Integrated UAV Base Station Thermal Control for Compact Servicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional base stations for UAVs are large, mechanically complex, and expensive due to the need for external power connections and environmental conditioning systems, which often exceed the size of the UAVs being serviced.
Innovation Solution
A compact base station with an integrated temperature control system using a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC) and air circuits to regulate the UAV's power source temperature, along with additional systems for environmental and security enhancements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional conditioning systems and external power connections are used, then environmental control and power supply are achieved, but base station size and mechanical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power source and environmental conditioning systems directly into the UAV platform, eliminating the need for external base station infrastructure. The UAV's power source serves dual purposes: powering the UAV and providing environmental control during docking, while the moving platform itself becomes the base station, dramatically reducing required infrastructure volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The power source is designed to perform multiple functions: it powers the UAV during flight, provides electrical connection during docking, and serves as the central component for environmental conditioning. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated systems in the base station.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional conditioning systems are used, then environmental settings are managed, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the UAV's own power source and moving platform to provide environmental conditioning services, eliminating the need for complex external base station equipment. The UAV essentially services itself by maintaining its own power source temperature and conditions during docking operations.
3Use of energy by moving object
If external power connections are used, then power supply is achieved, but base station size exceeds UAV size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the base station functionality from traditional fixed infrastructure and relocates it to the moving UAV platform itself. The power connection is taken out from external base station equipment and integrated directly into the UAV's power source, making the base station portable and size-appropriate.
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 and size reduction, leading to cost savings and improved operation of UAV servicing, while maintaining security and environmental adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature control system configured to vary temperature of the power source of the UAV... including a thermoelectric conditioner (TEC)
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is disclosed that includes a power source. The power source includes: one or more power cells; one or more thermal transfer members that are thermally connected to the one or more power cells; and a heat exchanger that is thermally connected to the one or more thermal transfer members such that the one or more thermal transfer members and the heat exchanger facilitate a transfer of thermal energy between the power source and ambient air to decrease or increase temperature of the power source.