Mobile and modular landing, docking, and charging platform for unmanned vehicles

Abstract

The invention relates to a mobile and modular landing, docking, and charging station for unmanned vehicles (1), in particular for airborne, ground-based, or waterborne drones. The apparatus comprises a portable platform having an integrated charging unit (1), a power source (3, 4) (for example, a rechargeable battery or a solar module), as well as a control unit (5) and a communication unit (6), and further modules for additional, deployment-dependent functions. The modular structure permits separate transport and simple, tool-free assembly, even by drones (8) themselves. The platform may be designed to be foldable, inflatable, or rollable, and automatically adapts to its surroundings. Additional features such as self-alignment, buoyancy, camouflage, and stabilisation by means of a fluid permit flexible deployment in remote or hard-to-access areas.

Description

Mobile, modular landing, docking and charging platform for unmanned vehicles Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for landing, docking and simultaneously charging unmanned vehicles, in particular automated or remotely controlled drones – both flying (UAVs), driving (UGVs) and floating (USVs) systems.

[0002] Charging stations for certain unmanned vehicles, such as UAVs, are known from current technology. However, these are often heavy, stationary, or require manual installation. A modular solution that is easily transportable in individual parts and can be assembled on-site without personnel, including a power supply and communication unit, does not yet exist for different drone types. This type of design opens up entirely new application possibilities. Object of the invention

[0003] The aim of the invention is to provide a universally applicable, mobile, modular landing, docking or charging platform for unmanned drones that can be set up and dismantled autonomously or without personnel on site and can be operated in remote, difficult-to-access or dynamic operating environments.

[0004] This problem is solved by a device according to claim 1. The device according to the invention comprises: a modular platform for landing, docking or positioning unmanned vehicles (e.g. UAVs, UGVs, UPSs – hereinafter generally referred to as ‘drone’) consisting of: a charging module (1) (optionally with integrated solar cells) with charging contacts or inductive power transfer for at least one drone and the necessary electrical equipment for connecting and operating the modules, on which the drone (8) is charged (e.g.as a landing pad) Energy units such as battery packs (3), optionally supplemented by solar panels (4) or other energy sources; control (5) and communication modules (6); and modules for additional functions and combinations of functions, including for transmitting operational data, measurement, and data forwarding from other sources; as well as a design that allows for compact storage, transport in separate modules, and tool-free assembly on site – even by drones (8) themselves or by robots. The platform can be foldable, inflatable, or rollable (1a). The energy, control, communication, and other modules can be connected using self-centering connectors (2) and are secured by their own weight or mechanical latches. Additional features such as attitude control, drone fixation during charging, camouflage, buoyancy, or liquid chambers for stabilization expand the range of applications.Additionally, the drone can be secured by mechanical, magnetic, or vacuum-based fixing mechanisms, or protected by a hinged, foldable, or inflatable canopy to reliably remain in position on the platform even in strong winds, when tilted, or during movement. Activation can be triggered automatically by sensors. Possible module functions include, as already mentioned, energy generation and storage, communication, measurement, data transmission, as well as monitoring, defense, jamming, electronic countermeasures, and many other possibilities and combinations thereof that are useful for the respective application. Modules for connecting multiple adjacent charging pads are also conceivable, enabling parallel operation and shared module use.The platform is designed to be modular and updateable, allowing for the integration of new or modified functionalities – for example, by replacing or adding modules with updated hardware or software. This includes, in particular, software-based extensions, AI-supported operating modes, and future functions that are activated or retrofitted during operation. The number of connected modules used is unlimited and can vary depending on the application. The sketches illustrate a variant with only four module slots, but there can be more or fewer. The number and arrangement of the mechanical and electrical connectors (e.g., pins as shown in Figures 6–8) on a charging module can be freely chosen and adapted to the module size and the specific application requirements. The connectors can be identical or different.In a preferred embodiment, however, they are designed identically, whereby the charging module has a device for automatically detecting and classifying the attached modules in order to integrate them electrically and functionally correctly without prior assignment ("plug-and-play" functionality). The platform can include a device for remote diagnostics, maintenance, or software configuration to detect failures or provide functional updates. The modular design allows for the reuse, repair, and easy disposal of individual components.

