Autonomous Anchoring and Powering for VTOL Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for anchoring and powering Vertical-Take-Off-and-Landing (VTOL) Aerial Vehicles (AVs) require manual intervention, which is inconvenient, time-consuming, and poses safety risks, especially in severe weather.
Innovation Solution
The AVAAP technology employs two main assemblies: the AV Assembly attached to the underside of the AVs and the Receiver Assembly installed in Parking Pads. These assemblies work together to automatically and autonomously anchor and power AVs upon landing and un-anchor and disconnect power upon take-off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual anchoring and powering systems are used for VTOL AVs, then the systems can be implemented with existing technology, but the process is time-consuming and requires human assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables VTOL AVs to autonomously anchor and power themselves without human assistance. The AV controller automatically activates the anchoring system upon landing and disconnects it upon takeoff, allowing the system to serve itself through automated decision-making and execution of anchoring/disconnection sequences
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system is designed to work with multiple types of VTOL AVs and can be integrated into various platform configurations. The universal interface and control protocol allow different AV manufacturers to utilize the same anchoring technology, reducing overall system complexity through standardization
2Reliability
If manual anchoring procedures are used, then the system implementation is simpler, but safety risks increase in severe weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor wind speed, weather conditions, and AV position. This feedback is processed by the AV controller to automatically adjust anchoring forces and activate warning systems, ensuring reliable anchoring in severe weather without requiring manual intervention or complex operational procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical anchoring operations with an automated electro-mechanical system. Electric motors and automated cable tensioning mechanisms substitute for manual cranking and positioning, improving both reliability in adverse conditions and operational ease through remote or autonomous control
3Productivity
If automated anchoring systems are implemented, then operational efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions anchoring components and pre-charges hydraulic or electric systems during AV approach and landing. By preparing the anchoring mechanism in advance rather than activating it from a cold state, the system reduces actual anchoring time while avoiding the need for overly complex high-power instantaneous actuation systems
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system combines multiple functions into integrated assemblies - merging the anchoring mechanism, power connection system, and control electronics into unified modules. This consolidation speeds up operations by eliminating sequential manual steps while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate independent systems
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and associated methodology contemplating AVAAP technology including (1) an “AV Assembly” which can be attached to the underside of a VTOL AV, and (2) the “Receiver Assembly” which can be attached to a Bollard Assembly installed in a Parking Pad. The two main assemblies, including their associated elements, components and parts, work together to automatically and autonomously anchor (secure) a VTOL AV to a Parking Pad just after landing, as well as automatically and autonomously un-anchor the AV from the Parking Pad just prior to take-off. Further, the two main assemblies of the claimed technology, to include their associated elements, components and parts, work together to automatically and autonomously connect electric grid power to a VTOL AV upon landing, and automatically and autonomously disconnect electric grid power from the AV upon take-off.