Cable-Assisted UAV PTOL for Moving Vehicle Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to provide safe and efficient point take-off and landing (PTOL) capabilities for large-wingspan fixed-wing UAVs on moving vehicles, particularly in challenging conditions such as strong winds, turbulence, and obstacles, due to the UAV's inability to hover and the interference of wings with ship deck elements.
Innovation Solution
A PTOL system with launch and recovery arm assemblies, including a main pole, receiving latch, and cable release/retraction mechanism, which guides UAVs to latch onto a receiving latch, allowing for controlled landing and take-off on moving vehicles, even in adverse weather conditions, using suspension cables and latching elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single arresting line is used to stop the UAV, then the landing system is simple, but the UAV may be left hanging and damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The arresting line system is divided into multiple segments: a first arresting line for initial deceleration and a second arresting line for final stopping and securing. This segmentation allows the UAV to be stopped in a controlled manner and prevents it from being left hanging, resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and landing safety.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the UAV lands on a moving vehicle without a runway, then PTOL capability is achieved, but the large wingspan interferes with deck elements
Solution Approach 1:
The landing system uses vertical arresting lines extending upward from the vehicle deck to intercept the UAV in the air space above the deck. This dimensional approach allows the UAV to be captured and stopped before its wings can interfere with deck elements, enabling PTOL capability while avoiding wing interference.
3Productivity
If the UAV is abruptly stopped in flight, then landing is achieved quickly, but damage to the UAV may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple arresting lines that engage sequentially to progressively decelerate the UAV. The first arresting line provides initial deceleration, and the second arresting line provides final stopping with proper tensioning, preventing abrupt stops that could damage the UAV while maintaining quick landing capability.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
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AI summary
The present invention provides systems and methods for point take-off and landing (PTOL) of unmanned flying objects onto a confined landing surface associated with a landing body.