UAV Payload Coupling Slot for Automatic Touchdown Release
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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 with the UAV 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 and reducing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing payload delivery systems use moving parts for secure attachment and release, then the payload can be reliably delivered, but the system complexity increases and reliability decreases due to moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes moving parts from the payload delivery system by extracting the mechanical attachment mechanism and replacing it with a solid-state slot-handle interface. The payload handle with protrusion engages directly with the slot in the delivery system, eliminating the need for moving components while maintaining secure attachment and automatic release capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system with moving parts with a geometric interlocking system. The slot and handle protrusion form a static mechanical interface that provides secure attachment during transport and automatic decoupling upon payload delivery, substituting complex mechanical mechanisms with a simpler geometric solution.
2Device complexity
If the payload coupling apparatus uses a simple slot design, then the device complexity is reduced, but the payload may re-engage with the UAV during retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by creating a slot with a specific geometric configuration that allows the handle protrusion to engage in one direction but prevents re-engagement in the reverse direction. The slot geometry is asymmetric such that the handle can pass through during payload delivery but cannot re-enter during retrieval, ensuring reliable one-way coupling.
3Reliability
If the slot extends deeply towards the center of the housing, then the payload handle is securely received, but the structure becomes more complex and may catch on obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the secure reception function at the specific location where the handle protrusion engages with the slot. The slot is positioned and dimensioned to provide secure local engagement with the handle while the rest of the housing maintains a simpler, more streamlined structure that reduces the risk of catching on obstacles during retrieval.
Data Source
AI summary
A payload coupling apparatus is provided including a housing, wherein the housing is adapted for attachment to a first end of a tether, a slot extending downwardly from an outer surface of the housing towards a center of the housing thereby forming a lower lip on the housing beneath the slot, and wherein the slot is adapted to receive a handle of a payload. A method of delivering a payload using the payload coupling apparatus is also provided.