Spherical Coupling Member for Genderless Module Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling systems for modular drones and aircraft lack a reliable and efficient method for genderless or androgynous coupling, which complicates the assembly and operation of drone swarms and modular aircraft designs.
Innovation Solution
A coupling member with a spherical segment shape and hook members that allows self-centering and force absorption in both longitudinal and transverse directions, featuring a locking mechanism for secure interlocking and power/data interfaces, enabling reliable and versatile coupling between modules without design changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling systems are used for modular drones, then assembly is possible, but the coupling process becomes complex and reliability is reduced due to lack of standardized genderless coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is designed as a universal genderless interface that can couple with identical coupling members in any orientation. The spherical segment shape with multiple hook members enables the same coupling member to function as both male and female interfaces simultaneously, allowing any module to couple with any other module without requiring different coupling types.
Solution Approach 2:
While the overall coupling member appears symmetric, the hook members are positioned asymmetrically around the spherical segment. This asymmetric arrangement of hooks ensures proper engagement orientation and prevents incorrect coupling, while the concave recess provides a complementary asymmetric shape for secure interlocking.
2Manufacturing precision
If modules are coupled without self-centering mechanism, then coupling is possible, but positioning accuracy and stability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member features a spherical segment shape with a concave recess that corresponds to a spherical cap. When two coupling members approach each other, the spherical geometry naturally guides them into correct alignment and self-centering position, ensuring precise coupling without requiring complex positioning mechanisms.
3Stability of the object's composition
If coupling members lack force absorption capability, then simple design is possible, but stability under load is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is segmented into multiple functional components: the spherical segment body for self-centering, multiple hook members for interlocking and force absorption, and a concave recess for securing the coupled module. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific forces and functions independently, improving overall stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook members are pre-positioned on the spherical segment surface at specific radial distances from the center. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when coupling occurs, the hooks are already in optimal positions to absorb forces in both longitudinal and transverse directions, providing immediate structural support.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy, reliable, and secure coupling of modules, allowing for efficient power and data transmission, and facilitating the formation of drone swarms and modular aircraft configurations with improved stability and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The spherical cap-like shape of the respective coupling portion permits self-centering of the coupling portions to be coupled relative to one another
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A coupling member (2, 2') for coupling modules with each other. The coupling member (2, 2') comprises a coupling portion (4), which in turn has a coupling rim (12) and at least two hook members (6) disposed on the coupling rim (12). The coupling portion (4) substantially corresponds in its outer contour to a spherical segment (ksg) of a sphere (k) with a predetermined spherical radius (rk), wherein the coupling rim (12) represents a circular disk (ks) of the spherical segment (ksg). In this case, an outer radius (kr) of the coupling rim (12) is smaller than or equal to the spherical radius (rk). The at least two hook members (6), in a lateral view, at least partially follow the outer contour of the spherical cap (kh) of the spherical segment (ksg). The at least two hook members (6) are engageable with the hook members (6') of a coupling portion (4') of a second coupling member (2').