Unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device

Abstract

To provide an unmanned flight vehicle recovery device which enables recovery of an unmanned flight vehicle having no GPS function and which enhances safety of flight.SOLUTION: An unmanned flight vehicle recovery device according to the present invention comprises a wire, a wire winding part, and a connection for connecting the wire to an unmanned flight vehicle. In the wire, a particular part with a prescribed length from the connection is lower in flexibility than common parts except it.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a recovery device for unmanned aerial vehicles that maintains the safety of unmanned aerial vehicles such as drones during flight. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles such as drones have been used for various purposes, such as taking videos and still images from the sky, security monitoring, photographing buildings, entertainment, etc. Professionals use unmanned aerial vehicles to shoot videos on location by television stations, for film production, and for documentary filming.

[0003] Alternatively, unmanned aerial vehicles are used to photograph factories, outdoor buildings, large buildings, etc. from the sky or from outside in order to monitor and inspect the safety of these buildings, etc. For bridges, etc., deterioration inspections are carried out by photographing the foundations of the bridges, etc.

[0004] Alternatively, photographs may be taken from above a solar power generation system using an unmanned aerial vehicle for the purpose of managing the solar power generation panels or inspecting for deterioration.

[0005] Unmanned aerial vehicles such as drones are also used for entertainment. This is because people want to be able to easily take pictures of scenery or private videos from the sky. For this reason, there are various cases where unmanned aerial vehicles are used for work or business, entertainment, or private purposes.

[0006] In recent years, in order to meet these demands and needs, the development and production of unmanned aerial vehicles such as drones has progressed, and they are now being used in a variety of places and situations. As a result, the demand for unmanned aerial vehicles is increasing, and the number of them being used is also on the rise.

[0007] On the other hand, unmanned aerial vehicles fly in the sky under radio control. Unlike so-called airplanes, anyone can easily use them, and so their dangers have been pointed out. For example, the sight of an unmanned aerial vehicle flying over residential areas, commercial areas, and tourist sites can be frightening for people in those areas. Furthermore, if an unmanned aerial vehicle actually falls or flies at a low altitude, it could collide with pedestrians and lead to an accident.

[0008] In addition, in facilities that require extremely high levels of safety and information management, such as airports, port facilities, military facilities, and power plants, it is undesirable for unmanned aerial vehicles to fly above or near these facilities or to engage in photographing activities.

[0009] In addition, the poor manners of users of unmanned aerial vehicles are often a problem.

[0010] In light of this situation, regulations are being introduced that prohibit the use of unmanned aerial vehicles without permission in places where safety management, public nature, and confidentiality are important, and permit systems are being required in residential and commercial areas, etc. In addition to these, various restrictions are being added to the size and functions of unmanned aerial vehicles that can be used.

[0011] Of course, there is also a growing demand for users to improve their manners.

[0012] In this environment where safety considerations are required, more advanced safety performance and safety functions are also being required for unmanned aerial vehicles. For example, the inclusion of a GPS function in addition to radio control performance is improving autopilot capabilities. Also, by having a GPS function, even if a malfunction occurs in the radio control, the GPS function allows the drone to return to a safe place or land in a safe place.

[0013] In this way, having a GPS function improves safety functions and safety performance.

[0014] However, among unmanned aerial vehicles, there are lightweight and small drones called "toy drones." Lightweight and small unmanned aerial vehicles such as toy drones have a low flight altitude and distance, and are mainly used for entertainment and inspection of specific facilities.

[0015] Because they are lightweight and have limited flight ranges and purposes, these specific categories of small unmanned aircraft (such as the toy drones mentioned above) often do not have GPS functionality. They also have the characteristic that they do not require or require few licenses for use. Of course, there is also the aspect of not having a GPS function in order to achieve light weight and small size.

