PRIORITY DRIVEN UAV NAVIGATION AND CONTROL SYSTEM

Abstract

A priority driven UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) navigation and control system comprises of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 101 for delivering payload to different destinations, a voltage sensor 104 determines State of Charge (SOC) of battery, a user-interface feeds a destination to where payload is to delivered, a GPS module to acquire real-time location of UAV 101, an internet module fetches climatic and geographical conditions on determined route and fetches different route, a weight sensor 103 detects weight of payload, multiple motorized propellers 102 navigates UAV 101 through route/alternative route, an anemometer 105 detects real-time wind speed, an RTS (Return to Source) mechanism returns UAV 101 to source location to prevent damage to UAV 101 or loss of payload and a pressure altimeter 106 determines live altitude at which UAV 101 is flying, a LIDAR sensor 107, and a RADAR gun 108 detects presence of obstacle(s).

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a priority driven UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) navigation and control system that provided a means provide an optimal route for UAV while considering weightage of various priority parameters such as battery efficiency, estimated time of arrival, and payload.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)/drones have revolutionized numerous industries, from aerial photography to delivery services, and are now essential tools in agriculture, surveillance, and search-and-rescue missions. These UAVs are praised for their ability to access areas that are otherwise challenging for human-operated vehicles. Despite their growing presence and widespread applications, current UAV technologies face significant limitations, particularly in terms of energy management and operational safety.

[0003] Traditionally, drone navigation systems rely heavily on Global Positioning System (GPS) technology for positioning and route planning. While GPS provides accurate data for outdoor environments, it becomes unreliable or unavailable in GPS-denied areas such as indoors, heavily forested regions, urban canyons, or underground facilities. In such environments, drones struggle to maintain accurate positioning, resulting in erratic flight behavior, potential collisions, and mission failure.

[0004] One of the primary limitation of UAVs is their reliance on human for setting a route to be followed for reaching a destination. However, the is no provision of altering the route based on different real-time parameters such as weather, altitude, charge consumption as a result of which the drones crash before reaching the destination.

[0005] Another concern is ensuring the safe landing of UAVs, particularly in cases where the battery is insufficient for maneuvering the drone to the destination. Existing UAVs often lack reliable mechanisms to detect critical battery levels and autonomously manage emergency landings. This results in UAVs crashing due to battery failure, which can lead to equipment damage, loss of payload, and even safety hazards to people or property in the vicinity.

[0006] KR20170132923A discloses an unmanned system for controlling a task of a drone. According to the system of the present invention, a drone is installed in a place required for a landing station where the drone is capable of taking off and landing in an unmanned manner, and is capable of charging a battery thereof, the drone automatically takes off at a predetermined time as an autonomous task to transmit a field image to a control center with autonomous flight, an administrator dispatches a corresponding drone from the control center as a manual task to control the same to perform the task, and the control center remotely manipulates the drone to allow the same to perform the task, such that the drone is arranged at a place where the administrator is difficult to stay to allow the drone to fly as a regular autonomous task at a remote place, or a manual task in accordance with an input of the administrator so as to perform the desired task. Accordingly, the remote unmanned monitoring can be easily performed, and a field image can be secured by being immediately dispatched to an accident site even in a place such as a downtown. The unmanned system for controlling a task of a drone of the present invention comprises: a drone (100) capable of automatically taking off and landing; a landing station (200) for allowing the drone (100) to be standby; and a control center (300) for receiving and monitoring image and task information obtained from the drone. Though, KR'923 mentions about an unmanned control system for controlling landing and unloading of a drone. However, no provision has been provided through which the movement of the UAVs can be synchronized with respect priority consideration of the operator. Also, the cited documents fails to provide any means for triggering emergency landing of UAV in case battery level is critical and there is risk of UAV crashing before reaching destination, thus preventing damage to UAV or loss of payload.

