Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to unmanned aerial vehicle systems, and more particularly to a vehicle-mounted drone system, apparatus, and method for capturing aerial footage and providing navigation assistance using an integrated docking station on a vehicle roof with an integrated docking station configured for aerial operations including image capture and navigation assistance.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have become increasingly popular for capturing aerial footage and providing aerial perspectives in various applications. These versatile devices offer unique vantage points for photography, videography, surveillance, and navigation assistance. As drone technology has advanced, there has been growing interest in integrating drone capabilities with ground vehicles to expand their functionality and convenience.
[0003] Traditional drone systems typically require manual deployment and retrieval, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming. Users often need to transport the drone separately, find a suitable takeoff and landing area, and manually control the launch and recovery process. This limits the spontaneity and ease of use for capturing aerial footage or obtaining aerial views while traveling. Additionally, storing and transporting drones can be challenging, especially for users who want to have drone capabilities readily available during road trips or outdoor adventures.
[0004] The integration of drones with vehicles presents several technical challenges. Securely mounting a drone on a moving vehicle while protecting it from environmental factors like wind, rain, and debris is complex. Designing a system that allows for safe automated deployment and retrieval of the drone from a moving vehicle requires careful engineering. Furthermore, creating a seamless user experience for controlling the drone from within the vehicle and managing the captured data poses additional difficulties.
[0005] US-20200062388-A1 describes a system for launching and landing an aerial drone from an autonomous vehicle using a retractable harness mounted within the vehicle. The harness extends through an opening in the vehicle body, such as a sunroof, and includes a retainer for engaging a docking structure on the drone. The system synchronizes vehicle and drone speeds for takeoff and landing operations. However, this system may limit the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle due to the need for a large opening in the roof.
[0006] WO-2021097439-A1 discloses an integrated roofing accessory system for unmanned vehicle navigation and delivery. The system includes antennas and computing modules integrated into roof structures to provide navigation signals and landing instructions to unmanned vehicles. While this system offers a network of navigation aids, it may not provide a secure, weather-protected docking station for the drone during vehicle transit.
[0007] It has been appreciated that a system is needed that overcomes one or more of these problems.
OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The primary objective of the invention may be to provide a vehicle-mounted drone system with an integrated docking station that enables seamless deployment, retrieval, and storage of a drone while maintaining the aerodynamic efficiency and aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.
[0009] Another objective of the invention may be to develop a secure and weather-protected housing for the drone that integrates smoothly with the vehicle's roof structure, protecting the drone from environmental factors during transit.
[0010] Another objective of the invention may be to create an automated system for drone deployment and retrieval that can operate safely while the vehicle is in motion, enhancing the spontaneity and ease of capturing aerial footage or obtaining aerial views during travel.
[0011] Another objective of the invention may be to design a user-friendly interface that allows for intuitive control of the drone from within the vehicle, seamlessly integrating drone operations with the vehicle's existing systems.
[0012] Yet another objective of the invention may be to implement an efficient charging system within the docking station to ensure the drone maintains optimal power levels for extended operations without requiring manual intervention.
[0013] Yet another objective of the invention may be to develop a modular design that allows for easy integration of the drone system with various vehicle models and types, increasing its adaptability and market potential.
[0014] Yet another objective of the invention may be to incorporate advanced sensors and communication systems that enable the drone to assist with navigation, traffic monitoring, and potential hazard detection, enhancing the overall safety and functionality of the vehicle-drone system.
[0015] Other objectives and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, the aspects of the present invention are disclosed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The present invention relates to a vehicle-mounted drone system comprising: a vehicle (101) having a roof; a drone (102) fitted on the roof of the vehicle; a docking station (103) integrated into the roof of the vehicle (101); a housing (104) with automated doors (105); an automated charging system (106) configured to charge the drone (102); and a control interface (107) accessible from within the vehicle (101) and configured to control the drone (102) and the docking station (103); wherein, the system integrates drone with the vehicle providing vertical aerial view to capture 360º angle and real time recording; the docking station (103) is configured to deploy and retrieve the drone (102) while the vehicle (101) is in motion; the drone take off and land at speeds in the range of 20-40 km/h and that they can return automatically within 2 to 4 kilometers of the vehicle. The drone equipped with a 4K camera capable of shooting up to 120-130 fps, and comprises both a main camera and a telephoto camera. This vehicle-mounted drone system provides enhanced navigation capabilities, obstacle detection for off-road driving, and unique aerial perspectives for journey documentation, significantly expanding the functionality and user experience of the vehicle
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0017] Figure 1 illustrates multiple views of a vehicle-mounted drone system, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[0018] Figure 2 shows a top perspective view of a vehicle-mounted drone docking station, according to an embodiment.
