UAV Winch Delivery and Docking for Precise Landing and Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UAV systems face issues such as package damage due to improper velocity during delivery, complex landing requirements on small or moving targets, and inefficient battery charging processes that require manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
The UAV design includes a chassis with a control system, rotors, a support structure, and auxiliary systems like a carriage and winch, allowing for controlled package delivery and landing on a tapered docking station with enhanced precision and automated battery charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the UAV lowers the package at high velocity using a winch, then the delivery time is reduced, but the package may become damaged by impact with the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from constant velocity lowering to variable velocity control. The UAV initially lowers the package at high velocity to reduce delivery time, then automatically reduces velocity near the ground to prevent impact damage. This dynamic adjustment of the winch motor speed resolves the contradiction between fast delivery and package safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control through sensors that detect the package's proximity to the ground. When the package approaches a safe altitude, the control system receives feedback and automatically reduces the winch motor velocity. This closed-loop control ensures both rapid delivery and gentle landing, resolving the velocity-damage contradiction.
2Measurement precision
If the UAV is controlled with low tolerances for landing on a small moving target, then the landing precision is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through an automated docking system. The UAV autonomously detects the docking station position and navigates to it without requiring precise manual control. The system self-corrects positioning errors and automatically aligns with the docking station, achieving high landing precision while keeping the control system manageable through automation rather than complex algorithms.
3Ease of manufacture
If the battery is removed for charging, then the charging process is simplified, but the UAV loses power and requires rebooting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the battery charging function with the docking station. When the UAV lands on the docking station, the charging contacts automatically align and begin charging without requiring battery removal. This integration eliminates the power loss and reboot issue while maintaining simple charging access, resolving the contradiction between charging simplicity and operational continuity.
4Extent of automation
If a charge cord is attached to the UAV for charging, then the battery can be charged while installed, but the operator must perform extra manual steps
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station implements self-service charging through automatic contact alignment. When the UAV lands, the charging contacts on the UAV and docking station automatically align and establish electrical connection without operator intervention. The charging process begins automatically, eliminating the need for manual cord attachment while maintaining high automation. This resolves the contradiction between charging automation and ease of operation by making the entire process autonomous.
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
The design ensures safe and efficient package delivery, reduces landing complexity, and facilitates automated battery charging, improving overall UAV operation and reducing manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of rotors, each rotor being mounted to a corresponding arm of the plurality of arms, each rotor being in communication with the control system and operable to generate lift under control of the control system
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle according to certain embodiments generally includes a chassis, a power supply mounted to the chassis, a control system operable to receive power from the power supply, a plurality of arms extending outward from the chassis, a plurality of rotors, and a support structure mounted atop the chassis. Each rotor is mounted to a corresponding arm of the plurality of arms, is in communication with the control system, and is operable to generate lift under control of the control system. The support structure includes a plurality of arched struts that connect to one another at an apex region of the support structure.