UAV Landing Stand with Electromagnetic Capture and Docking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) landing and launch lack efficient and safe mechanisms for precise alignment, secure capture, and integrated refueling/recharging processes, leading to potential damage and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
The development of a stand system equipped with vertical lift shafts, inertial measurement units, and advanced sensors for navigation, along with a network of stands for coordinated UAV operations, including drone domes for secure landing and launch zones, and integrated charging and refueling systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stand system with vertical lift shafts and capture mechanisms is used for UAV landing and launch, then precise alignment and secure capture are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical capture mechanisms with electromagnetic coupling systems. The stand uses electromagnetic fields to capture and hold the UAV, eliminating the need for intricate mechanical clamps, shafts, and physical locking mechanisms while achieving secure and reliable capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic fields as an intermediary between the stand and UAV. This intermediary enables energy and force transfer without direct mechanical contact, simplifying the overall system while maintaining secure capture and alignment capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If advanced sensors and inertial measurement units are integrated for precise alignment, then navigation precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates inertial measurement units and sensors that serve multiple functions: navigation, alignment, and positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized systems, thereby improving measurement precision while limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The UAV's onboard sensors and inertial measurement units enable the vehicle to autonomously determine its position, orientation, and alignment with the stand. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external alignment systems, improving precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Productivity
If integrated refueling and recharging systems are implemented, then operational efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines refueling and recharging operations into a single integrated docking process. The UAV simultaneously receives fuel and electrical power when docked with the stand, eliminating the need for separate refueling and recharging systems and procedures, thereby improving operational efficiency while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic coupling system serves as an intermediary that facilitates both fuel transfer and electrical power transfer during the docking operation. This unified intermediary mechanism enables integrated refueling and recharging through a single docking interface, improving productivity without requiring multiple separate systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a stand for launching, landing, testing, refueling and recharging a UAV, and methods for testing, landing and launching the UAV are disclosed. Further, embodiments may include transferring a payload onto or off of the UAV, and loading flight planning and diagnostic maintenance information to the UAV.