UAV Base Station Cradle With TEC Battery Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base stations for UAVs are large, mechanically complex, and expensive, lacking efficient temperature regulation and operation, which impedes their widespread adoption.
Innovation Solution
A compact base station with integrated temperature control systems, including a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC) and air circuits, to regulate the temperature of UAV power sources, and a cradle mechanism for docking and charging, along with fiducials and illumination systems for UAV guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a base station for UAVs is designed with traditional systems, then it can provide basic docking and charging functions, but it becomes large, mechanically complex, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical temperature regulation systems with a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) based system. The TEC uses electrical current to directly heat or cool the power source, eliminating the need for mechanical compressors, condensers, and evaporators found in traditional refrigeration systems. This substitution dramatically reduces mechanical complexity while providing reliable temperature control for the UAV power source during charging.
2Volume of stationary object
If existing base stations are designed to accommodate UAV servicing, then they can charge and store UAVs, but they require large space and high cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated base station unit: docking, charging, temperature control, and storage. The cradle mechanism integrates the power source interface and temperature control elements directly into the docking structure. By merging these functions rather than using separate systems, the patent reduces the overall volume and manufacturing cost while maintaining full servicing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested design where the cradle is positioned within the base station enclosure, and the TEC is integrated within the cradle structure. The air circuits for temperature control are routed through channels formed by the nested components. This nesting arrangement maximizes space utilization and minimizes the external dimensions of the base station while accommodating all necessary servicing functions.
3Temperature
If traditional base stations lack temperature control, then they are simpler in design, but they cannot regulate power source temperature for optimal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces air as an intermediary medium for heat transfer between the power source and the TEC. The air circuits circulate through channels in the cradle and base station structure, absorbing or releasing heat as needed. This intermediary approach allows temperature control without direct thermal contact between the TEC and power source, simplifying the integration while achieving effective temperature regulation.
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 management, reduced size, and cost savings, enabling improved UAV servicing and operation.
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 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
Implementation Method 4
The first air circuit may include: a first plenum; a first heat sink that is connected to the first plenum and the first 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.