Advanced drone system for extended monitoring with tethered and autonomous power

Abstract

The present invention relates to an advanced drone system (100) designed for extended aerial monitoring with both tethered and untethered operation modes. It features a tethering power module (101) that connects to a ground power station for uninterrupted operation, while a battery module (103) ensures autonomous functionality when untethered. A high-resolution 4K camera (105) mounted on a stabilizing gimbal (104) provides real-time, stable video capture. The system (100) includes an obstacle detection and avoidance module (108) for safe navigation in complex environments. A power mode switching unit (102), managed by an onboard power management unit (PMU), enables smooth transitions between power modes. Additionally, a payload module (107) supports heavy equipment integration, and a high-intensity light source (106) enhances surveillance in low-light conditions. This system (100) ensures reliable, continuous monitoring across diverse operational settings. (to be published with figure 1)

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION:

[0001] The present invention relates to an advanced drone system, specifically toa drone equipped with a tethered power module for extended aerial monitoring.The system enables continuous surveillance and illumination for the extendedperiod while ensuring reliable operation across various environments. The systemis suitable for applications in security, disaster management, and industrialmonitoring.BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART:

[0002] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not beassumed to be prior art merely because of its mention in the background section.Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with thesubject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have beenpreviously recognized in the prior art.

[0003] Tethered drones have been developed to extend operational flight times,but many existing solutions still face challenges, such as reliance on battery powerfor extended missions, lack of integrated surveillance and illuminationcapabilities, and limited obstacle avoidance functionality. These drones oftenrequire multiple systems to handle different aspects of the mission, leading toincreased complexity and reduced efficiency. Furthermore, the traditional dronesare limited by flight duration such as 20-45 minutes, which hampers theireffectiveness in prolonged missions.

[0004] Additionally, many aerial illumination systems and UAVs are designed foreither surveillance or lighting, but not both simultaneously, limiting theirversatility for applications such as security, disaster management, and industrialmonitoring. Furthermore, existing drones with obstacle avoidance systems tend tohave limited functionality in complex or dynamic environments, making themunsuitable for continuous operation in a variety of scenarios.

[0005] The "Aviral - Tethered Drone Platform" by Aerialiq is designed for longendurance missions, offering unparalleled performance and adaptability comparedto traditional unmanned systems. Aviral provides extended flight durations,remaining in the air for hours while delivering valuable data continuously. Itsfiber-optic tether ensures secure, jam-proof communication, making it immune tocounter-drone systems. With high payload capacity, Aviral can accommodate avariety of sensors and communication tools. The platform supports remoteoperations via LTE connectivity, allowing global data access. Its redundantsystems and fully autonomous flight capabilities ensure reliable and user-friendlyoperation, requiring minimal training.

[0006] The "Octo RH8" by Aerialiq is a versatile and robust octocopter designedto carry heavy payloads with ease. Its unique H-frame design, combined with thepower of 8 motors, ensures exceptional performance and reliability. Tailored for awide range of applications, the Octo RH8 can be customized to meet specificneeds, including asset inspection, agriculture, surveillance, delivery, andproduction filming, making it a highly adaptable solution for various industries.

[0007] The product "Tethered Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (TUAV)" by BharatElectronics Limited is designed for airborne applications that demand longendurance. It can be launched from various platforms such as shipboard, mobileground vehicles, and fixed systems, serving as a virtual telescopic mast. Thissystem provides a reliable and portable solution for aerial surveillance andmonitoring, offering enhanced situational awareness with its height advantage forlonger detection ranges. Key features include in-built video stabilization, targettracking, and video recording, as well as secure optical fiber communication. Itoffers high system endurance, quick deployment, and can be operated by just twocrew members. The TUAV also ensures safe return in case of power orcommunication failure.

[0008] The "Tethered Drone" by Mavdrones offers an advanced solution for longduration aerial surveillance and monitoring, powered continuously through itstethered connection, eliminating the need for frequent battery recharges. Its secureand high-speed data transmission ensures real-time monitoring withoutinterference. Designed for versatility, the drone supports modular payloadintegration, including high-resolution cameras and specialized sensors for diverseapplications such as environmental monitoring, security, and infrastructureinspection. With enhanced stability in challenging weather conditions and an ecofriendly power supply, this drone redefines endurance and reliability in aerialtechnology.

