UAV Propeller Snap-Fit Locking Against Vibration Loosening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional propeller systems face issues with loose connections between the base and driving shaft during abrupt speed changes or large vibrations, leading to blade ejection, which requires special tools for disassembly.

Innovation Solution

The propulsion system incorporates a locking member with snap-fitting members and an elastic abutting member, along with installation foolproof members, to securely attach the propeller to the driving device, preventing loose connections and blade ejection while allowing easy disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If tight fitting threads are used to fix the base and driving shaft, then the connection is strong during normal operation, but the connection becomes loose during abrupt speed changes or large vibrations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic snap-fitting connection that can adapt to operational conditions. The snap-fitting member can deform elastically under load and maintain contact pressure, allowing the connection to remain reliable during abrupt speed changes and vibrations while keeping the structure simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the connection mechanism from threaded engagement to snap-fitting engagement, fundamentally altering how the base and driving shaft connect. This parameter change enables the connection to maintain strength under dynamic conditions without requiring complex threading, while the elastic deformation of the snap-fitting member provides continuous contact pressure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If tight fitting threads are used to fix the base and driving shaft, then the connection is secure during normal operation, but special tools are required for disassembly when blades are ejected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoiddisassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the connection mechanism into a propeller, a locking member with snap-fitting members, and a base. This segmentation allows the propeller to be quickly released by simply pulling it off the driving shaft when blades are ejected, eliminating the need for special disassembly tools while maintaining secure connection during normal operation through the snap-fitting mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If a locking mechanism with snap-fitting members is used, then disassembly is easy, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisassembly easeVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the locking function and the connection function into a single snap-fitting member structure. The locking member with snap-fitting members simultaneously provides secure attachment during operation and easy release during disassembly, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and reducing overall structural complexity despite the added functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The solution provides a secure locking mechanism that maintains propeller attachment during operation and facilitates easy disassembly, preventing blade ejection and ensuring reliable operation.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic abutting member sleeve coupled with the driving shaft

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The locking member includes at least one snap-fitting member. The at least one snap-fitting member is configured to snap-fit with the propeller

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS11021232B2Driving device, propeller, and propulsion system
Publication Date: 2021.06.01 SZ DJI TECH CO LTD
  • US11021232B2 patent drawing
  • US11021232B2 patent drawing
  • US11021232B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An unmanned aerial vehicle includes a propulsion system including a driving device having a main body, a driving shaft rotatable relative to the main body, and a locking member disposed on the main body. The locking member includes at least one snap-fitting member. The propulsion system also includes a propeller coupled with the driving device, the propeller including a blade base and a blade mounted on the blade base. The at least one snap-fitting member is configured to snap-fit with the propeller. The propulsion system also includes an elastic abutting member sleeve coupled with the driving shaft, a first installation foolproof member disposed on the blade base, and a second installation foolproof member disposed on the locking member.