Helicopter Tug System Using Powered Track Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing helicopter tugging systems are cumbersome and require initializing the helicopter's drive system, making it difficult to move helicopters safely and efficiently into or out of hangars or other locations without using the helicopter's power.

Innovation Solution

A helicopter tug system comprising a powered track assembly with a microprocessor, drive hub, idler hub, and radio control unit, which allows for the movement of helicopters using a first and second skid, enabling lateral movement without initializing the helicopter's drive system, utilizing rollers for loading and a radio control unit for remote operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional tug device is used to move a helicopter, then the helicopter can be moved without using its power, but the tug device becomes cumbersome to use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafe movement of helicopterVSAvoidease of use of tug device

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical tug device with an automated robotic system that uses sensors, processors, and automated control mechanisms. The robotic system can autonomously navigate, attach to, and move the helicopter without requiring manual operation of a cumbersome mechanical tug device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The robotic tug system is designed to autonomously perform the tugging operation without human intervention. It can independently navigate to the helicopter, attach to it, and move it to the desired location, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for operators to manually handle complex mechanical tugs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Speed

If the helicopter's drive system is initialized for movement, then the helicopter can be moved under its own power, but this is not feasible when moving into or out of hangars

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemovement capability of helicopterVSAvoidapplicability in confined spaces

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The robotic tug system acts as an intermediary between the helicopter and the ground. Instead of the helicopter using its own drive system, the robotic tug provides the propulsion force externally, allowing the helicopter to be moved in confined spaces where its own drive system cannot be initialized or would be impractical.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system separates the movement function from the helicopter itself. The robotic tug is a独立的移动装置 that can be deployed and retrieved as needed, allowing the helicopter to remain stationary while being moved by the separate robotic system, which is ideal for confined hangar spaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If a powered track assembly with multiple components is used, then precise control and maneuverability are achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecise control and maneuverabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of tug system

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into a single robotic platform. The powered track assembly, navigation system, attachment mechanism, and control systems are merged into one cohesive robotic tug unit, reducing the overall system complexity compared to using separate devices for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The robotic tug system is designed as a multi-functional platform that can perform navigation, attachment, propulsion, and maneuvering all through a single integrated system. This universal design allows the same device to handle various tugging operations without requiring multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9227737B2Helicopter tug system

Publication Date: 2016.01.05 CHAN ANTHONY Y

AI summary

A helicopter tug system features a helicopter with skids. A powered track assembly features a microprocessor connected to a power supply, a drive hub and an idler hub, a track located on the drive hub and the idler hub, a motor connected to the drive hub and the power supply, a receiver connected to the microprocessor, and a clamp located on a track assembly top. A caster support features a caster support frame having a wheel and the clamp located on a caster support frame top. The system features a radio control unit with a transmitter and a radio control power supply. A first powered track assembly is attached to the first helicopter skid and a first caster support is attached to the second helicopter skid. The radio control unit sends a first signal to the first track assembly to move the helicopter.