[0016] Even if such unmanned aircraft without GPS functions are lightweight or small, there is a risk of them falling if they become difficult to control or if they are blown by strong winds and become difficult to fly. Even if there are no people in the flight area, if they fall on a facility, damage to the facility may occur.

[0017] Furthermore, if an unmanned aerial vehicle falls, it may be impossible to retrieve it depending on the location, which could lead to environmental damage, etc. Of course, there is also the problem that the owner will not be able to repair it and continue using it.

[0018] In such a situation, technologies have been proposed that enable the recovery of drones (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0019] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-006738 A [Patent Document 2] Utility Model Registration No. 3208050 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0020] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that uses two side distance sensors 5 based on the principle of triangulation so that a drone can fly accurately by stretching a strong metal wire and maintaining a constant distance from the wire in the horizontal and vertical directions directly below the wire. It also discloses a technology that discloses a technology that uses a metal bar with a safety hook 1 that is located at the top of the wire when the drone is flying, and attaches the hook part to the wire when the drone falls, preventing the drone from falling.

[0021] When the technology of Patent Document 1 is applied to a drone without a GPS function, safety is improved by controlling the flight path by the wire. However, the flight path is limited by the wire, and the drone cannot fly freely. This is undesirable for both recreational use and inspection and other business purposes.

[0022] In addition, there are problems that make it unsuitable for application to small, inexpensive drones, such as the effort and cost of installing wires, and the cost of distance sensors, etc. There are problems that make it unsuitable for using inexpensive drones for various purposes while improving safety and recovery.

[0023] Patent Document 2 discloses a balloon-suspended small drone characterized by being integrated by connecting a buoyant balloon 1 and a small drone 2 with a wire, and the upstream device uses a wind vane 5 and anemometer 4 to activate a propeller drive device and assist the drone in moving forward against winds that impede its progress. The landing descent device discloses a technology that activates a propeller drive device to descend the drone when the weights of the buoyant balloon 1, the drone 2 main body (including accessories), and the transported object are balanced.

[0024] However, like Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2 has the problem that it is difficult to fly the drone freely. Since the drone has buoyancy, there are also drawbacks in terms of maneuverability and agility. In addition, although the buoyancy of the balloon allows for an emergency landing, the emergency landing position cannot be controlled. In addition, the buoyancy of the balloon causes problems such as the drone being blown around by the wind and makes it difficult to control the flight path.

[0025] In order to solve the problems described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, it is also possible to wire the drone using a wire winding device installed on the ground.

[0026] However, when the wire is connected, it puts a strain on the drone's flight, so it is necessary to reduce the weight of the wire. If the weight is reduced, there is a concern that the wire may get wrapped around the drone's body or propellers. If the wire gets wrapped around the drone, it not only interferes with the drone's flight, but also increases the risk of it falling.

[0027] As described above, conventional technologies have had problems in that they cannot ensure the flight of unmanned aerial vehicles without GPS functionality, maintain safety in the event of a malfunction, or make it easy to recover them if they fall.

[0028] The present invention aims to provide an unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device that enables the recovery of an unmanned aerial vehicle that does not have a GPS function and increases the safety of the flight. [Means for solving the problem]

[0029] In view of the above problems, the recovery device for an unmanned aerial vehicle of the present invention comprises a wire, A wire winding section; A connection portion for connecting the wire to the unmanned aerial vehicle, In the wire, a specific portion of a certain length from the connection portion has lower flexibility than the other normal portions. A recovery device for an unmanned aerial vehicle, comprising: The unmanned aerial vehicle is capable of flying by providing a pair of propellers on both sides of the main body of the unmanned aerial vehicle; Let A be the length from the center of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the outer end of one propeller. If the length of the specific part is B, B ≧ 2A The relationship is as follows: By permeating certain parts with a hardening liquid, the flexibility is reduced compared to normal parts, making them less likely to deform. The low flexibility of certain parts can suppress bending and curvature caused by the airflow caused by the rotation of the propeller, and bending and curvature caused by the wind, Unmanned aerial vehicles are not equipped with GPS functionality. stomach. Effect of the Invention

[0030] The recovery device for the unmanned aerial vehicle of the present invention is connected to the unmanned aerial vehicle by wire. This wire connection means that even if the unmanned aerial vehicle becomes uncontrollable or unable to fly, it will not be dropped in a place where it cannot be found or where it would be inconvenient to fall.

