Flying Robot Propulsion Layout for Unobstructed Arm Motion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing flying robots with propulsion units obstruct the movement and work of their arms, limiting their degree of freedom.

Innovation Solution

The propulsion units are positioned in areas different from the working range of the arms, allowing the arms to move freely above the body without interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the propulsion unit is disposed on the body of the flying robot, then the flight capability is ensured, but the arm is prevented from working above the robot, limiting the degree of freedom of work

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedegree of freedom of workVSAvoidspatial arrangement complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The propulsion unit is relocated from the traditional top position to the lateral side of the body, utilizing the lateral spatial dimension. This dimensional repositioning allows the arm to operate freely in the upper space without interference from the propulsion unit, thereby improving the degree of freedom of work while maintaining flight capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The body structure is divided into distinct functional zones: the lateral side houses the propulsion unit, the upper space is dedicated to arm operation, and the lower space accommodates the leg. This segmentation of spatial functions eliminates interference between components and enhances operational versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the arm is positioned to move above the body for work, then the working capability is improved, but the propulsion unit obstructs the arm movement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearm working capabilityVSAvoidinterference from propulsion unit

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The propulsion unit is extracted from the upper space where the arm needs to operate and relocated to the lateral side of the body. This extraction removes the harmful interference factor, allowing the arm to move freely above the body without obstruction, thereby improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Reliability

If the propulsion unit is disposed around the body, then the flight stability is improved, but the spatial arrangement becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflight stabilityVSAvoidspatial arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of symmetrically distributing propulsion units around the body, the design employs an asymmetric arrangement with propulsion units positioned on the lateral side. This asymmetric configuration achieves flight stability through strategic placement while simplifying the spatial arrangement compared to a fully circumferential distribution.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentUS12558777B2Flying robot

Publication Date: 2026.02.24 NEC CORP

AI summary

A flying robot includes a body, an arm disposed on a lateral side of the body, a leg disposed under the body, and a propulsion unit disposed around the body. The arm is able to move at least to above the body, and the propulsion unit is disposed in an area different from an area in which the arm is able to move and to do predetermined work.