Kite-Supported UAV Recovery for Runway-Free Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current UAV recovery methods require runways or complex systems, limiting flexibility in recovery locations and increasing costs, especially when recovering UAVs on smaller vessels or in unprepared areas.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a tether line supported by a kite, with a tensioner to capture and retrieve UAVs, allowing for controlled deceleration and recovery without a runway, using a steerable kite and tension device to manage the tether line's tension and direction for effective capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a runway is used for UAV recovery, then the recovery process is simple and reliable, but the flexibility in recovery locations is limited and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tether line as an intermediary element that connects the UAV to the recovery system. The tether line serves as a mediator that enables capture and retrieval without requiring a traditional runway infrastructure, thus improving location flexibility while managing system complexity through a relatively simple linear component
Solution Approach 2:
The kite acts as a counterweight system that provides lift and tension to the tether line, enabling the recovery apparatus to operate without heavy ground-based infrastructure. The kite's aerodynamic lift counterbalances the weight of the tether line and UAV, allowing recovery operations from smaller vessels or unprepared areas
2Adaptability or versatility
If a kite is used to support the tether line, then flexibility in recovery locations improves, but the stability and control of the tether line becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic control mechanisms including a tensioner that actively adjusts tether line tension, and steerable kite capabilities that allow real-time repositioning. These dynamic elements enable the system to adapt to changing environmental conditions and maintain stability despite the mobility and flexibility provided by the kite-supported tether line
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback control through the tensioner system that monitors and adjusts tether line tension in real-time, and through the steerable kite system that responds to environmental conditions and UAV position. This feedback mechanism maintains tether line stability while preserving the flexibility benefits of the kite-supported configuration
3Ease of operation
If a tensioner is used to retrieve the UAV, then the capture and retrieval process becomes more controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioner system replaces complex mechanical capture mechanisms with a simpler tension-based retrieval system. By using controlled tensioning and winching of the tether line, the system achieves controlled deceleration and retrieval without requiring complex mechanical grapples, clamps, or active braking systems on the UAV itself
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
Enables flexible and cost-effective UAV recovery on various platforms, including smaller ships and unprepared areas, by using a kite to suspend and steer the tether line for controlled capture and retrieval, accounting for movement and environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
a kite operatively coupled to the tether line to support the tether line for recovery of the UAV
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus to recover unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with kites are disclosed. A disclosed example apparatus to recover a UAV during flight includes a tether line, a tensioner operatively coupled to the tether line, and a kite operatively coupled to the tether line to support the tether line for recovery of the UAV.