ABSTRACT
Abstract
A drone system and method for deploying and autonomously refuelling. The drone system includes a base station and a drone. The base station and drone are configured for autonomous refuelling when the drone has landed in the base station. The base station also provides portability and security of the drone.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
This patent application is a continuation of co-pending PCT Application No. PCT/AU2022/051196, filed Oct. 6, 2022, which is now pending, and which claims the benefit of Australian Application No. 2021903218, filed Oct. 7, 2021, the entire teachings and disclosure each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a drone system and method therefor and in particular to a remotely operable drone system.
The invention has been developed primarily for use in/with operation in remote areas for surveying or inspection, and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
At present, drones are being increasingly used. Drones are used in many different industries such as in mining, defense and in monitoring agricultural fields or monitoring a structure's integrity such as a wind turbine. A drone may be fully electric, meaning an onboard battery is used to power one or more electric motors. Alternatively, a drone may be power by an internal combustion engine. An internal combustion engine powered drone is typically favored when more range is required.
Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention seeks to provide a portable base station and hybrid drone which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.
Base Station
Disclosed herein is a portable base station for use with a hybrid drone, the base station comprising:
a. a cover arrangement to at least partially shield the hybrid drone when the hybrid drone is in a received position; b. an alignment formation configured for guiding the hybrid drone to the received position; and c. an autonomous refueling mechanism adapted to align with a refuelling port on the drone for autonomously refuelling the hybrid drone in use.
In one embodiment, the autonomous refuelling mechanism includes an autonomous refuelling connection mechanism.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a communications interface for communicating with the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the communications interface is configured for communicating with the hybrid drone in one or more selected from:
a. a local area network; and b. a wide area network.
In one embodiment, the communication interface is configured for communication via a wide area network.
In one embodiment, the communication interface is configured for communication via one or more selected form:
a. a cellular network; b. a satellite network; and c. any other suitable wide area network.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a docking arrangement adapted for docking with the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the docking arrangement includes an alignment formation adapted for guiding the hybrid drone to engage with the autonomous refuelling mechanism.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is configured for engaging with an engaging formation on the hybrid drone on docking.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is a recess.
In one embodiment, the recess defines at least one or more sides.
In one embodiment, the sides of the recess extend downwardly at an acute angle to the horizontal in use.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation are symmetrical.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is configured for nesting with an engaging formation on the hybrid drone on docking.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is inverted frustoconical in shape.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is pyramidal in shape.
In one embodiment, the docking arrangement is at least partly surrounded by a platform.
In one embodiment, the platform includes apertures adapted to reduce wash from propeller blades of the autonomous drone.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a cover arrangement adapted to cover the docking arrangement.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is slidably openable.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is pivotably openable.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is movable between an:
a. open condition in which the autonomous refuelling mechanism is accessible by the drone on docking, and b. a closed condition.
In one embodiment, when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition the drone may be covered from the elements.
In one embodiment, when the cover arrangement is in its open condition the drone can launch.
In one embodiment, when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition, it is configured for at least partly covering one or more selected from
a. the docking arrangement, and b. the refuelling mechanism.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is configured to cover a docked drone when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement prevents access by the hybrid drone to the docking arrangement when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement includes at least one or more moveable panels.
In one embodiment, the moveable panels are moveable between an open position and a closed position.
In one embodiment, when the closed position of the moveable panels corresponds to the closed condition of the cover arrangement.
In one embodiment, when the open position of the moveable panels corresponds to the open condition of the cover arrangement.
In one embodiment, the panels are slidingly moveable.
In one embodiment, the panels are pivotably moveable.
In one embodiment, the panels are angled to the horizontal.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement comprises a pair of opposed sliding panels.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement comprises a pair of opposed pivoting panels.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is configured to secure a hybrid drone in position for travelling when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
In one embodiment, the sliding panels move downwardly and outwardly from their closed condition to their open condition.
In one embodiment, the pivoting panels pivot outwardly from their closed condition to their open condition.
In one embodiment, the base station includes solar panels.
In one embodiment, the solar panels are mounted to the movable panels.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a power storage device.
In one embodiment, the docking arrangement includes one or more selected from an electromagnetic frequency transmitter and an electromagnetic frequency sensor for transmitting or sensing an electromagnetic frequency signal to or from the hybrid drone to assist with landing.
In one embodiment, the base station includes at least one exhaust arrangement adapted to extract fuel fumes from the vicinity of the autonomous refuelling mechanism.
