UAV Docking Station Extension Cavity Design
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing UAV docking stations for fixed-wing UAVs are large and heavy, making them cumbersome for movement and storage, which is not conducive to efficient use and preservation of the UAVs due to their high cost and power requirements.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an extension piece with a larger cross-sectional area extension cavity that communicates with the accommodation cavity, allowing the fixed-wing UAV to be accommodated in a smaller volume, thereby reducing the overall size and weight of the docking station.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional docking station design is used to accommodate fixed-wing UAVs, then the UAV can be properly stored and protected, but the docking station becomes large and heavy, making it difficult to move
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is divided into two separate components: a compact housing containing the power exchange mechanism and a detachable extension piece that provides additional storage space. This segmentation allows the main housing to remain lightweight and portable, while the extension piece can be added only when needed for storing the fixed wing.
2Reliability
If a traditional docking station design is used to accommodate fixed-wing UAVs, then the UAV can be properly stored, but the docking station volume becomes large, reducing mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station employs a dynamic, reconfigurable structure where the extension piece can be detached and reattached as needed. This transforms the docking station from a static, permanently large structure to a dynamic system that can change its volume based on operational requirements, thereby improving mobility when the extension is not needed.
3Ease of operation
If the docking station volume is reduced to improve mobility, then the docking station becomes more portable, but it may not accommodate the fixed-wing UAV properly
Solution Approach 1:
The extension piece is designed to nest within or attach to the main housing structure. When the docking station needs to be transported, the extension piece can be stored within the housing or folded against it, creating a compact configuration. When needed for accommodating the fixed-wing UAV, the extension piece is deployed to provide the necessary additional space.
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) assembly includes an UAV and an UAV docking station. The UAV docking station includes a housing, an extension piece, and a door. The housing is provided with an accommodation cavity and a hatch communicating with the accommodation cavity. The extension piece comprises an extension cavity and is connected to the housing. The extension piece is disposed on a side portion of a housing end which is near the hatch, and the extension cavity communicates with the accommodation cavity. The door is connected to the housing and disposed at the hatch, and the door is configured to open or close the hatch. A cross-sectional area where the extension cavity communicates with the accommodation cavity is greater than a cross-sectional area of the accommodation cavity. The UAV can be accommodated in the accommodation cavity of the UAV docking station.