3D UAV Flight Path Planning in Virtual Reality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for planning UAV flight paths are inadequate as they fail to account for the third dimension, leading to inaccuracies and difficulties in navigating complex environments, and require significant operator training and time to master.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for generating, analyzing, and verifying 3D flight paths using virtual reality, allowing operators to create and visualize flight paths from a first-person perspective, incorporating 3D information and action items, and enabling precise control of UAVs for delicate tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional 2D map-based flight path planning is used, then the planning process is simple, but the accuracy of the flight path is poor because it fails to account for the third dimension (height) of obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D map-based flight path planning to 3D virtual reality environment-based planning. By incorporating the third dimension (height), the system accurately represents obstacles such as buildings and structures, enabling precise flight path generation that accounts for vertical clearances and three-dimensional obstacle avoidance.
2Ease of operation
If traditional 2D map-based flight path planning is used, then the system is easy to operate, but it takes a long time and significant practice for the operator to become familiar with path planning tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the real-world environment in a 3D virtual reality space. Operators can plan and verify flight paths in this virtual replica before executing them in the real world. This copying approach allows operators to become familiar with the environment and planning tasks without requiring extensive real-world training, as the virtual environment provides intuitive spatial understanding.
3Reliability
If traditional 2D map-based flight path planning is used, then the planning process is quick, but the operator cannot verify whether the generated path is exactly what is wanted for performing certain tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables operators to perform preliminary verification of flight paths in the 3D virtual reality environment before actual UAV execution. Operators can observe the generated path from various perspectives, check clearances around obstacles, and confirm that the path meets task requirements. This preliminary verification in virtual space ensures path reliability without significantly impacting overall productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and associated systems and apparatus for generating a three-dimensional (3D) flight path for a moveable platform such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) are disclosed herein. The method includes receiving a set of 3D information associated with a virtual reality environment and receiving a plurality of virtual locations in the virtual reality environment. For individual virtual locations, the system receives a corresponding action item. The system then generates a 3D path based on at least one of the set of 3D information, the plurality of virtual locations, and the plurality of action items. The system then generates a set of images associated with the 3D path and then visually presents the same to an operator via a virtual reality device. The system enables the operator to adjust the 3D path via the virtual reality device.