Deployable UAV Components for Compact Storage and Payload Expansion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current compact unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) configurations are limited in flight range, endurance, and payload capacity, which restricts their mission capabilities and deployment options.
Innovation Solution
The UAV features deployable components such as trailing-edge hinged ailerons, telescoping wings, and flexible fairings, enabling configurations for compact storage, efficient flight, and increased payload capacity through sweeping and telescoping mechanisms, along with modular payloads and propeller deployment for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If compact configurations are used to reduce space and enable deployment options, then portability and deployment flexibility are improved, but flight range, endurance, and payload capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the wing configuration changeable during operation. The wings can be deployed in multiple configurations (fully extended, partially extended, retracted) to dynamically adapt to different mission phases, thereby resolving the contradiction between compact storage and extended flight endurance
Solution Approach 2:
The wing structure is segmented into multiple sections that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the wings to be divided into stowed and deployed portions, enabling the vehicle to achieve both compact configuration for portability and extended surface area for flight endurance through selective deployment
2Volume of moving object
If compact configurations are used to reduce space, then portability is improved, but payload capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The payload bay configuration is made dynamic, allowing it to transition between compact and expanded states. This enables the vehicle to maintain small size for portability while providing sufficient payload capacity when deployed for missions
Solution Approach 2:
The payload system is segmented into modular components that can be selectively deployed. This allows the vehicle to carry payloads in a compact manner during transport while providing full payload capacity when needed for operational phases
3Duration of action of moving object
If deployable components are added to enable configuration changes, then flight endurance and payload capacity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic mechanisms that allow configuration changes through controlled movement of wing sections and payload components. These dynamic systems provide extended flight endurance through adjustable aerodynamic surfaces while managing complexity through integrated control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The wing sections are nested within each other in a telescoping arrangement, allowing compact storage when retracted and extended configuration when deployed. This nesting mechanism provides extended flight capability while minimizing the complexity of separate storage and deployment systems
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle with deployable components (UAVDC) is disclosed. The UAVDC may comprise a fuselage, at least one wing, and at least one control surface. In some embodiments, the UAVDC may further comprise a propulsion means and/or a modular payload. The UAVDC may be configured in a plurality of arrangements. For example, in a compact arrangement, the UAVDC may comprise the at least one wing stowed against the fuselage and the at least one control surface stowed against the fuselage. In a deployed arrangement, the UAVDC may comprise the at least one wing deployed from the fuselage and the least one control surface deployed from the fuselage. In an expanded arrangement, the UAVDC may comprise the at least one wing telescoped to increase a wingspan of the deployed arrangement.