UAV Payload Coupling Geometry That Prevents Re-Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing payload delivery systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are complex and prone to failure due to moving parts, and there is a need for a reliable mechanism to securely deliver and retrieve payloads without re-engagement during retrieval.
Innovation Solution
A payload coupling apparatus with a solid-state design featuring a slot and undercut lip to receive a payload handle, which automatically decouples from the payload upon touchdown, and uses cams for orientation within the UAV fuselage, ensuring no re-engagement during retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing payload delivery systems use moving parts for coupling and decoupling, then they can achieve payload delivery function, but they become complex and prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes moving parts from the payload delivery system by extracting the mechanical coupling/decoupling mechanism. Instead, it uses a solid-state design where the payload is retained during descent through gravity and friction, then automatically released upon ground contact without any moving components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of moving parts with a solid-state passive retention system. The slot and lip structure creates automatic retention through gravitational and frictional forces, eliminating the need for mechanical actuators, motors, or moving components for coupling and decoupling.
2Device complexity
If the payload coupling apparatus uses a simple retention structure, then it reduces complexity, but it may fail to prevent re-engagement during retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric geometry in the slot and lip design. The slot has specific dimensional relationships with the payload handle, and the lip extends partially into the slot to create a one-way retention mechanism that allows automatic release on ground contact but prevents re-engagement during retrieval operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating specific geometric features at critical locations. The lip structure provides localized retention force within the slot, and the asymmetric shape ensures that retention occurs only in the downward direction while preventing upward re-engagement, without requiring complex system-wide mechanisms.
3Extent of automation
If the payload delivery system uses moving parts for automatic decoupling, then it can achieve automatic release, but it increases the risk of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing a passive retention system that automatically decouples the payload upon ground contact without requiring external control signals or active mechanisms. The gravitational force and friction automatically manage the retention and release functions, making the system self-regulating and highly reliable.
4Strength
If the payload coupling apparatus has protruding features for engagement, then it can secure the payload, but it may catch on obstacles during retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric slot and lip design creates a retention feature that is effective for securing the payload during descent but does not protrude in a way that would catch on obstacles during retrieval. The geometry is optimized to provide one-way retention while minimizing interference with the environment during upward movement.
Data Source
AI summary
An uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) which includes a payload coupling apparatus secured to a tether. The payload coupling apparatus is configured to engage a payload. The UAV also includes a winch system configured to extend the tether for lowering the payload on the payload coupling apparatus during a delivery. The UAV also includes a payload latch movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the payload latch is configured to secure the payload at the UAV when in the closed position and release the payload when in the open position.