[0009] The non-patent literature "Tethered Unmanned Aerial Vehicles-ASystematic Review" (https: / / doi.org / 10.3390 / robotics12040117) discusses theadvantages and challenges of tethered UAVs (tUAVs). The key benefits includeextended operational time due to power transfer from the ground, increasedpayload capacity by eliminating the onboard battery, and improved localizationaccuracy. However, tUAVs face limitations such as restricted mobility due totether length and challenges in estimating the tether's pose. Research in this fieldprimarily focuses on force estimation in the tether, wind compensation, loadstabilization, and UAV path planning. Most studies utilize multirotor aircraft, withsome exploring fixed-wing and helicopter alternatives. The energy transfermethods are often unspecified, though high-voltage DC is preferred for efficiency.The absence of an onboard battery reduces weight, allowing for additionalpayload capacity. Control approaches are predominantly PID-based, with limitedadoption of advanced or machine learning techniques, highlighting the robustnessof classical PID control in uncertain conditions.

[0010] Therefore, to overcome the challenges addressed by conventionaltechniques, there is a need for a more integrated and flexible drone system thatcombines continuous power supply through a tethered system, dual power modes,high-intensity illumination, real-time high-definition video surveillance, and anadvanced obstacle avoidance system. The present invention addresses these gapsby providing a drone system capable of offering uninterrupted surveillance andillumination with advanced navigation and multi-sensor fusion for obstacledetection, making it an ideal solution for prolonged aerial monitoring andoperational flexibility in critical applications.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:

[0011] The primary object of the present invention is to provide an advanceddrone system capable of extended aerial monitoring with continuous operationusing a tethered power module.

[0012] Another object of the invention is to enable seamless switching betweentethered and untethered power modes, ensuring operational flexibility for varioussurveillance and monitoring applications.

[0013] Another object is to integrate high-intensity illumination with real-time 4Kvideo surveillance, allowing effective monitoring even in low-light or night-timeconditions.

[0014] Another object is to incorporate an advanced obstacle detection andavoidance system using multi-sensor fusion, ensuring safe and autonomousnavigation in complex environments.

[0015] Overall, the invention aims to provide a versatile, long-duration aerialsurveillance and illumination solution for security, disaster management, andindustrial monitoring, with mode-switching capability to seamlessly transitionbetween tethered and untethered (battery-operated) modes.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

[0016] This summary introduces the concepts related to an advanced dronesystem for extended aerial monitoring. It is not intended to define essentialfeatures or limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0017] The present invention relates to an advanced drone system designed forlong-duration aerial surveillance and illumination, featuring both tethered anduntethered power modes. The system includes a tethering power module thatconnects to a ground power station, ensuring continuous operation in tetheredmode, while a battery module provides autonomous power when untethered,allowing flexible deployment.

[0018] In an aspect, the system comprises a high-resolution 4K camera mountedon a stabilizing gimbal, configured to capture stable, real-time, high-definitionvideo for surveillance across various environments. Additionally, the systemincludes an obstacle detection and avoidance module, which enables autonomousnavigation and safe operation by dynamically utilizing sensors based on thedrone's power mode.

[0019] The power mode switching unit facilitates seamless transitions betweentethered and untethered modes by employing an onboard power management unit(PMU). The PMU autonomously detects power loss and engages a rapidswitching mechanism, ensuring uninterrupted operation during flight. A payloadmodule is integrated to support heavy equipment, with power supplied either bythe tethering power module or the battery module.

[0020] Furthermore, the system incorporates a high-intensity light source, coupledwith the 4K camera and power modules, providing powerful illumination forenhanced surveillance in low-light or nighttime conditions.

