Leveling Drone Platform With Ball Joint for Uneven Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for drone launch and recovery fail to provide a level surface on uneven terrain, lack adjustability, and can be harmful to both the user and the drone.
Innovation Solution
A portable platform device with a central body and radially spaced legs, featuring a ball joint assembly and a leveling gauge, allows for adjustable positioning to achieve a completely level surface for drone take-off and landing, enabling precise IMU calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed platform is used on uneven terrain, then the platform structure is simple, but the platform cannot provide a level surface for drone operations
Solution Approach 1:
The platform incorporates adjustable legs with ball joint assemblies that allow dynamic positioning and leveling adjustment. The legs can be independently adjusted to compensate for uneven terrain, transforming a static platform into a dynamic, adaptable structure that maintains a level operating surface regardless of ground conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is divided into separate adjustable legs rather than a single rigid structure. Each leg can be independently adjusted, allowing the platform to adapt to uneven terrain by segmenting the leveling function across multiple independent components.
2Measurement precision
If a non-adjustable platform is used, then the device complexity is low, but the platform cannot be calibrated to zero degrees for precise IMU calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The platform replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with a simpler ball joint assembly system combined with a gauge for indication. The ball joint provides smooth, multi-directional adjustment capability while the gauge substitutes for complex sensing systems by providing visual feedback for achieving the level position.
3Measurement precision
If a platform without leveling capability is used, then the device is simple, but the drone IMU cannot be calibrated precisely on uneven terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The platform incorporates a built-in gauge that allows the operator to self-level the platform without external equipment or complex procedures. The gauge provides immediate visual feedback, enabling the operator to adjust the legs until the platform achieves the correct level position for IMU calibration.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid platform is used on uneven terrain, then the structure is simple, but the platform cannot adapt to different terrain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The platform transforms from a rigid, static structure to a dynamic system with adjustable legs that can adapt to various terrain conditions. The ball joint assemblies enable smooth, multi-axis adjustment, allowing the platform to conform to uneven ground while maintaining a level operating surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable leg mechanism with ball joints provides universal adaptability to different terrain types and conditions. The same mechanism can accommodate various degrees of unevenness, different ground surfaces, and multiple positioning requirements, making the platform versatile across diverse operating environments.
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 platform provides a stable, level, and adjustable surface for safe drone operations on uneven terrain, ensuring precise IMU calibration and protection from damage.
Implementation Method 1
A ball joint assembly is mounted at its distil end to a proximal end of the central body and a platform is configured to be fixed to a proximal end of the ball joint assembly and configured to be adjustable to a horizontally level and vertically plumb position
Implementation Method 2
A platform having a flat top surface and a gauge affixed to the flat top surface, the gauge configured to measure level and plumb positions
Data Source
AI summary
A portable platform device is described comprising a central body and a plurality of legs located on the central body near a distal end of the central body and spaced radially around the central body wherein the legs are configured for placement on a surface. A ball joint is mounted at its distil end to a proximal end of the central body and a platform is configured to be fixed to a proximal end of the ball joint and configured to be adjustable to a horizontally level and vertically plumb position.