Channel-Guided UAV Payload Retrieval for In-Flight Pickup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unmanned vehicles face delays and inefficiencies when delivering payloads due to the need for a designated person to secure the payload to the UAV, which can be exacerbated by late arrivals or delays at the retrieval site.
Innovation Solution
A payload retrieval apparatus with an extending member, channel, and tether engagers allows a UAV to automatically pick up payloads without human intervention, using a tethered payload retriever that engages with the payload holder and winches the payload into the UAV.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a designated person secures the payload to the UAV at the retrieval site, then the payload can be successfully retrieved, but delays occur due to waiting for the designated person to arrive
Solution Approach 1:
The payload is equipped with an automatic payload retriever that can securely attach to the UAV autonomously without requiring a designated person. The retriever includes a payload holder with engagement features that automatically interface with the UAV's payload interface, enabling the payload to service itself during the retrieval process
Solution Approach 2:
The payload is pre-configured with an automatic retriever mechanism before retrieval operations. The retriever is pre-positioned and pre-configured on the payload, so that when the UAV arrives, the engagement can occur immediately without requiring a person to manually secure the payload
2Reliability
If the UAV hovers or lands to wait for the designated person, then the payload can be retrieved, but energy is expended and delivery is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic payload retriever on the payload performs the securement function autonomously, eliminating the need for the UAV to hover or land while waiting for a designated person. The retriever's self-service capability allows immediate engagement upon UAV arrival
Solution Approach 2:
The payload is pre-equipped with an automatic retriever mechanism that is ready to engage immediately upon UAV arrival. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for the UAV to wait in hover or landing mode, allowing continuous operation and energy efficiency
3Reliability
If manual securement is used, then the payload can be attached to the UAV, but the process requires human involvement which may not be available
Solution Approach 1:
The payload retriever is designed to autonomously attach to the UAV without requiring a designated person. The retriever includes automatic engagement features that interface with the UAV's payload system, making the operation self-service and eliminating dependency on human availability
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical securement process is replaced with an automatic mechanical system. The payload retriever uses automated mechanical engagement mechanisms, such as automatic latches or clamps, that replace the need for manual securing operations
Data Source
AI summary
A payload retrieval apparatus including a stand having an upper end and a lower end, a channel having a first end and a second end, the channel coupled to the stand, a first extension that extends in a first direction from the first end of the channel, wherein the first extension is configured to direct a tether extending from a UAV and a payload retriever attached to an end of the tether toward the first end of the channel, wherein the second end of the channel has a payload engaging member positioned near the second end of the channel that is adapted to secure a payload, and wherein the payload retrieval apparatus is configured to cause the UAV to pick up the payload with the payload retriever while maintaining flying.