UAV Continuous Track Ground Propulsion System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) lack the capability for efficient ground propulsion and payload handling, limiting their maneuverability and functionality in complex environments.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates a continuous track ground propulsion system that forms the top and bottom surfaces of the UAV, allowing it to move on various surfaces, combined with annular-shaped frames and payload clamps for enhanced maneuverability and payload handling capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional UAV designs are used, then aerial propulsion capability is achieved, but ground propulsion capability is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveground propulsion capabilityVSAvoidvehicle configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The continuous track system serves dual functions: it acts as the ground propulsion mechanism when the UAV is on the ground, and forms part of the structural framework (top and bottom surfaces) when in aerial mode. This multi-functionality allows the vehicle to achieve both ground and aerial capabilities without adding separate dedicated systems, thereby improving adaptability while controlling complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If continuous track ground propulsion devices are added, then ground movement capability is improved, but vehicle complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveterrain navigation capabilityVSAvoidpropulsion system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The continuous track is merged with the vehicle's structural frame, where the track forms the top and bottom surfaces of the UAV. This integration means the propulsion system and structural framework are combined into a single component, achieving ground movement capability without proportionally increasing overall vehicle complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If annular frame structure is used, then payload handling capability is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepayload handling capabilityVSAvoidframe construction
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The annular frame is divided into multiple modular segments or sections that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of individual components using standard fabrication processes, while the modular nature enables flexible assembly and disassembly for payload handling operations, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining payload handling capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 enables the UAV to transition seamlessly between aerial and ground movements, improving its ability to navigate diverse terrains and handle payloads effectively, enhancing its overall performance and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

the one or more air propulsion devices are configured to provide a lift force sufficient to engage the one or more ground propulsion devices against a surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLift force:

Implementation Method 2

The one or more ground propulsion devices are configured to move the unmanned aerial vehicle across the surface while the one or more air propulsion devices engage the one or more ground propulsion devices against the surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS9550400B2Unmanned aerial vehicle
Publication Date: 2017.01.24 QUALCOMM INC
  • US9550400B2 patent drawing
  • US9550400B2 patent drawing
  • US9550400B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Unmanned aerial vehicles and methods for providing the same are disclosed. The unmanned aerial vehicles may have various configurations related to a support frame. The unmanned aerial vehicles may have various configurations with a continuous track for ground propulsion. The unmanned aerial vehicles may have various configurations related to payload clamps.