Mesh-Network Mobile Platform Control for Tracking Moving Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current unmanned mobile sensor platforms, such as UAVs, ROVs, and UGVs, face limitations in completing missions that require interacting with moving targets or multiple targets due to insufficient sensor and navigation technologies, particularly in utilizing mesh networks for information exchange between neighboring nodes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a control station and mobile platform system that utilizes a mesh network to enable nodes to communicate and share position information, allowing users to command mobile platforms to follow, image track, or land at specific nodes within the network, with the ability to dynamically switch between targets and operate autonomously even when disconnected from the control station.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional sensor and navigation technologies are used in mobile platforms, then the system structure remains simple, but the ability to complete operations requiring interaction with moving targets or multiple targets is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mesh networks as an intermediary communication infrastructure between mobile platforms and control stations. Multiple nodes in the mesh network relay position information and commands, enabling complex operations without requiring direct line-of-sight communication between the control station and each mobile platform, thus enhancing adaptability while managing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control station is designed with multi-functional capabilities to manage multiple mobile platforms simultaneously through the mesh network. It can track, control, and coordinate various platforms (UAVs, UGVs, USVs, ROVs) using a unified interface, allowing a single system to perform diverse operations across different environments and mission types
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobile platforms operate independently without mesh network communication, then the communication system is simple, but the operational flexibility and ability to follow moving targets is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh network enables dynamic communication topologies where nodes can join and leave the network as mobile platforms move. The system adapts its communication paths in real-time based on platform positions and network conditions, allowing operational flexibility while managing communication complexity through automated routing protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where mobile platforms transmit position information through the mesh network to the control station, which then sends updated commands based on real-time status. This feedback mechanism enables flexible operation with moving targets while the automated feedback processing manages system complexity
3Reliability
If the mobile platform requires continuous connection to the control station for operation, then the control system is simple, but the autonomy and mission continuity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control station pre-processes and queues commands for mobile platforms before transmission through the mesh network. Platforms receive and buffer commands in advance, allowing them to continue execution during temporary communication disruptions, thus ensuring mission continuity while the pre-processing manages control system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Mobile platforms are equipped with autonomous capabilities to execute commands and make local decisions without continuous control station intervention. They can maintain mission operations during communication outages by relying on onboard systems, enhancing reliability while reducing the burden on the control system
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods related to operating a mobile platform using mesh networks are disclosed. In one embodiment, a control station (130) may have a user interface (304) that displays nodes (302a-302c) participating in a mesh network. The control station (130) may provide the positions of the nodes using position information (306a-306c) broadcasted from the nodes and received by the control station. A user may select a node in the user interface and enter a command (308) to have a mobile platform (110) interact with the node. The control station (130) may send the command (308) to the mobile platform (110) and cause the mobile platform to establish a wireless connection to the node, subscribe to position information corresponding to the node and received from the node by the wireless connection, and operate the mobile platform in response to the position information of the selected node, such as by following the node, image tracking the node, or landing near the node.