] - can be sent and / or received to and from a mobile and / or stationary transmitting unit, in particular via a mobile radio network.

[0052] Electromagnetic signals from a satellite, in particular a navigation satellite, can be used to determine the position of the passenger drone by means of a navigation satellite system, such as GPS.

[0053] Likewise, electromagnetic signals can be sent to and received from a mobile transmitter unit. If a winter sports enthusiast wears a mobile transmitter unit, such as a smartphone or smartwatch, they can give instructions to the passenger drone. The passenger drone can also transmit its location or its free / occupied status to a winter sports enthusiast, for example.

[0054] Electromagnetic signals can also be transmitted via a stationary transmitter unit. Voice messages and / or data, such as maps and / or control instructions, can be sent via a mobile radio network.

[0055] In one embodiment, a first communication unit is provided in the cargo drone, and a second communication unit is provided on the suspension and / or on at least one chair. This allows at least one electrical signal to be sent between the first communication unit and the second communication unit, for example, to send status messages from the cargo drone to the winter sports enthusiast or control instructions from the winter sports enthusiast to the cargo drone. The first and / or second communication unit can also be configured to communicate with third parties.

[0056] In one embodiment, an operator unit is arranged on at least one chair and / or on the suspension system, wherein the operator unit has a display and / or actuating elements, preferably wherein the cargo drone is controllable by means of the operator unit. In particular, the operator unit can communicate with the control unit via the first and second communication units.

[0057] Furthermore, an intercom system can be installed on at least one chair and / or on the suspension system. This allows a winter sports enthusiast to communicate with a third party, which can be, in particular, a base station and / or a winter sports enthusiast in another passenger drone.

[0058] Communication can take place via the communication unit, in particular the first communication unit. For this purpose, signals can be sent between the communication unit and the operator unit, preferably wirelessly. This allows, for example, the winter sports enthusiast to control the cargo drone.

[0059] As mentioned at the beginning, a method according to the invention provides for the transport of winter sports enthusiasts, in particular with strapped-on winter sports equipment, with at least one described passenger drone.

[0060] An embodiment of the method according to the invention comprises at least one of the following method steps: - Receiving at least one winter sports enthusiast in at least one chair,

[0061] - Transport of at least one winter sports enthusiast from at least one first base station to a disembarkation point, preferably higher than the at least one first base station, by, preferably autonomous, flying of the passenger drone,

[0062] - Drop off at least one winter sports enthusiast at a starting point,

[0063] - Return of the passenger drone to the at least one first

[0064] Base station or at least a second

[0065] Base station .

[0066] The base station may include a charging station for charging the passenger drone, in particular the batteries.

[0067] At least one winter sports enthusiast can be accommodated in at least one chair in the at least one first base station. It can be provided that the first base station can only be accessed with a ski pass, for example, an access system can be used.

[0068] It can be provided that when picking up at least one winter sports enthusiast, the suspension system with at least one seat is separated from the cargo drone, and the cargo drone is only connected to the suspension system before the at least one winter sports enthusiast is transported. Thus, the winter sports enthusiast can be picked up by a cargo drone and seated beforehand.

[0069] The following procedural steps may be provided:

[0070] - Picking up at least one winter sports enthusiast in at least one valley station, with the suspension on the rope of a

[0071] Chairlift is attached, - Transport of at least one winter sports enthusiast to at least one first base station, preferably higher than the valley station, by the chairlift,

[0072] - Decoupling of the suspension from the chairlift cable,

[0073] - Attaching the sling to the cargo drone.

[0074] This means that only the last transport section, preferably in difficult terrain, can be accomplished with a cargo drone.

[0075] The suspension system with the at least one chair can be provided in the at least one first base station in a hanging position and / or standing on the ground to accommodate at least one winter sports enthusiast. If the suspension system is provided in a hanging position, it can be provided that the suspension system is suspended from a stand by means of the fastening device. If the suspension system is provided in a standing position, it can be provided that the suspension system is placed on the parking device.

[0076] It may be intended that the passenger drone remain within a predefined flight corridor when transporting at least one winter sports enthusiast and / or upon return. A navigation satellite system, in particular GPS, of the passenger drone may be used for this purpose. This prevents the passenger drone from straying into dangerous areas, such as areas with air traffic.

