Drone device

Abstract

We provide drone equipment. [Solution] The drone device 1 comprises a drone device body 2, a launch tube 4 provided on the upper surface of the drone device body for launching the signal pyrotechnic device upwards, an ignition device 6 provided on the drone device body for igniting the fireworks, a first bulkhead 21 formed in the shape of a wall on the side of the launch tube, a second bulkhead 22 formed in the shape of a flat plate below the launch tube, and a control unit 60.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a drone device.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Drone devices can relatively easily reach locations that are difficult for humans to enter and search for target persons or objects at sites such as distress rescue in mountainous areas and rescue operations during disasters, so their application to distress rescue in mountainous areas, disaster rescue, and other uses is being considered.

[0003] However, even if the target person can be found, the target person may be located in a slightly remote area such as between the mountainside and the foot of a mountain, or in a location with poor communication conditions such as between mountain ridges. For example, as a technique for clearly displaying the position of a drone device, a technique of attaching an LED lamp to the drone device as disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known.

PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0004]

PATENT DOCUMENT 1

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0005] However, with the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, the LED lamp mounted on the drone device is difficult to visually recognize when the drone device is at a slightly remote location such as between the mountainside and the foot of a mountain, and when the drone device is located in a position that is difficult to view directly in a straight line, for example, behind a ridge, there is a problem that it is difficult for searchers to see, or completely invisible.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a drone device that can improve the safety of firing signal pyrotechnics from the drone device, and facilitate sharing the position where the signal pyrotechnics are fired from the drone device with third parties. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a drone device capable of launching fireworks comprises: a drone device body; a launch tube provided on the upper surface of the drone device body and launched toward the sky above the signal pyrotechnic device; an ignition device provided on the drone device body and igniting the fireworks; a first bulkhead formed in the shape of a wall on the side of the launch tube; a second bulkhead formed in the shape of a flat plate below the launch tube; and a control unit. According to the embodiment of the present invention configured in this manner, the drone device comprises a first isolation section and a second isolation section, which isolate the launch tube from the main body of the drone device, allowing the signal pyrotechnic device to be launched while suppressing the risk and damage that the signal pyrotechnic device may inflict on the drone device. This improves the safety of launching signal pyrotechnic devices from the drone device and makes it easier to share the location from which the signal pyrotechnic device was launched with a third party. For example, if the drone device finds a target person, it can launch a signal pyrotechnic device, such as a firework, from the drone device to inform searchers on the ground of the location. For example, if the drone device finds a target person who is lost in a mountainous area, it can launch a signal pyrotechnic device to inform searchers on the ground of the location, even in areas with poor communication. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the safety of firing signal pyrotechnic devices from the drone device is improved, and the location from which the signal pyrotechnic devices were fired from the drone device can be easily shared with a third party. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the outline of a drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a top view showing the isolated section of the drone device body of a drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above. [Figure 3]This is a top view showing the drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the fifth bulkhead of the isolation section of the drone device body in an open state and omitted, as viewed from above. [Figure 4] This is an enlarged view showing a drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure shows how the control unit and operating unit of a drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention are connected via the internet. [Figure 6] This block diagram shows the configuration of a drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This block diagram shows the configuration of the control unit for a drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This figure shows a flowchart illustrating a method for firing a signaling pyrotechnic device related to a drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates how a drone device according to one embodiment of the present invention fires a signaling pyrotechnic device after detecting a target. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes a drone device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, with reference to the attached drawings. The embodiments described herein are illustrative and will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications, changes, and substitutions are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed, and various modifications, changes, etc., are possible in its form and details without departing from the claims. Furthermore, the components disclosed in the specification can be freely combined.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, the drone device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is a drone device capable of launching fireworks. For example, the drone device 1 is a drone device capable of launching signal fireworks.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the drone device 1 comprises a drone device body 2, a launch tube 4, an ignition device 6, and an isolation unit 20. The drone device 1 is an unmanned aerial vehicle, for example, a multi-rotor drone, but it may be another type of unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0013] The drone device body 2 comprises a main body 6a and four arms 6d extending outward from the main body 6a, each equipped with a rotor 6b and blades (rotating wings) 6c for rotating the blades. By controlling the rotation speed of each blade 6c, the drone device body 2 is configured to move in the forward / backward, left / right, and up / down directions. The drone device body 2 is configured to generate lift sufficient to carry a launch tube or the like and fly. In this embodiment, the drone device body 2 is equipped with four arms 6d and one blade installed on each arm 6d (a total of four blades), but this may be changed to a different number of arms and blades installed on each arm. The drone device body 2 can fly along a predetermined position, altitude, and course, and take off and land fully automatically according to a predetermined program, controlled by a control unit 60 described later. Therefore, the drone device body can move from a starting point (not shown) to, for example, a fireworks launch point, launch the fireworks, and then return to a return point, for example, the same point as the starting point. The drone device itself may be equipped with a manual control unit 70, and all or part of the control may be manually operated by the manual control unit.