[0031] In addition, the recovery device for the unmanned aerial vehicle can reel in the wire connected to the unmanned aerial vehicle, allowing it to be retrieved in the event of an unexpected incident with the unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0032] In addition, the flexibility of the wire is low over a certain length from the connection point where the wire is connected to the unmanned aerial vehicle. This makes it possible to prevent the wire from becoming entangled in the propeller of the unmanned aerial vehicle, even if there is wind or other influences. It also makes it possible to prevent the wire from being entangled due to the rotation of the propeller (which creates air currents). These prevention measures can reduce the impact on the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle to which the wire is connected. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of an unmanned aerial vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the actual flight of an unmanned aerial vehicle in an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of an unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of an unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0034] The unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to the first aspect of the present invention comprises a wire, A winding portion of the wire; A connection portion for connecting the wire to the unmanned aerial vehicle, In the wire, the specific portion that is a predetermined length from the connection portion has lower flexibility than the other normal portions.

[0035] This configuration ensures the safety of the unmanned aerial vehicle through wire connections while preventing the wires from becoming tangled.

[0036] In the second aspect of the present invention, in addition to the features of the first aspect, the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device is provided with a plurality of paired propellers for flight, The length from the center of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the outer end of one of the propellers is A, If the length of the specific portion is B, B ≧ A The above relationship exists.

[0037] This configuration reliably prevents the wire from becoming entangled in the propellers of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0038] In the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to the third aspect of the present invention, in addition to the features of the second aspect, the plurality of propellers are provided in pairs on both sides of the main body of the unmanned aerial vehicle, The flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle is realized.

[0039] This configuration allows the unmanned aerial vehicle to fly appropriately and with a high degree of freedom.

[0040] In the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the third aspect, when the plurality of propellers are provided in pairs on both sides of the main body, The length B of the specific portion is B ≧ 2A The above relationship exists.

[0041] This configuration more reliably prevents the wire from becoming entangled in the propellers of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0042] In the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device of the fifth invention of the present invention, in addition to any of the first to fourth inventions, the specific part is made of a material different from that of the normal part and less flexible than the material of the normal part.

[0043] This configuration ensures a difference in flexibility.

[0044] In the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device of the sixth invention of the present invention, in addition to any of the first to fourth inventions, the specific portion is made less flexible than the normal portion by permeating it with a hardening liquid.

[0045] This configuration ensures a difference in flexibility.

[0046] In the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device of the seventh invention of the present invention, in addition to any of the second to sixth inventions, the low flexibility of the specific part makes it possible to suppress bending and curving due to airflow generated by the rotation of the propeller, and bending and curving due to wind.

[0047] This configuration makes it possible to prevent the wires from becoming entangled, thereby achieving both improved safety through wire connection and prevention of malfunctions caused by the associated wire entanglement.

[0048] In an unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any one of the first to seventh inventions, the winding section pays out the wire in accordance with the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0049] This configuration enables unmanned aerial vehicles to fly freely while preventing them from going missing in emergencies.

[0050] In the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the eighth aspect, the weight of the wire sent out from the winding section does not exceed the flight capability of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0051] This configuration maintains the flight freedom of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0052] In the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device of the 10th invention of the present invention, in addition to any of the first to ninth inventions, the winding section applies pressure to the wire when it is being paid out so that slack does not occur in the wire when the unmanned aerial vehicle is flying.

[0053] This configuration can increase the reliability of preventing the wires from becoming entangled.