[0077] In one embodiment, it is provided that the passenger drone, when transporting at least one winter sports enthusiast and / or when returning, at least in sections

[0078] - flies autonomously, and / or

[0079] - is controlled from a base station, and / or

[0080] - is controlled by at least one winter sports enthusiast. Preferably, the passenger drone flies autonomously, for example, based on a map. For example, the passenger drone can be controlled by the winter sports enthusiast before disembarkation and / or in emergencies. Likewise, in emergencies, the passenger drone can be controlled from the base station.

[0081] When dropping off at least one winter sports participant at the exit point, it can be registered whether the drop-off of at least one winter sports participant has taken place. The registration can preferably

[0082] - automatically, in particular by measuring a weight recording device, and / or

[0083] - by manual indication of at least one winter sports enthusiast, and / or

[0084] - by remote indication from the base station

[0085] The weight detection device can measure the decreasing load weight of the passenger drone and conclude from this that at least one winter sports enthusiast has been dropped off.

[0086] The manual indication of at least one winter sports enthusiast can be carried out via the actuating device and / or a mobile transmitting unit, in particular via the first communication unit.

[0087] The remote indication from the base station can be carried out via the communication unit.

[0088] In one embodiment, an autonomous return of the passenger drone to the at least one first base station or to at least one second base station can be initiated by registering the drop-off of at least one winter sports enthusiast. For example, the passenger drone can return automatically after a jump by at least one winter sports enthusiast.

[0089] It can be provided that the passenger drone follows at least one winter sports enthusiast before or during their return. The passenger drone can, for example, take a video of the winter sports enthusiast. Preferably, the passenger drone sends a warning signal to the base station in the event of an emergency. An emergency can be, for example, an avalanche and / or a fall of the winter sports enthusiast. An emergency can be detected automatically by the base station, in particular by means of artificial intelligence, and / or via the camera on the passenger drone.

[0090] Particularly preferably, the at least one winter sports enthusiast can summon the passenger drone away from the at least one base station, preferably using a mobile transmission unit. This can then result in a recording of the at least one winter sports enthusiast away from the at least one base station. This can also be used in an emergency, for example, if the winter sports enthusiast can no longer continue, either due to an injury or because the downhill route is blocked by a cliff.

[0091] This function can also be used for scheduled purposes, for example, when a descent route is not fully navigable, for example, because a cliff is blocking the way. This allows the upper part of the descent route to be navigated, followed by a scheduled re-ascent with the passenger drone.

[0092] Of course, the passenger drone can also be used in summer, like a chairlift. The passenger drone can also be used for non-sporting purposes. For example, the passenger drone can be used as a rescue drone. A person in need of rescue can be picked up by the passenger drone. If the drone is designed as a two-seater, a first rescuer can be transported to the person in need of rescue using the passenger drone. It can also be provided that, instead of a seat for the second person, there is a holder for an akia or a stretcher.

[0093] This eliminates the need for first responders to ascend to the scene of the accident themselves, saving time and minimizing the risk to the injured person. The risk to first responders is also minimized, as they don't have to ascend into potentially dangerous areas.

[0094] The advantage of using a passenger drone over a helicopter is that passenger drones can fly close to the ground even in low visibility conditions, even in rugged terrain that would be dangerous for helicopters. Thanks to their autonomous flight function, passenger drones always find their way back to their base station.

[0095] Further details and advantages of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures and the drawings.

[0096] Fig. 1 Passenger drone in front view,

[0097] Fig. 2 Passenger drone in side view with

[0098] Winter sports,

[0099] Fig. 3 Passenger drone in side view with winter sportsman and cover

[0100] Fig. 4 Passenger drone in side view with winter sportsman and protective hood

[0101] Fig. 5 Cargo drone with devices inside, Fig. 6a, b Connection of the cargo drone with the hanger,

[0102] Fig. 7 alternative embodiment of the connection of the cargo drone with the hanger,

[0103] Fig. 8 Method for transporting a winter sports enthusiast with a passenger drone,

[0104] Fig. 9 Method for transporting a winter sports enthusiast with a passenger drone with two base stations, and

[0105] Fig. 10 Method for transporting a winter sports enthusiast with a passenger drone in combination with a chairlift.