[0021] Therefore, the present invention delivers a versatile and efficient aerialmonitoring solution with uninterrupted power management, autonomousnavigation, and enhanced surveillance capabilities, making it highly suitable forsecurity, disaster response, and industrial monitoring applications.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:Fig. 1 illustrates a block diagram depicting the components of the system inaccordance with the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

[0022] The invention has other advantages and features which will be morereadily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention and theappended claims, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

[0023] The invention is described herein in detail with the help of figuresappended at the end of the specification. The figures illustrate the preferredembodiment as well as other embodiments that define the scope of the presentinvention. However, it may be understood that the figures presented herein areintended to exemplify the scope of the invention only. The person skilled in artmay note that by no means the figures limit the scope of the invention. Anyvariation in the drawings by any other person will be falling in the scope of thepresent invention.

[0024] Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take themeanings explicitly associated herein unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.The meaning of "a", "an", and "the" include plural references. The meaning of"in" includes "in" and "on." Referring to the drawings, like numbers indicate likeparts throughout the views. Additionally, a reference to the singular includes areference to the plural unless otherwise stated or inconsistent with the disclosureherein.

[0025] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of the advanced drone system (100),designed for extended aerial monitoring, incorporating both tethered anduntethered power modes to support long-duration surveillance and illuminationoperations. The system (100) integrates multiple components to ensure stablepower management, high-definition imaging, autonomous navigation, andpayload versatility, making it well-suited for applications such as security, disastermanagement, and industrial inspections.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, the drone system (100) comprises a tethering powermodule (101) that connects to a ground power station, enabling continuous powerdelivery in tethered mode. It utilizes a rugged DC tether connector, ensuring anuninterrupted power supply for sustained surveillance and illumination. The tetherconnection also minimizes battery dependency, extending operational durationwithout interruptions.

[0027] The system (100) comprises a battery module (103) that providesautonomous power when the drone is disconnected from the tether, allowing it tooperate independently in untethered mode. This ensures flexibility in missionexecution, particularly for remote monitoring and mobile surveillance tasks.

[0028] The system (100) further comprises a high-resolution 4K Camera (105),mounted on a stabilizing gimbal (104), designed to capture real-time, highdefinition video with minimal vibrations. The gimbal (104) ensures smooth andstable imaging, making the system (100) effective in varied environmentalconditions, including strong winds and high-altitude operations.

[0029] The system (100) further comprises an obstacle detection and avoidancemodule (108), integrated with both the tethering power module (101) and batterymodule (103). This module enhances autonomous navigation by dynamicallyadjusting the drone's path based on its operational mode. In tethered mode, itoptimizes flight stability, while in untethered mode, it actively avoids obstacles,ensuring safe and efficient manoeuvrability in complex environments such asurban landscapes or disaster zones.

[0030] Furthermore, a power mode switching unit (102), operatively connected toboth the tethering power module (101) and battery module (103). This unitensures seamless power transitions using an onboard power management unit(PMU). The PMU autonomously detects power loss or fluctuations and engages arapid switching mechanism to maintain uninterrupted drone operation, preventingsudden shutdowns.

[0031] Furthermore, the system (100) comprises a payload module (107),designed to carry and integrate heavy equipment, such as specialized sensors,communication devices, or additional surveillance tools. The module is poweredby either the tethering power module (101) or the battery module (103), ensuringcontinuous operation of essential payload components without depleting dronepower reserves.

[0032] Furthermore, the system (100) comprises a high-intensity light source(106), integrated with the 4K Camera (105) and both power modules. Thisillumination system provides powerful lighting for night-time surveillance,search-and-rescue missions, and low-light operational scenarios. Thesynchronized operation of the camera (105) and light source (106) ensures thatrecorded footage remains clear and well-lit, even in challenging visibilityconditions.

[0033] The integration of these components ensures that the drone system (100)delivers extended aerial monitoring capabilities, with a flexible powerarchitecture, high-performance imaging, and autonomous adaptability. The abilityto seamlessly switch between power sources, combined with advanced navigationand payload versatility, makes it an ideal solution for applications requiringcontinuous aerial surveillance and precision monitoring.