[0054] In the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device of the 11th invention of the present invention, in addition to any of the first to tenth inventions, the winding section applies pressure to the winding of the wire so that slack does not occur in the wire when winding the wire.

[0055] This configuration can increase the reliability of preventing the wires from becoming entangled.

[0056] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0057] (Overview) FIG. 1 is a front view of an unmanned aerial vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 1, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is a radio-controlled aerial vehicle, such as a drone. Of course, there is no pilot present, but the pilot flies the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 using a control device. In addition to radio control, the unmanned aerial vehicle may also fly based on a program that has a flight path and flight method programmed in advance.

[0059] Of course, you can also fly using a mix of programming and radio control.

[0060] The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 comprises a main body 101 and a propeller 102. The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 in Fig. 1 has a configuration in which a pair of propellers 102 are provided on both sides of the main body 101. The pair of propellers 102 may be a pair (i.e., two propellers 102) or two pairs (i.e., four propellers 102). Furthermore, by providing them on both sides as in Fig. 1, the flight attitude is stabilized and maneuverability is improved.

[0061] Equipping the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 with the propeller 102 having such characteristics increases the freedom of flight. For example, if there is a need to monitor or inspect buildings or facilities, the pilot needs to be able to fly all around these buildings or facilities. Or, if it is used for entertainment, it is preferable for the pilot to have a high degree of freedom in flight so that the pilot can enjoy it.

[0062] Therefore, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 has a configuration as shown in Figure 1 and can fly with a high degree of freedom.

[0063] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an actual flight of an unmanned aerial vehicle in an embodiment of the present invention. For example, an unmanned aerial vehicle 100 flies around a bridge 200 as shown in Fig. 2. The purpose of the flight may be to inspect or monitor the bridge, or to take a video of the scenery. Of course, the flight may be simply for entertainment purposes.

[0064] Recreational and other purposes may include filming the valley from the bridge, either for personal enjoyment or for a television program.

[0065] Here, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is a simple one that does not have a GPS function. It is small and lightweight. It is less expensive. By providing such features, it can fly more freely. In addition, it is less bound by various regulations, so that beginners and people who prioritize entertainment can also enjoy it.

[0066] Naturally, it can also be used for business purposes such as monitoring and inspection. Even in this case, there are advantages in that there are few regulations and the introduction cost (the cost of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 itself, plus the cost of training personnel to learn to operate it) is low. This allows it to be used for a variety of purposes, including entertainment and business purposes.

[0067] In addition, by not having a GPS function, it is possible to achieve lighter weight, smaller size, and lower cost.

[0068] On the other hand, as explained in the section on conventional technology, the lack of a GPS function means that radio control is no longer possible, and if the drone is blown around by the wind, it is difficult to right it or return it to its original position by radio control. In some cases, there is a concern that the drone may fall or fly away.

[0069] If such an incident occurs, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 will be lost. Of course, there is also the risk of it falling. Furthermore, if the fallen unmanned aerial vehicle 100 cannot be retrieved, not only will there be a cost loss, but there will also be a problem of environmental burden. There is also a concern of pollution to the natural world.

[0070] In order to address such problems, the present invention provides a recovery device 1 for an unmanned aerial vehicle as shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of a recovery device for an unmanned aerial vehicle in an embodiment of the present invention. Since it is a schematic diagram, some parts may not match the correlation of actual size, etc. The diagram is intended to show the configuration and features.

[0071] The unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device 1 (hereinafter, abbreviated as "recovery device" as necessary) comprises a wire 3, a winding unit 2, and a connection unit 4. The wire 3 is connected to the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 via the connection unit 4. In other words, the connection unit 4 connects the wire 3 to the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. In Figure 3, the wire 3 is connected to the bottom of the main body unit 101. By connecting the wire 3 to the bottom of the main body unit 101, the load on the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can be reduced.

