Autonomous Drone Charging Network with Ultra-Capacitor Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for managing passenger drones lack an efficient control system for charging and flight path management, leading to potential interruptions and bottlenecks due to charger unavailability and lack of location within a single charge flight distance, as well as challenges in collision management and traffic load prediction along routes.
Innovation Solution
A control system and apparatus that includes a computerized transportation system control node with network connectivity for managing charging of electric vehicles, assigning serial route clusters of charging facilities, and utilizing ultra-capacitors for high charge current storage and transfer, enabling quick and efficient charging through slider rails or wireless pads, while synchronizing with drones for real-time status updates and anomaly detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If charging stations are placed along routes at differing levels of elevation, then charging coverage is improved, but system complexity and infrastructure cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging infrastructure is segmented into modular charging stations that can be independently deployed at different locations and elevations. Each station operates as a discrete unit with standardized charging interfaces, allowing flexible placement along routes without requiring complex integrated infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
Charging stations are designed with universal functionality to serve multiple purposes: they can charge different types of electric vehicles, provide navigation assistance, and communicate with the central control system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized infrastructure at each location.
2Loss of time
If charge timing per drone is shortened, then travel interruption is reduced, but charging infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system pre-calculates optimal charging times and routes for drones before they depart. By planning charging stops in advance and positioning charging stations at predetermined locations along flight paths, the system minimizes actual charging interruption time while managing infrastructure requirements through proactive coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional mechanical charging connections with wireless power transfer technology. This allows drones to charge without physical docking or cable connections, significantly reducing charging time and eliminating the need for complex mechanical coupling mechanisms in the infrastructure.
3Productivity
If a control system manages supercharging and flight paths, then operational efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Drones are equipped with autonomous navigation and charging management capabilities that allow them to self-manage their flight paths and charging requirements. The onboard systems automatically communicate with charging stations and the central control system, reducing the computational burden on centralized infrastructure while maintaining high operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system implements real-time feedback loops where drones report their status, battery levels, and location to the central system, which in turn provides routing instructions and charging coordination. This continuous feedback mechanism enables efficient management without requiring overly complex centralized control architecture.
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
This solution ensures minimal interruption in drone travel by providing rapid and efficient charging, managing traffic flow, and predicting and mitigating anomalies, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of drone operations.
Implementation Method 1
The charge controller includes a first ultra-capacitor for storing high charge current
Implementation Method 2
The charge transfer apparatus includes at least one slider rail or at least one wireless pad oriented vertically
Data Source
AI summary
A control system and apparatus for managing charging of electric vehicles in a transportation infrastructure and controlling at least the flight paths for drone-assisted vehicles requiring periodic charge comprises a transportation system control node connected in a first wide area network (WAN), a plurality of vehicle charging facilities distributed within the geographic region covered by the first wide area network and a charge controller connected to each of the plurality of charging facilities for brokering electric power from a power source to at least one structurally supported charge transfer apparatus maintained at each of the charging facilities.