Transformable UAV Frame Assembly for Unobstructed Payload Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designs often compromise on size, weight, payload capacity, energy consumption, and unobstructed viewing angles due to limited structural flexibility, which hinders the operational effectiveness of payload-mounted sensors and cameras.
Innovation Solution
A transformable UAV design featuring pivotable frame assemblies and an actuation system that allows the UAV to change configurations, optimizing payload space and reducing structural interference, enabling unobstructed fields of view and enhanced operational flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the vehicle size is increased to provide more functional space for the payload, then the payload functional space is improved, but the vehicle weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies transformable frame assemblies that can dynamically change configuration between extended and retracted states. The frame assemblies include movable links and actuators that allow the support structures to be extended when functional space is needed and retracted when compact size is needed, resolving the contradiction between payload functional space and vehicle weight
Solution Approach 2:
The transformable frame assemblies are designed to nest within the central body when retracted. The support structures fold into compact configurations that fit within or alongside the central body components, allowing the vehicle to maintain a compact form factor while providing expanded functional space when needed
2Productivity
If additional mounting structures are added to increase payload functional space, then the payload operational effectiveness is improved, but the vehicle complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transformable frame assemblies serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the payload, create unobstructed viewing angles for sensors, and can be configured to accommodate different payload types. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting structures, reducing overall vehicle complexity while maintaining payload operational effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assemblies are designed with movable joints and actuators that allow dynamic adjustment of the support structure configuration. This enables the same structure to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring multiple fixed mounting structures, thereby reducing vehicle complexity
3Ease of operation
If the vehicle size is increased to provide unobstructed viewing angles, then the payload viewing angle is improved, but the vehicle weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transformable frame assemblies can be extended to position sensors and cameras at optimal viewing angles away from obstructions. The dynamic configuration allows the support structures to be positioned to provide unobstructed lines of sight for surveillance and reconnaissance payloads without requiring a permanently larger vehicle
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 transformable UAV configuration increases payload functional space, improves viewing angles, and maintains operational efficiency without the need for larger size or additional mounting structures, enhancing its surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an actuation assembly mounted on the central body and configured to pivot the at least two transformable frame assemblies to a plurality of different vertical angles relative to the central body
Data Source
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AI summary
Discloses a transformable aerial vehicle (100) and a control method thereof. The transformable aerial vehicle (100) includes: a central body (10) and at least two transformable frame assemblies (20) respectively disposed on the central body (10), each of the least two transformable frame assemblies (20) having a proximal portion pivotally coupled to the central body (10) and a distal portion; an actuation assembly (13, 15) mounted on the central body (10) and configured to pivot the at least two transformable frame assemblies (20) to a plurality of different vertical angles relative to the central body (10); and a plurality of propulsion units (30) mounted on the at least two transformable frame assemblies (20) and operable to move the transformable aerial vehicle (100).