Tethered Wind Vector Estimation for Camera-Guided Aerial Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerial vehicles operating in various environments face challenges in accurately determining wind vectors, which are crucial for compensating and coordinating with wind forces.
Innovation Solution
The aerial vehicle deploys a tethered component beneath it, and a camera captures image data representing the position of the tethered component. Using this data, a wind vector can be determined, either through a physics-based model or a predetermined mapping, allowing the aerial vehicle to perform operations based on the wind conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tethered component is deployed beneath the aerial vehicle to determine wind vectors, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A tethered component is introduced as an intermediary element between the aerial vehicle and the wind environment. This component serves as a mediator that translates wind forces into observable positional displacements, enabling indirect measurement of wind vectors through image capture rather than direct sensor measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical wind measurement systems (such as anemometers or wind vanes) with an optical measurement system. A camera captures images of the tethered component's position, and image processing algorithms convert these visual observations into wind vector data, substituting mechanical sensing with optical-field sensing
2Measurement precision
If the tethered component is deployed to a greater distance beneath the aerial vehicle, then measurement precision is improved, but stability of the object's composition deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static tethered component configuration to a dynamic one where the tethered component can move freely in response to wind forces. This dynamic positioning allows the component to serve as a wind-sensitive indicator, with its displacement from the vertical position providing measurement information about wind speed and direction
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
This method enables the aerial vehicle to accurately determine wind vectors, allowing it to operate effectively by compensating for and coordinating with wind forces, thereby enhancing its operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
When wind is present in the environment, the tethered component may be displaced by the wind, and the position of the tethered component within the image data may thus be indicative of the wind vector
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes causing an aerial vehicle to deploy a tethered component to a particular distance beneath the aerial vehicle by releasing a tether connecting the tethered component to the aerial vehicle. The method also includes obtaining, from a camera connected to the aerial vehicle, image data that represents the tethered component while the tethered component is deployed to the particular distance beneath the aerial vehicle. The method additionally includes determining, based on the image data, a position of the tethered component within the image data. The method further includes determining, based on the position of the tethered component within the image data, a wind vector that represents a wind condition present in an environment of the aerial vehicle. The method yet further includes causing the aerial vehicle to perform an operation based on the wind vector.