In one embodiment, the exhaust arrangement includes an exhaust fan.
In one embodiment, the communications interface is a wireless communications interface adapted to communicate with the hybrid drone in use.
In one embodiment, the base station includes an inductive charging device adapted to charge a power storage device of the hybrid drone by a complementary drone inductive charging device when the hybrid drone is docked.
In one embodiment, the autonomous refuelling mechanism includes a fuel tank.
In one embodiment, the fuel capacity of the fuel tank is proportional to the fuel consumed in the average serviceable life of an internal combustion engine of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the autonomous refuelling mechanism includes a first magnetic connector configured for autonomous connection with a complementary magnetic connector on the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the first magnetic connector is associated with a fuel passage from the fuel tank of the base station.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a weather station configured for retrieving and/or detecting the ambient weather conditions.
In one embodiment, the weather station is configured for retrieving the weather conditions from an online resource.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a housing configured for housing one or more selected from the refuelling mechanism and the docking arrangement.
In one embodiment, the housing includes an insulative lining for insulating the interior of the housing from radiative heat from the sun.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a fire extinguishing system.
In one embodiment, the fire extinguishing system is automated.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a drone locking system configured for securing the drone during transport.
In one embodiment, the drone locking system is automated.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a fireproof frame.
In one embodiment, the base station includes an outer fireproof cladding.
In one embodiment, the base station includes at least one or more wheels.
In one embodiment, the base station includes including a tow coupler.
In one embodiment, the base station includes an electrical power storage device.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a generator.
In one embodiment, the generator is configured for maintaining the charge of the electrical power storage device.
In one embodiment, the electrical power storage device is configured for feeding electrical power to the inductive charging device.
Controller
In one embodiment, the base station includes a controller.
The base station of any one of the preceding claims, including one or more sensors.
In one embodiment, the sensors include one or more selected from:
a. a proximity sensor; b. a temperature sensor; c. fuel level sensor; d. pressure sensor; e. moisture sensor; f. humidity sensor; g. geopositoning sensor; h. distance sensor; i. light sensor; and j. any other suitable sensor.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. receiving signals from the sensors.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. detecting the docking of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. detecting the connection of the fuel passage from the fuel tank to the fuel passage of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. detecting the fuel level of the fuel tank.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. actuating a fuel pump to transfer fuel from the fuel tank to the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. receiving a weather signal from the weather station
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. determining whether conditions are safe for the flying of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. generating an alert signal in the event that conditions are not safe for the flying of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
This patent application is a continuation of co-pending PCT Application No. PCT/AU2022/051196, filed Oct. 6, 2022, which is now pending, and which claims the benefit of Australian Application No. 2021903218, filed Oct. 7, 2021, the entire teachings and disclosure each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a drone system and method therefor and in particular to a remotely operable drone system.
The invention has been developed primarily for use in/with operation in remote areas for surveying or inspection, and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
At present, drones are being increasingly used. Drones are used in many different industries such as in mining, defense and in monitoring agricultural fields or monitoring a structure's integrity such as a wind turbine. A drone may be fully electric, meaning an onboard battery is used to power one or more electric motors. Alternatively, a drone may be power by an internal combustion engine. An internal combustion engine powered drone is typically favored when more range is required.
Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention seeks to provide a portable base station and hybrid drone which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.
Base Station
Disclosed herein is a portable base station for use with a hybrid drone, the base station comprising:
a. a cover arrangement to at least partially shield the hybrid drone when the hybrid drone is in a received position; b. an alignment formation configured for guiding the hybrid drone to the received position; and c. an autonomous refueling mechanism adapted to align with a refuelling port on the drone for autonomously refuelling the hybrid drone in use.
In one embodiment, the autonomous refuelling mechanism includes an autonomous refuelling connection mechanism.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a communications interface for communicating with the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the communications interface is configured for communicating with the hybrid drone in one or more selected from:
a. a local area network; and b. a wide area network.
In one embodiment, the communication interface is configured for communication via a wide area network.
In one embodiment, the communication interface is configured for communication via one or more selected form:
a. a cellular network; b. a satellite network; and c. any other suitable wide area network.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a docking arrangement adapted for docking with the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the docking arrangement includes an alignment formation adapted for guiding the hybrid drone to engage with the autonomous refuelling mechanism.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is configured for engaging with an engaging formation on the hybrid drone on docking.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is a recess.
