UAV Electronic Attachment Mechanism for Sling Cargo
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transporting sling-loaded cargo using aerial vehicles require manual operation to attach and detach the sling cable, which is inefficient and labor-intensive, especially with the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Innovation Solution
A system and method for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that includes electronically-controllable attachment devices and sensors to autonomously attach and detach a sling cable from cargo, using laterally-arranged rotors to lift and navigate the cargo to a target location without human assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to attach and detach sling cable, then operational simplicity is maintained, but labor intensity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device enables the UAV to automatically attach and detach the sling cable without human assistance. The device includes a cable receiving channel with a latch mechanism that automatically engages with the cable's carabiner, allowing the UAV to service itself during cargo operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated mechanical system. The attachment device uses a motorized or electronically-controlled latch mechanism to open and close the cable receiving channel, substituting human hands and operations with an automated mechanical system.
2Device complexity
If manually operated attachment devices are used, then device complexity is reduced, but automation capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device enables the UAV to automatically attach and detach the sling cable without human assistance. The device includes a cable receiving channel with a latch mechanism that automatically engages with the cable's carabiner, allowing the UAV to service itself during cargo operations.
3Measurement precision
If the UAV hovers directly over cargo at low altitude, then attachment precision is improved, but safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV performs preliminary positioning maneuvers to approach the cargo from a safe distance and angle. The attachment device is designed to receive the cable at an optimized angle, allowing the UAV to establish the correct geometric relationship with the cargo before final attachment, reducing the need for low-altitude hovering.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical structure (the attachment device with its receiving channel and latch) that mediates between the UAV and the cargo cable. This intermediary allows attachment to occur at a safe distance and angle, eliminating the need for the UAV to hover directly over the cargo at low altitude.
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 efficient, automated transportation of sling-loaded cargo, reducing the need for manual labor and allowing for remote control and contingency operations, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of cargo transport.
Implementation Method 1
operating at least four laterally-arranged rotors to cause the UAV to take-off and navigate
Implementation Method 2
operating the at least four laterally-arranged rotors to elevate the UAV above the initial operating height to lift the cargo
Data Source
AI summary
Example methods and systems for coupling and controlling transport of cargo using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) are provided, comprising coupling at least one electronically-controllable attachment device positioned on an underside of the UAV to a sling cable, the sling cable being secured to the cargo. The UAV flies to a predetermined area above the cargo, and responsive to determining that the UAV is positioned within the predetermined area, the UAV elevates above the initial operating height to lift the cargo and navigates to a target location.