Drone snowmaking automation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snowmaking systems require manual operation and control of snowmaking guns, which is inefficient and can expose operators to harsh weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
An aerial drone equipped with communication components is used to remotely control snowmaking devices, allowing for efficient and safe operation of snowmaking hydrants by sending signals to adjust valves and monitor system status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation and control of snowmaking guns is used, then operators can directly control snowmaking operations, but operators are exposed to harsh weather conditions and control efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an aerial drone as an intermediary device between the operator and the snowmaking guns. The drone carries a remote control device that can wirelessly control the snowmaking guns from a distance, allowing operators to control snowmaking operations without being exposed to harsh weather conditions while maintaining control efficiency
2Ease of operation
If operators travel to each snowmaking gun on foot or by snowmobile to control operations, then direct control is possible, but time and resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The aerial drone serves as a mobile intermediary that can quickly reach any snowmaking gun location without requiring operators to travel physically. The drone can be deployed rapidly and repositioned between guns, eliminating the time-consuming travel required when operators use snowmobiles or walk to each gun
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from ground-based control (operators traveling on foot or snowmobile) to aerial control (drone hovering above). This dimensional change allows the control device to access all snowmaking guns without the constraints of ground terrain, significantly reducing travel time and improving accessibility
3Productivity
If remote control via aerial drone is implemented, then operator safety is improved and control efficiency increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aerial drone is designed as a multi-functional device that combines navigation capabilities, wireless communication, and remote control functions in a single platform. This universal design reduces the need for multiple separate systems and minimizes overall system complexity while maintaining high control efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
An aerial drone has a communication component configured and programmed to receive a first signal from a remote controller. The first signal may be configured and programmed to control a movement of the aerial drone and/or a sending of a second signal. The communication component may further be configured and programmed to send the second signal to a snowmaking device. The second signal may be configured and programmed to be received by the snowmaking device to direct a motor of the snowmaking device.