UAV Pushing Motor and Propeller Assembly for Extended Flight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face limitations in extending flight duration and efficiency, particularly in horizontal flight, due to power consumption and weight distribution issues related to propeller configuration and material usage.
Innovation Solution
The configuration includes lifting motors, a pushing motor and propeller assembly oriented at approximately ninety degrees to the lifting motors, and the use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber and thermally conductive materials for the frame and components, along with aerodynamic design and modular wiring systems to reduce weight and enhance efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If multi-propeller configuration is used for UAV, then lifting capability is improved, but power consumption increases and flight duration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines lifting and horizontal propulsion functions into a single integrated propeller assembly. The propeller operates in lifting mode during vertical takeoff and hovering, then transitions to horizontal propulsion mode during forward flight, eliminating the need for separate lifting and propulsion systems and reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration of the propeller assembly, allowing it to change orientation and function during flight. The assembly can be tilted and rotated to switch between vertical lifting mode and horizontal propulsion mode, optimizing performance for each flight phase while minimizing energy consumption.
2Strength
If traditional frame materials are used for UAV, then structural strength is ensured, but weight increases and flight efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes composite materials for the UAV frame construction, combining lightweight materials with high strength-to-weight ratio. This allows the frame to maintain structural integrity while significantly reducing overall weight, thereby improving flight efficiency and extending operational duration.
3Measurement precision
If complex wiring systems are used for multi-propeller UAV, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases and maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control system that manages both lifting and horizontal propulsion functions through integrated control electronics. The same control unit and communication bus handle commands for all propeller assemblies regardless of their current mode, simplifying the wiring architecture while maintaining precise control over multiple functions.
4Ease of manufacture
If propeller assembly is fixed for UAV, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability decreases and flight efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the propeller assembly with dynamic adjustability, allowing it to change orientation and function during flight. The assembly can be tilted and rotated to switch between vertical lifting mode and horizontal propulsion mode, optimizing performance for each flight phase while maintaining a relatively simple base structure that doesn't overly complicate manufacturing.
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
This configuration improves flight duration and efficiency by reducing power consumption and weight, allowing for extended horizontal flight with reduced rotational speed of lifting motors and enhanced aerodynamics, while enabling easy maintenance and component replacement.
Implementation Method 1
a pushing motor and propeller assembly oriented at approximately ninety degrees to the lifting motors
Implementation Method 2
lifting motors, a pushing motor and propeller assembly
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
This disclosure describes a configuration of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that will facilitate extended flight duration. The UAV may have any number of lifting motors. For example, the UAV may include four lifting motors (also known as a quad-copter), eight lifting motors (octo-copter), etc. Likewise, to improve the efficiency of horizontal flight, the UAV also includes a pushing motor and propeller assembly that is oriented at approximately ninety degrees to one or more of the lifting motors. When the UAV is moving horizontally, the pushing motor may be engaged and the pushing propeller will aid in the horizontal propulsion of the UAV.