[0014] The drone device main body 2 is provided with a heat-resistant coating layer on at least a part of its surface. For example, the blade 6c of the drone device main body 2 may be provided with a ceramic heat-resistant coating. Further, the exterior of other parts of the drone device main body 2 may be provided with a ceramic heat-resistant coating. The drone device main body 2 is provided with a heat-resistant coating layer on at least a part of its surface. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the possibility that heat from combustion during fireworks launch causes defects such as deformation or malfunction in the drone device main body 2. Further, the drone device main body 2 may be provided with an exterior structure in which a ceramic honeycomb structure and a magnesium alloy outer skin are integrated. According to such a structure, both light weight and explosion resistance can be achieved.

[0015] The drone device 1 further includes a camera 11, an altitude measurement device 12, a GPS device 14, a communication unit 15, a detection device 16, and a control unit 60. As shown in FIG. 4, the camera 11 is provided on the drone device main body 2, and can capture and visually recognize surrounding conditions from the drone device main body 2. The camera 11 has functions capable of moving image shooting and still image shooting. With the camera 11, a user can check the surrounding conditions of the camera 11 from a remote location, and can capture and record the conditions of an area to be searched and the conditions of a subject A. The camera 11 is provided so as to be able to capture the conditions directly below the drone device main body, so that the conditions of the subject A vertically downward can be checked. If the communication state is good, the camera 11 transmits, for example, the surrounding conditions of the subject A via video or the like, so that an operator can check the surrounding conditions of the subject A. The camera 11 may be configured as an infrared camera that detects infrared rays, in order to facilitate sensing of the subject A and a heat source.

[0016] The altitude measurement device 12 is provided on the airframe main body 6a, and can measure the altitude H (distance) of the drone device main body relative to the ground G. For the altitude measurement device 12, for example, an ultrasonic altimeter capable of measuring the height to the ground G is used. The altitude measurement device 12 may be configured by any one of an air pressure measurement sensor capable of measuring the flight altitude by measuring air pressure, an ultrasonic sonar capable of measuring the distance from the drone device main body to the ground G, a laser measurement sensor capable of measuring the distance from the drone device main body to the ground G, a LIDAR sensor capable of measuring the distance from the drone device main body to the ground G, or any arbitrary combination thereof. Thereby, the altitude measurement device 12 can measure the altitude H (distance) from the drone device main body to the ground G. The control unit 60 can cause the drone device main body 2 to fly at a predetermined altitude.

[0017] The GPS device 14 is configured to be able to identify the current position of the drone device main body 2 using satellites. The control unit 60 can identify the current position of the drone device main body 2 during flight via the GPS device 14, and can acquire its own position coordinates at the point where the subject (target person) is found. The control unit 60 can perform search flight for the subject while confirming the coordinates via the GPS device 14. In this way, the GPS device 14 can recognize the position of the drone device main body and provide position information necessary for predetermined flight control of the drone device main body. Note that, since the communication state may be poor in mountainous areas and the like, the control unit 60 is provided with a GPS omission mode 66 that enables flight of the drone device even when the GPS device 14 cannot acquire a position.

[0018] The communication unit 15 can wirelessly communicate data on the drone device 1 side with the operation unit and the like. For example, the communication unit 15 can transmit information such as the position (coordinates, altitude) of the drone device main body to the control unit 60. In addition, the communication unit 15 performs communication so that the control unit 60 can mutually share control information with the ground-side operation unit and, if additionally installed, the ground-side control unit.

[0019] The detection device 16 is formed by an infrared sensor or the like. The detection device 16 can detect a person being searched for. The detection device 16 can be changed to something other than infrared that can detect a person being searched for. The detection device 16 may also include the camera 11 described above. For example, an infrared camera constitutes the detection device 16.

