Reconfigurable UAV Landing Platform for Docking and Charging Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base stations for UAVs face challenges in efficiently aligning and charging UAVs without causing damage due to improper landing and contact with the station's roof during closure.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable landing platform with alignment members that can move between extended and retracted positions, facilitated by a drive mechanism, to center the UAV and align its power source with a charging hub, preventing contact with the roof during closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the landing platform is kept stationary, then the structure is simple, but the UAV cannot be properly aligned with the charging hub and may contact the roof during closure
Solution Approach 1:
The landing platform is transformed from a stationary structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable one. The alignment members can move between extended and retracted positions to actively adjust the UAV's position on the platform, enabling proper alignment with the charging hub and preventing roof contact during closure.
2Ease of operation
If the alignment members are kept in extended position, then the UAV is constrained, but the charging alignment cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment members perform periodic movement through a drive mechanism, transitioning between extended and retracted positions. This periodic action first constrains the UAV during landing, then retracts to allow the platform to reposition the UAV for charging alignment, and finally extends again to prevent roof contact.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of using a base station that is configured to receive an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The method includes applying a lateral tension and an axial tension to a drive member that is operatively connected to alignment members on a landing platform to thereby reconfigure the landing platform and reposition the UAV and actuating a motor assembly to thereby advance and retract the drive member.