UAV Base Station Enclosure With TEC Thermal Control and Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base stations for UAVs are large, mechanically complex, and expensive, lacking efficient temperature control and automated servicing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A compact base station with a temperature control system using a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC) and air circuits for heating or cooling, a movable cradle for docking, and integrated systems for automated UAV servicing and charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional base stations are used for UAV docking and charging, then the UAV can be serviced, but the base station becomes large, mechanically complex, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical docking mechanisms with a simplified system where the cradle extends to receive the UAV and basic electrical contacts provide charging. The temperature control uses thermal fields rather than mechanical compression or circulation systems, significantly reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining servicing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base station integrates multiple functions (docking, charging, and temperature control) into a single compact unit. The cradle serves both as a receiving structure and a positioning mechanism, while the temperature control system handles both heating and cooling operations, reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If traditional base stations are used for UAV docking and charging, then the UAV can be serviced, but the base station size becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle is designed to nest within the base station enclosure when not in use, extending outward only when needed to receive the UAV. This nested configuration allows the base station to maintain a compact footprint while providing full servicing capability when activated.
Solution Approach 2:
The cradle transitions from a static enclosed structure to a dynamic extending mechanism that adapts its configuration based on operational needs. This dynamic design allows the base station to minimize its physical footprint during storage while maximizing its functional capacity during UAV servicing.
3Temperature
If temperature control is added to the base station, then the power source temperature can be regulated, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature control system adjusts the thermal parameters of the air circulating through the cradle by using the TEC to heat or cool the air before it reaches the power source. This parameter-based control approach avoids complex mechanical temperature regulation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical temperature control systems (such as compressors, condensers, or thermal circulation pumps) with a solid-state thermoelectric conditioner that directly heats or cools the air passing over the power source, significantly reducing system complexity.
4Area of stationary object
If a movable cradle is used for docking, then the base station size is reduced, but the mechanical structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle extension mechanism appears to use a simple actuated structure rather than a complex multi-component mechanical system. The design focuses on linear extension and retraction motion with basic structural supports, avoiding complex linkages, gears, or multiple moving parts.
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 efficient temperature regulation, size reduction, and cost savings while enabling automated UAV servicing and charging, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC); a first air circuit that is thermally connected to the TEC and which is configured to regulate temperature of the TEC; and 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
Implementation Method 2
The TEC may be configured as a Peltier system
Implementation Method 3
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
Data Source
AI summary
A base station is disclosed for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The base station includes: a metallic enclosure; a first electronics module; a second electronics module; and a third electronics module, wherein the first electronics module, the second electronics module, and the third electronics module are each configured for individual removal from the metallic enclosure. The metallic enclosure is configured to receive the UAV and includes a front end having a front door and a rear end having a rear door. The rear door is located adjacent to the first electronics module and includes a metallic panel that is positioned in correspondence with the first electronics module so as to create a Faraday cage for the first electronics module and thereby reduce electromagnetic emissions from the base station.