UAV Dock Network for Extended Range Delivery and Surveillance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drone technologies are limited by battery size and weight, restricting their flight time and range, and existing drone docking systems lack efficient communication and safety features for package delivery and surveillance operations.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that communicates with a network of docks for efficient package delivery and surveillance, enabling scheduled docking, recharging, and extended range operations through logistical software and remote control range extending devices, with secure and automated package handling and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If battery size is increased to extend flight time and range, then duration and range are improved, but weight increases which reduces payload capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces docks as intermediary stations that provide power transfer to the UAV during flight. The dock acts as an external power source that eliminates the need for large onboard batteries, allowing the UAV to maintain lightweight design while achieving extended flight duration through wireless or contactless power transfer from the dock network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-base operation model to a multi-dimensional network of docks distributed across the operational area. This allows the UAV to access power at multiple locations along its flight path, effectively extending range without increasing battery capacity or weight.
2Productivity
If manual docking and package handling is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated docking systems where the UAV and dock perform self-alignment and self-docking operations. The system includes automated package transfer mechanisms that eliminate manual intervention, with sensors and control systems enabling the UAV to autonomously navigate to docks, dock precisely, and transfer packages without human assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking system incorporates feedback mechanisms including sensors, communication protocols, and control systems that monitor the docking process in real-time. The dock and UAV exchange data to confirm proper alignment, power transfer status, and package transfer completion, enabling automated decision-making and adjustment during the docking operation.
3Reliability
If communication between dock and UAV is not established, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability and safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication protocol that serves multiple functions: navigation guidance to docks, authentication and authorization, real-time status monitoring, power transfer coordination, and security verification. This multi-functional communication system consolidates what could be separate complex subsystems into a single integrated protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system establishes continuous feedback loops between the dock and UAV, transmitting real-time data about position, battery status, package integrity, and environmental conditions. This feedback enables proactive safety measures and reliable operation without requiring overly complex redundant systems.
4Area of stationary object
If surveillance range is extended without docks, then surveillance area increases, but duration of action and energy efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a periodic operation pattern where the UAV conducts surveillance missions from dock locations, returns to the dock for power replenishment, and then departs for the next mission. This periodic cycle of operation allows extended surveillance coverage over time without continuous high energy consumption, as the UAV can recharge at docks between missions.
Solution Approach 2:
The dock network provides preliminary power charging before surveillance missions begin. The UAV can charge at docks in advance, ensuring full energy capacity before departing for extended surveillance areas, thereby maximizing surveillance range while minimizing energy consumption during the actual surveillance operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for enhancing distribution logistics and surveillance ranges with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and at least one dock in a dock network. The UAV remains in communication with the dock for enhancing distribution logistics of at least one package and increasing the range of surveillance for the unmanned aerial vehicle. From the dock, the UAV delivers the package to a destination point, obtains the package from a pick up point, recharges the unmanned aerial vehicle throughout the network of docks, and increases the range of distribution and surveillance. A logistics software controls the delivery and surveillance. A wireless communication device enables communication between the UAV and the dock. Light indicators indicate status of the package and the operational status of the UAV. A camera captures an image of the package in the dock. A motion detector detects the UAV for regulating access for loading/unloading and docking.