[0020] As shown in Figure 1, the launch tube 4 is mounted on the second bulkhead 22 on the upper surface of the drone device body 2 and launches a signal pyrotechnic device C, such as a signal firework. As shown in Figure 3, the launch tube 4 is formed from a cylindrical member, such as a cylindrical member. The launch tube 4 has a length of, for example, a value in the range of 3 cm to 10 cm. The launch tube 4 has a circular opening at its top. The opening faces upward. The launch tube 4 has a diameter of, for example, a value in the range of 1 cm to 5 cm. At its bottom, the launch tube 4 abuts against the upper surface of the second bulkhead 22, and the upper surface of the second bulkhead 22 forms the bottom of the launch tube 4. The launch tube 4 may be formed to have its own bottom. The launch tube 4 is attached to the upper surface of the second bulkhead 22. The launch tube 4 may be directly attached to the upper surface of the heat-treated drone device body 2. The launch tube 4 extends vertically upward. The launch tube 4 is positioned above the center of gravity D of the drone device body 2. The central axis X0 of the launch tube 4 is positioned so as to pass through the center of gravity D of the drone device body 2 when viewed from above. The launch tube 4 is made of metal. The launch tube 4 may also be made of a flame-retardant material.

[0021] A signal pyrotechnic device C is positioned inside the launch tube 4. The signal pyrotechnic device C is illustrated by a dashed line in Figure 3. The signal pyrotechnic device C is configured to launch itself into the air using the energy from the combustion of gunpowder. For example, the signal pyrotechnic device C generates gas by the combustion of black powder and ejects itself from the launch tube 4. A signal pyrotechnic device C is a pyrotechnic device that uses gunpowder to make it easier to transmit information over long distances, such as for rescue, signaling, illumination, and warning. The signal pyrotechnic device C is, for example, a firework, or a signal firework. The signal pyrotechnic device C can be used for purposes such as indicating the location of a person in distress at sea or in the mountains, requesting rescue, illuminating at night as a flare, giving warnings or making people aware of dangers at railways, construction sites, disaster sites, etc., and for training and work signals by the Self-Defense Forces, police, fire departments, etc. Signaling pyrotechnic devices C may consist of, for example, parachute signal flares, signal flare flares, smoke signal flares, colored smoke flares, and aircraft light identification (flashing) pyrotechnic devices. Signaling pyrotechnic devices C may also use general ornamental fireworks. Signaling pyrotechnic devices C are not limited to pyrotechnic devices used at night, but may also be used during the day. Signaling pyrotechnic devices C can thus launch conspicuous markers into the sky, making their location and presence relatively easy to recognize by a wide range of third parties. Signaling pyrotechnic devices C, such as signaling fireworks, are designed to be ignited by an ignition device 6, which will be described later.

[0022] The ignition device 6 is installed on the drone device body. The ignition device 6 ignites the signal fireworks. The ignition device 6 is formed, for example, by an electric ignition device. The ignition device 6 comprises, for example, a power source and a nichrome wire heated by the current from the power source. The ignition device 6 has the function of igniting the gunpowder of the fireworks by heating the nichrome wire. The ignition device 6 is, for example, located on the top surface of the drone device body 2, with power lines extending from the power source extending into the launch tube 4 and connected to the nichrome wire inside the launch tube 4. The ignition device 6 is electrically connected to the control unit 60 and can be controlled by the control unit 60. The nichrome wire of the ignition device 6 is explosion-proof so that no sparks are emitted from the nichrome wire.

[0023] The isolation section 20 is provided to isolate the launch tube 4 from the drone device body 2. The isolation section 20 comprises a first bulkhead section 21, a second bulkhead section 22, a third bulkhead section 23, and a fourth bulkhead section 24, all formed in a wall-like manner on the side of the launch tube 4.

[0024] As shown in Figure 3, the first bulkhead section 21 forms a vertical wall rising upward from the top surface of the second bulkhead section 22. The first bulkhead section 21 is formed in the shape of a thin plate. The first bulkhead section 21 is formed from, for example, a metal plate. The first bulkhead section 21 may also be formed from, for example, a base material such as resin. The first bulkhead section 21 may have, for example, an insulating material on its surface. The first bulkhead section 21 comprises a first right side wall 21a provided on the right side of the launch tube 4, a first left side wall 21b provided on the left side thereof, a first front side wall 21c provided on the front side thereof, and a first rear side wall 21d provided on the rear side. The first bulkhead section 21 is arranged to surround the launch tube 4. The first bulkhead section 21 is arranged in a rectangular shape when viewed from above. The first bulkhead section 21 can form, for example, a rectangular frame-type or box-type container structure.