[0005] Figure 8 illustrates a drone / UAV (8) that transports the charging module in its folded state (1a) to the deployment site using a detachable attachment (9). Figure 8 illustrates a drone / UAV (8) that transports a battery pack (3) with contact (7) and an attached solar panel (4) to the unfolded charging module (1) with contacts (2) at the deployment site. Figure 8 illustrates a drone / UAV (8) that attaches a communication module (6) with contact (7) to a contact (2) on the unfolded charging module (1) using a detachable attachment (9). A battery pack (3) with an attached solar panel (4) is already installed. Figure 8 illustrates a drone / UAV (8) that attaches a battery pack (3) with contact (7) to a contact (2) on the unfolded charging module (1) using a detachable attachment (9). A battery pack (3) with attached solar panel (4), a control module (5) and a communication module (6) have already been installed analogously.Figure 8 illustrates a drone / UAV (8) that is charged on the charging module via contacts or induction for its next use. A battery pack (3) with an attached solar panel (4), another battery pack (3), a control module (5), and a communication module (6) have already been installed on the unfolded charging module (1). Figure 1 illustrates the placement of a module, in this case a battery pack (3), with the contact point (7) on the unfolded charging module (1) onto a contact cone (2) as an example of a self-centering, automatically contacting connection that can be installed without tools or personnel. Figure 2 illustrates, by way of example, the process of ejecting the charging module and the modules with different functions or combinations of functions subsequently. Figure 3 illustrates the construction as a cross-section of the connection system with the corresponding contact surfaces on the conical mandrel and inside the associated receptacle.This illustrates a cluster of three charging modules, networked via connection modules, which exchange energy and data and can share individual modules. Multiple platforms can be operated in a synchronized system. Energy supply and data communication can be centralized or decentralized, with individual modules such as battery packs or communication systems being shared. This also illustrates a floating version of the charging module and its associated solar panel.

[0006] (1) Charging module with contacts for modules, charging contacts for drones (or induction) and the necessary electrical equipment for connecting and operating the modules (possibly with integrated solar panel) (1a) Charging module in transport state (2) Contacts for electrical and mechanical connection, here as a conical pin with contact rings at different heights (3) Battery pack (energy storage) (4) Solar panel (5) Control module for operational and additional functions (6) Communication module for data transmission and forwarding (radio or wired) (7) Receptacle for contact in the module, here conical with contacts at the appropriate heights for the cone (8) Drone, here UAV (9) Autonomously detachable suspension for transport (10) Contact surface on the conical pin (11) Corresponding contact surface in the associated receptacle on a module (here battery) (12) Module for energy and data transmission incl.Cable connection(13) Floating version of the charging module(14) Floating solar panel. Examples of implementation

[0007] Preferred embodiment (air or land drone, modular setup) In a preferred embodiment, a compact charging module (1) is transported to a remote deployment site by an unmanned vehicle (8), in particular an aerial vehicle (UAV) or a land vehicle (UGV). The charging module (1a) is designed in a transport-optimized state, for example, folded, rolled, or inflatable. After placement at the deployment site, the charging module (1) unfolds autonomously, for example, by means of a spring mechanism, an inflatable structure, or an autonomous unrolling device. The setup of the platform, as well as the transport and placement of the modules, can be carried out completely autonomously by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or ground or water vehicles, which transport the modules and install them on the platform. Functional modules such as energy units, e.g.,Battery packs (3) or solar panels (4), communication (6) and control modules (5), measuring devices, or combinations of these modules or modules with other functions are subsequently transported to the charging module (1) by unmanned carrier systems or additional drones (8). The individual modules or their connections / contacts are placed onto prepared mechanical centering components (2) (e.g., conical mandrels), whereby they automatically align themselves in the correct position, are fixed, and electrically connected via the mandrel geometry without the need for additional tools. Alternatively, power transmission via induction between the components (e.g., landing pad, drone, batteries) is conceivable instead of using contacts. Data between communication, charging, and control modules can also be transmitted wirelessly. Communication modules can be used for communication between the charging station or the control center via wireless (radio, microwave, laser, etc.) or wired (e.g., cable) connections.Fiber optic connections are used. After complete assembly, the station is ready for operation. It enables the charging and docking of additional (possibly multiple simultaneously) unmanned vehicles, as well as the acquisition and transmission of system and environmental data. Communication is wireless (or alternatively wired) to a control center or to other drone systems or stations. The station can subsequently be autonomously maintained, expanded, or, if necessary, dismantled by drone systems. Alternative embodiment (floating platform for watercraft drones): In another possible embodiment, the device is operated in a floating version. The drone (UAV or UPS) transports a compact, foldable charging module in the form of a lightweight, inflatable structure to a deployment location on a body of water, such as a lake, a harbor basin, or the open sea.After deployment, the charging module unfolds into a platform autonomously, either via an integrated pressurized gas system or through passive mechanical deployment. Several mechanically centering receptacles on the top of the charging module serve as self-locking connectors for attaching additional modules with further functions. These modules include battery packs, measuring devices, and communication and control modules, which are mounted and autonomously connected by additional UPS systems or other autonomous support systems. Additionally, a large, inflatable solar panel is provided, which floats independently of the main platform but can be connected to the system via a corresponding attachable connector (similar to the other modules). This module also unfolds autonomously and enables a continuous power supply via solar energy.Once fully configured, the floating station serves as a self-sufficient charging, data transmission and communication platform for watercraft drones and also for UAVs for operations from the water, especially in the context of environmental monitoring, security applications or in difficult-to-access natural or disaster areas.