[0007] US10387727B2 relates to a method that involves operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to begin a flight, where the UAV relies on a navigation system to navigate to a destination. During the flight, the method involves operating a camera to capture images of the UAV's environment, and analyzing the images to detect features in the environment. The method also involves establishing a correlation between features detected in different images, and using location information from the navigation system to localize a feature detected in different images. Further, the method involves generating a flight log that includes the localized feature. Also, the method involves detecting a failure involving the navigation system, and responsively operating the camera to capture a post-failure image. The method also involves identifying one or more features in the post-failure image, and determining a location of the UAV based on a relationship between an identified feature and a localized feature. Just through a brief analysis of US'727, it can be seen that the cited invention US'727 generates and/or updates a backup map of the UAV's flight path to a destination based on environmental imagery captured by the UAV as the flight progresses, such that this map can be utilized to provide continued navigation to the UAV so it can safely complete its mission or execute a landing at a safe landing zone (e.g., home base) in the event that the primary navigation system fails. However, the invention takes only weather/environmental conditions as the main area of concern, leaving all other factors aside due to which proper movement of UAVs as per the priority requirement of the operator is not possible.

[0008] Conventionally, many systems have been developed for navigating UAV to a destination, however, such system fails to provide alternative routes for UAV in case of detection of unideal weather condition on ordinary route which may result to crash of UAV or loss of payload attached with the UAV. Moreover, no system has been developed that is capable of taking into consideration multiple parameters specified by user for delivering the payload to a destination through the best route.

[0009] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that is capable of selecting alternative routes for a UAV in case of detection of unideal weather conditions on ordinary route of UAV and navigating the UAV through one of the selected routes based on priority weightage of different parameters allocated by an operator. Moreover, the developed system should also be capable of evaluating charge requirement for the route and in case the evaluated charge requirement is equal to or more than the real time state of charge of battery, the flight of UAV is terminated to prevent crash of UAV before reaching the destination.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of navigating a UAV in a safe and timely manner by selecting an optimal route between source and destination of UAV.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of evaluating battery charge requirement for the selected route and real time state of charge of the battery of UAV, to ensure that the system is navigated over a particular route only if the state of charge of battery is more than the evaluated battery charge requirement for the selected route.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of fetching weather and geographical conditions on the selected route, and in case the weather and geographical conditions are unfavorable, the system fetches alternative routes for navigating the UAV to the destination.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that allows an operator to allocate critical scores to multiple parameters to be considered for delivering the payload such as battery efficiency, ETD (Estimated Time of Delivery) and payload, and based on the allocated critical score, the system selects the best alternative route for navigating the UAV.

[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of monitoring wind speed and in case of unfavorable wind speed, the system triggers return to source mechanism for returning the UAV to source to prevent loss of payload or crash of UAV.

[0016] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The present invention relates to a priority driven UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) navigation and control system that is capable of navigating a UAV to a destination for delivering a payload attached to the UAV in a safe and timely manner. The present invention performs such operation by correlating a preset priority weightage of different parameters such as ETD, payload, battery efficiency or shell life of the battery with respect to the real time SOC (state of charge) and selecting an optimal route between source and destination of UAV based on the result of correlation.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a priority driven UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) navigation and control system comprises of an unmanned aerial vehicle inbuilt with a plurality of motorized propellers and a solar panel, a voltage sensor, operated by one or more processors and paired with a battery installed in the UAV (Unmanned Aerial vehicle) for sensing voltage across the battery in view of determining State of Charge (SOC) of the battery, a user-interface inbuilt in a computing unit, that is accessed by an operator for feeding a destination to where the payload is to be delivered, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module integrated within the UAV to acquire real-time location of the UAV, a controller to determine a route to be followed by the UAV for delivering the payload to the destination, an internet module synched with the controller to fetch climatic and geographical conditions forecast on the route via accessing internet, and in case the weather and geographical conditions are unfavorable for flight of the UAV, the controller fetches alternative routes for the destination by accessing the internet and GPS. The controller synchronously generates alert on the interface for requesting the operator to allocate critical scores to different flight parameters to be considered for delivering the payload, and based on the critical scores, the controller selects one of the alternative routes for navigating the UAV to reach out to the user fed destination, a weight sensor configured with the UAV for detecting weight of the payload attached with the UAV. Based on the detected weight and the selected route/alternative routes, the controller evaluates battery charge requirement for the destination, and in case the. The controller directs the motorized propellers installed with the UAV for navigating the UAV through the route/alternative route only in case the charge requirement is equal to or recedes the SOC of battery.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed system further comprises of an anemometer embodied on the UAV for detecting real-time wind speed while the UAV flies through the route/alternative route, wherein in case the real time wind speed exceeds a threshold limit, the controller triggers an RTS (Return to Source) mechanism for returning the UAV to source location to prevent any damage to the UAV or loss of the payload, a pressure altimeter arranged on the UAV for determining live altitude at which the UAV is flying, wherein upon detecting the SOC to be below a required level for reaching the destination at same altitude, the controller regulates motor coupled with the propellers to gradually descend relative to the ground surface, enabling the UAV to reach the destination with current SOC, a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor and a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun arranged on the UAV for detecting presence of obstacle(s) in path of the UAV, along with determining speed of the approaching obstacle(s), respectively, and accordingly the controller interprets the collected data to navigate the UAV to avoid collision of the UAV with the detected obstacle.

