Coupled UAV Screen Structures for Adaptive In-Flight Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional structures are static and inflexible, unable to dynamically adapt or relocate quickly in response to changing needs or environmental conditions, and existing solutions for dynamic structures are limited in their reforming ability and mobility.
Innovation Solution
The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with flexible screens and retraction devices that can form and reconfigure into dynamic structures, allowing for on-demand, mobile, and adaptive surfaces that can expand, shrink, and change shape as needed, facilitated by wireless communication and GPS navigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional structures are used, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability and mobility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the structure movable and reconfigurable through UAVs that can change positions and orientations in flight. The flexible screen transitions from a static conventional structure to a dynamic system where individual components (UAVs) can independently move and reposition themselves to reform the structure according to new requirements, thereby achieving adaptability while maintaining structural integrity through controlled movement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the structure into multiple independent UAV units, each capable of autonomous flight and positioning. This segmentation allows the overall structure to be reconfigured by moving individual segments (UAVs) to new positions, enabling adaptability while each segment maintains its own structural stability. The flexible screen is also segmented into sections that can be independently positioned by different UAVs
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible screens are extended to form structures, then adaptability and mobility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing UAVs that perform multiple functions: they serve as both the structural support framework and the propulsion system, and they can independently control their own flexible screen sections. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by eliminating the need for separate control systems and structural components, as each UAV is a self-contained unit that contributes to both the structure's mobility and its form
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service through autonomous UAVs that can independently navigate, position themselves, and adjust their flexible screen sections without requiring external control infrastructure. Each UAV autonomously manages its own movement and screen deployment, reducing the complexity of external control systems and making the overall system more mobile and adaptable
Data Source
AI summary
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and control thereof to assemble into flexible, dynamic structures. A UAV includes a flexible screen retractable between extended and retracted positions, connector(s) for coupling to another UAV that can pull the flexible screen from a retracted position to an extended position, and a coupling portion for coupling to connector(s) of yet another UAV to connect to and extend a flexible screen thereof. Chain(s) of coupled UAVs with extended flexible screens thereof form a structure that can change shape and size based on UAV movement. Local wireless communication with a group control UAV facilitates coordinated positioning and control of a UAV group. A group control UAV with a power supply and an electrical conducting lead can power UAVs of a group while it and they are in-flight, and can perform real-time management of the group UAVs in forming and maintaining a desired shape of the structure.