Self-Aligning Liquid Coupler for 3D UAV Refilling Misalignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous UAVs have smaller fluid payloads and require frequent refilling, which is inconvenient and cumbersome due to insufficient precision in landing alignment for fluid distribution, especially for unmanned and autonomous systems.
Innovation Solution
A self-aligning liquid coupler system with an actuating arm and nozzle assembly that adjusts to deviations in the UAV's position in three dimensions, using a fluid dispenser controller to actuate the pump and arm for precise fluid transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If autonomous UAVs use smaller fluid payloads to reduce size and cost, then device complexity and operational autonomy are improved, but refilling frequency increases and operational continuity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service refilling where the UAV autonomously approaches the refilling station, positions itself using GPS and inertial navigation, and receives fluid transfer without manual intervention. The automated arm and nozzle assembly perform the refilling operation automatically, eliminating the need for human operators to manually refill small-payload UAVs.
2Ease of operation
If manual refilling operations are used for UAVs, then ease of operation is maintained, but alignment precision and refilling efficiency deteriorate due to insufficient landing alignment precision
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with automated guidance systems. GPS receivers and inertial navigation systems provide precise positioning data, while automated arms with multi-axis movement capabilities perform the fluid transfer operation without requiring manual landing alignment, thereby eliminating the precision limitations of manual operations.
3Productivity
If automated refilling systems are implemented, then refilling efficiency and productivity are improved, but device complexity and system cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated refilling system is divided into independent functional modules: GPS reception module, inertial navigation module, automated arm mechanism, pump system, and nozzle assembly. Each module performs a specific function and can be controlled independently, allowing for easier maintenance, troubleshooting, and cost management while achieving high refilling efficiency through coordinated operation of these segmented components.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture are disclosed for a first link to rotate about a pin joint, a second link rotatably coupled to the first link, the second link having a nozzle at a first end and a weight at a second end opposite the first end, and a fluid inlet including a funnel portion and an opening, the funnel portion having a conical taper converging towards the opening.