[0020] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a UAV associated with a priority driven UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) navigation and control system; and
Figure 2 illustrates a flowchart depicting the work flow of the proposed system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0023] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises," and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having" and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0024] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0025] As used herein the term "UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)" refers to an aircraft that operates without a human pilot onboard. UAVs are capable of being remotely controlled by an operator or operate autonomously through pre-programmed flight plans and sophisticated automation systems powered by sensors, GPS, and onboard computers.

[0026] The present invention relates to a priority driven UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) navigation and control system that safely and efficiently guide a UAV to its destination for payload delivery by determining the most optimal route while assessing the UAV's battery charge requirement in comparison to its current charge level to ensure successful delivery. Also, the proposed system takes into account weather and geographical conditions along the chosen path, and if unfavorable conditions are detected, the system identifies alternative routes to guarantee safe and timely navigation.

[0027] The existing UAV navigation is completely reliant on GPS module for navigating the UAV to a destination. Such systems do not take into consideration weather and geographical conditions on the route as a result of which the UAV may crash when it encounters adverse weather conditions. Also, the existing system does not provide any means for allowing operator to select an alternative route based on different criteria such as battery efficiency, estimated time of delivery, etc.

[0028] The present invention is solving the aforementioned problem by fetching the weather conditions on route to be followed, and in case the weather conditions are unideal, the system proposed in the present invention provides a means to fetch alternative routes for navigating the UAV. The system also allows operator to allocate critical scoring to different parameters for selection of an alternative route, to navigate the UAV as per conditions prioritized by the operator, to eliminate risk of crashing of UAV.

[0029] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of a UAV associated with a priority driven UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) navigation and control system and a flowchart depicting the work flow of the proposed system are illustrated, respectively, comprising a UAV 101 installed with a plurality of motorized propellers 102, a weight sensor 103 installed with UAV 101, a voltage sensor 104 configured with UAV 101, an anemometer 105 arranged on UAV 101, a pressure altimeter 106 embodied on the UAV 101, a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor 107 and a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun 108 arranged on the UAV 101, and a computing unit 109 associated with the system through a communication module 110.

[0030] The system disclosed in the present invention includes a UAV 101 (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) that is developed to carry payload to be delivered to a destination location. The UAV 101 disclosed herein is preferably a drone. The UAV 101 is installed with a controller that act as central hub for data handling and decision-making within the UAV 101.

[0031] The UAV 101 is installed with a battery that is paired with the controller. The controller determines an order in which different electrically powered components of the UAV 101 are to be activated, based on which the controller directs the battery for supplying the power to the components in the determined order. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to operate the UAV 101.

[0032] The UAV 101 is also configured with a solar panel that is electrically paired with the battery for recharging the battery through sunlight. The solar panel harnesses sunlight through photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert light energy into electrical energy. When sunlight strikes the PV cells, the PV cells excites electrons, generating direct current (DC) electricity. This DC electricity is then directed to a charge controller, which regulates the voltage and current to prevent battery overcharging.