[0025] The second bulkhead section 22 is formed in a flat plate shape at the bottom of the launch tube 4. The second bulkhead section 22 is positioned at the bottom of the launch tube 4. The second bulkhead section 22 is provided on the top surface of the drone device body 2. The second bulkhead section 22 is formed from a metal plate, for example, a metal plate made of titanium alloy. Together with the first bulkhead section 21, the second bulkhead section 22 can form the above-described container structure, for example, an explosion-proof container structure. The first bulkhead section 21 is positioned to surround the launch tube 4, and the second bulkhead section 22 is positioned at the bottom of the launch tube 4. As a result, the launch tube 4 is surrounded by the first bulkhead section 21 and the second bulkhead section 22, which mitigates, absorbs, and weakens the impact of launch and the impact of an explosion, preventing damage to the drone device body 2 and its exterior. Furthermore, for example, if the first bulkhead section 21 and the second bulkhead section 22 form a container structure or explosion-proof container that covers the launch tube 4, the impact of the launch and the impact of a potential explosion can be further mitigated, absorbed, and weakened. In addition, it is possible to prevent the signal pyrotechnics from being exposed to rain, etc., when the drone device 1 is on standby or in flight. When an explosion-proof container is constructed, the connecting parts of the first bulkhead section 21 and the second bulkhead section 22 are reinforced, and both are made of fire-resistant metal plates. Furthermore, the ignition device 6 is designed to be explosion-proof so that no sparks are emitted from the nichrome wire.

[0026] The third bulkhead section 23 is formed to surround the outer circumference of the launch tube 4. The third bulkhead section 23 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The third bulkhead section 23 has a length in the longitudinal direction, for example, within the range of 5 cm to 10 cm. The third bulkhead section 23 is formed to be the same length (height) as the launch tube 4, for example. The third bulkhead section 23 forms a circular opening at its top. The opening faces upward. The diameter of the third bulkhead section 23 is larger than the diameter of the launch tube 4. The third bulkhead section 23 is formed along the outer surface of the launch tube 4. The third bulkhead section 23 has a diameter, for example, within the range of 5 cm to 10 cm. An air layer is formed between the third bulkhead section 23 and the launch tube 4. When an air layer is provided, the heat insulation function and the shock absorption function are improved. The third bulkhead section 23 may be provided so as to be in contact with the outer surface of the launch tube 4. With this configuration, the third bulkhead section 23 functions as a storage section for the launch tube 4. The drone device 1 includes a third bulkhead 23 formed to surround the outer circumference of the launch tube 4. This allows the third bulkhead 23 to suppress the firing or explosion of fireworks in unintended directions, even if the launch tube 4 is damaged for any reason. Furthermore, for example, the third bulkhead 23 can be positioned along the launch tube 4 to improve the strength of the launch tube 4.

[0027] The third bulkhead section 23 abuts against the upper surface of the second bulkhead section 22 at its bottom. The third bulkhead section 23 may be formed to have its own bottom, for example, a circular bottom. The third bulkhead section 23 is attached to the upper surface of the second bulkhead section 22. The third bulkhead section 23 extends vertically upward. The third bulkhead section 23 is positioned above the center of gravity of the drone device body 2. The central axis X3 of the third bulkhead section 23 (see Figure 4) is positioned to pass through the center of gravity D of the drone device body 2 in a top view. The central axis X3 of the third bulkhead section 23 coincides with the central axis X0 of the launch tube 4. The third bulkhead section 23 is formed of ceramic fiber, for example, alumina-silica high-density ceramic fiber. The third bulkhead section 23 may be formed of other materials such as metal. Furthermore, a combination of thermal insulation lining layers, such as an air layer, a reflective film layer, and a flame-retardant urethane layer, may be arranged on the inside, inner surface, or outer surface of the third partition wall 23.

[0028] The fourth bulkhead section 24 is provided with a viscoelastic material and forms a viscoelastic portion. The fourth bulkhead section 24 has elastic and viscous functions due to the viscoelastic material. The fourth bulkhead section 24 is provided with, for example, an impact-absorbing gel. For example, the fourth bulkhead section 24 is formed by applying an impact-absorbing gel to a predetermined thickness. The fourth bulkhead section 24 has, for example, a function to mitigate, absorb, and weaken the impact of firing or the impact of an explosion. The fourth bulkhead section 24 is formed on the outside of the launch tube 4, for example, along the first bulkhead section 21. The fourth bulkhead section 24 forms, for example, a viscoelastic portion, for example, a viscoelastic material layer that covers the entire surface of the first bulkhead section 21. Alternatively, for example, the fourth bulkhead section 24 is formed along the second bulkhead section 22. The fourth bulkhead section 24 forms, for example, a viscoelastic portion, for example, a viscoelastic material layer that covers the entire surface of the second bulkhead section 22. The fourth partition wall 24 forms a viscoelastic portion, and therefore can absorb impacts to the member. Furthermore, the fourth partition wall 24 can be formed in a relatively free form. Therefore, if the fourth partition wall 24, which forms a viscoelastic portion, is applied to, for example, the first partition wall 21 and / or the second partition wall 22, it can absorb and reduce the impact applied to the first partition wall 21 and / or the second partition wall 22. Thus, even in the case of the impact of launching fireworks or, in the unlikely event of a fireworks misfire, the fourth partition wall 24 can easily absorb the impact of the fireworks launch, reducing the possibility of damage to the drone device body 2. The fourth partition wall 24 is formed in layers, for example, but its thickness and arrangement may be uneven. The fourth partition wall 24 may also be formed on the third partition wall 23 or the fifth partition wall 25.

