UAV Inductive Charging via High Voltage Power Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face limitations in flight time and range due to battery life, and existing charging methods are inefficient, requiring prolonged ground-based recharging which reduces flight availability and increases weight with higher battery capacity.
Innovation Solution
UAVs are equipped with an inductor connected to a rechargeable battery, allowing them to harness the electromagnetic field of high voltage power lines for in-flight charging, with a flight plan created to maintain a safe distance from the power lines, using sensors to prevent collisions and optimize energy transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If battery capacity is increased to extend flight time and range, then available power is improved, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous in-flight recharging by flying the UAV alongside high-voltage power lines, allowing the battery to be recharged during flight operations. This continuous energy supply extends flight time without requiring larger batteries, as the useful action of energy storage is maintained continuously throughout the flight duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary energy transfer system using electromagnetic coupling between the UAV's coil and external high-voltage power lines. This intermediary mechanism allows wireless energy transfer during flight, enabling extended operational duration without increasing vehicle weight, as the energy is transferred through the electromagnetic field rather than stored in heavier battery components.
2Productivity
If ground-based recharging time is reduced, then flight availability is improved, but in-flight charging capability must be added
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical ground-based charging system with an electromagnetic wireless energy transfer system. By using electromagnetic coupling between the UAV's coil and external power lines, the mechanical connection and ground-based charging infrastructure are substituted, enabling in-flight recharging and improving flight availability without requiring physical docking or complex ground equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The UAV performs its own recharging operation autonomously during flight by maintaining proximity to power lines and utilizing its onboard coil system. The flight management system automatically coordinates charging operations, allowing the vehicle to service itself without external intervention, thereby improving flight availability while managing system complexity through automation.
3Reliability
If safe distance from power lines is maintained, then collision risk is reduced, but energy transfer efficiency may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the electromagnetic coupling system, specifically adjusting the coil's resonant frequency and impedance matching, to maximize energy transfer efficiency at the safe operational distance from power lines. By optimizing these electrical parameters, the system achieves efficient wireless power transfer while maintaining the necessary safety clearance, resolving the contradiction between reliability and energy efficiency.
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
This method extends the range and availability of UAVs by enabling in-flight recharging, reducing ground-based charging time and weight, while avoiding airspace used by conventional aircraft and allowing for monitoring of utilities.
Implementation Method 1
A rechargeable battery of an unmanned aerial vehicle is charged using an electromagnetic field of a high voltage power line and a recharging system of the unmanned aerial vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
Methods are presented. A rechargeable battery of an unmanned aerial vehicle is charged using an electromagnetic field of a high voltage power line and a recharging system of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The unmanned aerial vehicle is flown a specified distance from the high voltage power line during the charging.