[0019] Figure 3 depicts a perspective view of a drone hovering above a vehicle-mounted docking station, in accordance with example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following description describes various features and functions of the disclosed system. The illustrative aspects described herein are not meant to be limiting. It may be readily understood that certain aspects of the disclosed system can be arranged and combined in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which have not been contemplated herein.

[0021] Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0022] Features that are described and/or illustrated with respect to one embodiment may be used in the same way or in a similar way in one or more other embodiments and/or in combination with or instead of the features of the other embodiments.

[0023] The terms and words used in the following description are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention.

[0024] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0025] It should be emphasized that the term “comprises/comprising” when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. The equations used in the specification are only for computation purpose.
[0026] Accordingly, the present invention relates to unmanned aerial vehicle systems, and more particularly to a vehicle-mounted drone system, apparatus, and method for capturing aerial footage and providing navigation assistance using an integrated docking station on a vehicle roof with an integrated docking station configured for aerial operations including image capture and navigation assistance.
[0027] In an embodiment a vehicle-mounted drone system comprising: a vehicle (101) having a roof; a drone (102) fitted on the roof of the vehicle; a docking station (103) integrated into the roof of the vehicle (101); a housing (104) with automated doors (105); an automated charging system (106) configured to charge the drone (102); and a control interface (107) accessible from within the vehicle (101) and configured to control the drone (102) and the docking station (103). The drone equipped with a 4K camera capable of shooting up to 120-130 fps, and comprises both a main camera and a telephoto camera. This vehicle-mounted drone system provides enhanced navigation capabilities, capturing footage, obstacle detection for off-road driving, and unique aerial perspectives for journey documentation, significantly expanding the functionality and user experience of the vehicle
[0028] The vehicle-mounted drone system is integrated into the roof structure of a vehicle (101), as shown in Figure 1. The docking station (102) is designed to seamlessly blend with the vehicle's exterior, maintaining aerodynamic efficiency while providing a secure housing for the drone. Figure 2 provides a detailed view of the docking station, illustrating its low-profile design that minimizes air resistance during vehicle operation.
[0029] The drone (102) in the vehicle-mounted drone system is equipped with advanced imaging capabilities and robust flight performance. As shown in Figure 3, the drone (102) features a quadcopter design with multiple rotors for stable flight and maneuverability. The drone (102) comprises a 4K camera (108) capable of shooting in the range of 120-130 frames per second, providing smooth and detailed aerial video. In addition to the main 4K camera, the drone (102) is equipped a main camera (109) and a telephoto camera (110), allowing for versatile imaging options during flight. The drone (102) also incorporates LiDAR sensors, which can be used for precise distance measurements and environmental mapping.
[0030] The drone (102) flight performance is tailored for use with moving vehicles. In an exemplary embodiment, the drone (102) can track the vehicle (101) at speeds up to 40-50 km/h, allowing for continuous aerial coverage even during highway driving. This tracking capability enables the drone (102) to maintain a consistent vantage point relative to the vehicle, facilitating tasks such as navigation assistance, obstacle detection, and cinematic footage capture. The combination of advanced imaging systems and robust flight performance makes the drone suitable for a wide range of applications, from off-road navigation to professional videography.
[0031] The drone (102) in the vehicle-mounted system may incorporate advanced connectivity features to ensure seamless communication with the vehicle and docking station. In an exemplary embodiment, the drone (102) utilize a combination of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks to maintain a stable connection with the control interface. The system may employ encrypted communication protocols to secure the data transmission between the drone and the vehicle. Additionally, the drone may be equipped with GPS and inertial navigation systems to enhance its positioning accuracy and enable precise return-to-home functionality. These connectivity features may allow for real-time video streaming, telemetry data transmission, and remote control of the drone from within the vehicle, even at extended distances.