[0008] The mobile, modular landing and charging station according to the invention is equally suitable for commercial and military applications. In the civilian sector, it enables the flexible deployment of autonomous systems for delivery, inspection, surveying, environmental monitoring, or security on remote construction sites, in urban infrastructure, or in difficult-to-access terrain. Autonomous self-assembly and power supply via modular energy sources make operation particularly economically attractive in temporary or dynamic scenarios. In a military context, the device can be used as a tactical apron station for unmanned aerial, ground, or watercraft – for example, for reconnaissance, communication, logistical support, or extended range. The self-sufficient power supply and the ability to set up independently without on-site personnel also enable covert or temporary operations under critical conditions.

Claims

Device for landing, docking and charging unmanned vehicles, in particular unmanned aerial, land or water vehicles, comprising: - at least one charging device having either electrical contact surfaces or an inductive power transfer device (hereinafter referred to as 'charging module'), - at least one power supply unit in the form of a battery pack, a solar panel, an alternative energy source or a combination thereof, - at least one functional module for performing operational support or mission-specific functions, including but not limited to control, communication, measurement, monitoring, defense, jamming, expandable measurement modules or other tasks, characterized in that the functional modules (a., b., c.) are separately transportable and can be assembled without tools. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the platform has at least one mechanical and / or electrical connection structure, which is designed as part of the platform or in the form of a separately attachable connecting element, which serves for the mechanical and electrical connection of further functional units and modules, in particular those according to claim 1 b) and c). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one module is designed in such a way that it can be transported compactly and expanded on site, in particular by folding, inflating, rolling up or similar mechanisms. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the charging module or at least one other module unfolds, unrolls or inflates autonomously after transport. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the modules are positioned and connected on the platform by means of tool-free, self-centering plug connections without the use of tools or personnel. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that modules or drones are fixed to the platform by mechanical, magnetic, pneumatic or functionally equivalent holding mechanisms, in particular by means of their own weight, magnetic effect, positive locking connections, gripping elements, clamping mechanisms, vacuum holders or automatically effective locking devices. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the energy supply is provided by combinable modules consisting of battery packs, solar panels and / or other energy sources. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that liquid can be taken up in chambers provided for stabilization purposes. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the platform is designed to be buoyant and is stabilized by an inflatable structure, laterally attached floats or integrated air chambers. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device independently adapts its spatial position or orientation actively or passively to the operating environment. Device according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the drone, while it is on the charging module, is secured and fixed in order to remain in the correct position even when subjected to external force, wherein the fixing is effected by means of mechanical clamping connections, magnetic locking devices, vacuum units or automatically closing gripping mechanisms. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the construction of the platform and the transport of the modules are carried out by unmanned aerial, water or land vehicles, which autonomously or remotely place and connect the modules. A method for constructing and operating a modular device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the following method steps: a) providing several separate modules with different functions or combinations of functions, comprising in particular energy, communication, measurement and / or control units; b) transporting the modules to the deployment site by unmanned vehicles or automatic carrier systems; c) automatically, autonomously or remotely positioned the modules on a modular platform, wherein the modules are attached without tools using suitable connecting elements and mechanically and electrically connected; d) activating the connected modules to establish operational readiness, including power supply, data communication and optional additional functions; e) dismantling and transport by the same unmanned systems. Method for constructing and operating a modular landing and charging platform for unmanned vehicles, comprising the following steps, wherein the base structure does not initially have an active charging function: a) Providing several separately transportable modules with different functions or combinations of functions, including power supply, measurement, communication and / or control units; b) Transporting the modules by unmanned vehicles or automatic carrier systems to a desired deployment location; c) Tool-free and self-centering placement and contacting of the modules onto a previously installed, non-actively charging base structure or platform; d) Autonomous establishment of mechanical and electrical connections between the modules and the base structure; e) Activating the connected components to create an operational system for power supply, measurement, communication and vehicle support.f) Dismantling and transport by the same unmanned systems. Connection system for tool-free mechanical and electrical coupling of a modular component with a base structure, comprising: - a tapered centering body with tapered or rotationally symmetrical geometry, in particular conical or tapered, which has at least one electrical contact surface extending in a circumferentially and / or vertically defined section of the lateral surface of the centering body, - a complementary receiving element in the modular component with an inner contour that matches the shape of the centering body and with at least one contact surface in a corresponding position to the contact surface of the centering body, characterized in that the modular component is automatically: - mechanically aligned, - mechanically held by simply placing it on the centering body (e.g.(through its own weight, magnetic effect or snap-fit ​​connection) and is electrically contacted without the need for tools, cable connections or manual adjustment. System comprising multiple modular landing, docking, and charging platforms for unmanned vehicles, in particular unmanned aerial, land, or water vehicles, characterized in that: – each platform is configured according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein not all platforms need to have all functional modules; – the platforms are electrically and / or data-communicatively (wirelessly or wired) connectable to each other, such that at least one module (in particular power supply, communication, or control unit) can be used jointly by several platforms; – the connection is made via an integrated coupling system or a dedicated connection module or a module that combines this function with at least one other function;This creates a coordinated cluster, whereby the coordination can be carried out by one or more locally arranged control modules and / or an external central or decentralized control center, and which can be controlled and used sequentially or in parallel by unmanned vehicles.

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