UAV Wing Deployment via Aerodynamic Forces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UAV deployment systems, including tube deployment systems, rely on heavy and unreliable springs or motors to deploy wings and aerodynamic surfaces, which result in weight penalties and potential failure.
Innovation Solution
The method involves launching a UAV and deploying at least one portion of the wing assembly from a stowed configuration to a deployed configuration using aerodynamic forces, potentially with minimal assistance from a spring or motor, without the need for traditional deployment mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If springs or motors are used to deploy wing assemblies, then the wings can be deployed to a deployed configuration, but the weight of the UAV increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the spring or motor components from the deployment system entirely. The wing assembly is designed to deploy automatically using aerodynamic forces generated during flight, eliminating the need for separate deployment actuators. This extraction of heavy and potentially failure-prone components directly reduces UAV weight while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The wing assembly deploys itself using aerodynamic forces generated by the UAV's flight. The design includes features such as aerodynamic surfaces and force-applying elements that automatically generate the necessary forces to transition the wing from stowed to deployed configuration without external assistance, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating dependency on additional mechanical components.
2Reliability
If springs or motors are used to deploy wing assemblies, then the wings can be deployed reliably, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates complex deployment mechanisms by removing springs, motors, and associated control systems. The wing assembly relies on aerodynamic forces and inherent structural design to achieve deployment, significantly reducing the number of components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment function is achieved through the natural aerodynamic environment during flight rather than through complex mechanical systems. The wing assembly uses aerodynamic surfaces and force-applying elements that automatically interact with the airflow to generate deployment forces, eliminating the need for complex control mechanisms.
3Productivity
If traditional deployment mechanisms are used, then the wings can be deployed, but the payload capacity is reduced due to weight penalties
Solution Approach 1:
By removing springs, motors, and associated deployment mechanisms, the patent eliminates the weight penalty associated with traditional deployment systems. This weight reduction directly increases the available payload capacity of the UAV while maintaining the ability to deploy wings effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The wing deployment system uses the UAV's own flight dynamics and aerodynamic forces to achieve deployment, rather than requiring separate powered systems. This self-service approach eliminates the need for additional weight-carrying components, maximizing payload capacity.
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 approach reduces the weight and complexity of UAV deployment systems, enhances reliability by eliminating potential motor or spring failures, and allows for more efficient use of payload capacity.
Implementation Method 1
deflecting an aerodynamic control surface on the at least one portion of the wing assembly to cause an aerodynamic force to move the at least one portion of the wing assembly into the deployed configuration
Implementation Method 2
The inboard portion and the outboard portion form a lifting surface configured to provide aerodynamic lift for the UAV
Data Source
AI summary
A method of deploying an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes launching a UAV and deploying at least one portion of a wing assembly from a stowed configuration to a deployed configuration in which the at least one portion of the wing assembly extends away from a body of the UAV. Deploying the portion of the wing assembly, which may be an outboard portion of a wing assembly, includes deflecting an aerodynamic control surface on the at least one portion of the wing assembly to cause an aerodynamic force to move the portion of the wing assembly into the deployed configuration without assistance from a spring or motor. An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a UAV having a body and a plurality of wing assemblies carried by the body, at least a portion of a wing assembly is deployable using aerodynamic forces and without assistance form a spring or motor.