Active tether control for a tethered multirotor
US11724923B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 15, 2020 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 9, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65H2701/365
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A control system and method for tensioning an active tether for a multirotor unmanned aerial system is provided. The control system includes a tensioning pulley and a tensioning spring. The tensioning spring is arranged to generate a variable tension force on the active tether. A transducer is connected adjacent to the tensioning spring to sense a linear displacement position of the tensioning pulley and to transmit a position signal to a controller. The position signal is proportional to the linear displacement position. A servomotor in communication with the controller receives a control signal from the controller in response to the position signal. The servomotor drives a cable reel. The cable reel is rotatably mounted in the frame for spooling the tether in response to rotation of the servomotor. The cable reel is rotated by the servomotor to maintain a predetermined tension on the tensioning spring.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.