Retractable Tiller for UAV Ground Maneuvering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling and maneuvering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on the ground, particularly on aircraft carrier decks, face challenges such as interference from high RF energy levels and adverse weather, making precise steering and positioning difficult, and require additional equipment for movement when ground control is not available.
Innovation Solution
A retractable ground operations control device that extends with the landing gear or is deployed from a separate bay, featuring a tiller with directional, throttle, and brake controls, along with auxiliary functions, allowing ground crew to precisely maneuver UAVs without relying on remote control systems, which are susceptible to interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If remote control devices using RF or IR signals are used to steer UAVs on the ground, then control capability is provided, but precision and reliability deteriorate due to interference from high RF energy levels and adverse weather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic remote control systems (RF/IR signals) with a mechanical direct-control system. A tiller mechanism is mechanically coupled to the nose wheel steering system, allowing ground personnel to directly mechanically steer the UAV without wireless signals. This mechanical substitution eliminates susceptibility to RF interference and weather conditions that affect electronic communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The tiller acts as a mechanical intermediary between the ground operator and the UAV's steering system. Instead of using electronic signals that can be interfered with, the tiller provides a direct mechanical linkage that translates operator input into wheel steering motion, serving as a reliable mediator that bypasses electromagnetic interference channels.
2Ease of operation
If remote control systems are used for precise positioning of UAV on catapult, then control is provided, but positioning precision deteriorates due to difficulty in precise steering from remote station
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical tiller system replaces remote electronic steering control with direct mechanical coupling to the nose wheel. This allows ground personnel to apply direct physical force and sensation to the steering mechanism, enabling precise positioning on the catapult through tactile feedback and mechanical leverage rather than imprecise remote signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The tiller mechanism creates a direct mechanical connection that equalizes the control authority between the ground operator and the nose wheel steering. By eliminating the remote control interface, the system creates an equipotential control relationship where the operator's input is directly and faithfully transmitted to the steering mechanism without signal loss or interference.
3Adaptability or versatility
If ground control equipment is not available at alternate locations, then UAV can land at various locations, but ability to maneuver UAV deteriorates requiring additional tow vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV is equipped with an integrated tiller mechanism that is part of its own structure, allowing it to be self-steerable on the ground without external control equipment. The tiller is mechanically connected to the nose wheel steering system, enabling the UAV to maneuver itself at any location regardless of whether ground control equipment is available, eliminating the need for tow vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated tiller system provides universal ground maneuvering capability that works at any location without requiring specialized ground control equipment. The mechanical tiller serves multiple functions including steering, positioning, and guiding the UAV during ground operations, making the system adaptable to various locations and conditions without additional equipment requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling an aircraft during non-flying operations has a retractable tiller that extends with the nose landing gear of the aircraft. Ground crew use the control device to maneuver the aircraft for various ground-based operations. The tiller provides left and right directional input to the steering of the nose wheel. The tiller also provides throttle and brake controls, such as a twist-grip handle on the tiller. The throttle and brake controls are spring-loaded to an engine idle and braked position. Separate brakes also may be provided for additional braking control. The control device also includes various auxiliary controls for additional operations such as wing fold, tail hook extension and retraction, launch bar extension and retraction, etc. Other functions including engine start, engine shutdown, a vehicle system built in test and other functions and tests also may be provided on the control device.