Free­Motion­Handling

Year

2016

The idea

This airborne object demonstrates autonomy and unites the principles of the BionicOpter, eMotionSpheres and FlexShapeGripper.

The objective

FreeMotionHandling is an airborne sphere with gripping function for handling in mid-air.

Technical data

• Spherical envelope diameter: 137 cm
• Flight ring outer diameter: 180 cm
• Total weight: 1400 g
• Flight ring weight: 740 g
• Load capacity: max. 400 g
• Flight duration: max. 40 min
• Onboard cameras: 2
• Batteries: 6
• Onboard computer: 1
• Control motors: 4
• Propulsion motors: 4
• Propellers: 8
• Infrared LEDs: 8

Operating principle

FreeMotionHandling intelligently utilises the knowledge gained from several previous bionic projects with principles based on the natural models of the dragonfly and the chameleon’s tongue. The freely moving sphere can support humans as an airborne assistance system.

Design

This airborne object, which demonstrates adaptation, has an ultralight, filigree carbon structure with a curved contour that ensures high vibrational stability. Embedded into this structure are eight circuit boards, which accommodate the lifting and control motors along with the integrated radio and sensor technology. Inside the structure is a rotatable helium-filled sphere with an integrated gripping element.

Control

By means of onboard electronics and indoor GPS, the sphere can manoeuvre autonomously in any spatial direction, while picking up and releasing objects. Safe handling is ensured by two onboard cameras that monitor the surroundings during the gripping process. When the sphere approaches the object to be grasped, it uses the cameras to take over its own path planning and can react to the situation at hand.

Material

FreeMotionHandling