UAV Base Station Cradle With Thermoelectric Battery Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base stations for UAVs are large, mechanically complex, and expensive, hindering efficient operation and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact base station with integrated systems for automated UAV servicing, including a temperature control system using a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC) to regulate power source temperature and a cradle for docking and charging, along with vibration-reducing mounts and propeller folding mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional base stations are used for UAV servicing, then reliable charging and temperature control are achieved, but the base station becomes large, mechanically complex, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (charging, temperature control, UAV storage) into a single integrated base station unit. The thermoelectric conditioner integrates both heating and cooling capabilities in one device, eliminating the need for separate temperature control systems. The cradle structure integrates mechanical support, electrical connection, and thermal management functions into a unified mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The base station is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides charging through electrical contacts, temperature regulation through the thermoelectric conditioner, and physical storage through the cradle. The system can adapt to different operational modes (charging mode, temperature control mode, storage mode) using a single multi-functional platform rather than separate specialized devices.
2Temperature
If traditional base stations are used for UAV servicing, then adequate temperature control is provided, but the base station size increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical compression-based refrigeration systems with a thermoelectric conditioner that uses electrical current to directly generate heating or cooling effects through the Peltier effect. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical components (compressors, condensers, expansion valves) and replaces them with solid-state electronic components, significantly reducing the system volume and mechanical complexity while maintaining effective temperature control.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermoelectric conditioner changes its thermal behavior by reversing the direction of electrical current flow. By changing the polarity of the applied voltage, the device can switch between heating mode and cooling mode, providing bidirectional temperature control without requiring separate heating and cooling systems. This parameter change approach allows a single device to replace multiple temperature control systems.
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 a cost-effective, efficient, and compact base station that facilitates automated UAV servicing, temperature regulation, and reduces mechanical complexity, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature control system that is connected to the cradle and which is configured to vary temperature of the power source of the UAV. The temperature control system includes: a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC)
Implementation Method 2
a first air circulator that is configured to direct air through the first plenum and across the first heat sink to vary air temperature within the first air circuit and thereby regulate the temperature of the TEC
Implementation Method 3
a second air circulator that is configured to direct air through the second plenum and across the second heat sink to vary air temperature within the second air circuit and thereby heat or cool the power source of the UAV
Implementation Method 4
a first heat sink that is connected to the first plenum and the first end of the TEC; and a second heat sink that is connected to the second plenum and the second end of the TEC
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.