Universal UAV Docking Ports for Hands-Free Launch and Wireless Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compact personal unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face inconveniences in rapid launching, long-range travel, autonomous operation, docking, charging, and storage due to the need for manual handling and limited power and range, which hinders their utility in applications such as urban security, law enforcement, and remote settings.
Innovation Solution
A system with universal docking ports and stations that enable autonomous UAV operations, including launch, flight, navigation, networking, docking, charging, and wireless power transfer, utilizing light and optical depth mapping, IR and laser guidance, and in-flight wireless data networking, with integrated sensors and power systems for continuous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling and charging is used for compact personal UAVs, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for hands-free operation in various applications
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV is equipped with autonomous docking capabilities that allow it to automatically return to and dock with the portable container without human intervention. The system uses sensors, navigation systems, and automated mechanical interfaces to perform docking, charging, and storage operations independently, enabling hands-free operation while maintaining relatively simple device architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The portable container serves multiple functions: it acts as a protective case for the UAV, a charging station with power transfer capabilities, a storage compartment, and a docking port for automated launch and recovery. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment, balancing ease of operation with device complexity
2Duration of action of moving object
If limited power capacity is used in compact personal UAVs, then the device complexity is reduced, but the duration of action deteriorates due to limited range and charging frequency requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV automatically returns to the portable container for recharging before its battery is completely depleted. The system monitors power levels and autonomously navigates back to dock, ensuring continuous operation capability without requiring complex real-time power management during flight. The portable container maintains a charged battery ready for immediate power transfer
Solution Approach 2:
The portable container provides continuous power supply capability through wireless or wired power transfer during docking. The system enables seamless charging operations where the UAV can quickly replenish its battery capacity, maintaining continuous operational readiness without lengthy charging cycles that would require complex power management infrastructure
3Productivity
If portable containers are used for storage and launch, then the ease of operation is improved for portability, but the productivity deteriorates due to limited rapid launching capability
Solution Approach 1:
The portable container incorporates an automated launch mechanism that can rapidly deploy the UAV from its stored position. The system uses dynamic mechanical interfaces, such as spring-loaded ejection systems or motorized release mechanisms, to quickly transition the UAV from a compact stored state to an operational flying state, enabling rapid launching while maintaining portable storage capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The launch and docking operations utilize automated mechanical systems controlled by sensors and microprocessors rather than manual mechanical manipulation. The UAV and container feature complementary mechanical interfaces that automatically engage and disengage, replacing complex manual assembly and disassembly operations with simple automated mechanical actions that enable rapid launching
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
Enables hands-free, autonomous UAV operations with continuous power and navigation, facilitating efficient docking and charging, and allowing for extended range and versatile applications in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
continuous light and optical depth mapping and imaging of the UAV environment
Implementation Method 2
IR and laser guidance for autonomous flight navigation
Implementation Method 3
IR and laser guidance for autonomous flight navigation
Implementation Method 4
wireless power transfer, induction, charging and distribution
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed inventions include personal Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV's) and UAV universal docking ports “docking ports” to be incorporated into and/or attached to headwear, including helmets, hard hats and hats and face masks, as well as footwear including boots and shoes, clothing and outerwear, devices, gear and equipment, land, air, water and space vehicles, buildings, wireless towers and other mobile or stationary objects and surfaces referred to collectively as “docking stations”. A docking station may have one or more docking ports for docking, networking and charging or refueling compact personal UAVs, and for providing data communications between said UAVs and other electronic devices that remain with the person while the UAV is in flight or driving or landed on terrain. Said docking ports may also incorporate wireless power transmission for remote wireless charging of one or more UAV's. Supplemental power for recharging said UAVs when docked may be supplied by integrated battery(s) in said docking port or me be provided directly from the docking station or other connected power source.