UAV Base Station Cradle With Thermal Control and Compact Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base stations for UAVs are large, mechanically complex, and expensive, lacking efficient temperature regulation and automated servicing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A compact base station with integrated temperature control systems, including a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC) and air circuits for heating or cooling, and a cradle for docking and charging, along with movable components for efficient UAV operation and reduced vibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a base station for UAVs is designed with traditional mechanical systems, then it can provide docking and charging functions, but it becomes large, mechanically complex, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical docking systems with a magnetic coupling system. The cradle incorporates magnets that automatically attract and secure the UAV during docking, eliminating the need for complex mechanical latches, clamps, or alignment mechanisms. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining automated servicing capability, as the magnetic force naturally guides and secures the UAV without requiring precise mechanical intervention.
2Temperature
If traditional base stations are designed without integrated temperature control, then they are simpler in structure, but they lack the ability to regulate power source temperature effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the temperature control system directly into the cradle structure. The heating element and cooling system are combined within the same cradle that provides docking and charging functions. This merging of functions allows the base station to regulate power source temperature effectively while minimizing additional structural complexity, as the temperature control components are incorporated into the existing cradle design rather than added as separate external systems.
3Ease of operation
If the cradle is positioned externally for easy docking, then docking is facilitated, but the base station size increases and vulnerability to environmental factors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable cradle that can dynamically extend outward to facilitate UAV docking, then retract inward to minimize base station size and protect components. The cradle is designed with extension and retraction capability, allowing it to be positioned externally during docking operations for easy UAV access, then pulled back into the enclosure when not in use. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction by providing external accessibility only when needed, while maintaining a compact protected form during storage.
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 solution provides improved temperature regulation, reduced size, and cost-effective operation, enabling efficient automated servicing and charging of UAVs.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC) having a first end and a second end; a first air circuit that is thermally connected to the TEC and which is configured to regulate temperature of the TEC
Implementation Method 2
a first air circuit that is thermally connected to the TEC and which is configured to regulate temperature of the TEC
Implementation Method 3
a second air circuit that is thermally connected to the TEC such that the TEC is located between the first air circuit and the second air circuit. The second air circuit is configured to direct air across the cradle to thereby heat or cool the power source of the UAV
Data Source
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AI summary
A base station for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is disclosed. The base station includes: an enclosure; a slide mechanism that is connected to the enclosure and which is repositionable between a retracted position and an extended position; a cradle that is connected to the slide mechanism and which is configured for docking with the UAV such that the UAV is movable into and out of the enclosure during repositioning of the slide mechanism between the retracted position and the extended position; and a charging hub that is connected to the slide mechanism and which is configured for electrical connection to a power source of the UAV to charge the power source.