In one embodiment, the recess defines at least one or more sides.
In one embodiment, the sides of the recess extend downwardly at an acute angle to the horizontal in use.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation are symmetrical.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is configured for nesting with an engaging formation on the hybrid drone on docking.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is inverted frustoconical in shape.
In one embodiment, the alignment formation is pyramidal in shape.
In one embodiment, the docking arrangement is at least partly surrounded by a platform.
In one embodiment, the platform includes apertures adapted to reduce wash from propeller blades of the autonomous drone.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a cover arrangement adapted to cover the docking arrangement.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is slidably openable.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is pivotably openable.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is movable between an:
a. open condition in which the autonomous refuelling mechanism is accessible by the drone on docking, and b. a closed condition.
In one embodiment, when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition the drone may be covered from the elements.
In one embodiment, when the cover arrangement is in its open condition the drone can launch.
In one embodiment, when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition, it is configured for at least partly covering one or more selected from
a. the docking arrangement, and b. the refuelling mechanism.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is configured to cover a docked drone when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement prevents access by the hybrid drone to the docking arrangement when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement includes at least one or more moveable panels.
In one embodiment, the moveable panels are moveable between an open position and a closed position.
In one embodiment, when the closed position of the moveable panels corresponds to the closed condition of the cover arrangement.
In one embodiment, when the open position of the moveable panels corresponds to the open condition of the cover arrangement.
In one embodiment, the panels are slidingly moveable.
In one embodiment, the panels are pivotably moveable.
In one embodiment, the panels are angled to the horizontal.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement comprises a pair of opposed sliding panels.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement comprises a pair of opposed pivoting panels.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement is configured to secure a hybrid drone in position for travelling when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
In one embodiment, the sliding panels move downwardly and outwardly from their closed condition to their open condition.
In one embodiment, the pivoting panels pivot outwardly from their closed condition to their open condition.
In one embodiment, the base station includes solar panels.
In one embodiment, the solar panels are mounted to the movable panels.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a power storage device.
In one embodiment, the docking arrangement includes one or more selected from an electromagnetic frequency transmitter and an electromagnetic frequency sensor for transmitting or sensing an electromagnetic frequency signal to or from the hybrid drone to assist with landing.
In one embodiment, the base station includes at least one exhaust arrangement adapted to extract fuel fumes from the vicinity of the autonomous refuelling mechanism.
In one embodiment, the exhaust arrangement includes an exhaust fan.
In one embodiment, the communications interface is a wireless communications interface adapted to communicate with the hybrid drone in use.
In one embodiment, the base station includes an inductive charging device adapted to charge a power storage device of the hybrid drone by a complementary drone inductive charging device when the hybrid drone is docked.
In one embodiment, the autonomous refuelling mechanism includes a fuel tank.
In one embodiment, the fuel capacity of the fuel tank is proportional to the fuel consumed in the average serviceable life of an internal combustion engine of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the autonomous refuelling mechanism includes a first magnetic connector configured for autonomous connection with a complementary magnetic connector on the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the first magnetic connector is associated with a fuel passage from the fuel tank of the base station.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a weather station configured for retrieving and/or detecting the ambient weather conditions.
In one embodiment, the weather station is configured for retrieving the weather conditions from an online resource.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a housing configured for housing one or more selected from the refuelling mechanism and the docking arrangement.
In one embodiment, the housing includes an insulative lining for insulating the interior of the housing from radiative heat from the sun.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a fire extinguishing system.
In one embodiment, the fire extinguishing system is automated.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a drone locking system configured for securing the drone during transport.
In one embodiment, the drone locking system is automated.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a fireproof frame.
In one embodiment, the base station includes an outer fireproof cladding.
In one embodiment, the base station includes at least one or more wheels.
In one embodiment, the base station includes including a tow coupler.
In one embodiment, the base station includes an electrical power storage device.
In one embodiment, the base station includes a generator.
In one embodiment, the generator is configured for maintaining the charge of the electrical power storage device.
In one embodiment, the electrical power storage device is configured for feeding electrical power to the inductive charging device.
Controller
In one embodiment, the base station includes a controller.
The base station of any one of the preceding claims, including one or more sensors.
