Modular UAV Payload Structure for Rapid Multi-Sensor Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing unmanned aircraft systems are limited to integrating a single external payload device or sensor, restricting their functional versatility and data collection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular payload device with a body, longitudinal members, guides, frames, and a printed circuit board (PCB) that allows easy connection and synchronization of multiple sensors, including a GPS, on-board computer, and touch screen, powered by a battery, enabling quick adaptation to various configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single external payload device or single-sensor payload device is connected to unmanned aircraft, then the connection structure is simple, but the functional versatility and data collection capabilities are significantly limited
Solution Approach 1:
The payload device is divided into multiple independent modules including longitudinal members, guides, frames, and coupling elements. Each module can be independently configured and connected to support multiple sensors and accessories, enabling functional versatility while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The payload device incorporates universal coupling elements and standardized connectors that can accommodate various types of sensors and accessories. The longitudinal members with coupling elements and frames with guiding recesses create a universal mounting structure that supports diverse payload configurations for different operational needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors and accessories are integrated into the payload device, then data collection capabilities are enhanced, but the configuration time increases from hours to days
Solution Approach 1:
The payload device structure is pre-configured with longitudinal members, guides, frames, and coupling elements in standardized arrangements. Electrical connectors and mounting interfaces are pre-positioned to enable rapid attachment of sensors and accessories without requiring complex assembly procedures or extensive configuration time
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segmented structure allows sensors and accessories to be independently attached to specific modules rather than requiring complete system reconfiguration. This enables rapid payload changes by simply detaching and reattaching modular components
3Loss of information
If multiple sensors are connected to the payload device, then data exchange and synchronization capabilities are improved, but the electrical connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrical connections for different sensors and accessories are merged into integrated PCB assemblies with standardized connectors. The PCB consolidates power supply, signal routing, and data communication pathways, enabling improved data synchronization while reducing the complexity of individual wire connections through unified electrical interfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A modular payload device for an unmanned aircraft provided with a body made up of a plurality of guides, rods, frames provided with guiding recesses, coupling elements, and longitudinal members linked to a printed circuit board (PCB) formed by connectors and power regulators for connecting flight and payload instruments, wherein the frames are fixed to the body by means of introducing the rods through perforations made on the frames, whereas the coupling elements and the anchoring means are linked with the complementary anchoring means by tongue and groove clipping. Advantageously, the electric circuit of the PCB allows the integration and synchronization of sensors for remote sensing.