[0029] The fifth bulkhead section 25 is formed above the launch tube 4 and is formed to cover the top of the launch tube 4. For example, the fifth bulkhead section 25 extends from the first right side wall 21a to the first left side wall 21b in the left-right direction and from the first front side wall 21c to the first rear side wall 21d in the front-rear direction. The fifth bulkhead section 25 is formed in a flat plate shape. The fifth bulkhead section 25 is formed to be openable and closable, for example, by rotational movement around a shaft portion 25a (see Figure 4) at its end. A drive unit 25b is connected to this shaft portion 25a, and the shaft portion 25a is rotated by the operation of the drive unit 25b, thereby opening and closing the fifth bulkhead section 25. The opening and closing of the fifth bulkhead section 25 may be performed by other types of mechanisms. The fifth bulkhead section 25 can, for example, together with the second bulkhead section 22 and the first bulkhead section 21, form a container structure as described above, such as an explosion-proof container structure.

[0030] As shown in Figure 6, the control unit 60 incorporates a CPU 67 and a storage device 69 such as memory, and controls connected devices to execute predetermined controls based on a predetermined control program recorded in the memory, etc. The control unit 60 is electrically connected to the drone device body 2, camera 11, altitude measuring device 12, GPS device 14, communication unit 15, detection device 16, drive unit 25b, etc. These electrical connections may be made by wireless communication or the like.

[0031] The control unit 60 can perform flight control of the drone device body 2. The control unit 60 controls the flight of the drone device body. More specifically, the control unit 60 can control the position (coordinates, altitude), attitude control, yawing rotation suppression control, movement during and to the search site of the drone device body 2. In this way, the control unit 60 can control the flight altitude, flight route, rotation speed of each blade, attitude (including left and right roll and yawing in the rotation direction), and, if necessary, the operation control of the supply device 10. The control unit 60 can control the drone device body 2 to reach a predetermined altitude above the target point (search point) and launch fireworks from the launch tube 4. The control unit 60 also has a function to search for and find a target person A, an object, or a target based on data and images acquired by the detection device 16, camera 11, etc. For example, it can analyze the acquired images using a stored program to discover the presence of a target person A. The control unit 60 can implement control to search for an object or person within a certain range, including the target location.

[0032] The control unit 70 includes an output device 71 such as a monitor and an input device 72 that can be operated, and can set various modes of the control unit 60. The control unit 70 constitutes a manual control unit. For example, an operator may control the operation and stopping of the supply device while checking the status of the search area using the output device 71. The input device 72 is formed by, for example, a touch panel on a monitor or a keyboard. The control unit 70 has the function of allowing the operator to perform flight control of the drone device body. As described above, the control unit 60 can perform flight control of the drone device body by autonomous flight even when communication with the control unit 70 is poor or good. As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 70 is electrically connected to the control unit 60 via the internet 3. The control unit 70 is provided on a computer, but may also be provided on an electronic device that functions as a computer, such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0033] The control unit 60 can execute the following modes based on a predetermined control program stored in the storage device 69. The following modes executed by the control unit 60 are illustrated in Figure 7 and are executed by their respective corresponding programs. The control unit 60 includes a firing mode 61 that fires the signal pyrotechnic device C based on the detection determination of the person being searched A by the detection device 16. The control unit includes a firing mode 61 that fires the signal pyrotechnic device based on the detection determination of the person being searched by the detection device. As a result, the control unit 60 can fire the signal pyrotechnic device C from the drone device 1 that has detected the person being searched A. Therefore, after the detection of the person being searched A, the signal pyrotechnic device C, such as fireworks, can be fired relatively early, making it easier to facilitate an early rescue.