In one embodiment, the sensors include one or more selected from:
a. a proximity sensor; b. a temperature sensor; c. fuel level sensor; d. pressure sensor; e. moisture sensor; f. humidity sensor; g. geopositoning sensor; h. distance sensor; i. light sensor; and j. any other suitable sensor.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. receiving signals from the sensors.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. detecting the docking of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. detecting the connection of the fuel passage from the fuel tank to the fuel passage of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. detecting the fuel level of the fuel tank.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. actuating a fuel pump to transfer fuel from the fuel tank to the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. receiving a weather signal from the weather station
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. determining whether conditions are safe for the flying of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. generating an alert signal in the event that conditions are not safe for the flying of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. actuating movement of the cover arrangement.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. transmitting the alert signal to a remote operator of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. receiving a control signal from a remote operator for the control of the drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. transmitting the control signal to the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. receiving a flight path signal indicative of the flight path to be flown by the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. controlling operation of the hybrid drone via the communications interface to fly the hybrid drone along the flight path.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. actuating movement of the covering arrangement between its open condition and its closed condition.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. determining the amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank of the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. generating an alert signal if the remaining fuel in the fuel tank is approaching the amount of fuel required to return the hybrid drone to the base station.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. actuating the hybrid drone to return to the base station.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. controlling the flight of the hybrid drone to return to the base station.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. receiving flight mission data indicative of the flight path to be flown by the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. transmitting the flight mission data to the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. controlling the flight of the drone to follow the flight path indicated by the flight mission data.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. receiving area details of an area to be surveyed by the hybrid drone.
In one embodiment, the controller is configured for:
a. calculating a flight path for the drone from the area details.
In one embodiment, the autonomous refuelling mechanism is aligned with the refueling port on the hybrid drone, when the cover arrangement is in the closed position.
In one embodiment, the fuel line on the base station is attached to the cover arrangement and first magnetic connector extends toward the hybrid drone from the cover arrangement, when the cover is in the closed position.
In one embodiment, in the closed position, the first magnetic connector and the complementary magnetic connector connect, thereby allowing fuel to flow from fuel tank of the base station through the fuel line and into the fuel tank of the drone, during refuelling.
A docking arrangement for receiving and guiding a drone into a docking position, the docking arrangement comprising:
a. a recessed alignment formation configured for receiving and guiding a locating formation on a hybrid drone to accurately guide the hybrid drone to land on a recessed base.
In one embodiment, the recessed alignment formation is includes tapered sidewalls extending downwardly to the recess base.
In one embodiment, the recessed alignment formation is surrounded by a platform.
In one embodiment, the recessed alignment formation is configured as one or more selected from:
i. an inverted pyramid shape; and ii. an inverted frusto-conical shape.
In one embodiment, the inverted pyramid shape is a hexagonal pyramid shape.
In one embodiment, the docking arrangement further comprises an inductive charging mechanism configured for inductively charging a complementary inductive charging mechanism on the drone.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for docking a drone, the method comprising the steps of:
a. locating a drone above a base station alignment formation, the alignment formation being configured as a concave recess, the drone including a shaped aligning formation extending underneath a body; b. lowering the drone to engage at least a part of the aligning formation with an inner surface of the alignment formation, thereby causing the alignment formation to guide the drone to land on a base.
In one embodiment, alignment formation includes tapered sidewalls extending downwardly to the base.
In one embodiment, the tapered sidewalls extended an acute angle to the horizontal.
In one embodiment, the base is a flat plane.
In one embodiment, the shaped aligning formation is one or more selected from:
a. circular; b. rectangular; c. pentagonal; d. hexagonal e. septagonal; f. and octagonal.
In one embodiment, the shaped aligning formation extends in a horizontal orientation in use.
In one embodiment, the shaped aligning formation extends downwardly from the body in use.
In one embodiment, the method includes the step of autonomously coupling a fuel line connector associated with the drone with a fuel line connector associated with the portable base station.
In one embodiment, the method includes the step of magnetically coupling the fuel line connector associated with the drone with the fuel connector associated with portable base station.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for docking a drone, the method comprising the steps of:
a. locating a drone above a base station alignment formation, the alignment formation being configured as a frusto-conical recess, the drone including a shaped aligning formation located underneath a body; b. lowering the drone to engage at least a part of the circular aligning formation with an inner surface of the alignment formation, thereby causing the alignment formation to guide the drone to land on a base.
In one embodiment, the base is a flat plane.
In one embodiment, the shaped aligning formation is circular.
In one embodiment, the shaped aligning formation extends in a horizontal orientation.
In one embodiment, the shaped aligning formation extends downwardly from the body.