[0106] Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 show a passenger drone 1 for transporting winter sports enthusiasts with strapped-on winter sports equipment, with a cargo drone 2, wherein a suspension device 3 is attached, preferably detachably, to the cargo drone 2. A chair 4 for at least one winter sports enthusiast is attached to the suspension device 3.

[0107] Fig. 1 shows a front view and Fig. 2 a side view of the passenger drone 1. Fig. 2 also shows a winter sports enthusiast 45 sitting on the chair 4 with strapped-on winter sports equipment 46, here in the form of skis.

[0108] In the illustrated example, chair 4 is designed as a double chair for two winter sports enthusiasts. This can essentially be a typical chairlift chair.

[0109] The seating area of ​​the at least one chair 4 is open to the outside, in particular no capsule is provided in which the chair 4 would be arranged. The winter sports enthusiast sitting in the seating area is surrounded only by an air-permeable rod. A safety bar 5 is arranged on at least one chair 4, and a footrest 6 is also arranged on the safety bar 5. A winter sports enthusiast 45 can rest his foot, or if necessary his winter sports equipment 46, on the footrest 6. The safety bar 5 is pivotally mounted so that it can be pivoted from a closed position, as in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, into an open position. In an open position, a winter sports enthusiast 45 can get in and out.

[0110] The suspension system 3 has a curved shape, at least in sections. The curved shape of the suspension system 4 is typical for the suspension systems of chairlifts, where this shape is necessary due to the supports. The suspension system 3 and the chair 4 can be shaped like those of a conventional chairlift.

[0111] The chair 4 has a chair rod 38 which is connected to the suspension 3. In the lower region of the chair rod 38, a seat 40 and a backrest 39 are arranged, which form the actual seat support for the winter sports enthusiast 45.

[0112] The seat 4 and / or the suspension 3 can be made at least partially, preferably largely, of fiber-reinforced plastic, in particular of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. This keeps the weight of the passenger drone 1 low.

[0113] A parking device 7 is arranged on the chair 4, the parking device 7 extending into an area below the at least one chair 4 and the suspension 3. The parking device 7 has at least one runner 8. This allows the passenger drone 1 to be moved in the snow. It can also be provided that the parking device 7 has at least one wheel, although this is not shown in the figures. The parking device 7 is attached here to the chair rod 38. The cargo drone 2 has a connecting part 10, the suspension 3 being able to be fastened to the cargo drone 2 by means of the connecting part 10. The suspension 3 has, at the end opposite the at least one chair 4, a fastening device 15 for connection to the cargo drone 2. Further details on fastening the suspension 3 to the cargo drone 2 can be seen in Figs. 6a, b and Fig. 7.

[0114] Fig. 3 shows the passenger drone 1 in the view from Fig. 2 with a cover 47 arranged between the rotors 19 of the cargo drone 2 and the at least one seat 4 for protecting the winter sports enthusiast 45. This allows the winter sports enthusiast 45 to be protected from prop wash (air flow of the rotors 19).

[0115] In this embodiment, the cover 47 is fastened to the chair 4, although other fastening points, in particular a fastening point on the suspension 3, are also possible.

[0116] The cover 47 has a partially spherical shape and is curved toward at least one chair 4. The cover 47 is partially transparent so that the winter sports enthusiast 45 has a clear view.

[0117] The cover 47 is open at the bottom so that the winter sports enthusiast 45 can get out of the chair 4 without unbuckling the winter sports equipment 46.

[0118] The cover 47 can also be mounted movably, in particular pivotably, at the fastening point.

[0119] Fig. 4 shows the passenger drone 1 in the view from Figs. 2 or 3 with an openable protective hood 48. Protective hoods 48 of this type are already known for chairlifts to protect winter sports enthusiasts 45 from wind and weather. Here, the protective hood 48 has the additional advantage of protecting against prop wash, since the protective hood 48 is also arranged between the rotors 19 and the chair 4 when closed.

[0120] Before getting out, the winter sports enthusiast 45 can swing the protective hood 48 into an open position and step down or jump off the chair 4 with the winter sports equipment 46 strapped on.

[0121] Despite the protective hood 48 of Fig. 4 or the cover 47 of Fig. 3, the seating area of ​​at least one chair 4 is at least partially open to the outside. In particular, the winter sports enthusiast 45 can arrange the winter sports equipment 46 outside the protective hood 48. This allows the winter sports enthusiast 45 to leave the winter sports equipment 46 strapped on and dismount or jump off more easily in rough, steep terrain.