[0034] The control unit 60 is equipped with a self-determination firing mode 62 that fires the signal pyrotechnic device C based on the detection determination of the target A by the detection device 16, even when it has not received a firing command for the signal pyrotechnic device C from the operation unit 70 or when communication with the operation unit is poor. The control unit 60 is equipped with a self-determination firing mode 62 that fires the signal pyrotechnic device C based on the detection determination of the target A by the detection device 16, even when it has not received a firing command for the signal pyrotechnic device C from the operation unit 70 or when communication with the operation unit is poor. As a result, when the self-determination firing mode of the control unit 60 is executed, regardless of whether the communication status is good or bad, even when it has not received a firing command for the signal pyrotechnic device C from the operation unit 70, if the control unit 60 determines that it has detected the target A, the control unit 60 will fire the signal pyrotechnic device C. The control unit 60 may also include a reporting mode 63 that, after executing the self-determination firing mode 62, transmits images and detection results based on the detection determination of the target A to the operation unit 70 once the communication conditions are good (communication environment is available). In the self-determination firing mode 62, for example, control may be performed to fire the signal pyrotechnic device C when, after the detection device 16 has detected the person being searched A, the position of the person being searched A has not changed for a predetermined period of time (Requirement 1), the stationary determination that the position has not changed significantly for a predetermined period of time is met by the high-precision gyro (Requirement 2), and attempts to communicate with the outside have failed multiple times (Requirement 3). Alternatively, control may be performed to fire the signal pyrotechnic device C based on only some of the requirements, such as only Requirement 2.

[0035] The control unit 60 includes a search mode 64 that performs a search for the person to be searched by the detection device 16 even when the communication status of the drone device 1 is poor, and a self-determination firing mode 62 that fires a signal pyrotechnic device C based on the detection determination of the person to be searched by the detection device 16 even when the communication status of the drone device 1 is poor. This makes it possible, for example, to perform a search for the person to be searched by the detection device 16 even in areas or locations where the communication status is poor, and upon discovery, the control unit 60 fires a signal pyrotechnic device C to easily inform a third party on the ground of the location of the person to be searched.

[0036] The control unit 60 includes an ascending mode 65 that, if the communication status of the drone device 1 is poor, increases altitude after executing the self-determination firing mode 62 to attempt to restore the communication status of the drone device 1. The control unit 60 includes an ascending mode 65 that, after executing the self-determination firing mode 62, increases altitude to attempt to restore the communication status of the drone device 1. This allows the control unit 60 to fire the signal pyrotechnic device C in the self-determination firing mode 62, then increase altitude to attempt to restore the communication status. This makes it possible to safely return the drone device 1 and to send report videos, images, etc. thereafter.

[0037] The control unit 60 includes a GPS omission mode 66 that enables the drone device 1 to fly even when the communication status is poor and the GPS device 14 cannot acquire a position. According to the GPS omission mode 66, even if the GPS device 14 is not working, the position can be estimated using the camera 11 and the altitude measuring device 12, and flight can be performed. In addition, while executing the GPS omission mode 66, the control unit 60 can perform actions such as searching for the target person A, firing signal pyrotechnic devices C, and other related modes.

[0038] Next, as shown in Figure 8, a series of operations in the firing method, in which the drone device 1 ignites and fires the signal pyrotechnic device C, will be described. For example, we will illustrate the operation in which the drone device 1 searches for a target object or person, and fires the signal pyrotechnic device C when it is found. Note that the drone device 1 is not limited to the purpose of searching for a target, but can also be used for other purposes. As shown in Figure 8, in preparation step S1 of the drone device 1, the drone device 1 is prepared. The drone device 1 comprises a drone device body 2, a launch tube 4 provided on the upper surface of the drone device body 2 for firing the signal pyrotechnic device C, an ignition device 6 provided on the drone device body 2 for igniting the signal pyrotechnic device C, a first bulkhead 21 formed in the shape of a wall on the side of the launch tube 4, a second bulkhead 22 formed below the launch tube, a control unit 60, and the like. The launch tube 4 is equipped with a fireworks and a signal pyrotechnic unit and is prepared for launch. The control unit 60 also prepares or acquires flight data for the drone device 1 (for example, coordinate information of a location where the target A may be, area information of the area, the flight route to that coordinate or area, and data such as the flight altitude relative to the ground G at each coordinate (altitude data)). When step S1 is completed, the control unit 60 proceeds to S2.