In one embodiment, the method includes the step of autonomously coupling a fuel line connector associated with the drone with a fuel line connector associated with the portable base station.
In one embodiment, the method includes the step of magnetically coupling the fuel line connector associated with the drone with the fuel connector associated with portable base station.
Also disclosed herein is a method of landing an autonomous drone, the method comprising the steps of:
a. generating a beam of electromagnetic radiation of a particular frequency range from one selected from a drone and a base station; b. sensing, using a sensor, the generated beam on the other selected from the drone and the base station; c. controlling movement of the drone to align the generated beam and the sensor; and d. landing the drone on the base station.
In one embodiment, the step of sensing the beam includes the step of sensing one or more characteristics of the generated beam.
In one embodiment, the step of sensing the beam includes the step of sensing one or more characteristics of the reflected beam.
In one embodiment, the step of controlling movement of the drone to align the beam and the sensor comprises the step of controlling movement of the drone to increase the sensed intensity of the generated beam.
Also disclosed herein is a cover arrangement for a drone landing area, the cover arrangement comprising:
a. at least one moveable panel movable to a side of the drone landing area, the sliding panel being aligned at a downwardly slanted angle away from the landing area.
In one embodiment, the cover arrangement comprises a pair of opposed moveable panels movable to either side of the landing area.
In one embodiment the opposed panes are slidably moveable.
In one embodiment the opposed panels are pivotably moveable.
Also disclosed herein is a method of autonomously refuelling a drone on a base station, the method comprising the steps of:
a. guiding a landing drone to a landing area; b. autonomously connecting the fuel line of the drone to a fuel line on the base station; and c. actuating a fuel pump to refuel the drone.
In one embodiment, the method includes the step of:
a. actuating an inductive charging device on the base station to charge an electrical power storage device on the drone via a complementary inductive charging device on the drone.
In one embodiment, the method includes the step of:
a. receiving a signal indicative of the fuel level in a fuel tank on the drone.
Process for Launching Drone
Also disclosed herein is a method for launching an autonomous hybrid drone, the method comprising the steps of:
a. checking fuel levels in fuel tank; b. uploading flight data for at least one flight mission; c. performing preflight checks for preparation for flight; d. actuating starter motor; and e. launching the drone for flight.
In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of determining a flight path for the flight mission.
In one embodiment, the step of determining a flight path for the flight mission is carried out automatically, using an initial set of parameters.
In one embodiment, the initial set of parameters includes one or more selected from:
a. details of an area to be surveyed; b. details of the starting location of the drone; and c. terrain data.
Also disclosed herein is a method for monitoring an autonomous drone, the method comprising the steps of:
a. determine fuel level in drone; b. determine distance of drone from base station; c. calculate time required to return to drone based on one or more selected from:
i. the fuel level in the drone; and ii. the distance of the drone from the base station; and iii. ambient conditions.
Also disclosed herein is a system for remotely controlling a drone, the system comprising:
a. a base station as described; b. a hybrid drone as described; c. a communication system configured for receiving video feed from the hybrid drone via the base station, and for transmitting control signals to the hybrid drone via the base station.
Hybrid Drone
Also disclosed herein is a hybrid drone comprising:
a. a plurality of propellers oriented to allow vertical take-off and landing (VTOL); b. one or more electric motors configured to rotate the plurality of propellers; c. an energy storage device for powering the one or more electric motors; d. an electrical power generation device for charging the energy storage device; e. a combustion engine for driving the electrical power generation device; and f. a fuel tank to store fuel for the combustion engine,
wherein the fuel tank is configured for receiving fuel from a base station autonomously.
In one embodiment, the electrical power generation device includes one or more selected from:
a. a prime mover operatively coupled to a generator to generate electrical power; and b. a fuel cell.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone further includes an electrical power storage device.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone further includes a fuselage housing at least a hybrid engine and a fuel tank.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone further includes at least one or more sensors for sensing one or more terrain and/or building characteristics.
In one embodiment, the at least one or more sensors includes one or more selected from
a. a camera for capturing images; b. a radar sensor; c. a lidar sensor; d. an acoustic sensor; and e. any other suitable sensor.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone further includes a locating arrangement adapted to locate with an alignment arrangement of a portable base station for positioning the hybrid drone for refuelling.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone further includes a communications interface for communicating with the portable base station; and
In one embodiment, the the fuel tank includes a refuelling member, the refuelling member includes a complementary magnetic connector, the complementary magnetic connector being adapter to connect with a first magnetic connector of the base station, such that during refuelling, fuel can be supplied to the fuel tank via the first magnetic connector, the complementary magnetic connector and the refuelling member.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone further includes a hybrid starter motor and alternator.