[0122] Fig. 5 shows a cargo drone 3 with devices inside the cargo drone 3 in a sectional view. The cargo drone 2 has a base body 41 with a housing, four booms 20 pointing outward from the base body, and four rotors 19 each attached to the outer ends of the booms.

[0123] The axes of the rotors 19 are located on an imaginary circle (also in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2). The cargo drone 2 is designed here in a plus configuration. This means that with four rotors 19, one rotor 19 is arranged at the front in the forward flight direction, two rotors 19 are arranged centrally at the sides, and one rotor 19 is arranged at the rear.

[0124] Inside, the cargo drone 2 has one electric motor 21 per rotor 19, with the electric motors 21 being supplied with electrical energy by at least one accumulator 22. An electric motor 21 associated with a rotor 19 is arranged coaxially with the rotor 19. This eliminates the need for a gearbox, and the rotor 19 can be driven directly by the electric motor 21.

[0125] The cargo drone 2 is controllable by means of a control unit 27 for controlling at least one electric motor 21. The control unit 27 is connectable to sensors 23. Based on the input from the sensors 23, the speed of the electric motors 21 can be adjusted for control purposes.

[0126] The sensors 23 of the cargo drone 2 comprise at least one position sensor 24, in particular at least one pressure sensor, with which the altitude can be determined.

[0127] The sensors 23 of the cargo drone 2 also include a motion sensor 25, in particular at least one gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor, with which rotation and acceleration can be measured. A motion sensor can also be used for an inertial navigation system, with which the relative position of the cargo drone 2 can be determined.

[0128] The sensors 23 of the cargo drone 2 also include at least one environmental sensor 26, in particular at least one camera, at least one LIDAR system, and / or at least one RADAR system, with which the environment can be perceived. This allows, for example, obstacles to be detected.

[0129] The passenger drone 1 also has a communication unit 28, wherein the communication unit 28 has an antenna 29 for communication. Via the antenna 29, electromagnetic signals can be sent and received from a satellite, in particular a navigation satellite, and / or to and from a mobile and / or stationary transmitting unit, in particular via a mobile radio network. Using signals from a navigation satellite, the absolute position of the passenger drone 1 can be determined, for example by means of GPS. In addition, with a

[0130] Winter sports enthusiasts 25 or a base station 32 can be communicated.

[0131] A first communication unit 281 is in the cargo drone

[0132] 2 . This can be seen in Fig . 5 .

[0133] A second communication unit 282 is provided on at least one chair 4, as shown in Fig. 1. Here, the second communication unit 282 is attached to the chair frame 38 at the head height of a winter sports enthusiast 45. An intercom 31 is also installed on the second communication unit 282, by means of which a winter sports enthusiast 45 can receive and send voice messages.

[0134] An operator unit 30 is also arranged on the chair frame 38, wherein the operator unit 30 has a display and / or actuating elements. The cargo drone 2 can be manually controlled by the winter sports enthusiast using the operator unit 30. The status of the cargo drone 2, for example, the speed, altitude, or position, can be displayed on the display. A map can also be shown.

[0135] Signals can be transmitted, preferably wirelessly, between the communication unit 28, preferably the first communication unit 281, and the operator unit 30. This allows, for example, the cargo drone 2 to be controlled by the winter sports enthusiast 45.

[0136] Figures 6a, 6b, and 7 show the connection of the cargo drone 2 to the suspension 3, in particular various views of the connecting part 10 of the cargo drone 2 and the fastening device 15 on the suspension 3 for connecting the cargo drone 2 to the suspension 3. Fig. 6a shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment. Here, the suspension 3 can be fastened to the cargo drone 2 via a cable section 12. The cable section can also be designed as a rod or tube with similar dimensions.

[0137] More precisely, the suspension device 3 can be attached to the cargo drone 2 via a clamp 16, wherein the clamp 16 is held in a closed position by a spring 17 and can be moved from a closed position to an open position by means of an actuating lever 18. In Fig. 6a, the clamp 16 is shown in the closed position.