[0072] As a result, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is connected to the winding unit 2 by the wire 3. That is, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 flies while connected to the winding unit 2 by the wire 3. The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can maintain a state of being connected by the wire 3, rather than being in a hands-off state.

[0073] The winding unit 2 can wind and let out the wire 3. Like a so-called bobbin of thread or rope recovery machine, the wire 3 can be let out in accordance with the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 and can wind up the wire 3 as needed.

[0074] Since the winding unit 2 can wind up the wire 3, for example, when the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 lands, the wire 3 may be wound up at the same time. This allows the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 to return to the location where the winding unit 2 is located (i.e., where the recovery device 1 is located) and land.

[0075] Or, even if the landing location is a location different from the winding unit 2, the location where the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 has landed can be found by following the wire 3. Even if the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 has landed in a bush or the like, it can be easily found by following the wire 3.

[0076] It is also possible that some malfunction will occur in the unmanned aerial vehicle 100, making flight control impossible, for example, if the vehicle goes beyond the radio range of the radio control or if there is a malfunction in the power source or propeller 102. Of course, flight control may also become difficult if the battery runs out or if there is a malfunction in the control device.

[0077] Or, if the drone is hit by a strong wind or attacked by a bird in the sky, it may have difficulty flying. For example, the drone may lose its flight attitude, making it difficult to continue flying. Of course, if flight control becomes difficult, the drone cannot continue flying.

[0078] In such a case, in the worst case scenario, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 may fall or crash. However, by providing the recovery device 1, even if the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 falls or crashes, it is possible to recover the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 by following the wire 3 and reaching the location where the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 fell or crashed.

[0079] Alternatively, when flight becomes difficult, the winding unit 2 may wind up the wire 3. By winding up, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 connected to the wire 3 can be retrieved to the pilot's hand.

[0080] Depending on the situation, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 may fly as programmed and without the control of a human pilot, or the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 may fly while an administrator is away from the retrieval device 1.

[0081] Even in such a case, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can return to the vicinity of the recovery device 1 by winding up the wire 3. This prevents the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 from going missing even if an event occurs, such as the vehicle being unable to fly or falling. The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can be recovered and can be easily recovered.

[0082] Here, the wire 3 has a specific portion 31 that is a predetermined length from the connection portion 4, and a normal portion 32 other than the specific portion 31. The flexibility of the specific portion 31 is lower than the flexibility of the normal portion 32. In other words, the specific portion 31 is in a state in which it is less likely to deform than the normal portion 32.

[0083] Since the wire 3 is wound by the winding section 2, it naturally has flexibility that allows it to be deformed, similar to general wires.

[0084] In particular, the wire 3 is connected to the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 at a connection portion 4. As a result, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 flies with the wire 3 hanging down, and is subjected to a weight load. The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 needs to fly while bearing this weight load. From this point of view, the wire 3 is required to be as light as possible.

[0085] On the other hand, if the wire 3 is lightweight, its flexibility can easily cause deformation due to air currents, wind, and the like. In some cases, the wire 3 may become entangled in the propeller 102. If the wire 3 becomes entangled in the propeller 102, the propeller 102 may become unable to rotate or the weight balance may be lost. This may make it difficult for the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 to continue flying.

[0086] From such an analysis, the flexibility of the specific portion 31 is made lower than that of the normal portion 32. The lower flexibility suppresses deformation due to air currents, convection currents, wind, and the like. This suppression makes it possible to prevent the deformed wire 3 from getting entangled with the propeller 102, etc. Of course, it also makes it possible to prevent the wire 3 from getting entangled with the main body portion 101.

[0087] The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 flies by rotating the propeller 102. As a result, a difference in air pressure occurs between above and below the propeller 102. This difference in air pressure puts the propeller 102 in a state in which it is easy for the wire 3 to get tangled up. Even in such a situation, the specific portion 31 on the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 side has relatively low flexibility, so it can deal with such a state in which it is easy for the wire 3 to get tangled up. In other words, entanglement can be prevented.

