Foldable Wing UAV Case for Vertical Launch and Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing UAV systems lack a convenient and safe method for transporting and deploying UAVs in operational scenarios, particularly in military contexts where covert reconnaissance and real-time data collection are critical.

Innovation Solution

The development of a UAV module with a case that allows for the transportation of a UAV with folded wings, automatically transitioning from a closed to an open configuration for vertical launch, and providing secure communication channels for real-time data transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the UAV is transported with wings in folded configuration within a compact case, then the portability and ease of transport are improved, but the wing span and flight performance are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidwing span
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The UAV's wings are divided into foldable segments that can be collapsed into a compact configuration for transport within the case, and deployed to full span for flight operations. This segmentation allows the wing to adapt between compact storage and full flight performance modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The wings are designed with dynamic folding mechanisms that allow them to transition between folded and extended configurations. During transport, the wings remain folded to maintain compactness; upon launch, the wings automatically unfold to achieve full span for optimal flight performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of time

If the case automatically transitions from closed to open configuration for vertical launch, then the deployment speed and response time are improved, but the mechanical complexity of the case increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployment timeVSAvoidcase mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The case is pre-configured with automated opening mechanisms and launch systems that are prepared in advance. Upon receiving a launch command, the case automatically executes the opening sequence and UAV launch without requiring manual intervention, thereby minimizing deployment time despite the increased mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The case incorporates self-activating mechanisms that automatically transition from closed to open configuration and initiate UAV launch without external assistance. The system uses sensors and automated control systems to detect launch conditions and execute the deployment sequence autonomously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If secure communication channels are provided between the case, UAV, and user interface terminal, then the security and reliability of data transmission are improved, but the communication system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication securityVSAvoidcommunication system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The communication system is designed as a multi-functional integrated platform that handles multiple communication protocols and security levels through a unified architecture. The case, UAV, and user interface terminal share common communication protocols and security mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high security standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The communication system incorporates feedback mechanisms that automatically monitor and adjust security parameters based on transmission conditions. The system uses encryption protocols and authentication mechanisms that adapt to communication needs, ensuring secure data transmission while managing complexity through automated security management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables convenient transportation and safe deployment of UAVs, allowing for high endurance and high-speed operations after launch, effectively supporting military operational scenarios such as covert reconnaissance and real-time data collection.

Implementation Method 1

a UAV (200) that is configured for vertical flight

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLift: Aerofoil

Implementation Method 2

the Set of Propellers 300 rotate horizontally above the Main Member 102 of the UAV Case 100

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThrust: Jet

Data Source

PatentEP3873801B1Techniques for storing, transporting, and operating a UAV
Publication Date: 2025.05.21 TEXTRON SYST AUSTRALIA PTY LTD
  • EP3873801B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3873801B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3873801B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) module includes a UAV having foldable wings coupled to a body of the UAV, a UAV case having length and width dimensions that is constructed and arranged to operate in (i) a closed configuration that stores and protects the UAV while the UAV module is transported within the UAV case between locations with the foldable wings in a folded configuration, and (ii) an opened configuration that provides a base from which the UAV launches vertically from within the UAV case while the foldable wings of the UAV remain in the folded configuration. The UAV is constructed and arranged to automatically unfold the foldable wings outwards from the body of the UAV to form a fixed wing that extends beyond the length and width dimensions of the UAV case for fixed wing horizontal flight after the UAV is airborne.