Hard Stop Apparatus for Aerial Vehicle Aimable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerial vehicles face damage and operational impairment due to powerful aimable devices like searchlights and lasers, which generate heat and can damage the vehicle or interfere with other equipment.
Innovation Solution
A hard stop apparatus comprising a first frame attached to the aerial vehicle and a second frame attached to the aimable device, configured to prevent the device from pointing at the vehicle or interfering with other equipment, by creating forbidden zones within the operational zone of the aimable device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the aimable device is made more powerful to increase illumination intensity, then the searchlight effectiveness is improved, but the heat generated can damage the aerial vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by installing a hard stop apparatus before the aimable device can potentially damage the aerial vehicle. The hard stop physically prevents the device from pointing at the vehicle, proactively blocking the harmful effect before it can occur. This is evident in the description where the hard stop is configured to prevent the aimable device from pointing at the aerial vehicle, thereby preventing heat damage before it happens.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the aimable device is allowed to rotate freely to increase operational versatility, then the device can cover more areas, but it may point at or interfere with the aerial vehicle or other equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the rotational space of the aimable device into safe and unsafe zones. The hard stop apparatus segments the continuous rotational movement into discrete allowed and forbidden positions, creating a physical boundary that separates operational versatility from potential harm. This is demonstrated by the hard stop structure that creates specific angular limits for device rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The hard stop apparatus serves as an intermediary between the aimable device and the aerial vehicle. It mediates the interaction by physically blocking the device from pointing at the vehicle or interfering with mounted equipment, while still allowing the device to maintain its rotational capability within safe zones. The hard stop acts as a neutral third element that enables versatility while preventing harm.
3Device complexity
If no hard stop is installed to maintain device simplicity, then the system remains simple, but the aerial vehicle and mounted equipment are at risk of damage
Solution Approach 1:
The hard stop apparatus is designed as a simple, inexpensive mechanical component that provides reliable protection. It is a basic structural element rather than a complex electronic system, making it cost-effective and easy to manufacture. The hard stop functions as a passive safety device that does not require power or complex mechanisms, aligning with the principle of using simple, durable components for safety functions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a first frame attached to an aerial vehicle or a mounting plate attached to the aerial vehicle, and a second frame attached to an aimable device moveably connected to the aerial vehicle or the mounting plate. The first frame and the second frame are configured to collectively provide a hard stop that prevents the aimable device from pointing at the aerial vehicle.