[0039] In step S2, the control unit 60 can perform flight step S2, which involves autonomous flight to a location or area where the target person A may be located. The control unit 60 flies the drone device body 2 from the takeoff point to the target location or area based on flight data such as a predetermined flight route. In areas with poor communication conditions, the control unit 60 can also fly while estimating its position based on images from the camera 11, etc., without using the GPS device 14, etc. In areas with good communication conditions, the drone device body 2 may perform flight in response to operation commands from the control unit.

[0040] In step S3, the control unit 60 can perform a search step S3 in which it searches for the target person using a detection device 16, such as an infrared sensor. The control unit 60 searches for the target person using a detection device, such as a camera or an infrared sensor. For example, the control unit 60 uses an infrared sensor to detect the target person. For example, the control unit 60 may use a camera 11, such as an infrared camera. Alternatively, for example, the detection device 16 may use a visible light camera, and the control unit 60 may analyze the visible light image using AI or the like to search for and find the target person. When S3 is completed, the control unit 60 proceeds to step S4.

[0041] In step S4, the control unit 60 can execute launch step S4, in which it fires the signal pyrotechnic device C based on the detection determination of the target by the detection device 16. In executing launch step S4, the control unit 60 changes the fifth bulkhead section 25 from a closed state to an open state by the operation of the drive unit 25b. The detection device 16 activates the ignition device 6, igniting the gunpowder in the signal pyrotechnic device C and launching it from the launch tube 4. At the time of launch, the drone device body 2 is flying in the air.

[0042] Furthermore, even when communication conditions are poor, the control unit 60 can freely execute steps S2 to S4 at its own discretion. For example, it can find the person being searched for using the camera 11 and detection device 16, etc., without using the GPS device 14, and then execute S4 based on this discovery. Therefore, even when communication is poor, the aircraft can fly at its own discretion. Thus, even when communication with the operation unit 70 is poor, the control unit 60 can execute the self-determination launch step, which involves launching the fireworks based on the detection determination of the target person by the detection device 16. Furthermore, when communication conditions are good, the signal pyrotechnic device C may be fired upon receiving a command from the control unit 70.

[0043] As shown in Figure 9, the signal pyrotechnic device C is launched into the air above the drone device body 2 from a launch tube 4 located on the top surface of the drone device body 2, as indicated by the dashed arrow. Figure 9 shows the signal pyrotechnic device C exploding in the air, displaying a signal as a firework. This configuration improves the safety of launching the signal pyrotechnic device C from the drone device 1 and makes it easier to share the location from which the signal pyrotechnic device C was launched with a third party. Figure 9 illustrates a situation where the target person A has been found below the drone device 1. If the location where the target person A was found is to be provided to a third party, the launch of the signal pyrotechnic device C into the air makes it easy to communicate the location of the target person A (the location of the drone device) to a third party in a remote location, such as a searcher. Even when communication is impossible, it is possible to provide a means of emitting a physical signal from the location of the target person, such as a person in need of rescue, and the risk of heat and explosion from launching a pyrotechnic device using explosives in the drone device can be reduced. Furthermore, for example, even in mountainous areas where communication is poor, the drone device can launch fireworks to transmit the location of the person being searched for to searchers in remote locations. While it is highly likely that the exact location will be transmitted, even if only a somewhat approximate location is transmitted, indicating the direction of the search is advantageous as it allows the search team to limit the area and scope of their search. Also, for example, in mountainous areas where the scenery is similar, consisting of mountains and trees, being able to transmit the location of the person being searched for is advantageous. In addition, even if the surroundings are visible through camera 11, it may be difficult to explain the location. By launching signal pyrotechnic devices C, the location can be clearly indicated to many people, which can be helpful in rescue situations where time is of the essence. Furthermore, in mountainous areas, even if there is a ridge, the scenery may be similar, and visibility may be poor due to the ridge. Therefore, being able to visually transmit the location of the person being searched for from above is advantageous. Furthermore, the drone device 1 can be used for purposes other than searching for person A. For example, the drone device 1 may fire a signal pyrotechnic device C at the location of a specific target, or it may fire a signal pyrotechnic device C at the location of a specific object being searched for. The drone device 1 may not perform any particular search and may simply fire the signal pyrotechnic device C at a predetermined location. For example, its purpose may be solely to fire the signal pyrotechnic device C. Alternatively, the drone device 1 may fire the signal pyrotechnic device C while it is landed. Fired while landed allows for greater accuracy in determining the launch point and greater stability in the launch direction.

