VEHICLE REPLENISHMENT
First Claim
1. A docking apparatus for replenishing resources of a vehicle, the docking apparatus comprising:
- a shaped sloping surface; and
a base, the base including one or more replenishment devices configured for coupling with the vehicle, the one or more replenishment devices in connection with an replenishment system for replenishing an energy resource used by the vehicle; and
wherein the shape of the shaped sloping surface is configured engage a structure on the fuselage of the vehicle, the shaped sloping surface further configured to align one or more replenishment contacts on the vehicle with the one or more replenishment devices such that the vehicle can be replenished with the energy resource.
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Accused Products
Abstract
The present invention extends to methods, systems, devices, and apparatus for replenishing vehicle resources. Vehicles can be aligned with and docked to replenishment devices. In one aspect, a flying vehicle (e.g., an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)) is aligned onto electrical recharging contacts. The flying vehicles fuel level or battery charge can be replenished with minimal, if any, human intervention. Vehicle docking (e.g., landing), alignment, and replenishment can be performed automatically. A circular ring or shaped surface of a vehicle can engage with a conical sloping surface of a docking apparatus as a vehicle moves towards and/or into the docking apparatus. The conical sloping surface shape aligns the vehicle with recharge contacts or a refueling probe at the base of the docking apparatus.
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Citations
12 Claims
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1. A docking apparatus for replenishing resources of a vehicle, the docking apparatus comprising:
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a shaped sloping surface; and a base, the base including one or more replenishment devices configured for coupling with the vehicle, the one or more replenishment devices in connection with an replenishment system for replenishing an energy resource used by the vehicle; and wherein the shape of the shaped sloping surface is configured engage a structure on the fuselage of the vehicle, the shaped sloping surface further configured to align one or more replenishment contacts on the vehicle with the one or more replenishment devices such that the vehicle can be replenished with the energy resource. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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12. An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) charging system comprising:
two ring-shaped charging contacts that engage with electrical contacts on the base of an aircraft, the charging contacts connected to a power supply, such that the orientation of the UAV does not impair the ability of the aircraft to charge when seated on the charging receptacle.
Specification