[0032] The docking station (103) integrated into the roof of the vehicle (101) is designed to securely house and deploy the drone while maintaining the vehicle's aerodynamic profile, as shown in Figure 1. The docking station (103) features a housing (104) with automated doors (105) that open to allow for drone deployment and retrieval as illustrated in Figure 2. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing (104) has a low-profile structure that seamlessly blends with the vehicle's roof structure, occupying approximately 0.29 to 0.35 square meters (3.1 to 4.0 square feet) of roof space and standing 215 to 230 mm (8.5 to 10 inches) tall.
[0033] This compact footprint allows for efficient use of roof space while accommodating the drone and its associated launch and retrieval mechanisms. The housing is aerodynamically designed to minimize impact on the vehicle's performance, with smooth contours and integrated features that reduce drag and wind resistance. This design consideration ensures that the addition of the drone system does not significantly affect the vehicle's fuel efficiency or handling characteristics.
[0034] The docking station (103) is engineered to operate dynamically, enabling drone deployment and retrieval while the vehicle is in motion. This functionality allows for drone (102) operations to be initiated and concluded without the need for the vehicle to come to a complete stop. The system is capable of deploying and retrieving the drone at vehicle speeds up to 20-40 km/h, providing flexibility for various use scenarios such as off-road navigation, aerial surveillance, or capturing cinematic footage during travel.
[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the docking station (103) incorporate weather-resistant materials and seals to protect the drone from environmental factors such as rain, dust, and debris during transit. The station may also include vibration dampening elements to isolate the drone from road-induced vibrations, potentially extending the lifespan of sensitive components
[0036] The docking station (103) may be equipped with sensors to monitor environmental conditions and the status of the drone (102). These sensors may provide data on temperature, humidity, and the drone's battery level, allowing the system to optimize charging and storage conditions. Further, the docking station (103) may feature a climate control system to maintain an ideal temperature range for the drone's electronics and battery.
[0037] A automated charging system (106) integrated within the docking station (103), as shown in Figure 1. The charging system (106) is configured to recharge the drone (102) automatically, when it is docked within the housing (104) of the docking station (103). In an exemplary embodiment, the charging system (6) having a charging power in the range of 100W to 120W and a charging duration 20-30min, which are optimized for efficient recharging of the drone (102) between flights.
[0038] The charging system (106) utilizes the vehicle's electrical system to provide power to the docked drone (102). When the drone (102) returns to the docking station (103) after a flight, the charging system (106) automatically initiates the charging process. The charging power (100W) allows for rapid energy transfer to the drone's battery, while the charging duration in the range of 20-30min provides sufficient time for a substantial charge to be delivered. This combination of charging parameters enables the drone (102) to be quickly readied for subsequent flights, minimizing downtime and maximizing the system's operational efficiency.
[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, the charging system (106) utilize inductive charging technology, allowing for wireless power transfer between the docking station and the drone. Further, the charging system (106) may incorporate a multi-voltage capability, enabling compatibility with different drone models or battery configurations. The charging system (106) may also feature adaptive charging algorithms that adjust power delivery based on factors such as battery temperature and state of charge, optimizing charging efficiency and battery longevity.
[0040] The vehicle-mounted drone system may incorporate an advanced charging system (106) designed to maintain the drone's operational readiness. This charging system (106) may be seamlessly integrated into the docking station, utilizing the vehicle's electrical infrastructure to provide power to the drone when it is docked. The system may employ intelligent charging algorithms that optimize the charging process based on factors such as the drone's current battery level, ambient temperature, and predicted usage patterns. In some implementations, the charging system may feature rapid charging capabilities, allowing for quick turnaround times between flights. The charging interface may be designed for durability and reliability, withstanding repeated docking and undocking cycles while ensuring consistent electrical contact. This integrated charging solution may enhance the overall efficiency and usability of the vehicle-mounted drone system, reducing the need for manual intervention and extending the operational range of the drone during extended journeys.