[0034] The present invention provides a dual power mode with both automaticand manual switching, allowing the drone to operate in both tethered anduntethered configurations by utilizing the power mode switching unit (102). Thetethered mode is for unlimited flight and the battery-powered untethered mode forshort missions ensuring adaptability across various applications. This featureenhances versatility, enabling seamless deployment across various scenarios,including riot control, disaster response, and continuous aerial illumination. Theability to switch between power modes ensures uninterrupted operation whilemaintaining flexibility in mission execution.

[0035] In automatic switching, if the tether is unexpectedly disconnected due to aphysical break or operator error, the system (100) instantly detects the loss oftethered power by utilizing the power mode switching unit (102), and seamlesslytransitions to the battery mode. The onboard power management unit (PMU)senses the absence of voltage from the tethering power module (101) and redirectspower from the battery module (103) with the help of power mode switching unit(102), preventing crashes and allowing the drone to either continue its mission orexecute a safe return. This fail-safe mechanism ensures flight continuity inunforeseen circumstances.

[0036] For manual switching, the operator can transition between power modesby utilizing the onboard power management unit (PMU) via the ground controlstation (GCS) based on mission needs. When switching from tethered powermode to battery mode, the operator sends a command through the GCS,prompting the system (100) to verify the battery charge, shift power, and notifythe operator to disconnect the tethered power module (101) safely. Conversely,when switching from the battery mode to the tethered mode, the operator connectsthe tethered power module, and the system (100) detects the tethered powersource, automatically switching to it while potentially recharging the battery. Thisflexibility allows for optimized power management, ensuring extendedoperational capabilities.

[0037] The onboard power management unit (PMU) is designed to continuouslymonitor the battery's state of charge and ensure uninterrupted drone operation bycoordinating with the ground control station (GCS). When the battery reaches apredefined threshold, the PMU generates an alert through the GCS, notifying theoperator to reconnect the tether for sustained operation. In one embodiment, theGCS automatically triggers an alert when the battery level drops to 20%,prompting the operator to return and reconnect the tether to prevent powerdepletion. In another embodiment, the predefined battery threshold can becustomized based on user preferences, allowing flexibility in power managementaccording to mission requirements. This functionality enhances operationalreliability, ensuring that the drone remains powered and functional duringextended aerial missions.

[0038] The onboard power management unit (PMU) is enabled to performautomatic and manual power mode switching by monitoring voltage and currentfrom both the tethering power module (101) and the battery module (103) usingvoltage and current sensors.

[0039] Below are the explanations for both modes such as tethered and batterypowered modes:

[0040] 1. In the tethered mode, where the drone is powered via a 48V tetherconnected to a ground power station, enabling continuous operation and highbandwidth video streaming. When the operator needs to reposition the dronebeyond the tether's range, they send a "switch to battery" command via theground control station (GCS). The power management unit (PMU) thentransitions the drone to battery power, allowing the tether to be safelydisconnected.

[0041] 2. During battery operation, the GCS monitors power levels and alerts theoperator when the battery reaches 20%, prompting a return to reconnect the tetherfor recharging. In case of an accidental tether disconnection mid-flight, onboardsensors detect the power loss, and the PMU instantly switches to battery mode,preventing a crash. If tethered power fails unexpectedly, the system (100)automatically shifts to battery power and may initiate a safe landing or return-tohome procedure. Additionally, the system (100) logs power source usage for postmission analysis and maintenance planning, enhancing operational efficiency.

[0042] To ensure a smooth transition between tethered and battery modes, thesystem (100) employs a gradual power-switching process managed by the PowerManagement Unit (PMU). This transition is achieved using MOSFET-basedswitching, which controls the power load efficiently. When switching fromtethered to battery mode, the battery begins supplying power while the tetherremains active, creating a brief overlap where both sources operate in parallel.Once the battery's stability is confirmed, the tether is safely disconnected. Thereverse process occurs when transitioning back to tethered mode, ensuring aseamless shift without voltage drops or spikes, thereby maintaining stability forcritical components such as flight controllers and motors.

