Gimbal Payload Stabilization for Complex Platform Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to effectively stabilize the orientation of payloads, such as cameras, on moving platforms like vehicles or persons, especially when the motion of the platform is complex, leading to motion transfer that affects the payload's performance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a base, payload support, pivoted supports, and motors, with inertial sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes, that determine the actual and target orientations of the payload support, calculating and adjusting the angular displacements of the pivoted supports to stabilize the payload's orientation based on the base's and payload's orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed set of rules is used for compensation, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot handle complex platform motion effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic rule selection by transitioning from fixed compensation rules to state-dependent rule sets. The system dynamically determines which compensation rules to apply based on the current platform motion state, allowing the stabilization system to adapt its behavior to different motion conditions while maintaining operational simplicity through automated state recognition and rule selection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different sets of rules are used for different platform states, then the system can handle complex motion, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring platform motion parameters and using this information to select appropriate compensation rules. The system receives feedback about the current state, processes this information to determine the appropriate rule set, and applies the corresponding compensation strategy, creating a closed-loop control system that manages complexity through intelligent decision-making rather than purely mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization system performs self-service by automatically determining its own operational state and selecting the appropriate compensation rules without external intervention. The system monitors its own performance and platform motion, autonomously switches between different rule sets based on detected conditions, and adjusts compensation parameters as needed, reducing the need for complex external control mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the payload is mounted to a moving platform, then the system is portable and versatile, but motion transfer affects payload performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing compensation mechanisms that counteract platform motion before it fully affects the payload. The system detects platform motion and applies opposing corrective forces through the gimbal mechanism, preventing motion transfer from reaching the payload. This proactive compensation approach maintains payload stability despite the portable, moving platform environment.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes determining an actual orientation of a base of an apparatus, obtaining a target orientation of a payload support of the apparatus, and determining target angular displacements of the payload support about gimbal axes of a plurality of pivoted supports of the apparatus based on the actual orientation of the base and the target orientation of the payload support. The payload support is mounted to the base through the plurality of pivoted supports.