[0041] A control interface (107) accessible from within the vehicle (101) and configured to control the drone (102) and the docking station (103). This control interface (107) allows users to operate the drone and manage the docking station (103) without leaving the vehicle (101). The control interface (107) is integrated with the vehicle's infotainment system (111), providing a seamless user experience. Through the infotainment system's (111) touchscreen display, users can access drone controls, set flight paths, monitor aerial views, and manage various drone functions. The integration of the drone control interface (107) with the existing infotainment system (111) eliminates the need for additional hardware and simplifies the user interaction process.
[0042] The control interface (107) incorporates AI-powered software that assists users in organizing and editing footage captured by the drone. This software streamlines the post-flight workflow, enabling users to quickly process and share their aerial content. In an exemplary embodiment the control interface (107) is selected from the group consisting of, such as, but not limited to smartphone, providing flexibility for users who prefer to control the drone from outside the vehicle or when the vehicle is not in use, maintaining consistency in the user experience across different control methods.
[0043] The vehicle-mounted drone system operates through a coordinated interaction of its components to enable seamless drone deployment, aerial operations, and retrieval while the vehicle is in motion. As shown in Figure 1, the docking station integrated into the vehicle's roof houses the drone securely during transport. he docking station (103) is configured to deploy and retrieve the drone (102) while the vehicle (101) is in motion. The drone take off and land at speeds in the range of 20-40 km/h and that they can return automatically within 2 to 4 kilometers of the vehicle as shown in Figure 2, open to allow the drone to take off. Once airborne, the drone can perform various aerial operations, such as capturing footage or providing navigation assistance, while tracking the moving vehicle at speeds up to 40-60 km/h.
[0044] The system incorporates AI posture recognition capabilities for taking photos around the car, enhancing its functionality for capturing moments during travel. As illustrated in Figure 3, the drone can maintain a stable position relative to the vehicle, enabling consistent 360º angle and real time aerial coverage. When the aerial operations are complete, or when the drone approaches its operational limits, the system can retrieve the drone back into the docking station while the vehicle continues to move. This retrieval process can be initiated automatically when the drone is 2 to 4 kilometers of the vehicle, ensuring safe and efficient drone recovery without requiring the vehicle to stop.
[0045] In an embodiment, A method of operating a vehicle-mounted drone system comprising steps of:
• launching a drone (102) from a docking station (103) integrated into a roof of a vehicle (101) by pressing the launch button from the car’s large touchscreen while the vehicle (101) is in motion;
• controlling the drone (102) through a control interface (107) accessible from within the vehicle (1);
• performing aerial operations in 360º angle recording with the drone (102) while the vehicle (101) is moving; and
• retrieving the drone (102) into the docking station (103) while the vehicle (101) is in motion;
[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, the charging system (6) having a charging power in the range of 100W to 120W.
[0047] The vehicle-mounted drone system operates through a coordinated interaction of its components to enable seamless drone deployment, aerial operations, and retrieval while the vehicle is in motion, when the driver press the launch button from the car’s large touchscreen, and two panels slide up and to the side, revealing a roof-mounted drone launching platform, The vehicle-mounted drone system operates through a coordinated interaction of its components to enable seamless drone deployment, aerial operations, and retrieval while the vehicle is in motion.
The automated doors of the docking station (103) open to allow the drone to take off. Once airborne, the drone (102) perform various create a clear path for takeoff. The drone then powers up its rotors and launches vertically from the docking station. Once the drone reaches a safe altitude above the vehicle, it transitions to tracking mode, where it can follow the moving vehicle at speeds up to 54 km/h. During flight, the drone executes the requested aerial operations capturing footage in 360º angle with its cameras or providing navigation assistance, while tracking the moving vehicle at speeds up to 54 km/h through its sensors, all while maintaining a stable position relative to the vehicle's movement.