[0138] Fig. 6b shows a side view of the embodiment in Fig. 6a, with the clamp 16 not shown. However, the cable section 12, which is attached to the connecting part 10, is clearly visible.

[0139] In Figures 6a and 6b, a weight detection device 14 is arranged between the cargo drone 2 and the suspension 3. Here, the weight detection device is arranged in the upper area of ​​the connecting part 10. This can, for example, use strain gauges to measure the weight of the suspension 3 and the chair 4, including the load—that is, the winter sports enthusiasts. This can be used to determine whether and how many winter sports enthusiasts are sitting on the chair 4.

[0140] A joint 11 is attached to the hanger 3, in particular to the fastening device 15. The hanger 3 is thus pivotally mounted relative to the cargo drone 2, as a result of which the hanger 3 and the chair 4 are arranged essentially vertically even when the cargo drone 2 is tilted, i.e. when the cargo drone 2 is in forward flight. The joint 11 can be damped in order to prevent excessive swinging of the hanger 3 during flight. The joint 11 is designed here as a pivot bearing. Fig. 7 shows an alternative exemplary embodiment of a connection of the cargo drone 2 to the hanger 5, in particular of the connecting part 10 of the cargo drone 2 to the fastening device 15 on the hanger 3.

[0141] Here, the fastening device 15 is formed as a round or angular plug, which can be inserted into an opening in the connecting part 10 adapted to the plug and can snap into the opening.

[0142] Also shown here is a weight-detecting device 14, which is arranged here on the suspension device 3, in particular on the fastening device 15. As usual, this device can have strain gauges for determining the weight.

[0143] A joint 11 is arranged in the upper area of ​​the connecting part, wherein the joint 11 is designed as a lockable ball joint. Because the ball joint is lockable, a deactivated cargo drone 2 can be held on the stationary suspension 3 with the chair 4 without tipping over.

[0144] It is intended to use the passenger drone 1 for transporting winter sports enthusiasts 45 , in particular with strapped-on winter sports equipment 46 .

[0145] Fig. 8 shows an exemplary embodiment of a method for transporting winter sports enthusiasts. A mountainous region is shown which is suitable for downhill skiing with winter sports equipment 46. In particular, a downhill route 43 is suitable for downhill skiing. It is therefore desirable for a winter sports enthusiast 45 to go to the start of the downhill route 43. This can be a summit, for example. For this purpose, the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 is first picked up in at least one chair 4. The winter sports equipment 46 is preferably at least partially strapped on.

[0146] The reception of at least one winter sports enthusiast in at least one chair 4 can take place in the at least one first base station 321.

[0147] The first base station 321 can be, for example, a hut or a lift station. However, the first base station 321 can also simply be the location from which the winter sports enthusiast 45 takes off with the passenger drone 1.

[0148] When picking up at least one winter sports enthusiast 45, the suspension system 3 with the at least one chair 4 can be separated from the cargo drone 2, and the cargo drone 2 can only be connected to the suspension system 3 before the at least one winter sports enthusiast is transported. For example, the chairs 4 can be stored at the base station 321 and picked up by the cargo drone 2 only after a winter sports enthusiast 45 has taken a seat.

[0149] The suspension system 3 with the at least one chair 4 can be provided in the at least one first base station 321 hanging and / or standing on the ground to accommodate at least one winter sports enthusiast.

[0150] In a next step, the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 is transported from at least one first base station 321 to an exit point 33, preferably located higher than the at least one first base station 321, by preferably autonomous flight of the passenger drone 1. When transporting the at least one winter sports enthusiast, the passenger drone 1 can fly autonomously at least in sections or be controlled from the base station 32 or be controlled by the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45. In this case, the passenger drone 1 can remain within a predefined flight corridor 37 when transporting the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45. The flight route 44 is therefore located in the flight corridor 37.

[0151] In a next step, the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 is dropped off at the exit point 33. In other words, the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 disembarks from the seat 4 of the passenger drone 1. Because the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 is sitting in a seat 4 with the winter sports equipment 46 strapped on, disembarkation is made significantly easier, and strapping on the winter sports equipment 46 at the exit point 33 is no longer necessary.

[0152] Exit point 33 may be a point in exposed terrain, such as a summit, a summit ridge or a steep gully.

[0153] Exit point 33 is located at the beginning of downhill route 43. After the skier disembarks / drops off, skier 45 can enjoy the descent along downhill route 43.

