Suspended Frame Orientation Control Using Sensor-Guided Thrusters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Suspended objects, such as signs, often experience orientation and positional disruptions due to wind or support motion, leading to loss of purpose and readability.
Innovation Solution
A suspended system with orientation control, comprising a planar frame with sensors to track orientation and thrusters to adjust orientation, controlled by a microcontroller to maintain desired positions and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If suspended objects are hung from a support without fixed position or orientation, then installation is simple and flexible, but the objects are disrupted by wind or support motion causing loss of readability and function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the suspended frame rotatable about a vertical axis and equipping it with thrusters that actively adjust its orientation in real-time. The frame transitions from a static suspended structure to a dynamic system that can change its orientation to counteract wind and support motion effects, thereby maintaining readability and function while remaining suspended
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through sensors that continuously track the frame's orientation and provide this information to a controller. The controller processes this feedback and adjusts the thruster output accordingly to maintain the desired orientation, creating a closed-loop control system that compensates for disturbances while preserving installation flexibility
2Device complexity
If thrusters with single propeller are used, then device complexity is reduced, but control precision and stability are insufficient to counteract wind and support motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring the two propellers to rotate in the same direction rather than opposite directions. This asymmetric configuration creates thrust vectors that are not perfectly opposed, generating a net moment that provides rotational control capability while maintaining translational stability, thereby improving orientation control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the thrust generation function by using two separate propellers mounted on the same axis. Each propeller can be independently controlled, allowing the system to generate both translational thrust and rotational moments by differential control, thereby achieving precise orientation control without excessive complexity
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
The system effectively maintains the desired orientation and position of suspended objects, adapting to changes caused by wind or support motion, ensuring the object remains readable and functional.
Implementation Method 1
at least two thrusters coupled to the frame and configured to adjust the orientation of the frame
Implementation Method 2
two propellers axially aligned with the axis and configured to rotate in a same direction while creating thrust in opposite directions
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a suspended system with orientation control including a planar frame, a plurality of sensors coupled to the frame and configured to track an orientation of the frame in real time and at least two thrusters coupled to the frame and configured to adjust the orientation of the frame. Each of the at least two thrusters may have an axis oriented in a direction perpendicular to the frame and two propellers axially aligned with the axis and configured to rotate in a same direction while creating thrust in opposite directions. A holographic fan configured to display a graphic may be coupled to the frame. The planar frame may be suspended from an unmanned aerial vehicle.