In one embodiment, the drone includes an inductive charging mechanism configured for charging the electrical power storage device on being inductively stimulated by a complementary inductive charging device associated with the portable base station.
In one embodiment, the hybrid engine is adapted for detachable release with the fuselage.
In one embodiment, the drone includes a real time fuel monitoring system adapted to determine when the drone needs to return to the base station for refuelling.
In one embodiment, the drone fuel tank is a bladder arrangement.
In one embodiment, the at least one camera is an oblique camera.
In one embodiment, the drone includes an exhaust system having an outlet directed away from the at least one or more sensors.
In one embodiment, one or more selected from the fuel cell, the prime mover and the generator are adapted for convenient release from the drone to enable convenient swapping in with a replacement fuel cell, prime mover and/or generator.
In one embodiment, the generator is configured for powering the electric motors directly.
In one embodiment, the generator is configured for charging the battery with excess electrical power generated.
In one embodiment, the battery is configured for supplementing and/or smoothing electrical power being supplied to the electrical motors by the generator.
Disclosed herein is a hybrid drone comprising:
a. a plurality of propellers oriented to allow vertical take-off and landing (VTOL); b. one or more electric motors configured to rotate the plurality of propellers; c. an energy storage device for powering the one or more electric motors; d. an electrical power generation device for charging the energy storage device; e. a fuel tank to store fuel for the electrical power generation device, wherein the fuel tank is configured for receiving fuel from a base station autonomously.
In one embodiment, the electrical power generation device includes one or more selected from:
a. a combustion engine operatively coupled to a generator to generate electrical power; and b. a fuel cell to generate electrical power.
Also disclosed herein is a hybrid drone including:
a. at least one or more electric motors configured for being driven by electrical power, the electric motors being configured for driving at least one or more propellers; b. at least one or more cameras configured for taking one or more selected from photos and videos from the drone in-flight; c. an electrical generator; d. an prime mover configured for driving the electrical generator to thereby directly or indirectly power the electric motors; e. wherein the internal combustion engine includes an exhaust outlet that is directed away from the line of sight of the at least one or more cameras.
In one embodiment, the primary is an internal combustion engine.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone includes an electric power storage device.
In one embodiment, the electrical motors are supplied with electrical power from the electric power storage device.
In one embodiment, the electrical motors are supplied with electrical power from the generator.
In one embodiment, the electric power storage device is configured for providing supplemental electrical power to the electrical motors if the generator is not able to fully power the electrical motors.
Also disclosed herein is a hybrid drone including:
a. at least one or more electric motors configured for being driven by electrical power, the electric motors being configured for driving at least one or more propellers; b. one or more selected from a fuel cell and a prime mover coupled to a generator; and c. a quick release mechanism whereby the said one or more selected from a fuel cell and a prime mover coupled to a generator can be conveniently swapped with a replacement fuel cell and/or prime mover coupled to a generator.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone includes an electric power storage device.
In one embodiment, the one or more selected from the fuel cell and prime mover are configured for supplying electrical power to the electric motors.
In one embodiment, the electric power storage device is configured for absorbing excess electrical power generated by the one or more selected from the fuel cell and prime mover.
In one embodiment, the electric power storage device is configured for providing supplemental power to the electric motors.
In one embodiment, the hybrid drone further includes an alignment formation for docking with a complementary docking formation
Also disclosed herein is an undercarriage for a drone, the undercarriage comprising:
a. a downwardly extending aligning formation, the aligning formation being configured for being received within a tapered recess of a base station to guide the drone to land on a support base of the base station at a particular landing position.
In one embodiment, the aligning formation includes a base configured for abutment with the support base.
In one embodiment, the base of the aligning formation has an endless configuration.
In one embodiment, the endless configuration is one or more selected from:
a. circular shaped; b. multisided symmetrically shaped; c. pentagonally shaped; d. hexagonal shaped; and e. septagonally shaped.
In one embodiment, the endless configuration includes an inductive charging mechanism.
In one embodiment, the inductive charging mechanism is configured for charging a battery on the drone.