[0088] On the other hand, there is a concern that reducing flexibility may lead to an increase in the weight of the wire 3. For this reason, the flexibility of the normal portion 32 other than the specific portion 31, such as the propeller 102, which is likely to become entangled in the unmanned aerial vehicle 100, is made relatively low. This makes it possible to minimize the increase in weight.

[0089] For example, the specific portion 31 is treated by infiltrating a hardener into the wire 3 (to reduce flexibility). Such treatment increases the weight of the wire 3 in the specific portion 31. However, normal portions other than the specific portion 31 are not treated in this way, so the total weight increase as a whole is minimal.

[0090] In this way, a balance can be achieved between minimizing the increase in the total weight of the wire 3 to minimize the impact on the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 and preventing the wire 3 from becoming entangled with the unmanned aerial vehicle 100.

[0091] Achieving this balance has the following effects:

[0092] (1) Being connected by wire 3 makes it easy to recover and search for unmanned aerial vehicle 100 if it falls or otherwise occurs.

[0093] (2) By being connected by wire 3, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can be forcibly retrieved in an emergency before it falls or crashes (by winding up the wire 3 by the winding section 2).

[0094] (3) The total weight of the wire 3 can be reduced, minimizing the impact on the free flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100.

[0095] (4) The relative low flexibility of the specific portion 31 prevents the wire 3 from becoming entangled around the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. In particular, by positioning the specific portion 31 close to the unmanned aerial vehicle 100, which is prone to becoming entangled, entanglement can be effectively prevented by balancing the weight.

[0096] In this way, it is possible to recover the unmanned aerial vehicle while optimally balancing the advantages and disadvantages of connection with wire 3.

[0097] (Details and variations of each part) Next, details and variations of each part will be explained.

[0098] (Length of specific part) The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is equipped with multiple pairs of propellers 102 for flight, as shown in Fig. 1. In Fig. 1 and other figures, a pair of propellers 102 is provided on each side. If there is one pair, there are two propellers 102, and if there are two pairs, there are four propellers 102.

[0099] Here, it is also preferable that the specific portion 31 has a relationship as shown in Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a recovery device for an unmanned air vehicle in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] The length from the center of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 to the outer end of one of the propellers 102 is designated as "A" as shown in FIG. 4. Also, the length of the specific portion 31 is designated as "B". In this case, B ≧ A It is also preferable to have the relationship: That is, it is also preferable to specify the length of the specific portion 31 according to this relationship. By having such a length, the flexibility of the wire 3 is low in the range from the center of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 to the outer end of the propeller 102 (this becomes the specific portion 31). The specific portion 31 with low flexibility is the length from the connection part 4 to the outer end of the propeller 102. If the low flexibility in this range is guaranteed, the specific portion 31 is less likely to deform even if the wire 3 is deformed by air currents, wind, or the like.

[0101] With the length of the deformed portion 31 being in the above relationship, deformation is unlikely to occur in the position of the wire 3 that may become entangled with the propeller 102. Therefore, even if deformation occurs in the wire 3, it is in the normal portion 32 below the specific portion 31. Since deformation occurs only in the portion below the length that ensures the distance to the outer end of the propeller 102, even if deformation occurs in the wire 3, it is possible to greatly reduce the possibility of the wire 3 becoming entangled with the propeller 102.

[0102] In particular, the multiple propellers 102 are provided in pairs on both sides of the unmanned aerial vehicle 102 and are elements that enable the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. The wire 3 does not get tangled here, ensuring flight safety and maintaining functionality. As a result, even if an incident such as strong winds or changes in air currents occurs, it is possible to prevent the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 from falling.

[0103] Alternatively, the length "B" of the particular portion 31 may have the following relationship: B ≧ 2A

[0104] In this way, by defining the area that covers the entire pair of propellers 102 as specific portion 31, the area that covers the entire pair of propellers 102 is the area that is less flexible. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the wire 3 from becoming entangled with the propellers 102 even if the wire 3 is deformed due to strong winds, changes in air currents, or the like.