[0043] To prevent micro-interruptions, the system (100) incorporates a capacitorbank, acting as a short-term energy buffer to supply power for milliseconds ifnecessary.. A seamless transition from tethered to untethered mode is facilitatedby a capacitor bank integrated with the Power Management Unit (PMU), whichacts as an energy buffer to ensure smooth power switching and eliminatedisruptions. Throughout the transition, the PMU continuously monitors voltageand current from both power sources, allowing the system (100) to pause orreverse the switch if any instability is detected. Additionally, the flight controllerdynamically adjusts motor outputs and avionics, ensuring the drone remainsairborne and fully operational, even under heavy payload conditions.

[0044] As mentioned in aforementioned information, the Power ManagementUnit (PMU) is responsible for continuously monitoring the voltage and currentfrom both the tethering power module (101) and the onboard battery in real timeand dynamically regulate power transitions using voltage and current sensors, andadapt the switching process to ensure stability by pausing, delaying, or reversingtransitions as needed. Integrated sensors detect whether the tether is connectedand actively supplying power. The system (100) follows a default priorityoperation, where it automatically utilizes tethered power whenever available. Iftether power is unavailable or disconnected, the PMU seamlessly switches tobattery mode to ensure uninterrupted drone operation.

[0045] Furthermore, the onboard Power Management Unit (PMU) is designed todetect the tether connection status using integrated voltage or current sensors.Additionally, mechanical sensors at the tether receptacle can be employed forredundancy. To enhance user awareness, the power mode switching unit (102)provides visual confirmation of the active power mode through LEDs or statusindicator lights on both the drone and the Ground Control Station (GCS).

[0046] Below are the explanations for the automatic switching mode and manualswitching mode:

[0047] 1. Automatic switching mode (Fail-Safe Mode): In the event of anunexpected tether disconnection, whether due to cable failure or operator error,the Power Management Unit (PMU) instantly detects the power loss and activatesthe fail-safe switching mechanism. The system (100) immediately reroutes powerfrom the onboard battery to the drone's critical systems using MOSFET switches,which enable fast and efficient power transition. The switch occurs withinmilliseconds, ensuring there is no interruption in flight. Additionally, a capacitorbank acts as an energy buffer, supplying short-term power to mitigate microinterruptions during the transition, thereby maintaining system stability andpreventing voltage drops.

[0048] 2. Manual Switching mode (Operator-Controlled mode): The system (100)allows manual power mode switching, enabling the operator to control transitionsbased on mission requirements via the Ground Control Station (GCS).

[0049] a) For switching from tethered to battery mode, the operator sends acommand to initiate the transition. The system (100) verifies the battery chargelevel and then gradually shifts the power load from the tether to the battery. Oncethe battery is confirmed as stable, the system (100) signals the operator to safelydisconnect the tether.

[0050] b) For switching from battery to tethered mode, the operator reconnectsthe tether, and the PMU detects the stable power supply. The system (100) thenshifts the load back to tethered power, with an option to simultaneously rechargethe battery if needed. Throughout the process, the GCS provides real-timefeedback, displaying power status, battery levels, and confirmation of modetransitions, ensuring a smooth and controlled switching operation.

[0051] To ensure a smooth and stable transition during manual power switches,the system (100) employs a phased handover approach. In this method, bothpower sources-the tether and the battery-temporarily operate in parallel,allowing the PMU to gradually shift the power load from one source to the other.This controlled transition prevents sudden voltage drops or spikes, which couldotherwise destabilize the drone, particularly when carrying a heavy payload of upto 10 kg. By maintaining power continuity, the system (100) ensures reliableoperation without interruptions to flight performance or onboard electronics.

[0052] Furthermore, the obstacle detection and avoidance module (108), coupledwith the one or more sensors, continuously monitors the surroundings anddynamically adjusts sensor operation to maintain flight safety. The obstacledetection and avoidance module (108) intelligently adjusts based on the drone'spower mode to ensure safe and efficient navigation.

[0053] In tethered mode, with unlimited power availability, the system (100)operates all sensors, including LiDAR, ultrasonic, infrared, 4K Cameras (105)such as visual cameras, and obstacle detection cameras, at full capacity. Thismaximizes the detection range, enhances data processing frequency, and ensurescomprehensive obstacle avoidance, making it particularly effective in complexenvironments such as urban landscapes or disaster zones.

