UAV Retrieval via Projectile Launching for Tree Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack an effective and accurate way to retrieve unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) stuck in trees, especially at heights above 20 to 30 feet, as existing grasping devices can disrupt UAV flight dynamics and require precise positioning.
Innovation Solution
A retrieval UAV system equipped with a remote launching unit (RLU) that deploys a tethered projectile, such as a grappling hook, to retrieve the stuck UAV, minimizing dynamic movements and using AI and camera feeds for precise targeting and trajectory optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a sophisticated grasping device (such as a robotic arm) is used to retrieve a stuck UAV, then the retrieval capability is improved, but the flight dynamics of the UAV are disrupted and positioning precision is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the grasping function from the flight platform by using a separate retrieval UAV to launch a projectile at the stuck UAV. This separation eliminates the interference of complex grasping mechanisms on the flight dynamics of the retrieval platform, while still achieving effective retrieval capability through the projectile-based approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a projectile as an intermediary element between the retrieval UAV and the stuck UAV. Instead of direct contact with complex mechanical arms, the projectile serves as a mediating object that transfers the retrieval action, minimizing disruption to flight dynamics while maintaining retrieval effectiveness.
2Reliability
If a less kinematic grasping device (such as robotic pinchers) is used, then the flight dynamics impact is reduced, but the positioning capability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical grasping systems with a projectile-based approach. Instead of using mechanical arms or pinchers that require precise positioning, the system uses a launched projectile that can reach the stuck UAV from a distance, significantly reducing positioning requirements while maintaining flight stability.
3Loss of time
If traditional retrieval methods are used for UAVs stuck at heights above 20 to 30 feet, then manual intervention is required, but time consumption increases and retrieval efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated retrieval system where the retrieval UAV autonomously navigates to the stuck UAV, launches a projectile, and completes the retrieval operation without human intervention. This self-service capability dramatically reduces retrieval time and increases productivity compared to manual methods.
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 efficient and accurate retrieval of UAVs from difficult locations without significantly impacting the flight dynamics of the retrieval UAV, saving time and equipment, and allowing for automated or manual dislodging of the stuck UAV.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to launch the launching device
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems, methods, and devices for recovering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), such as UAVs that are trapped in an obstacle such as a tree. In particular, a method is described, the method including determining location parameters associated with a trapped UAV; navigating to the proximity of the UAV; determining launching parameters and a target associated with the launch of a launching device; and causing the launch of a launching device towards the target. The launching device may include a tether, such that a user may pull on the tether to dislodge the trapped UAV from the tree.