Multi-Arm UAV Expansion Mechanism for Compact Autonomous Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are limited in their operational range due to the need for manual assembly and lack of automatic folding and unfolding mechanisms, making them cumbersome for storage and transportation, especially in military and commercial applications where long-distance deployment is required.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system comprising a support member with actuators and linkages that allow for the automatic expansion and contraction of multiple arms, enabling the UAVs to transition from a compact storage configuration to an expanded operational configuration without human intervention, utilizing prismatic joints, elbow rotations, and shoulder rotations for efficient space management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If multi-rotor UAVs are designed with multiple arms for long-distance operation, then operational range is improved, but storage and transportation become cumbersome due to lack of automatic folding mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV structure is divided into multiple separable arms that can be independently folded and unfolded. Each arm can be segmented into sections that fold relative to each other, allowing the overall structure to be compacted for transport while maintaining full operational dimensions when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The arms are designed with dynamic folding capabilities using movable joints and linkages. The system transitions from a static extended configuration for operation to a dynamic folded configuration for transport, with automatic actuation mechanisms that enable smooth transitions between states without manual intervention.
2Device complexity
If manual assembly is required for folding multi-rotor UAVs, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and deployment speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV incorporates self-service automatic folding and unfolding mechanisms that operate without human intervention. Sensors and control systems automatically detect the desired configuration state and actuate the folding linkages accordingly, allowing the device to prepare itself for transport or deployment autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical assembly operations are replaced with automated actuation systems that use motors, linkages, and control electronics to perform the folding and unfolding actions. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with automated systems increases deployment speed while managing overall system complexity through integrated control.
3Extent of automation
If automatic folding and unfolding mechanisms are implemented, then autonomous range is extended, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism is designed as a universal system that serves multiple functions: structural transformation for transport, deployment preparation, and potential reconfiguration for different operational modes. The same linkages and actuators that enable folding also contribute to the overall structural integrity and positioning of the arms during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control systems for folding and unfolding are merged with the overall UAV control architecture, allowing centralized management of the automatic mechanisms. The actuation systems are integrated with the structural components, combining multiple functions into unified assemblies that reduce the number of separate subsystems and manage complexity through consolidation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method and apparatus for unfolding and folding a multi-arm device that includes a support member and an actuator. A first arm is coupled to the actuator and extends from a folded position to an unfolded position upon actuation of the actuator. A second arm is coupled to the actuator and moves from a folded position to an unfolded position upon actuation of a linkage that causes the second arm to rotate. A third arm moves from a folded position to an unfolded position, via an elbow joint, upon release of a tether attached to the third arm.