Adjustable object avoidance proximity threshold based on presence of propeller guard(s)

US10803759B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• QUALCOMM Incorporated · US

Inventors

• Michael Franco Taveira · San Diego, US
• Daniel Warren Mellinger, III · Philadelphia, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 3, 2018
• Grant date: Oct 13, 2020
• Expiry date: Dec 9, 2038

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64U2101/64
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Various embodiments include methods, devices, and aerial robotic vehicles for adjusting a proximity threshold implemented in a collision avoidance system based on whether propeller guards are installed. Methods may include an aerial robotic vehicle processor determining whether a propeller guard is installed, setting, a proximity threshold for collision avoidance based on the determination as to whether propeller guard(s) is/are installed on the aerial robotic vehicle, and controlling one or more motors of the aerial robotic vehicle using the proximity threshold for collision avoidance. When propeller guards are installed, the proximity threshold may be set at a smaller distance than when propeller guards are not installed. The determination of whether a propeller guard is installed may be based on sensor data from one or more sensors configured to detect or indicate the presence of a propeller guard, and/or based on rotor revolution rates determined from a motor or motor controller.