Guided UAV Clamp Mounting for Inaccessible Overhead Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting clamps to inaccessible lines, such as overhead power lines, require cumbersome equipment like bucket trucks or helicopters, and lack efficient automated solutions for remote installation.
Innovation Solution
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system equipped with a guide and propeller guard is used to transport and mount a clamp to a line, utilizing a biasing member to automatically latch the clamp onto the line, allowing for remote operation and efficient installation without physical workers near the line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional methods using bucket trucks or helicopters are used to mount clamps to overhead lines, then the clamp mounting task can be completed, but the equipment becomes cumbersome and operation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical mounting systems (bucket trucks, helicopters) with an unmanned aerial vehicle that uses aerodynamic forces and automated mechanical components. The UAV substitutes complex ground-based or manned aerial machinery with a lighter, more maneuverable autonomous system that can deliver and deploy clamps remotely.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp incorporates an automatic latching mechanism with spring-loaded jaws and triggering members that enable self-service mounting. Once the clamp is positioned on the line, the biasing member automatically engages the jaws to secure the line without requiring manual intervention or complex external equipment.
2Productivity
If traditional mounting equipment is used, then clamp installation can be performed, but installation speed becomes slow and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is pre-assembled with the biasing member and triggering mechanism before deployment. The UAV carries the fully prepared clamp to the target location, eliminating the need for on-site assembly or complex mounting procedures. This preliminary preparation enables rapid deployment and significantly reduces installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a quick-release mechanism and automated latching system that allows the clamp to be mounted in a single swift action. The triggering member releases the biasing member to snap the jaws shut around the line immediately upon contact, skipping lengthy manual adjustment and securing processes.
3Reliability
If workers are positioned near the line for manual clamp mounting, then the task can be completed, but safety risks increase due to proximity to energized lines
Solution Approach 1:
The unmanned aerial vehicle serves as an intermediary between the operator and the energized line. The UAV carries and deploys the clamp without requiring workers to approach the line, acting as a safe mediator that performs the dangerous mounting task remotely while the operator remains at a safe distance on the ground.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical mounting operations with an automated UAV system. The automated clamp deployment mechanism substitutes for human workers who would otherwise need to physically position and secure the clamp near energized lines, eliminating exposure to electrical hazards while maintaining mounting functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle for mounting a clamp to a line includes a body, a first propeller attached to the body, a second propeller attached to the body, and a third propeller attached to the body. The body is between at least one of the first propeller and the second propeller, the first propeller and the third propeller, or the second propeller and the third propeller. A guide is attached to the body and is configured to support the clamp for mounting to the line by flying the unmanned aerial vehicle toward the line. The guide is configured to support the clamp such that an imaginary clamp line between a first jaw of the clamp and a second jaw of the clamp when the clamp is in an arrested position is non-parallel to a plane intersecting the first propeller, the second propeller, and the third propeller.