Arm-Mounted UAV Controller for One-Handed Multi-Axis Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional UAV controllers require both hands for operation, limiting the user's ability to control flight and other aspects of the UAV simultaneously, such as cameras or sensors, leading to inconvenience and potential flight risks.
Innovation Solution
A portable UAV controller design that secures to the user's arm, allowing single-handed control of flight and additional UAV functions using a combination of controllers, including a 6-axis joystick for flight control and inertial measurement units for sensing movement, enabling up to 12-DOF control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional two-handed controller design is used, then flight control stability is maintained, but operational versatility deteriorates as user cannot control cameras or sensors simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is divided into multiple independent control modules: a first controller for flight control (throttle, yaw, roll, pitch) and a second controller for camera/sensor control. This segmentation allows each module to be operated independently, enabling the user to control flight parameters with one hand while simultaneously controlling cameras or sensors with the other hand, thereby improving operational versatility without compromising flight control stability
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed as a multi-functional device that integrates both flight control capabilities and camera/sensor control capabilities into a single system. The first controller handles flight parameters while the second controller handles camera pan, tilt, and sensor operations, allowing the device to perform multiple functions simultaneously that would otherwise require separate devices or hands
2Ease of operation
If both hands are occupied with flight controls, then flight control precision is maintained, but user freedom deteriorates as no free hand remains for other tasks
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the controller into two separate control units that can be operated independently with each hand, the system allows the user to maintain precise flight control with one hand while having the other hand free for additional tasks such as adjusting settings, operating switches, or managing equipment, thereby improving user freedom without sacrificing flight control reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The controller design adds a spatial dimension to the operation by distributing control functions across two hands in three-dimensional space. The first controller is positioned for one-hand operation while the second controller is positioned for the other hand, creating a multi-dimensional control interface that increases user freedom while maintaining reliable flight control through the primary hand's dedicated control
3Productivity
If one hand is freed for other tasks, then operational convenience is improved, but control complexity increases due to multiple controller integration
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is segmented into distinct functional modules with clearly defined responsibilities: the first controller handles flight parameters (throttle, yaw, roll, pitch) while the second controller handles camera and sensor operations. This segmentation reduces control complexity by organizing functions into separate, manageable units rather than integrating all controls into a single complex interface, thereby improving operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of integrating all controls into a single unified interface that would require complex coordination, the design inverts the approach by providing separate controllers for different functions. This inversion simplifies the control architecture by allowing each controller to operate independently with its own control scheme, reducing the cognitive load and complexity while improving operational efficiency
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the user to control UAV flight, cameras, sensors, and other functions with one hand, enhancing operational convenience and safety by freeing the other hand for other tasks while maintaining precise control.
Implementation Method 1
The second controller may include an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) or other accelerometer and gyroscope combinations for sensing movement of the arm when the first portion is secured to the arm
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 1D~1F
AI summary
Embodiments described herein relate to a controller for controlling various aspects of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), the controller including, but not limited to, a controller body having a first portion configured to secure to a user of the controller and a first controller configured for controlling at least flight of the UAV. The controller is portable via the first portion. The first controller is operable with a single hand of the user.