Two-Axis Camera Gimbal Cable Routing With Shifted Load Center
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional two-axis gimbal systems for camera drones have complex cable routing and increased power consumption due to the load center of gravity being aligned with gimbal motor pivot axes, leading to increased size and weight, and higher power consumption to counteract residual torque from cables.
Innovation Solution
A two-axis gimbal system with a pitch assembly and roll assembly that includes a pitch motor and roll motor, respectively, coupled with support members that optimize cable routing and use flexible printed circuits to reduce power consumption by adjusting the load center of gravity away from the roll axis, thereby simplifying line routing and reducing system size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the load center of gravity is aligned with the gimbal motor pivot axis, then the cable routing is simplified, but the power consumption increases due to residual torque from cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent shifts the load center of gravity from the roll axis to the pitch axis, changing the dimensional alignment of gravitational force relative to the gimbal motors. This dimensional repositioning allows cables to be routed along the pitch axis where they create minimal torque, while the pitch motor compensates for the shifted center of gravity. The solution transforms a one-dimensional alignment problem into a two-axis coordination solution.
2Device complexity
If traditional cable routing is used with load center of gravity on the roll axis, then the cable support is simplified, but the system size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cable support function with the existing pitch arm structure. Instead of adding separate cable support components, the cable routing channels are integrated into the pitch arm that already exists for mechanical support. This consolidation eliminates redundant structural elements and reduces overall system weight while maintaining cable management functionality.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the load center of gravity is shifted away from the roll axis, then power consumption is reduced, but the gimbal balance control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-balancing through the pitch motor automatically compensating for the shifted center of gravity. The system uses feedback from gravity detection to activate the pitch motor, which generates compensatory torque to maintain the camera at the desired angle. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex manual balancing procedures while reducing overall power consumption compared to traditional roll-axis alignment.
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
The solution results in a smaller, lighter, and more efficient gimbal system with reduced power consumption, improving stability and ease of installation by optimizing cable routing and load distribution.
Implementation Method 1
The pitch assembly includes a pitch motor and a pitch support member. The pitch motor is coupled to the pitch support member.
Implementation Method 2
The roll assembly includes a roll motor and a roll support member. The roll motor is coupled to the roll support member.
Implementation Method 3
the load center of gravity of the camera is usually along one/more gimbal motor pivot axis (axes). As a result, the power consumption of the gimbal at a normal position increases since the motors must continue to generate torque to counteract residual torque of the cables attached to the camera.
Data Source
AI summary
An aerial system includes a body; a lift mechanism; and a two-axis gimbal assembly. A camera housing of the gimbal assembly extends between a first endwall and a second endwall along a pitch axis. An opening in the first endwall receives a camera communication cable. The camera communication cable is coupled to a camera and a control board. The camera housing includes an inner surface that defines a positioning cavity. A positioning cavity in the camera housing receives the camera. A pitch assembly of the support assembly rotates the camera housing about the pitch axis.