UAV Landing Platform with Rotating Floor and Automated Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face limitations in range and utility due to battery constraints, necessitating efficient refueling and recharging solutions to extend their operational duration and coverage during aerial surveys and infrastructure inspections.
Innovation Solution
The development of enhanced landing platforms equipped with battery chargers, debris sensors, and automated debris-clearing mechanisms, allowing for efficient refueling, recharging, and maintenance of UAVs while minimizing manual intervention, with features like weatherproof covers and conductive surfaces for secure docking and communication interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If UAVs are equipped with larger on-board batteries to extend range, then operational duration is improved, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is segmented into two parts: a compact on-board battery for immediate operation and external battery packs stored at landing platforms. The UAV can exchange battery packs at platforms, effectively extending operational duration without carrying excessive weight during flight.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves the battery storage dimension from the UAV itself to the ground infrastructure (landing platforms). By distributing battery capacity across multiple stationary platforms along the flight path, the system extends range without increasing in-flight weight.
2Ease of repair
If manual debris clearing is performed on landing platforms, then maintenance effectiveness is improved, but labor costs and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The landing platform is equipped with automated debris detection sensors and mechanical clearing mechanisms that operate autonomously. When debris is detected by sensors, the system automatically activates clearing mechanisms without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing labor costs and maintenance time.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical debris clearing is replaced with an automated system combining sensor detection (electronic/optical) and mechanical clearing mechanisms. This substitution reduces human labor requirements while maintaining or improving maintenance effectiveness.
3Ease of operation
If landing platforms are left uncovered to facilitate quick UAV access, then ease of operation is improved, but UAV protection from elements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is automatically opened in advance of UAV arrival and automatically closed after UAV departure. This preliminary and follow-up action ensures the UAV has quick access when needed while still receiving environmental protection during storage and non-operational periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover transitions from a static protective barrier to a dynamic element that automatically adjusts its state (open/closed) based on operational requirements. This dynamic behavior reconciles the conflicting needs of quick access and environmental protection.
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 solution enables extended UAV operations by ensuring reliable and efficient refueling and recharging, maximizing coverage area, and reducing maintenance costs through automated debris management and reduced manual labor.
Implementation Method 1
The floor can comprise a top surface and a bottom surface. Each of the surfaces of the floor can be implemented to include a multitude of conductive surfaces with positive and negative polarities arranged in a determined pattern such that when the UAV is parked on the floor corresponding conductors on the docking elements (e.g., feet) of the UAV make the appropriate electrical contact.
Data Source
AI summary
A landing platform control system and methods used for refuel or recharge purposes by a fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) performing aerial surveys are disclosed. The system can include a plurality of landing platforms positioned at predetermined locations within the area of interest, each landing platform comprising a mount connecting the landing platform to a surface, a mount component for coupling a floor, a floor to support a UAV while docked at the landing platform, a cover enclosing the floor; a battery charger; and a communications interface. The floor can be rotated to clear any accumulated debris. The cover can be coupled to the floor. The cover can alternate between open and closed position via rotating along the same axis as the floor.