Also disclosed herein is a drone for landing in a base station, the base station including a recess for receiving the drone, the drone comprising:
a. a plurality of propellers configured for being driven by electrical motors; b. an outwardly extending protrusion extending outwardly of at least two or more propellers; c. the outwardly extending protrusions being configured for being supported on an outer edge of the recess to support the drone.
In one embodiment, the outwardly extending protrusions include a protective layer.
In one embodiment, at least one or more of the outwardly extending protrusions are configured for being captured by a locking mechanism on the base station.
Also disclosed herein is a hybrid drone including an inductive charging arrangement configured for being charged by a complementary inductive charging arrangement on a base station.
In one embodiment, the inductive charging arrangement is located within an undercarriage.
In one embodiment, the undercarriage includes a downwardly extending aligning formation configured for being received within a tapered recess of the base station to guide the drone to land on a support base of the base station.
In one embodiment, the aligning formation includes a base in an endless configuration.
Also disclosed herein is a hybrid drone comprising:
a. an electric power storage device; b. at least one or more electric motors configured for being driven by electrical power, the electric motors being configured for driving at least one or more propellers; c. at least one or more cameras configured for taking one or more selected from photos and videos from the drone in-flight; d. an electrical generator; and e. an internal combustion engine configured for driving the electrical generator to thereby charge the electric power storage device; f. wherein the electrical generator is configured for one or more selected from supplying electrical power to the electrical motors and charging the electric power storage device, and the electrical generator is also configured to be used as a starter motor for the internal combustion engine.
In one embodiment, the electrical generator is a brushless motor.
Refuelling Adaptor
Also disclosed herein is a refuelling adapter for connecting two fuel lines, the refuelling adapter comprising:
a. a first magnetic connector associated with a first fuel line; b. a second magnetic connector associated with a second fuel line; and c. a valve arrangement adapted to prevent ingress of foreign bodies into the first fuel line; d. wherein the first magnetic connector and second magnetic connector are configured to be attracted to each other when the first magnetic connector and second magnetic connector are within a predetermined distance of each other, and e. wherein the first magnetic connector and second magnetic connector are configured to magnetically attach to each other to create a sealed fluid connection between the first fuel line and the second fuel line.
In one embodiment, the refuelling adapter includes a valve arrangement adapted to allow the flow of fuel between the first fuel line and the second fuel line when the first magnetic connector is attached to the second magnetic connector, and prevent the flow of fuel between the first fuel line and the second fuel line when the first magnetic connector is not attached to the second magnetic connector in a sealed fluid connection.
In one embodiment, the first magnetic connector and second magnetic connector are configured to engage magnetically with each other at a sealing interface.
In one embodiment, the refuelling adapter includes at least one or more seal formations for sealing the first magnetic connector and the second magnetic connector to each other at the sealing interface when the first magnetic connector and the second magnetic connector are magnetically engaged with each other.
In one embodiment, the refuelling adapter includes at least one filter.
In one embodiment, the refuelling adapter includes a valve associated with one or both of the first fuel line and the second fuel line.
In one embodiment, the first connector and the second connector includes a sensing device for sensing when the first fuel line and second fuel line are in fluid connection with each other.
In one embodiment, the sensing device includes one or more selected from a fuel flow meters, Hall effect sensors, and electrical connectors.
Also disclosed herein is a method of autonomously refuelling a drone, the method comprising the steps of:
a. providing a portable base station as claimed in any one of the preceding claims for: b. guiding a drone into position on landing on the portable base station; c. autonomously coupling a fuel line connector associated with the drone with a fuel line connector associated with the portable base station in a sealing fashion; and d. pumping fuel from the portable base station to the drone.
In one embodiment, the method may include the step of pumping fuel from the drone to the portable base station.
In one embodiment, the portable base station includes an inductive charging mechanism, and the method further comprises the step of inductively charging a battery on the drone.
In one embodiment, the fuel line connector associated with the drone is magnetically coupled the fuel line connector associated with the portable base station.
In one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of decoupling the fuel line connector associated with the drone from the fuel line connector associated with the portable base station.
In one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of causing the drone to take off from the portable base station using electrical power only.
In one embodiment, a valve is located on one or more selected from the fuel line associated with the drone and the fuel line associated with the portable base station and, on coupling, the method comprises the step of autonomously opening the valve.
Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a system for remotely controlling a drone; the FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of a computing device that may be used as a controller by a remote user, the base station controller and/or a hybrid drone controller;
FIG. 3 shows a top perspective view of a docking arrangement;
FIG. 4 shows a top right front perspective view of a base station with the cover arrangement in a closed condition;
FIG. 5 shows a top right rear perspective view of the base station of FIG. 4 with the cover arrangement and the docking arrangement removed;
FIG. 6 shows a right side elevation view of the base station of FIG. 4 ;
FIG. 7 s
CLAIMS
Claims ( 19 )
What is claimed is:
1. A portable base station for use with a hybrid drone, the base station comprising:
a cover arrangement to at least partially shield the hybrid drone when the hybrid drone is in a received position, the cover arrangement including a pair of opposed pivotably moveable covers;
an alignment formation configured for guiding the hybrid drone to the received position; and
an autonomous refueling mechanism connected to one of the opposed pivotably moveable covers, the autonomous refueling mechanism adapted to align with a refuelling port on the hybrid drone for autonomously refuelling the hybrid drone in use,
wherein the pair of opposed moveable covers are configured to move to an open condition in which the pair of opposed moveable covers are positioned outwardly and upwardly relative to the alignment formation to provide a windshield to aid the hybrid drone during take-off and landing, and
wherein the pair of opposed pivotably moveable covers are configured to move to a closed condition in which the pair of opposed pivotably moveable covers shield the alignment formation to align the autonomous refueling mechanism with the refueling port on the hybrid drone, when the hybrid drone is in the received position.
2. The portable base station of claim 1 , including a communications interface for communicating with the hybrid drone in one or more selected from:
a. a local area network; and
b. a wide area network.
3. The portable base station of claim 1 , wherein the alignment formation is a recess defining tapered internal walls and a base, the alignment formation being configured for engaging with an engaging formation on the hybrid drone when in the received position.
4. The portable base station of claim 3 , wherein the alignment formation is at least partly surrounded by a platform, the platform including apertures adapted to reduce wash from propeller blades of the hybrid drone.
5. The portable base station of claim 4 , wherein the cover arrangement is adapted to cover the platform.
6. The portable base station of claim 1 , wherein the pair of opposed pivotably movable covers pivot upwardly and outwardly from a closed condition to the open condition.
7. The portable base station of claim 1 , further including an electrical power storage device and a generator to maintain the charge of the electrical power storage device.
8. The portable base station of claim 1 , further including a controller and one or more sensors electrically connected to a controller, wherein the sensors include one or more selected from:
a. a proximity sensor;
b. a temperature sensor;
c. fuel level sensor;
d. pressure sensor;
e. moisture sensor;
f. humidity sensor;
g. geo-positioning sensor;
h. distance sensor;
i. light sensor;
j. a camera; and
k. any other suitable sensor,
to provide one or more signals to the controller.
9. The portable base station of claim 8 , wherein the controller is configured for actuating movement of the cover arrangement between the open condition and the closed condition.
10. The portable base station of claim 1 , wherein the autonomous refuelling mechanism is only connectable to the hybrid drone when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
11. The portable base station of claim 1 , wherein when the cover arrangement is in the closed condition, the hybrid drone is covered from the elements.
12. The portable base station of claim 1 , wherein the cover arrangement prevents access by the hybrid drone to the docking arrangement when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
13. The portable base station of claim 1 , wherein the pair of opposed pivotably moveable covers are angled to the horizontal when the cover arrangement is in the closed condition.
14. The portable base station of claim 1 , wherein the cover arrangement is configured to secure a hybrid drone in a position for travelling when the cover arrangement is in its closed condition.
15. The portable base station of claim 1 , wherein the portable base station includes solar panels mounted to the pair of opposed pivotably movable covers.
16. The portable base station of claim 10 , wherein autonomous refueling mechanism includes a first magnetic connector that extends toward a complementary magnetic connector of the hybrid drone from the opposed pivotably movable covers, when the cover arrangement is in the closed position.
17. The portable base station of claim 16 , wherein the first magnetic connector is connected to a flexible fuel line to allow the first magnetic connector to connect to the complementary magnetic connector of the hybrid drone, even if the docking position of the drone is aligned incorrectly.
18. The portable base station of claim 17 , wherein in the closed position, the first magnetic connector and the complementary magnetic connector connect, thereby allowing fuel to flow from a fuel tank of the base station through the refuelling mechanism and into a fuel tank of the drone, during refuelling.
19. A system for drone operation comprising:
a portable base station according to claim 1 ; and
a drone operable with the portable base station.
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