Rotor Strike Avoidance via Sensor-Driven Trajectory Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-rotor vehicles face reduced maneuverability and increased operational costs due to strikes by foreign objects, which existing technologies have not effectively addressed.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system with sensors and a processor that detect approaching objects and adjust rotor speeds or positions to avoid or minimize damage from potential strikes, using a combination of sensor information to calculate the object's trajectory and determine the best course of action to avoid contact or reduce impact severity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rotor speed or position is adjusted to avoid foreign object strikes, then damage to the vehicle is reduced, but the vehicle's maneuverability and operational flexibility are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of foreign objects using sensors before they can strike the rotor. The processor calculates potential strike locations and adjusts rotor speed or position in advance to avoid the strike, rather than reacting after damage occurs. This proactive approach reduces damage while maintaining operational flexibility through real-time monitoring and adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the environment using sensors and provides feedback to the processor, which adjusts rotor operations based on detected foreign objects. This closed-loop control allows the system to dynamically balance damage reduction with maneuverability requirements, adjusting rotor parameters only when necessary to avoid strikes while maintaining normal operation otherwise.
2Reliability
If sensors and processing systems are added to detect and avoid foreign objects, then strike avoidance capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to serve multiple functions: detecting foreign objects, calculating their trajectories, and providing data for rotor adjustment decisions. The processor performs multiple computational tasks including object detection, strike location calculation, and control signal generation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems for each function, thereby managing complexity while improving strike avoidance capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems according to one or more examples are provided for avoiding foreign object strikes on rotorcraft vehicles. In one example, a vehicle comprises a rotor comprising a rotor blade, a first sensor configured to provide first sensor information associated with an object proximate the vehicle, and a second sensor configured to provide second sensor information associated with the rotor. The vehicle further comprises a processor coupled to the first sensor and the second sensor configured to selectively control the rotor to minimize damage to the vehicle by the object based on the first and second sensor information.