Repositionable UAV Charging Hub for Easier Docking and Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base stations for UAVs require precise docking procedures, limiting successful landings and charging due to limited landing envelope and docking precision.
Innovation Solution
A repositionable charging hub that can move between a retracted and extended position, concealed within the base station, to increase the landing envelope and facilitate easier docking and charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the charging hub is fixed in an exposed position, then electrical connection to UAV is facilitated, but the landing envelope is reduced and docking precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging hub is made dynamically repositionable between retracted and extended positions. A motor assembly with drive member moves the charging hub along a guide mechanism, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational needs - extended for charging connections, retracted to maximize landing envelope.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging hub is positioned in a recess of the landing platform, utilizing the vertical dimension rather than horizontal space. This allows the charging hub to be concealed within the base station footprint while remaining accessible when needed, effectively increasing the horizontal landing envelope without sacrificing charging capability.
2Area of stationary object
If the charging hub is retracted within the base station, then landing envelope is increased, but electrical connection to UAV becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The charging hub transitions from a static to a dynamic component, capable of extending outward from the retracted position to engage with the UAV's electrical contacts. The motor assembly actuates the drive member to move the charging hub into the extended position where electrical connections are established, ensuring charging accessibility is maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide mechanism acts as an intermediary, providing a controlled path for the charging hub's movement. The carriage moving along the rail ensures precise positioning of the charging hub during extension and retraction, facilitating reliable electrical connection while managing the transition between retracted and extended states.
3Measurement precision
If the charging hub is made repositionable, then docking precision requirements are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The repositionable charging hub with motor assembly, drive member, and guide mechanism increases device complexity but enables the system to accommodate a broader range of docking positions. The motorized actuation provides controlled movement that can compensate for variations in UAV landing precision, making the increased complexity worthwhile for improved docking robustness.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor assembly can be actuated automatically based on detection of UAV approach or contact, allowing the charging hub to self-adjust its position without requiring complex external control systems. This self-service capability manages complexity by using simple trigger-based actuation rather than continuous active control.
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
Enhances the success of UAV landings and charging by reducing docking precision requirements and increasing the available landing space, thereby improving the overall functionality of the base station.
Implementation Method 1
a wick that is configured to draw water away from the electrical contacts
Data Source
AI summary
A charging hub for a base station configured to receive an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) during docking. The charging hub includes electrical contacts that are configured for electrical connection to the UAV and a wick that is configured to draw water away from the electrical contacts.