[0054] In battery mode, to conserve power, the system (100) optimizes sensorusage by selectively reducing detection range, lowering processing frequency, orprioritizing only essential sensors for critical navigation. For example, frontfacing sensors may take precedence during forward flight, while other sensorsmay operate at a lower frequency or reduced range. Despite these optimizations,the system (100) does not disable obstacle avoidance; instead, it adapts to powerconstraints while ensuring the drone remains capable of autonomous navigationand safe operation in cluttered or unpredictable environments.

[0055] The high-intensity light source (106) is designed to provide consistent andadaptive illumination based on the drone's power mode, ensuring visibility insurveillance, disaster response, and security operations.

[0056] In tethered mode, where continuous power is available from the tetheringpower module, the light operates at full brightness to maximize illumination fornight-time operations, search-and-rescue missions, or perimeter surveillance incomplex environments.

[0057] In battery mode, the system (100) optimizes power consumption byselectively dimming the lights, activating them only in low-light conditions, oroperating them during specific mission phases based on real-time requirements.This approach extends battery life while maintaining adequate visibility forcritical tasks. The system (100) balances power constraints with operationaldemands, ensuring that even in untethered mode, the lighting remains reliable,particularly in scenarios where visibility is essential for safety and missionsuccess.

[0058] The present invention incorporates multiple components to enable areliable dual-mode power system (100), ensuring seamless transitions betweentethered and battery operation.1. The tether connector is a high-power DC connector, such as a ruggedizedMolex or Amphenol type, designed with a locking mechanism to ensure asecure power and data link while preventing accidental disconnection. Itsupplies continuous power (e.g., 24V or 48V) and may also transmit datavia additional lines as needed for system operations.2. The power management unit (PMU) serves as the core of the powerswitching system (100). The power management unit (PMU), is designed toefficiently manage power transitions between the tethered power module(101) and the battery module (103), ensuring seamless operation withminimal power loss. The PMU comprises at least one MOSFET, whichfacilitates rapid switching between power modes while maintaining lowpower dissipation, thereby enhancing the system's overall efficiency. Adiode is incorporated to prevent reverse current flow, ensuring that powerfrom the battery module (103) does not feed back into the tethered powermodule, thereby protecting system components from potential electricaldamage. Additionally, a capacitor bank acts as an energy buffer, stabilizingpower fluctuations and providing a continuous power supply duringtransitions between tethered and untethered modes.3. The battery management system (BMS) regulates battery charge, discharge,and overall battery health, charging levels, ensuring the battery is alwaysready for use and preventing over-discharge in battery mode and safeoperation during mode changes.4. The system (100) also integrates sensors, including voltage and currentsensors within the PMU to detect tether connection status, with optionalmechanical sensors at the tether receptacle for added redundancy.5. To enhance usability, LEDs and status lights on both the drone and theground control station (GCS) provide real-time visual confirmation of theactive power mode, ensuring efficient and safe operation.

[0059] By utilizing a tethered power system (100), the drone effectivelyovercomes the short flight durations of conventional drones. This allows forextended operation, making it particularly suitable for applications requiringcontinuous aerial surveillance and illumination. The integrated high-intensity lightsource (106), powered by either the tethering power module (101) or the batterymodule (103), ensures consistent lighting for security and monitoring in low-lightconditions.

[0060] The system (100) is designed to provide real-time surveillance, supportedby the high-resolution 4K Camera (105) and autonomous obstacle detection. Thehigh-resolution 4K Camera (105) is enabled to provide uninterrupted videomonitoring by utilizing constant power from the tethered power module (101) intethered mode and from the battery module (103) in untethered mode. Thesefeatures enhance situational awareness and safe navigation in complexenvironments, making it ideal for security, disaster management, and industrialmonitoring.

[0061] Beyond security applications, the drone system (100) demonstratesadaptability across diverse industries, including agriculture and industrialmonitoring. Its payload adaptability further extends its functionality, allowingintegration with additional equipment based on specific operational requirements.

