Multi-Slot UAV Payload Coupler for Automated Handle Retrieval

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing UAV systems face inefficiencies in payload retrieval due to the need for human intervention, leading to waiting times and energy expenditure when the designated person is delayed or absent.

Innovation Solution

A payload coupling apparatus suspended by a tether from a UAV, featuring slots to automatically secure and release the payload handle during retrieval and delivery, utilizing an autoloader assembly and winch system for automated pickup.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a person manually secures the payload to the UAV at the retrieval site, then the payload can be securely attached, but the UAV experiences waiting time and energy expenditure when the person is delayed or absent

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepayload attachment reliabilityVSAvoidUAV waiting time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The payload coupling apparatus automatically secures the payload handle to the UAV without requiring human intervention. The system uses a self-actuating mechanism where the payload handle is drawn through a channel and automatically engages with the coupling apparatus, eliminating the need for a person to manually secure the payload and thus reducing UAV waiting time while maintaining attachment reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The payload coupling apparatus is pre-positioned and ready to receive the payload handle before the payload arrives. The channel is pre-configured to guide the handle, and the coupling mechanism is prepared in advance, allowing for immediate automatic engagement when the payload is presented, thereby eliminating delays associated with manual preparation and attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If a person manually secures the payload to the UAV, then proper securing can be ensured, but the process requires human presence and coordination

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepayload securing accuracyVSAvoidoperational simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs the payload securing operation autonomously without requiring human presence or coordination. The payload handle automatically engages with the coupling apparatus through the channel, and the winch system autonomously draws and secures the payload, simplifying the operation while maintaining securing accuracy through the designed mechanical engagement features

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical operation of a person securing the payload is replaced with an automated mechanical system consisting of the winch, tether, and coupling apparatus. This substitution eliminates the need for human operators while maintaining the mechanical reliability of proper securing through engineered engagement features like the slot and handle interface

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If the UAV waits in hover mode for the designated person to arrive, then the payload can be retrieved, but energy is consumed during the waiting period

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepayload retrieval capabilityVSAvoidUAV energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The automated payload coupling apparatus eliminates the need for the UAV to hover and wait for human operators. The system can autonomously receive and secure payloads when they are presented, allowing the UAV to maintain flight or perform other tasks without energy-consuming idle hovering, thereby improving productivity while reducing energy consumption

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If manual payload securing is used, then flexibility in handling different payloads is maintained, but the process is slower and less efficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepayload handling flexibilityVSAvoidpayload retrieval speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The payload coupling apparatus is designed with universal features that can accommodate different payload types through the standardized handle interface and channel configuration. The slot can receive various handle designs, and the winch system can handle different payload weights, maintaining versatility while achieving rapid automated retrieval that significantly improves productivity compared to manual processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12528583B2Payload retriever having multiple slots for use with a UAV

Publication Date: 2026.01.20 WING AVIATION LLC

AI summary

A payload coupling apparatus having a housing comprising an outer surface extending around a perimeter of the housing, an upper portion above the outer surface and including a tether attachment point, and a lower portion below the outer surface; a first slot extending into the outer surface of the housing thereby forming a first lower lip on the housing beneath the first slot; wherein the first slot is adapted to receive a handle of a payload; and a second slot extending into the outer surface of the housing thereby forming a second lower lip on the housing beneath the second slot; wherein the second slot is adapted to receive the handle of the payload.