[0033] Also, a plurality of motorized propellers 102 is configured with the UAV 101 for ascending the UAV 101 in sky and maneuvering the UAV 101 from one location to another. The motorized propellers 102 used herein work by generating lift and thrust through the rotation of blades. As the propellers 102 spin, the angled blades displace air downward, creating an upward force called lift, which counters gravity and enables the UAV 101 to rise. Simultaneously, propellers 102 produce thrust, pushing air backward, allowing forward or lateral movement. Each propeller 102 is shaped like an aerofoil, designed to generate a pressure difference between the top and bottom surfaces as it moves through the air. This pressure difference creates lift in accordance with Bernoulli's principle and Newton's third law. By adjusting the speed at which the propellers 102 spin, the UAV 101 control its altitude, speed, and direction.

[0034] The UAV 101 used in the present invention uses four propellers 102: two rotating clockwise (CW) and two counterclockwise (CCW). This counter-rotation balances the torque and stabilizes the UAV 101, preventing unwanted spinning. Each of the propeller 102 is connected with a DC (Direct Current) motor via a shaft. The rotational motion of the shaft provided by the motor results in the rotation of the propeller 102. The DC motor converts electrical energy supplied by the battery into mechanical motion using direct current (DC). When current flows through the motor's armature (rotor), the current interacts with the magnetic field of permanent magnets or electromagnets in the stator. This interaction creates a force that rotates the armature, producing torque. A commutator, along with brushes, ensures that the current direction switches as the armature rotates, maintaining continuous motion. The speed of a DC motor is controlled by adjusting the input voltage, and its torque varies with the current.

[0035] The controller is connected to the motors of the propeller via a motor driver. The motor driver is an electronic circuit or module designed to control and manage the operation of motors, particularly DC motors and stepper motors. The motor driver acts as an interface between a controller and the motor itself. The controller typically operates at low power levels (3.3V or 5V) and cannot supply the required current to drive motors, which often need higher voltages and currents to function properly as a result of which the motor driver is used. The motor driver receives low-power control signals from the microcontroller and amplifies them to provide the necessary power to the motor.

[0036] The controller is further wirelessly linked with a computing unit 109 that is accessed by an operator. The computing unit 109 is inbuilt with a user-interface that enables the operator to give input commands regarding destination where payload is to be delivered. On receiving input commands from the operator through the user-interface, the commands are wirelessly sent to a controller integrated within the UAV 101 which in turn are processed by the processor. The computing unit 109 mentioned herein above includes, but not limited to a mobile phone, tablet, or any smart device having an integrated display.

[0037] The computing unit 109 is wirelessly linked with the processor via a communication module 110 which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module. The communication module 110 herein acts an intermediate between the controller and the operator's computing unit 109. The communication module 110 used herein is preferably GSM module that is able to receive serial data from radiation monitoring devices such processor installed within the computing unit 109 and transmit the data as text SMS (Short Message Service) to the controller of UAV 101.

[0038] Upon receiving the input commands, the controller activates a GPS (Global Positioning System) module installed with the UAV 101 for detecting real-time location of the UAV 101. The GPS module operates by receiving signals from a network of satellites orbiting the Earth. These satellites continuously transmit signals containing their locations and the current time. The GPS module, which is equipped with a highly sensitive receiver, captures these signals and uses them to calculate the UAV's precise geographical coordinates through a process known as trilateration. The GPS module functions by comparing the time stamps of the signals received from at least four satellites. By measuring the time taken for each signal to reach the GPS receiver, the module calculates the distance from each satellite to the UAV 101. With this distance data and the known locations of the satellites, the GPS module determine the UAV's exact position on the Earth's
surface, typically with high accuracy within a few meters. This real-time
location data is continuously updated and transmitted to the controller.

