UAV Winch Delivery and Nest Charging for Precise Autonomous Landing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UAV systems face challenges such as inconsistent package delivery velocities, complex control requirements for landing on small or moving targets, and laborious battery charging processes, which affect efficiency and reliability.
Innovation Solution
The UAV design includes a chassis with a power supply, control system, rotors, and auxiliary systems like a winch and carriage, featuring a severing mechanism for line management and a landing apparatus with a charging system that allows for autonomous and efficient power replenishment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the UAV lowers the package at high velocity, then the delivery time is reduced, but the package may become damaged by impact with the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The winch operates in periodic cycles: first winding the line to lift the package, then pausing, then paying out the line to lower the package. This periodic operation allows controlled velocity changes during the lowering phase, enabling the package to be delivered quickly while maintaining integrity through controlled descent speed.
2Productivity
If the line is paid out too quickly, then the delivery time is reduced, but the line may become caught or tangled
Solution Approach 1:
The winch alternates between winding and paying out the line in controlled periodic cycles. During the paying out phase, the line is released at a controlled rate that prevents tangling while still enabling relatively quick delivery. The periodic nature ensures the line remains taut and organized throughout operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the UAV lands on a small or moving target, then the operational flexibility is improved, but the control precision requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nest provides a three-dimensional target zone with vertical depth, transforming a two-dimensional small landing pad into a volumetric target. This allows the UAV to land within a larger horizontal area while still achieving precise positioning, as the vertical dimension provides additional tolerance for alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The nest structure provides physical cushioning and guidance features that assist the UAV during landing. The tapered or curved walls of the nest guide the UAV into the correct position, reducing the precision required from the control system while enabling landing on small or moving targets.
4Ease of manufacture
If the battery is removed for charging, then the charging process is simplified, but the UAV loses power and requires rebooting
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV performs self-service charging by autonomously landing on the nest, which automatically establishes electrical connection and begins charging the battery without human intervention. The system monitors charge levels and manages the entire charging process, eliminating the need for manual battery removal and reboot operations.
5Reliability
If a charge cord is attached for charging, then the charging connection is secured, but the operator must perform extra steps
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV autonomously connects to the charging system by landing on the nest, which automatically establishes the electrical connection. The system performs the entire charging process without operator intervention, combining reliable connection with ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The landing and charging functions are merged into a single operation. The UAV lands on the nest for positioning, and the electrical connection for charging is simultaneously established through the same physical interface, eliminating separate charging steps.
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 design enhances package delivery precision, simplifies landing on varied surfaces, and streamlines battery charging, improving overall UAV operational efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
at least one rotor operable to generate lift under control of the control system
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle according to certain embodiments generally includes a chassis, a power supply mounted to the chassis, a control system operable to receive power from the power supply, at least one rotor operable to generate lift under control of the control system, a line having one end coupled to the chassis and an opposite free end, wherein the free end is positioned below the chassis, and a severing mechanism operable to sever the line under control of the control system.