[0044] If the communication status is poor after launching the fireworks, the control unit 60 may raise the drone body and attempt to restore communication. If the communication status is good, it will transmit a report of the fireworks launch, GPS position coordinates, images acquired by the camera, etc. If the communication status is poor after launching the fireworks, the control unit 60 may execute an automatic return mode to fly the drone device 2 back from the launch site in order to improve the probability of recovering the drone device. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the drone device 1 can complete the entire process of search, discovery, and location sharing unmanned.

[0045] After executing step S4, the control unit 60 executes the return step S5, which flies the drone device 1 to the return point. In the return step S5, the control unit 60 controls the drone device body 2 to fly to the return point regardless of whether the communication status is good or bad. After executing the return step S6, the control unit 60 proceeds to the end and terminates the series of processes.

[0046] An example of one embodiment of the present invention may be provided in the following embodiments.

[0047] (1) A drone device capable of launching fireworks, comprising: a drone device body; a launch tube provided on the upper surface of the drone device body for launching the signal pyrotechnic device upwards; an ignition device provided on the drone device body for igniting the fireworks; a first bulkhead formed in the shape of a wall on the side of the launch tube; a second bulkhead formed in the shape of a flat plate below the launch tube; and a control unit.

[0048] (2) The drone device according to (1), further comprising a third bulkhead formed to surround the outer circumference of the launch tube.

[0049] (3) The drone device according to (1), further comprising a fourth partition wall that forms a viscoelastic portion.

[0050] (4) The drone device according to (1), wherein the drone device body is provided with a heat-resistant coating layer on at least a portion of its surface.

[0051] (5) The drone device according to (1), wherein the first bulkhead is arranged to surround the launch tube and the second isolation section is located at the bottom of the launch tube.

[0052] (6) The drone device according to (1), wherein the control unit is equipped with a firing mode that fires the signaling pyrotechnic device based on the detection determination of a person to be searched by the detection device.

[0053] (7) The drone device according to (1), wherein the control unit has a self-determination firing mode that fires the signaling pyrotechnic device based on the detection determination of a person to be searched by the detection device, even when it has not received a firing command for the signaling pyrotechnic device from the operation unit.

[0054] (8) The drone device according to (1), wherein the control unit includes a search mode that performs a search for a person to be searched by the detection device even when the communication state is poor, and a self-determination firing mode that fires the signal pyrotechnic device based on the detection determination of a person to be searched by the detection device even when the communication state is poor.

[0055] (9) The drone device according to (8), wherein the control unit includes an ascending mode that, when the communication status is poor, increases the altitude after executing the self-determination launch mode to attempt to restore the communication status of the drone device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0056] 1: Drone device 2: Drone device body 4: Launcher 6:Ignition device 16: Detection device 20: Isolation section 21:First partition part 22:Second partition part 23:Third partition part 24: 4th partition part 60: Control Unit 61: Launch Mode 62: Self-determination firing mode 64: Exploration Mode 65: Ascending Mode 70:Operation unit

Claims

1. A drone device capable of firing signal pyrotechnic devices, The drone device itself, The signal pyrotechnic device is provided on the upper surface of the drone device body and is pointed upwards. The launching tube, An ignition device provided on the drone device body for igniting the signaling pyrotechnic device, A first partition wall portion is formed in the shape of a wall on the side of the launch tube, A second partition wall portion is formed in a flat plate shape below the launch tube, Control unit and A drone device equipped with the following features.

2. The drone device according to claim 1, further comprising a third bulkhead formed to surround the outer circumference of the launch tube.

3. The drone device according to claim 1, further comprising a fourth partition wall portion that forms a viscoelastic portion.

4. The drone device according to claim 1, wherein the drone device body is provided with a heat-resistant coating layer on at least a portion of its surface.

5. The drone device according to claim 1, wherein the first bulkhead is arranged to surround the launch tube and the second bulkhead is arranged at the bottom of the launch tube.

6. The drone device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a firing mode that fires the signaling pyrotechnic device based on the detection determination of a person to be searched by the detection device.

7. The drone device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a self-determination firing mode that fires the signaling pyrotechnic device based on the detection determination of a target by the detection device, even when it has not received a firing command for the signaling pyrotechnic device from the operation unit.

8. The control unit includes a search mode that performs the search for the person to be searched by the detection device even when the communication status is poor. The drone device according to claim 1, further comprising a self-determination firing mode that fires the signaling pyrotechnic device based on the detection determination of the target by the detection device, even when the communication status is poor.

9. The drone device according to claim 8, wherein the control unit includes an ascending mode that, when the communication status is poor, increases altitude after executing the self-determination launch mode to attempt to restore the communication status of the drone device.

Images