Ducted Fan UAV Docking Station Autonomous Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current landing pads for ducted fan UAVs require human intervention for charging, refueling, and payload handling, which is hazardous, costly, and inefficient, especially in harsh conditions, and can only handle a single UAV at a time.
Innovation Solution
A docking station with a guide and housing system that includes a communication system, dampening system, charging and fueling capabilities, and a payload management system, allowing for autonomous UAV guidance, storage, and multi-UAV handling, reducing human intervention and improving safety and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a landing pad with built-in charging pads is used, then charging capability is provided, but extremely precise landing (10 to 20 cm alignment) is required which is difficult in certain environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV performs self-docking through autonomous navigation and guidance systems, eliminating the need for human intervention. The docking station provides automated charging connections that guide the UAV into proper alignment automatically, removing the burden of precise manual landing while maintaining charging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical precision landing requirements with electronic and optical guidance systems. Sensors, cameras, and automated control systems substitute for the mechanical alignment process, allowing the UAV to dock accurately without requiring extremely precise manual positioning
2Ease of operation
If landing pads require human interaction for connection to recharging/refueling station, then connection can be made, but personnel payment and transportation costs increase and delays are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV autonomously docks with the charging station and establishes electrical connections without human intervention. The automated system handles the entire docking and charging process, eliminating the need for personnel transportation and manual connection operations
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station serves as an intermediary between the UAV and the power supply system. It provides automated connection mechanisms including electrical contacts and alignment guides that facilitate seamless charging without requiring human operators to physically connect components
3Ease of operation
If landing pads are open to the environment, then access is provided, but UAV can tip over in high wind conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station incorporates protective enclosures and housing structures that shield the UAV from environmental factors while maintaining access capability. These protective structures act as barriers against high winds, preventing the UAV from tipping over during docking and charging operations
4Ease of operation
If landing pad provides refueling, recharging, loading and unloading for single UAV, then service is provided, but only one UAV can be handled at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is divided into multiple independent docking bays or stations, each capable of servicing a UAV simultaneously. This segmentation allows multiple UAVs to be charged, refueled, or serviced at the same time, dramatically increasing productivity while maintaining full service capability for each individual UAV
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station is designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection points that can service multiple UAV types simultaneously. Each docking position provides comprehensive services including charging, refueling, and payload handling, allowing the system to handle multiple UAVs with diverse requirements at the same time
Data Source
AI summary
A ducted fan unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) docking station is provided. The docking station comprises: a guide sized to receive a ducted fan UAV; and a housing communicatively coupled to the guide. The housing comprises: a storage assembly comprising: at least one compartment sized to store the UAV; and at least one dampening system coupled to the at least one storage compartment for cushioning the UAV.