IoT Techniques and Elements for Drone Package Delivery Networks
5.1.5 NETWORK CONNECTIONS
Network connections are essential to drone delivery networks to command the drones where and how to fly , and to report their position and status to the system . Drones typically include bidirectional cellular modems to connect them to cellular base stations on the ground , and thence to the Internet backbone . Reliability of these connections is a concern , because if the connection between the drone and ground networks is lost , many key capabilities are compromised , so redundant networks and autonomous fallback functions are often provided .
Most drones also have additional radio systems for flight control / telemetry that connect the drone to the remote controls used by a human pilot , or ground-based navigation systems , and downlink real-time video camera images ( called FPV , first-person views ) to the ground . Sometimes when a drone is landed , yet another wireless link ( often Wi-Fi ) is used to upload large databases like flight plans and terrain maps into the drone in preparation for the next mission , and download mission logs , video and sensor telemetry from the previous mission . Some drones can receive various location beacon and positioning data streams using specialized receivers .
Finally , remote ID transmitters have recently been required by US FAA part 89 rules [ 22 ] for most cargo drones so authorities can determine the exact location of the drone and its pilot , verify drone ID information , and receive various flight parameters .
5.1.6 AIRFRAME
The drone airframe provides mechanical support for all the drone components and is typically made out of lightweight , strong materials like carbon fiber tubes and aluminum fittings . Mounting points are provided for the rotors on arms , the batteries , computers , sensors and cargo management system components . Landing legs / skids mechanically interface the drones to their ground support systems when they land .
5.1.7 CARGO MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
The final element of the cargo drone is the cargo management system . When a package or other cargo is loaded onto a drone ( either manually or via robotic actuators ), this system detects the presence of the package , and using various methods retains or latches it securely so it won ’ t fall off as the drone flies . Once the drone has reached its destination , the cargo management system gently releases the cargo onto a landing pad or into a robotic package receptacle . There are several variants of cargo retention systems in use .
Sometimes , packages are completely contained within the drone ’ s airframe , using “ bomb bay doors ” or similar techniques to protect , retain and release the packages as necessary . Some drones use external clamping mechanisms driven by servo motors or other actuators that clamp , support and secure the cargo under the airframe . Some delivery drones use a winch scheme , where the package is attached to a hook , and can be lowered on a cable while the drone hovers
38 August 2023