[0062] The present invention is optimized for night operations by incorporating ahigh-intensity illumination system (100) that ensures effective and prolongedsurveillance and monitoring in low-light and nighttime conditions, critical fordisaster response or security operations after dark. The illumination system (100)is integrated with the 4K Camera (105), enhancing visibility and enabling clearvideo capture even in complete darkness. Additionally, the light source (106) iscoupled with both the tethering power module (101) and the battery module (103),ensuring continuous operation in tethered mode while allowing battery-poweredfunctionality when needed. This capability makes the system (100) ideal forsecurity patrols, disaster response, search and rescue missions, and industrial sitemonitoring during night-time operations.

[0063] For safe navigation in complex environments, the system (100) integratesthe obstacle detection and avoidance module (108), including ultrasonic, infrared,and visual sensors, allowing autonomous operation while mitigating collisionrisks. This enables the drone to navigate safely in cluttered or unpredictableenvironments, such as collapsed buildings or dense urban areas, where theconventional drones might struggle.

[0064] Additionally, the payload module (107) enables the drone to carryequipment up to 10 kg, making it suitable for applications requiring specializedtools or additional surveillance equipment. Additionally, the payload module(107) enables the drone to carry up to 10 kg of equipment, including advancedcameras, sensors, or relief supplies, making it ideal for specialized and complexmissions.

[0065] The present invention seamlessly manages the transition between thehybrid power modes while incorporating key features such as a high payloadcapacity of 10 kg, advanced obstacle avoidance, and nighttime illumination.These capabilities make it particularly suitable for security, disaster response, andother demanding operations.

[0066] Overall, the present invention offers a robust and versatile aerialsurveillance solution, integrating continuous power capability, high-resolutionimaging, obstacle avoidance, and illumination features. The dual-mode operationextends its usability across various applications, including security monitoring,disaster management, and industrial inspections, providing a reliable and efficientsolution for extended aerial operations.

[0067] Advantages of the Present Invention include:1. Unlimited Flight Time: Operates continuously using a tethered powersource, ensuring uninterrupted aerial surveillance and illumination.2. Dual Power Mode: Supports both tethered and untethered operations,allowing flexibility in deployment across various scenarios.3. Enhanced Situational Awareness: High-resolution 4K Camera (105) withreal-time surveillance ensures clear and stable video capture for security,disaster response, and industrial monitoring.4. Reliable Operation in Complex Environments: Advanced obstacledetection and avoidance enable safe navigation in confined or dynamicsettings.5. Increased Payload Capacity: Supports payloads up to 10 kg, allowingintegration of additional equipment for specialized applications.6. Sustainable & Cost-Effective: Reduces reliance on disposable batteries,lowering environmental waste and operational costs.7. Optimized for Night Operations: High-intensity illumination ensureseffective surveillance and monitoring in low-light and nighttimeconditions.8. Versatile Applications: Suitable for riot control, convoy protection, searchand rescue, infrastructure monitoring, and precision agriculture.9. Minimized Resource Consumption: Eliminates the need for frequentbattery replacements or multiple drones, improving efficiency andsustainability.10. Specialized Applications: Tailored for security, disaster response, andsurveillance, with features like continuous illumination and real-timeaerial footage.

[0068] Therefore, the present invention provides a versatile aerial surveillanceand illumination system (100), ensuring extended operation, real-time monitoring,and enhanced situational awareness for security, disaster management, andindustrial applications. The invention allows drones to fly indefinitely in tetheredmode and switch to battery power for flexible untethered missions, offering bothendurance and versatility.