[0154] The passenger drone 1 can follow at least one winter sports enthusiast, preferably with the passenger drone 1 sending a warning signal to the base station 32 in the event of an emergency.

[0155] The at least one winter sports enthusiast can summon the passenger drone 1 away from the at least one base station 32, preferably using a mobile transmission unit. A picture of the at least one winter sports enthusiast can then be taken away from the at least one base station 32, and the drone can then return to the valley or fly again to an exit point 33. This also allows partial travel on downhill routes that are not continuously navigable.

[0156] When at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 is dropped off at the exit point 33, it can be registered whether the drop-off of at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 has taken place. Registration can take place automatically, in particular by measuring a weight detection device 14, and / or by manual indication of the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45, and / or by remote indication from the base station 32.

[0157] In a next step, the passenger drone 1 can return to the at least one first base station 321. It is then available there for other winter sports enthusiasts 45. Likewise, the passenger drone 1 can wait for the winter sports enthusiast 45 who has just been transported to the exit point 33. As shown in Fig. 8, the first base station 321 can be located at the end of the departure route 43.

[0158] An autonomous return of the passenger drone 1 to the at least one first base station 321 or to at least one second base station 322 can be started by registering the drop-off of the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45.

[0159] Fig. 9 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a method for transporting at least one winter sports enthusiast 45, in particular with strapped-on winter sports equipment 46. Here, the flight corridor 37 is extended.

[0160] A first descent route 43 leads from a first exit point 33 to the first base station 321, as shown in Fig. 8. Furthermore, a winter sports enthusiast 45 can descend from the first exit point 33 via a second descent route 43 to a second base station 322. From the second base station 322, the winter sports enthusiast 45 can be transported to a second exit point 33, for example, on another peak. From there, a winter sports enthusiast 45 can descend again to the second base station 322 via a third descent route 43.

[0161] Like the first base station 321, the second base station 322 can be configured as a hut. However, it can also be merely a, possibly predefined, location where a winter sports enthusiast 45 is photographed by a passenger drone 1.

[0162] The departure from the second base station 322 to the first base station 311 is not possible in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 9 because cliffs 42 block the path. Thus, the departure routes 43 to the second base station 322 are only accessible if a passenger drone 1 picks up the winter sports enthusiast 45 from the second base station 322.

[0163] As can be seen from Fig. 9, the use of passenger drones 1 creates a kind of flexible, easily adaptable winter sports area. The downhill routes, exit points, and flight paths can be changed daily depending on the avalanche and weather conditions.

[0164] Fig. 10 shows the connection to a traditional ski area with a chairlift. In this case, the pickup of at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 can already take place in a valley station 34. The suspension device 3 can initially be attached to the cable 36 of a chairlift 35. The chairlift 35 transports the at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 to at least one first base station 321, which is preferably higher than the valley station 34. In the first base station 321, which is designed here as a lift station, the suspension device 3 is decoupled from the cable 36 of the chairlift 35. This can be accomplished by means of a clamp 16, as with conventional chairlifts 35. Instead of coupling the suspension device 3 back into the cable 36 of the chairlift after one circuit, the suspension device 3 is coupled into the connecting part 10 of a cargo drone 2. Preferably, the connecting part 10 has a cable section 12, as shown in Figs. 6a and 6b.Now the passenger drone 1 can transport at least one winter sports enthusiast 45 to an exit point 33, as shown, for example, in Figs. 8 and 9.

[0165] This means that only the last part of the journey, over rough, exposed terrain, can be covered by passenger drone 1, while the majority of the route is covered by chairlift. This means that passenger drone 1 is only used for short distances and can be recharged at base station 321.