[0105] By optimizing the length of such a specific portion 31, it is possible to prevent the wire 3 from becoming entangled with the propeller 102 (and thus the unmanned aerial vehicle 100) even if the wire 3 is deformed due to strong winds, gusts of wind, changes in air currents, changes in the attitude of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100, or other events.

[0106] In particular, the inventor analyzed that when the wire 3 is deformed, the wire 3 becomes entangled with the propeller 102 as if it is sucked into the air current generated by the rotation of the propeller 102. Based on the results of this analysis, the inventor has come to the conclusion that the specific portion 31 having the above-mentioned length relationship can prevent the wire 3 from becoming entangled with the propeller 102.

[0107] In addition, by specifying the length of the specific portion 31 based on the above-mentioned relational expression, the specific portion 31 with reduced flexibility that increases the weight can be minimized. As a result, the weight of the entire wire 3 can be reduced. This minimizes the impact on the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100.

[0108] (Loss of flexibility in certain areas) The specific portion 31 has a lower flexibility than the normal portion 32 .

[0109] To achieve this low flexibility, the following process may be performed.

[0110] Part 1: Differences in materials In the wire 3, the specific portion 31 is made of a material that is different from the material of the normal portion 32 and is less flexible than the material of the normal portion 32. The difference in flexibility of the materials can reduce the relative flexibility of the specific portion 31. For example, when the wire 3 is made of metal, it is possible to reduce the flexibility of the specific portion 31 by making the metal density or braiding density high.

[0111] Alternatively, different materials can be used, for example, by making the normal portion 32 out of fiber and the specific portion 31 out of metal. By using different materials in this way, it is also possible to relatively reduce the flexibility of the specific portion 31.

[0112] The materials of the specific portion 31 and the normal portion 32 can be made different in various ways, such as by using different materials themselves, or by using materials that are basically the same but have different shapes or structures. This difference in material can make the specific portion 31 less flexible than the normal portion 32.

[0113] Part 2: Immersion in hardening liquid

[0114] The wire 3 may be made of metal, fiber, or other material, and the specific portion 31 and the normal portion 32 may be made of the same material or have the same material structure. In this case, the flexibility of the specific portion 31 may be relatively reduced by immersing (permeating) the specific portion 31 in a hardening liquid.

[0115] For example, a curable resin or a curable liquid composition is immersed or permeated into the specific portion 31. This increases the hardness and decreases the flexibility of the specific portion 31. The flexibility of the specific portion 31 may be decreased by immersing it in such a curable liquid.

[0116] It is also possible to reduce the flexibility of the specific portion 31 by a method other than the methods 1 and 2. This makes it possible to prevent the wire 3 from becoming entangled with the propeller 102 or the main body portion 101, as described above.

[0117] The low flexibility of specific portion 31 can suppress bending and curving due to air currents and wind generated by the rotation of propeller 102. By being able to suppress such bending and curving, it is possible to prevent wire 3 from becoming entangled with propeller 102, main body 101, and the like.

[0118] (winding section and wire) The winding unit 2 pays out and winds up the wire 3. When the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 flies, the winding unit 2 pays out the wire 3 in accordance with the flight. The wire 3 is paid out to a length that matches the flight range.

[0119] The winding unit 2 may be equipped with a motor or the like, and the motor may pay out the wire 3 in accordance with the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. Alternatively, the winding unit 2 may be capable of freely paying out the wire 3 in accordance with the fact that the wire 3 is pulled by the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 during payout.

[0120] By sending out the wire 3, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can fly freely while still having the benefits of being connected by a wire.

[0121] At this time, the weight of the wire 3 being sent out does not exceed the flight capability of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. This does not impede the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100.

