Tilting Cargo Hold Plate for Automated Aircraft Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack an efficient and automated system for loading and unloading cargo in aircraft, which is essential for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and drones, as existing solutions are not easily adaptable to these platforms.
Innovation Solution
A mobility system equipped with a cargo hold and a tilting loading plate, along with a transport robot, that enables automated loading and unloading of cargo without human intervention. The system includes a tilting mechanism for the loading plate, guided package units, and a transport robot with distance alignment, positioning, and height adjustment capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated loading and unloading systems are implemented in aircraft, then labor requirements are reduced and operational efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The loading plate is divided into multiple independently controllable segments that can tilt at different angles. This segmentation allows the system to handle different cargo sizes and positions independently, improving loading efficiency without requiring a complete system redesign, thus managing complexity through modular control
Solution Approach 2:
The loading plate incorporates dynamic tilting capability that can adjust angles in real-time based on cargo weight distribution and position. This dynamic adjustment optimizes cargo stability during transport while maintaining automated operation, improving productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity
2Extent of automation
If a tilting loading plate mechanism is added to the cargo hold, then cargo loading and unloading is automated, but the device complexity and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tilting mechanism is integrated directly into the loading plate structure, merging the support function and tilting function into a single unified component. This reduces the number of separate mechanisms needed and simplifies the overall system while achieving automated loading and unloading
Solution Approach 2:
The loading plate serves multiple functions: it supports cargo, provides tilting motion for loading/unloading, and can be controlled to adjust angles for different cargo types. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, lowering device complexity while maintaining high automation
3Manufacturing precision
If guides and groove portions are added to guide package units, then cargo positioning precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The groove portions are designed with curved surfaces that guide package units into proper positions through tactile feedback. This curved geometry naturally directs cargo to correct positions without requiring complex mechanical guides or sensors, achieving positioning precision while maintaining ease of manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The guides and groove portions enable package units to self-align and self-position during loading. The passive mechanical guidance system allows cargo to find its own correct position through the physical geometry of the grooves, eliminating the need for active positioning systems and reducing manufacturing 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
This solution allows for efficient, automated, and safe loading and unloading of cargo in aircraft, reducing labor costs and improving operational efficiency, while ensuring the safety and reliability of cargo transportation.
Implementation Method 1
an inclined surface, inclined with respect to the width direction of the loading plate, may be provided on at least one side surface of each guide
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a mobility capable of automating loading and unloading of a cargo without the aid of manpower and an apparatus for loading and unloading a cargo. The mobility includes a cargo hold that accommodates a cargo; and a loading plate positioned to be spaced apart from a bottom of the cargo hold and installed so as to be able to tilt toward any one side of the mobility in the cargo hold.