Modular UAV Camera Gimbal for Plug-and-Play Imaging Swaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UAV camera systems face challenges in providing lightweight, compact designs that maintain flight performance while offering versatile imaging capabilities, adaptability to dynamic environments, and ease of interchangeability without requiring reconfiguration or recalibration.
Innovation Solution
A modular UAV camera system with a gimbal assembly that supports interchangeable camera modules, featuring standardized mechanical and electrical interfaces, including a unified connector for plug-and-play operation, environmental sealing, and shock resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional camera systems are used in UAVs, then imaging capabilities can be provided, but the system weight increases and flight performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is divided into modular camera modules that can be independently attached and detached from the gimbal assembly. Each module contains specific imaging components, allowing the system to use only the necessary imaging capabilities for each mission, thereby reducing overall system weight while maintaining required imaging performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The gimbal assembly is designed with a standardized interface that can accommodate multiple types of camera modules with different imaging capabilities. This universal platform allows a single gimbal structure to support various imaging needs (aerial photography, surveillance, inspection) without requiring separate heavy-duty mounting systems for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If camera systems are designed for versatility, then adaptability to different imaging requirements is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is divided into modular camera modules that can be independently attached and detached from the gimbal assembly. Each module contains specific imaging components, allowing the system to use only the necessary imaging capabilities for each mission, thereby reducing overall system weight while maintaining required imaging performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The gimbal assembly is designed with a standardized interface that can accommodate multiple types of camera modules with different imaging capabilities. This universal platform allows a single gimbal structure to support various imaging needs (aerial photography, surveillance, inspection) without requiring separate heavy-duty mounting systems for each application.
3Ease of operation
If camera modules are made interchangeable, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gimbal assembly is designed with a standardized interface that can accommodate multiple types of camera modules with different imaging capabilities. This universal platform allows a single gimbal structure to support various imaging needs (aerial photography, surveillance, inspection) without requiring separate heavy-duty mounting systems for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized interface incorporates precise mechanical tolerances and alignment features that ensure consistent positioning and electrical connectivity across different camera module types. By establishing fixed dimensional parameters and tolerance ranges for the interface components, the system achieves reliable interchangeability without requiring complex adjustment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a structural-electrical subsystem for an aircraft includes a fuselage and a one-piece guard forming a continuous perimeter frame with multiple rotor bays. It features modular side arm assemblies with a unitary body extending laterally from the fuselage, defining an open diamond-shaped geometry with motor mounts at opposed vertices. Internal wire conduits within the body route and protect electrical cables between the fuselage and motor mounts. The side arm assemblies, fuselage, and guard form a diamond-shaped reinforcement truss to distribute impact forces. Modular connectors couple the side arm assemblies to the fuselage and guard, allowing for easy assembly and maintenance. The system is designed for impact resilience and serviceability, with features like quick-release couplers and integrated electrical interfaces for power and data coupling.