UAV Payload Retrieval Funneling Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face delays and inefficiencies in payload retrieval due to the need for a designated person to secure the payload, leading to waiting times and energy expenditure when the UAV arrives late or the person is absent.
Innovation Solution
A payload retrieval apparatus with a funneling system that allows the UAV to automatically pick up payloads using a tether and payload retriever, which funnels the retriever into a channel to engage and secure the payload without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a designated person is required to secure the payload to the UAV, then the payload can be securely attached, but waiting time and energy consumption increase when the person is delayed or absent
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the UAV to automatically pick up the payload without human intervention. The automated payload pickup system performs the attachment function that previously required a designated person, thereby eliminating waiting time while maintaining secure payload attachment through the same tether and winch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The payload is pre-positioned on a retrieval surface with a handle exposed and accessible. The UAV's automated system is pre-configured to locate, engage, and secure the payload using the tether and winch mechanism, performing all attachment actions before the UAV departs, thus eliminating the need for waiting for human intervention.
2Reliability
If the UAV hovers or remains on the ground waiting for the designated person, then the payload can be secured, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated payload pickup system performs the attachment function autonomously, eliminating the need for the UAV to hover or wait on the ground. The system locates, engages, and secures the payload automatically, maintaining reliable attachment while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption from idle hovering.
Solution Approach 2:
The UAV maintains continuous useful action by immediately transitioning from arrival to automated payload pickup without idle hovering. The winch mechanism continuously operates to secure the payload, ensuring that every moment of UAV presence contributes to the delivery mission rather than being wasted in waiting mode.
3Device complexity
If manual payload securing is required, then the system is simpler, but automation level decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated payload pickup system uses the existing tether and winch mechanism designed for manual operation, adding automated control capabilities to the same physical components. This approach increases automation while minimizing additional device complexity by making the existing system multi-functional (both manual and automated operation).
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an automated control intermediary that mediates between the UAV's arrival and the payload attachment process. This intermediary layer enables automated decision-making and execution of the pickup sequence, increasing automation level while keeping the physical attachment mechanism relatively simple and unchanged from the manual design.
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
Enables automated payload pickup by the UAV, reducing delays and energy consumption by eliminating the need for human involvement in securing the payload, and allowing the UAV to proceed with delivery without waiting for a person to arrive.
Implementation Method 1
a funneling system positioned above the stand or base, wherein the funneling system is configured to funnel a payload receptacle attached to a tether suspended from a UAV downwardly towards a channel
Data Source
AI summary
A payload retrieval apparatus including a support structure having an upper end and a lower end; a first sloped surface secured to the support structure and a second sloped surface positioned adjacent the first sloped surface; an opening between the first and second sloped surfaces leading to a space to allow a payload retriever attached to a tether suspended from a UAV to travel into the space; an angled channel positioned beneath the first sloped surface having a tether slot to allow for passage of the tether as the payload retriever is drawn through the angled channel; and a payload holder positioned at the end of the angled channel.