Apparatus, systems, and methods to grasp and release packages at an unmanned vehicle

The drone system employs a multi-bar linkage grasper with magnetic alignment, enabling efficient package handling and release without electronic actuators, addressing the limitations of existing drone technologies.

WO2025064443A1 Publication Date: 2025-03-27DRONEUP LLC
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/US2024/047119
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-02-14
Filing Date
2024-09-17
Publication Date
2025-03-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing drone systems lack efficient mechanisms for grasping and releasing packages without electronic actuators, limiting their ability to selectively release packages in mid-air or on a landing surface, and aligning the grasper for storage.

Method used

The apparatus includes a multi-bar linkage grasper with a first member and a second member coupled to a tether, which can be rotated to predefined alignments using magnetic coupling with a receptacle, allowing for automatic grasping and releasing of packages without electronic actuators.

Benefits of technology

The system enables efficient package pick-up, transport, and release by drones, allowing for selective aerial release and automatic grasper alignment, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing the need for electronic components.

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Abstract

In an embodiment, an apparatus includes first and second members each coupleable to a tether, first and second links each pivotably coupled to the second member, and third and fourth links each with a distal end portion interfaceable with a package, a proximal end portion pivotably coupled to the first member, and an intermediate portion pivotably coupled to the first and second links, respectively. In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a winch, a grasper with a multi-bar linkage that can be releasably coupled to a package, and a hook coupleable to the winch and that can be selectively releasably coupled to the package. In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a receptacle coupleable to an aerial vehicle, a winch coupleable to the receptacle and the aerial vehicle, and a grasper configured to rotate to a predefined alignment when raised by the winch into contact with the receptacle.
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