Airlifting Device Nested Stacking Structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for airlifting objects are not designed for space-saving and stable stacking, limiting their efficient storage and deployment in multiple configurations.

Innovation Solution

A device with a support structure featuring upper and lower end regions of corresponding shapes, allowing for form-fitting engagement and stable stacking, along with a holding mechanism and drive means for airlifting, and a system of multiple devices connected for sequential airlifting capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If devices are designed for airlifting objects, then they can transport objects to destinations, but they occupy significant storage space and are difficult to stack stably

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage space occupationVSAvoidstacking stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates a nested structure where the support structure can be folded or collapsed into a compact configuration that fits within the housing, similar to nested dolls. This allows the device to occupy minimal storage space while maintaining full functionality when deployed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The device is divided into modular segments including a housing, support structure, and drive means that can be independently positioned and stacked. The support structure itself is segmented into foldable sections that can be collapsed for compact storage and easily stacked with other identical devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Volume of moving object

If multiple devices are stacked for space-saving storage, then storage efficiency improves, but stacking stability and ease of assembly deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage space efficiencyVSAvoidstacking and assembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure features an asymmetric design with a first end that fits into a corresponding recess in the housing, and a second end with protrusions that engage with recesses in adjacent devices. This asymmetric configuration provides intuitive alignment and stable stacking while remaining simple to assemble.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the device have specialized local features: the housing contains drive means for aerial movement, the support structure has foldable sections with specific engagement geometries, and the connection interfaces have complementary shapes. These localized features work together to enable both compact stacking and easy assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11148808B2Device for airlifting an object
Publication Date: 2021.10.19 AIRROBOT GMBH & CO KG
  • US11148808B2 patent drawing
  • US11148808B2 patent drawing
  • US11148808B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for airlifting an object comprising a frame-like support structure. The support structure has an upper end region and a lower end region. The upper end region and the lower end region have at least partly corresponding shapes. The device further comprises a recess in which the object is arranged at least partly during airlifting.