[0122] Furthermore, the reeling unit 2 reels in the wire 3 as necessary. For example, the wire 3 may be reeled in gradually in conjunction with the landing of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. If the landing position is close to the reeling unit 2, reeling in the wire 3 can help to position the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 for landing appropriately.

[0123] In addition, in the event of a crash or fall, the possibility of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 being lost or missing can be reduced by forcibly winding up the wire 3. This also reduces the effort required for a search after a fall.

[0124] The winding unit 2 is provided with a motor to wind up the wire 3. It is sufficient that the winding unit 2 is provided with a control unit linked to the flight operation of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 so that the wire 3 can be wound up. In an emergency, the pilot may give a command to have the winding unit 2 perform emergency winding of the wire 3.

[0125] (Wire tension) It is also preferable that the winding unit 2 applies pressure to the wire 3 when it is being let out so that slack does not occur in the wire 3 during the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. In other words, tension is applied to the wire 3 being let out to prevent slack from occurring.

[0126] The absence of sagging has the following advantages: (1) the impact on the free flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is reduced; (2) the weight load of the wire 3 on the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is minimized; and (3) deformation of the wire 3 is suppressed, thereby further reducing the risk of the wire 3 becoming entangled with the unmanned aerial vehicle 100.

[0127] Of course, the pressure applied during delivery should be adjusted so as not to exceed the flight capabilities of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100.

[0128] It is also preferable that the winding unit 2 applies pressure to the winding of the wire 3 so as to prevent slack in the wire 3 when the wire 3 is wound. This is because the same effects as those of (1) to (3) above are achieved.

[0129] The letting out and taking up of the wire 3 by the take-up unit 2 is ultimately to adjust the amount of the wire 3 let out during the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. It is preferable to apply pressure that prevents slack in the amount of wire 3 that is let out.

[0130] Such improvements to the winding section 2 improve the flight freedom of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 and also increase the level of prevention of entanglement of the wire 3.

[0131] As described above, even for a small, inexpensive unmanned aerial vehicle 100 that does not have a GPS function, the recovery device 1 can reduce the risk of loss or damage due to dropping. It can also reduce anxiety for those around the vehicle during flight. As a result, it can be used in places and for purposes where it was previously thought difficult to use a simple unmanned aerial vehicle 100.

[0132] As a result, the small, inexpensive unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can be used in a variety of situations, reducing costs for a variety of activities.

[0133] In addition, the unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device described in the embodiment is one example to explain the gist of the present invention, and includes modifications and alterations that do not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 1. Unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device 2 Winding section 3 Wire 31 Specific parts 32 Normal part 4 Connection 100 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles 101 Main body 102 Propeller

Claims

1. Wire and A winding portion of the wire; A connection portion for connecting the wire to the unmanned aerial vehicle, A recovery device for an unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein a specific portion of the wire that is a predetermined length from the connection portion is less flexible than a normal portion other than the specific portion, A plurality of paired propellers for flight are provided on both sides of the main body of the unmanned aerial vehicle to realize flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle; The length from the center of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the outer end of one of the propellers is A, If the length of the specific portion is B, B ≧ 2A The relationship is as follows: The specific portion is permeated with a hardening liquid to reduce flexibility and make it less likely to deform than a normal portion, The low flexibility of the specific portion can suppress bending or curving caused by the airflow generated by the rotation of the propeller, and bending or curving caused by wind, The unmanned aerial vehicle is an unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device that does not have a GPS function.

2. The unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to claim 1 , wherein the winding section pays out the wire in accordance with the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

3. The unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to claim 2 , wherein the weight of the wire fed out from the winding section does not exceed the flight capability of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

4. The unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the winding section applies pressure to the unmanned aerial vehicle when the wire is being fed out so that slack does not occur in the wire during the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

5. The unmanned aerial vehicle recovery device according to claim 1 , wherein the winding section applies pressure to the winding of the wire so that slack does not occur in the wire when the wire is wound.

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