UAV Command Arbitration for Multi-Source Priority Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current UAV control systems lack efficient methods to manage multiple control sources vying for command, leading to potential safety issues and complexity in executing complex flight maneuvers and tasks, such as inspections, without ensuring safe operation within defined limits.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that prioritizes control sources based on priority information, allowing only the highest-priority source to control the UAV and enabling modular flight commands to ensure safe operation, including contingency handling and parallel execution of non-conflicting commands from multiple sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control sources are allowed to provide commands to the UAV simultaneously, then the versatility and adaptability of the UAV system is improved, but the control reliability and safety deteriorate due to potential command conflicts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control system into distinct control sources (e.g., operator controller, automated flight controller, payload controller) with clearly defined command authorities. Each control source is assigned specific command types or operational domains, allowing multiple sources to coexist without conflict by dividing the overall control function into separate, non-overlapping segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a command arbitration mechanism as an intermediary layer between multiple control sources and the UAV execution system. This mediator receives commands from various control sources, evaluates their priority and validity, resolves conflicts, and forwards only approved commands to the UAV, thereby ensuring control reliability while maintaining multi-source versatility.
2Productivity
If complex flight maneuvers are enabled through multiple applications, then the productivity and task capability of the UAV is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal modular command structure where standardized command interfaces and protocols allow different applications to execute diverse tasks through a common framework. This multi-functionality enables the UAV to perform various complex maneuvers (inspections, deliveries, surveillance) without requiring separate specialized control systems for each task, thus maintaining productivity while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic application loading and unloading mechanisms that allow the UAV to activate only the necessary applications and control sources for each specific task. This dynamic configuration optimizes system complexity by keeping the active control architecture minimal and task-specific, while maintaining the capability to execute diverse complex maneuvers when needed.
3Reliability
If strict control priority enforcement is implemented, then the control reliability is improved, but the response time and operational flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary assignment of priority levels and command authorities to different control sources before operation begins. Control priorities are pre-configured based on operational context and task requirements, allowing the arbitration mechanism to make rapid decisions without extensive real-time evaluation, thus maintaining strict priority enforcement while minimizing processing delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows dynamic adjustment of control priority parameters during operation based on operational conditions. When safety concerns arise or task requirements change, the system can modify priority levels and command permissions in real-time, balancing strict priority enforcement with operational flexibility and rapid response to changing conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for unmanned aerial vehicle modular command priority determination and filtering system. One of the methods includes enabling control of the UAV by a first control source that provides modular commands to the UAV, each modular command being a command associated with performance of one or more actions by the UAV. Modular commands from a second control source requesting control of the UAV are received. The second control source is determined to be in control of the UAV based on priority information associated with each control source. Control of the UAV is enabled by the second control source, and modular commands are implemented.