Claims

1. An advanced drone system (100) for extended aerial monitoring, the system (100) comprising: a tethering power module (101) configured to link to a ground power station, providing tethered mode with continuous power by utilizing tether DC Connector for uninterrupted operation of surveillance and illumination; a battery module (103) configured to provide autonomous power to the system (100) in the absence of a connection to the tethered power module (101); a high-resolution 4K Camera (105) mounted on a stabilizing gimbal (104), coupled with both the tethering power module (101) and the battery module (103), configured for real-time, stable, and high-definition video capture, ensuring reliable surveillance across various environments; an obstacle detection and avoidance module (108), coupled with both the tethering power module (101) and the battery module (103), configured to enable autonomous navigation and safe operation in complex environments by selectively utilizing one or more sensors based the operational mode, tethered mode or untethered mode; a power mode switching unit (102), operatively connected to the tethering power module (101) and the battery module (103), configured to seamlessly transition between tethered and untethered modes by utilizing an onboard power management unit (PMU), which autonomously detects power loss and engages a rapid switching mechanism to ensure uninterrupted operation; a payload module (107), configured to carry and integrate heavy equipment, with continuous power from the tethering power module (101) or the battery module (103); a high-intensity light source (106), coupled with the 4K Camera (105) and both the tethering power module (101) and the battery module (103),configured to emit powerful illumination for continuous surveillance and illumination under low-light conditions.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the power management unit (PMU) comprising: at least one MOSFET, configured to transition between tethered and untethered modes for low power loss and fast switching; a diode, configured to prevent reverse current flow between the tethered power module (101) and the battery module; a capacitor bank, configured to provide an energy buffer during power transitions, ensuring uninterrupted operation; a monitoring unit, enabled to regulate voltage and current from the tethered power module (101) and the battery module (103) using voltage and current sensors.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the onboard power management unit (PMU) is configured to autonomously transition from tethered mode to untethered mode upon detecting a loss of tethered power by utilizing the power mode switching unit (102), seamlessly rerouting power from the battery module (103) to ensure uninterrupted operation.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the onboard power management unit (PMU) is configured to perform manual power mode switching by utilizing the ground control station (GCS), externally coupled with the PMU, to transition between tethered and untethered modes without interruption, based on user commands via the GCS for mission requirements, including recharging or extended flight time.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the onboard power management unit (PMU) is configured to continuously monitor the battery's state of charge and, upon reaching a predefined threshold,generate an alert through the ground control station (GCS), prompting the operator to initiate tether reconnection for sustained operation.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the onboard power management unit (PMU) is enabled to perform automatic and manual power mode switching by monitoring voltage and current from both the tethering power module (101) and the battery module (103) using voltage and current sensors.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an uninterrupted transition from tethered mode to untethered mode is enabled by a capacitor bank coupled with the Power Management Unit (PMU), providing an energy buffer to ensure smooth power mode switching and prevent disruptions.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the power management unit (PMU) is configured to monitor voltage and current from the tethered power module (101) and the battery module (103) in real time and dynamically regulate power transitions using voltage and current sensors, and adapt the switching process to ensure stability by pausing, delaying, or reversing transitions as needed.

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the onboard power management unit (PMU) is enabled to detect the tether connection status by utilizing voltage or current sensors integrated into the PMU, or optionally, mechanical sensors at the tether receptacle for redundancy.

10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the power mode switching unit (102) is configured to provide visual confirmation of the active power mode through LEDs or status indicator lights on the drone and the ground control station (GCS).

11. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the autonomous navigation and safe operation in complex environments is enabled by utilizing the one or more sensors coupled with the obstacle detection and avoidance module (108) such as are ultrasonic, infrared, and visual sensors, LiDAR and an obstacle detection camera.

12. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to operate at full capacity in the tethered mode by utilizing continuous power to maximize detection range, enhance data processing frequency, and enable comprehensive obstacle avoidance using LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, and 4K cameras (105).

13. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to optimize power consumption in untethered mode by selectively reducing detection range, lowering processing frequency, or prioritizing only essential sensors for critical navigation and obstacle avoidance.

14. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high-intensity light source (106) is configured to operate at full brightness in the tethered mode, utilizing continuous power from the tethered power module (101) for enhanced illumination in surveillance, disaster response, and security operations.

15. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high-intensity light source (106) is configured to optimize power consumption in the untethered mode by selectively dimming, activating only in low-light conditions, or operating during specific mission phases by utilizing the battery module (103).

16. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high-resolution 4K Camera (105) is enabled to provide uninterrupted video monitoring by utilizing constant power from the tethered power module (101) in tethered mode and from the battery module (103) in untethered mode.

17. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drone system (100) is enabled to carry payload of about 10kg of equipment by utilizing the payload module (107).