UAV Cable Stringing Robot With Aerial Thrust and Quick Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of stringing electric power transmission lines is time-consuming, labor-intensive, dangerous, and expensive, typically requiring human operation from a helicopter or ground vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A robotic device suspended from a UAV is used to string cables, comprising an aerial thrust assembly, a quick release mechanism, and a battery assembly, controlled by a computer and radio modem, to automate the process of feeding cables between utility poles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional methods using helicopters or ground vehicles are used to string cables, then the cable can be deployed between utility poles, but the process becomes time-consuming, labor-intensive, and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical cable stringing systems (helicopters, ground vehicles, winches) with an aerial robotic device that uses electric motors and propellers for thrust. The robotic device suspends from a UAV and uses an aerial thrust assembly with electric motors to pull the cable through sheaves on utility poles, eliminating the need for heavy mechanical equipment and reducing deployment time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a robotic aerial device as an intermediary between the UAV and the cable stringing operation. This robotic device acts as a mediator that performs the cable pulling function while being suspended from the UAV, combining the advantages of aerial access with automated cable deployment capabilities
2Reliability
If human operators use helicopters or ground vehicles for cable stringing, then the cable can be installed, but safety risks increase due to dangerous working conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the robotic aerial device performs cable stringing operations autonomously or under remote control. The device includes its own propulsion system (electric motors and propellers), power supply (battery assembly), and control systems (computer, radio modem), eliminating the need for human operators to work in dangerous aerial or elevated conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces human-operated mechanical systems with an automated robotic system that uses electric motors and propellers for thrust generation. This substitution removes human operators from hazardous environments while maintaining cable stringing capabilities through automated control
3Productivity
If traditional cable stringing methods are used, then the cable can be deployed, but the cost of operation increases due to equipment and labor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cable stringing system into modular components: a UAV for suspension, a robotic aerial device with thrust assembly, battery assembly for power, and control systems. This segmentation allows for more efficient resource utilization and reduces overall system complexity compared to traditional integrated helicopter or ground vehicle systems
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic aerial device serves multiple functions: it provides its own propulsion through electric motors and propellers, carries the cable pulling mechanism, houses the power supply (battery assembly), and includes integrated control systems. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate equipment systems and lowers operational costs
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 robotic system enhances the speed, safety, and cost-effectiveness of cable stringing by reducing human intervention and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electric motor disposed on the first end, the at least one electric motor operatively coupled to a propeller
Implementation Method 2
at least one electric motor operatively coupled to a propeller; an aerial thrust assembly; an unmanned aerial vehicle for suspending the aerial thrust assembly above a ground surface
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described for stringing spans of cable, in particular, electric power transmission lines between utility poles using a robotic device suspended from an unmanned aerial vehicle (“UAV”). In some aspects, a thrust assembly suspended by a UAV pulls the cable from pole to pole whereas in other aspects, an aerial robot integrating the functions of the thrust assembly and the UAV pulls the cable from pole to pole.