Coordinated UAV Imaging With Multi-View Obstacle Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coordinating the movement of multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is challenging, particularly in maintaining relative positions and avoiding obstacles, as existing systems lack efficient methods for synchronized action and obstacle detection across multiple perspectives.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for coordinating movable objects, including UAVs, that utilize sensors and computing devices to generate composite datasets from multiple perspectives, identify obstacles, and adjust paths dynamically, allowing coordinated actions and obstacle avoidance while tracking targets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple UAVs are used to capture images from different positions, then the quality and coverage of aerial photogrammetry is improved, but the difficulty of coordinating their movement and maintaining relative positions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple UAVs into a coordinated swarm system that operates under unified control. The UAVs are merged into a single functional unit where each drone's position and movement are integrated with the others through centralized coordination algorithms, allowing them to capture photogrammetric data as a cohesive team rather than independent entities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where each UAV's position, orientation, and movement are constantly monitored and adjusted based on real-time data from other UAVs and the target object. This feedback mechanism enables automatic coordination without manual intervention, resolving the complexity of maintaining precise relative positions among multiple drones.
2Adaptability or versatility
If UAVs are equipped with sensors and imaging devices to perform tasks, then the functionality and task performance are improved, but the weight and complexity of the UAV system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal sensor platforms that can perform multiple functions including imaging, obstacle detection, navigation, and communication. These multi-functional devices replace multiple specialized components, reducing overall system weight while maintaining versatility. The same sensor suite supports both photogrammetry tasks and safety functions like obstacle avoidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamically configurable sensor activation where imaging devices and sensors are activated only when needed for specific tasks. This dynamic approach reduces the effective weight and power consumption during different operational phases, allowing the UAV to carry comprehensive equipment without the constant penalty of all systems being active.
3Productivity
If UAVs autonomously navigate and coordinate their positions, then the operational efficiency is improved, but the risk of collision and operational safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary obstacle detection and path planning before UAVs execute their coordinated movements. By预先 identifying potential collision risks and pre-calculating safe trajectories, the system maintains high operational efficiency while preventing collisions. The UAVs adjust their paths in advance based on predicted positions of other drones and detected obstacles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centralized coordination system that acts as an intermediary between individual UAVs. This mediator processes position data from all drones, calculates safe separation distances, and issues coordination commands to prevent collisions. The intermediary layer isolates the autonomous navigation of individual UAVs from the safety-critical coordination functions.
4Productivity
If multiple UAVs operate in coordinated fashion, then the productivity and data collection efficiency are improved, but the difficulty of detecting and avoiding obstacles from multiple perspectives increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges obstacle detection data from multiple UAVs into a unified spatial model. By combining the perspectives of several drones viewing the same environment, the system creates a comprehensive obstacle map that overcomes the limited field of view of individual UAVs. This merged detection capability maintains high productivity while reducing the difficulty of obstacle awareness.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and computer-readable storage devices for the coordination of actions between movable objects. For example, a method may coordinate actions between at least a first and a second movable object. The method may detect, by the first movable object, the position of a target. The method may control the position of a first movable object based on the position of the target. A command may be received for the first movable object to perform an action in coordination with the second movable object. In some embodiments, the command may be to take images of the target to create a bullet time effect.