Unmanned UAV Fueling Station with Automated Docking and Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current refueling methods for vertical takeoff UAVs are manual, time-consuming, and uneconomical, lacking a controlled process for fuels like gasoline, pesticides, and water.
Innovation Solution
An unmanned self-sustained fuel dispensing station with a modular system incorporating renewable energy sources, a central control center, GPS guidance, and automated tank docking and coupling, enabling remote operation and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual refueling by attendant is used, then refueling can be performed, but it requires manpower and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service refueling through automated docking and coupling mechanisms. The UAV autonomously docks with the fueling station, and the coupling system automatically connects the fuel nozzle to the UAV's fuel tank, eliminating the need for manual intervention by an attendant.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical refueling process with an automated control system. Sensors detect the UAV's arrival and guide the docking process, while actuators control the coupling mechanism, substituting human-operated mechanical actions with automated electromechanical systems.
2Reliability
If manual refueling is used, then refueling can be performed, but it is not a controlled process
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that provide feedback on the UAV's position, docking status, and fuel transfer progress. This feedback loop allows the control system to monitor and adjust the refueling process in real-time, ensuring precise control and reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces uncontrolled manual operations with a programmable control system that manages the entire refueling sequence, from detecting UAV arrival to completing the fuel transfer and disconnecting, ensuring a controlled and repeatable process.
3Productivity
If manual refueling is used, then refueling can be performed, but it is uneconomical
Solution Approach 1:
The fueling station is divided into modular functional components: a docking station for UAV alignment, a coupling system for fuel connection, a fuel storage and dispensing system, and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance and scaling.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking and coupling system is designed to be universal, capable of accommodating different UAV types and fuel configurations. This multi-functionality increases productivity by allowing a single station to serve multiple UAVs with varying requirements, amortizing the system's complexity across higher utilization.
4Extent of automation
If automated tank docking and coupling is implemented, then refueling becomes controlled and unmanned, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that mediates between the UAV and the fueling infrastructure. This control layer manages the complexity of coordination, sensing, and actuation, while presenting a simplified interface to both the UAV operator and the fuel dispensing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The UAV performs self-alignment and self-docking using onboard sensors and navigation systems, eliminating the need for complex external guidance mechanisms. This self-service capability reduces the complexity of the docking system while maintaining high automation.
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
Facilitates efficient, automated, and economical refueling of UAVs in remote locations without human intervention, ensuring energy self-sufficiency and security, even in areas without electrical utilities.
Implementation Method 1
The primary energy source is preferably a renewable energy source such as windmills, steam, or solar panels or fuel cells etc.
Implementation Method 2
Any excess energy from the primary source is used to charge a battery bank
Implementation Method 3
The secondary source is the generator, and/or grid supplied electricity if it is readily available
Implementation Method 4
a fuel dispenser with a tank mounted pump, pump controller, hose and nozzle connected to the fuel storage tank
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned self-sustained fuel dispensing station for fuels of all sorts (gasoline, pesticides, water, fertilizers etc.) a tank, docking, and coupling system for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) of the vertical takeoff types. The station can be independent of public power and communication utilities and can operate by remote control without an on-site attendant. The preferred system has a central command center with a control computer in communication with a station control computer located at one or more satellite stations through a communications link. The station control computer can be controlled remotely by the command center. The station control computer programming has control over the activities of the station through an electrical generation subsystem with a solar array, battery bank, battery charger and standby generator; a fuel dispensing subsystem; a security subsystem with video cameras; a communications link and a status sensor subsystem.