[0166] Reference symbol list:

[0167] 1 passenger drone

[0168] 2 cargo drones

[0169] 3 hangers

[0170] 4 armchairs

[0171] 5 safety bars

[0172] 6 Footrest

[0173] 7 Parking device

[0174] 8 runners

[0175] 10 Connecting part

[0176] 11 Joint

[0177] 12 rope sections

[0178] 14 Weight recording device

[0179] 15 Fastening device

[0180] 16 terminal

[0181] 17 spring

[0182] 18 operating levers

[0183] 19 Rotor

[0184] 20 booms

[0185] 21 Electric motor

[0186] 22 Accumulator

[0187] 23 Sensor

[0188] 24 Position sensor

[0189] 25 motion sensor

[0190] 26 Environmental sensor

[0191] 27 Control unit

[0192] 28 Communication unit

[0193] 281 first communication unit

[0194] 282 second communication unit

[0195] 29 Antenna

[0196] 30 Operator unit

[0197] 31 Intercom 32 Base station

[0198] 321 first base station

[0199] 322 second base station

[0200] 33 Aus st legs st el le

[0201] 34 Valley station

[0202] 35 chairlift

[0203] 36 rope

[0204] 37 flight corridor

[0205] 38 chair rods

[0206] 39 Backrest

[0207] 40 seats

[0208] 41 basic bodies

[0209] 42 cliffs

[0210] 43 Departure route

[0211] 44 Flight route

[0212] 45 winter athletes

[0213] 46 Winter sports equipment

[0214] 47 Cover

[0215] 48 Protective cover

Claims

Patent claims 1. Passenger drone (1) for transporting winter sports enthusiasts (45) with strapped-on winter sports equipment (46), with a cargo drone (2), wherein a suspension (3) is attachable, preferably detachably, to the cargo drone (2), characterized in that at least one chair (4), preferably at least one chairlift chair, for at least one winter sports enthusiast can be attached, in particular directly, to the suspension (3).

2. Passenger drone (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein a safety bar (5) is arranged and / or fastened on at least one chair (4) and / or on the hanger (3).

3. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a footrest (6) is arranged and / or fastened on at least one chair (4), preferably on a safety bar (5) arranged on at least one chair (4) and / or on the hanger (3).

4. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the hanger (3) has a curved shape at least in sections.

5. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chair (4) and / or the suspension (3) are / is made at least partially, preferably largely, of fiber-reinforced plastic, in particular of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic.

6. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the seating area of ​​the at least one chair (4) is at least partially open to the outside and / or is at least partially surrounded by a rod system.

7. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one chair (4) is partially closable by at least one openable, preferably pivotable and / or partially transparent, protective hood (48), preferably wherein the seating area of ​​the at least one chair (4) is at least partially open to the outside when the protective hood (48) is closed and when it is open.

8. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one cover (47) for protecting the winter sports enthusiasts (45) sitting on the at least one chair (4) is arranged between the at least one chair (4) and at least one, preferably all, rotors (19) of the cargo drone (2), preferably wherein the at least one cover (47) is at least partially transparent, and / or is curved towards the at least one chair (4), particularly preferably partially spherical, and / or is open towards the bottom, and / or is designed as an openable protective hood (48).

9. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein on the chair (4) and / or on the hanger (3) a Parking device (7) is arranged, wherein the Parking device (7) extends into an area under the at least one chair (4) and / or the suspension (3), preferably wherein the parking device (7) has at least one runner (8) and / or at least one wheel.

10. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cargo drone (2) has a connecting part (10), wherein the hanger (3) can be fastened to the cargo drone (2) by means of the connecting part (10). Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the suspension (3) has a fastening device (15) for connection to the cargo drone (2) at the end opposite the at least one chair (4). Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a preferably lockable joint (11) is arranged between the cargo drone (2) and the suspension (3), preferably wherein the joint (11) is designed as a hinge, pivot bearing, universal joint, or ball joint. Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a weight detection device (14) is arranged between the cargo drone (2) and the suspension (3), preferably wherein the weight detection device (14) Strain gauges. . Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the hanger (3) is attachable to the cargo drone (2) via a cable section (12) and / or a rail. . Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the hanger (3) is attachable to the cargo drone (2) via a clamp (16). (2), preferably wherein the clamp (16) is held in a closed position by means of a spring (17) and / or can be transferred from a closed position into an open position by means of an actuating lever (18). . Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cargo drone (2) has at least one, preferably four, six, eight or sixteen, rotor(s) (19), wherein the at least one rotor (19) is preferably mounted on at least one boom (20) can be fastened, and wherein particularly preferably exactly one and / or exactly two rotors (19) can be attached to each boom (20). . Passenger drone (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cargo drone (2) has at least one electric motor (21), preferably one electric motor (21) per rotor (19), wherein the at least one electric motor (21) can be supplied with electrical energy by at least one accumulator (22). . Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cargo drone (2) has at least one sensor (23), preferably wherein the cargo drone (2) - at least one position sensor (24), in particular at least one pressure sensor, and / or - at least one motion sensor (25), in particular at least one gyro sensor and / or Accelerometer, and / or - at least one environmental sensor (26), in particular at least one camera, at least one LIDAR system and / or at least one RADAR system. . Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cargo drone (2) comprises a control unit (27) for controlling at least one electric motor (21), wherein the control unit (27) is connectable to sensors (23). . Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the passenger drone (1) has at least one communication unit (28), preferably wherein the communication unit (28) has an antenna (29) for communication, wherein electromagnetic signals - from a satellite, in particular a navigation satellite, and / or - can be sent and / or received to and from a mobile and / or stationary transmitting unit, in particular via a mobile radio network. . Passenger drone (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein a first communication unit (281) is provided in the cargo drone (2) and a second communication unit (282) is provided on the suspension (3) and / or on the at least one chair (4). . Passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein on the at least one chair (4) and / or on the suspension (3) - an operator unit (30) is arranged, wherein the operator unit (30) has a display and / or actuating elements, preferably wherein the cargo drone (2) is controllable by means of the operator unit, and / or - an intercom system (31) is arranged. . Passenger drone (1) according to claims 20 or 21 and 22, wherein signals can be sent between the communication unit (28) and the operator unit (30), preferably wirelessly. . Method for transporting winter sports enthusiasts (45), in particular with strapped-on winter sports equipment (46), with at least one passenger drone (1) according to one of the preceding claims. . Method according to claim 24, comprising at least one of the Process steps: - accommodation of at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) in at least one chair (4), - Transporting the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) from at least one first base station (321) to an exit point (33), preferably higher than the at least one first base station (321), by, preferably autonomous, flying of the passenger drone (1), - Drop off at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) at the exit point (33), - Return of the passenger drone (1) to the at least one first base station (321) or to at least one second base station (322). . Method according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) is picked up in the at least one chair (4) in the at least one first base station (321). . Method according to one of claims 25 or 26, wherein when picking up at least one winter sports enthusiast (45), the suspension (3) with at least one chair (4) from the cargo drone (2) is separated, and the cargo drone (2) is connected to the suspension (3) only before the transport of the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45). Method according to one of claims 25 to 27, wherein at least one of the following method steps is provided: - receiving at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) in at least one valley station (34), wherein the suspension (3) is attached to the cable (36) of a chairlift (35), - Transport of at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) to at least one, preferably higher than the valley station (34) lying first base station (321) by the chairlift (35), - decoupling of the suspension (3) from the cable (36) of the chairlift (35), - Fastening the suspension device (3) to the cargo drone (2). . Method according to one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the suspension device (3) with the at least one chair (4) is provided in the at least one first base station (321) hanging and / or standing on the ground for receiving at least one winter sports enthusiast (45). . Method according to one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the passenger drone (1) remains within a predefined flight corridor (37) during the transport of the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) and / or during the return. . Method according to one of claims 25 to 30, wherein the passenger drone (1) remains at least partially within a predefined flight corridor (37) during the transport of the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) and / or during the return. - flies autonomously, and / or - is controlled from a base station (32), and / or - is controlled by at least one winter sports enthusiast. . Method according to one of claims 25 to 31, wherein upon the drop-off of the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) at the exit point (33), it is registered whether the drop-off of the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) has taken place, preferably wherein the registration - automatically, in particular by measuring a weight detection device (14), and / or - by manual indication of at least one winter sports enthusiast (45), and / or - by remote indication from the base station (32). . Method according to the preceding claim, wherein an autonomous return of the passenger drone (1) to the at least one first base station (321) or to at least one second base station (322) is initiated by registering the drop-off of the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45). . Method according to one of claims 25 to 33, wherein the passenger drone (1) follows the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) before or during the return, preferably wherein the passenger drone (1) sends a warning signal to the base station (32) in the event of an emergency. . Method according to one of claims 24 to 34, wherein the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) can summon the passenger drone (1) away from the at least one base station (32), preferably by means of a mobile transmitting unit, preferably wherein a recording of the at least one winter sports enthusiast (45) takes place away from the at least one base station (32).

Images