Modular Tail Wing Locking Assembly for Fast, Secure Drone Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drone designs face inefficiencies in both long-distance travel and vertical take-off and landing capabilities, particularly in the assembly and operation of modular components, which hinder productivity and efficiency in drone fleet operations.
Innovation Solution
A locking apparatus for drone components, comprising a first connector, a second connector, and an end coupling cap, allows for secure attachment and quick release of tail wings to boom assemblies, enabling efficient assembly, operation, and maintenance of drones with modular components, including electrical connections for stable operation during flight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If modular components are used for drone assembly, then ease of assembly and maintenance is improved, but connection reliability and security may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The locking apparatus employs a nested structure where the locking pin is received within a groove on the coupling cap, and the coupling cap itself is received within the connector assembly. This nested design ensures secure engagement while maintaining ease of assembly, as each component fits precisely into the previous one without requiring complex fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are pre-configured with specific features (grooves, locking pins, flanges) that enable automatic alignment and secure engagement during assembly. The preliminary design of these interlocking features ensures that when components are brought together, they automatically achieve reliable connection without requiring additional securing steps.
2Productivity
If quick release mechanism is implemented, then productivity is improved, but assembly security may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The locking apparatus is designed to be self-securing through its own structural features. The locking pin automatically engages with the groove when the coupling cap is properly positioned, and the flanges prevent accidental disengagement. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional locking steps while maintaining assembly security during quick release operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The design replaces complex multi-step mechanical fastening systems with a simplified coupling cap and locking pin mechanism. This substitution maintains security through precise geometric engagement while dramatically improving assembly and disassembly speed, enabling productive quick release operations without compromising assembly security.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular tail wing design is used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The locking apparatus is designed as a universal connection mechanism that can be applied to various tail wing configurations and drone platforms. The standardized connector design with coupling caps and locking pins provides adaptability for different modular components while maintaining consistent assembly procedures, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the variety of interchangeable parts.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods are provided for a locking apparatus. A locking apparatus can be configured to operably attach a fixed-wing of an aircraft to a body of the aircraft. The locking apparatus can include a first connector configured to releasably receive a first tube, a second connector having a first side and second side, the first side configured to receive a second tube and the second side configured to releasably receive the first connector, and an end coupling cap configured to releasably lock the first connector and second connector together.