Inertial Controller for 3D UAV Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current manual control systems for hovering unmanned aerial vehicles (HUAVs), such as joystick and stylus controls, are limited by their two-dimensional input capabilities, leading to inefficient and less intuitive control methods that restrict situational awareness and expose users to physical threats.
Innovation Solution
The development of inertial controllers that utilize a frame with sensors and processors to detect changes in three-dimensional motion, allowing for free-hand control inputs and transmitting signals to the HUAV to modify its orientation and motion accordingly, enabling three-dimensional control inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If joystick controls are used for HUAV, then control intuitiveness is improved, but control dimensionality is limited to two dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional joystick controls to three-dimensional free-hand motion controls by adding a vertical dimension (Z-axis) to the control interface. The controller detects motion in three dimensions (X, Y, and Z axes) and translates these into corresponding three-dimensional vehicle movements, enabling more intuitive and versatile control of the HUAV's pitch, roll, and yaw movements.
2Extent of automation
If stylus controls are used for HUAV, then pre-planned mission capability is improved, but manual control speed and situational awareness are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control by allowing the operator to switch between different control modes (manual free-hand control and pre-planned mission execution) based on operational needs. The system adapts to the operator's requirements by providing both automated mission capabilities and responsive manual control, optimizing both productivity and situational awareness.
3Extent of automation
If stylus controls are used for HUAV, then pre-planned mission capability is improved, but user situational awareness and safety are degraded due to heads down approach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wireless controller as an intermediary device that enables the operator to control the HUAV from a safe distance while maintaining full situational awareness. The controller acts as a mediator between the operator and the vehicle, allowing hands-free operation and keeping the operator's head up and aware of the surrounding environment, thereby eliminating the safety risks associated with heads-down control.
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
This solution provides intuitive and efficient three-dimensional control of HUAVs, enhancing user situational awareness and safety by allowing for more natural and effective control of the vehicle's movement and orientation.
Implementation Method 1
an inertial measurement unit (IMU) coupled to the frame and configured to detect a change in six degrees of freedom of motion of the frame with respect to a predetermined neutral free space position and orientation of the frame
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for inertially controlling a hovering unmanned aerial vehicle (HUAV) are provided. One inertial controller includes a frame and a sensor for detecting a change in an orientation and/or motion of the frame with respect to a predetermined neutral position. The inertial controller also includes a processor for generating commands to the HUAV to modify its current orientation and/or motion in accordance with the change. A system includes the above inertial controller and a sensor for determining a second change for an orientation and/or motion for the HUAV based on the change, and a processor for generating a signal commanding an HUAV control system to orient and/or move the HUAV in accordance with the second change. One method includes detecting a change in an orientation and/or motion of an inertial controller frame and commanding the HUAV to modify its current orientation and/or motion in accordance with the change.