[0048] The control interface, accessible from within the vehicle or via a smartphone application, allows users to manage drone operations and monitor real-time data. The drone's advanced imaging systems, including 4K and telephoto cameras, capture high-quality footage and provide versatile viewing options. When aerial operations are complete, or when the drone approaches its operational limits, the system may retrieve the drone back into the docking station while the vehicle continues to move. This retrieval process may be initiated automatically when the drone is within two kilometers of the vehicle. Upon docking, the integrated charging system begins recharging the drone, utilizing the vehicle's electrical infrastructure to maintain the drone's operational readiness for subsequent flights. The charging system, with its 100W charging power and 30-minute charging duration, may allow for rapid energy transfer to the drone's battery, minimizing downtime between operations.
[0049] In an embodiment, the vehicle-mounted drone system offers several advantages:
• The present invention provides an enhanced off-road navigation wherein the drone provides aerial views of the surrounding terrain, allowing drivers to plan routes more effectively and avoid potential hazards.
• The present invention provides improved obstacle detection by utilizing the drone's aerial perspective, drivers can identify and navigate around obstacles that may not be visible from ground level.
• The present invention provides the system enables users to scout ahead for dangerous conditions or impassable routes, reducing the risk of vehicle damage or getting stuck in difficult terrain.
• The present invention provides versatile imaging capabilities with its 4K camera and telephoto lens, the drone can capture high-quality footage and images from various angles and distances.
• The present invention provides a seamless integration. The docking station's design maintains the vehicle's aerodynamic profile while providing secure storage and automated deployment of the drone.
• The present invention provides On-the-go operation wherein the ability to launch and retrieve the drone while the vehicle is in motion allows for continuous aerial coverage without interrupting travel.
• The present invention provides an extended range of the drone's tracking capabilities enable it to follow the vehicle at highway speeds, providing aerial assistance over long distances.
• The present invention provides an efficient recharging ensures the drone is ready for use when needed, minimizing downtime between flights.
• The present invention provides user-friendly control integration with the vehicle's infotainment system and smartphone app provides intuitive control options for users.
[0050] While this invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A vehicle-mounted drone system, comprising:
a) a vehicle (101) having a roof;
b) a drone (102) fitted on the roof of the vehicle;
c) a docking station (103) integrated into the roof of the vehicle (101)
d) a housing (104) with automated doors (105);
e) an automated charging system (106) configured to charge the drone (102) through vehicle’s battery; and
f) a control interface (107) accessible from within the vehicle (101) and configured to control the drone (102) and the docking station (103);
wherein,
the system integrates drone with the vehicle providing vertical aerial view to capture 360º angle and real time recording;
the docking station (103) is configured to deploy and retrieve the drone (102) while the vehicle (101) is in motion;
the drone take off and land at speeds in the range of 20-40 km/h and that they can return automatically within 2 to 4 kilometers of the vehicle
2. The vehicle-mounted drone system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drone (102) comprises a 4K camera (108) capable of shooting in the range of 120-130 frames per second.
3. The vehicle-mounted drone system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the drone (102) comprising a main camera (109) and a telephoto camera (110).
4. The vehicle-mounted drone system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the docking station (103) is configured to deploy and retrieve the drone (102) at vehicle speed in the range of 20-40 km/h.
5. The vehicle-mounted drone system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drone (102) is configured to track the vehicle (101) at speeds in the range of 40-60 km/h.
6. The vehicle-mounted drone system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control interface (107) is integrated with the vehicle's infotainment system (111).
7. The vehicle-mounted drone system of claim 1, wherein the drone (102) is configured to provide navigation assistance and obstacle detection for off-road driving.
8. The vehicle-mounted drone system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing (104) is aerodynamically designed to minimize impact on the vehicle's performance.
9. A method of operating a vehicle-mounted drone system as claimed in claim 1, the method comprising steps of:
• launching a drone (102) from a docking station (103) integrated into a roof of a vehicle (101) by pressing the launch button from the car’s large touchscreen while the vehicle (101) is in motion;
• controlling the drone (102) through a control interface (107) accessible from within the vehicle (1);
• performing aerial operations with the drone (102) while the vehicle (101) is moving; and
• retrieving the drone (102) into the docking station (103) while the vehicle (101) is in motion;
10. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the charging system (6) having a charging power in the range of 100W to 120W.