[0039] Upon retrieval of the real-time location of the UAV 101 and the specified destination location, the controller activates an internet module for fetching an aerial route between real-time location of UAV 101 and the destination location. The internet module is inbuilt in a processor installed within the UAV 101 establishes a connection to the internet, typically through Wi-Fi or cellular networks, to fetch updated information about aforementioned aerial route between the location of UAV 101 and destination location.

[0040] The UAV 101 is installed with a weight sensor 103 that is activated by the controller for detecting the payload attached with the UAV 101 typically uses load cells, which are transducers that convert force into an electrical signal. When the UAV 101 carries a payload, the weight exerts a force on the load cell. The load cell, often made of metal or strain gauges, deforms under the weight of the payload. This deformation creates a change in resistance. The change in resistance is converted into a corresponding electrical signal. This signal is usually very small, so controller requires amplification which is done by an instrumentation amplifier that boosts the signal to a measurable level, making the signal suitable for processing. The amplified signal is then fed into an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) for conversion into a digital format. The controller analyzes the digital signal to calculate the weight of the payload attached with the UAV 101.

[0041] The controller simultaneously activates a voltage sensor 104 paired with the battery for detecting state of charge (SOC) of the battery. The voltage sensor 104 typically operates using a voltage divider to scale down the battery voltage to a measurable level. This circuit consists of two resistors that reduce high voltage to a safe range. The scaled voltage is then processed by a sensing element, such as an operational amplifier or a dedicated voltage sensor IC. The analog signal is converted to the digital format using an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC), which allows a processor linked with the controller to read and analyze the data for determining SOC of battery and voltage of battery. This setup ensures reliable monitoring of the battery voltage, crucial for the UAV's safe and efficient operation.

[0042] On successful determination of SOC of battery, the controller re-activates the internet module for accessing internet to fetch weather and geographical conditions on the fetched route. The weather condition and geographical conditions as mentioned herein includes wind speed, rain, clouds, and sunlight, and altitude.

[0043] In case the fetched weather and geographical conditions are ideal for flight, the controller evaluates battery charge requirement for the flight based on distance between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destination, and the detected weight of payload attached to UAV 101. If the evaluated charge requirement is less than the SOC of battery, the controller activates the motorized propellers 102 of UAV 101 to maneuver that UAV 101 through the fetched route for delivery of the payload.

[0044] In the scenario where the SOC of battery is lower than the evaluated charge requirement, the controller sends an alert on the computing unit 109 for notifying the operator regarding insufficiency of the UAV 101 to deliver the payload and recommending the operator to charge the battery prior to flight of UAV 101, in view of eliminating the chances of crash of UAV 101 before reaching the destination.

[0045] In case the fetched weather and geographical conditions are adverse, the controller sends an alert on the computing unit 109 for displaying a set of parameters to which operator gives critical score for delivering of the payload. The parameters mentioned herein are payload, ETD (Estimated Time of Delivery), battery efficiency, and shelf life of UAV 101. The term payload mentioned refers to the weight that is attached to the UAV 101 that has to be delivered to the destination. The term ETD refers to the time in which the payload is to be delivered, battery efficiency refers to the rate at which the battery installed with the UAV 101 is discharged. The term shelf life of UAV 101 means how important the UAV 101 is for the operator or for how long the UAV 101 is to be used by the operator for payload delivery.

[0046] In an embodiment of the present invention, the payload mentioned herein includes product, medical kit, rescue kit, agricultural products such as fertilizers and pesticides.

[0047] Herein, the critical scores are allocated by the operator based on the importance of the parameters. For example, on the scale of 10, if the battery efficiency is more important to the operator, the operator may assign critical scores in the following manner: battery efficiency: 5, shelf life: 1, payload: 1 and ETD: 3.

[0048] Post sending the alert on the computing unit 109, the controller accesses internet and through via the aforementioned internet module and real-time location via the GPS module to fetch alternate route(s) between the destination and UAV's real-time location for delivering the payload. Upon receiving critical scores for each of the parameters, the controller correlates the weather and geographical conditions over different routes with respect to the scoring of each parameter and determines one of the most desirable route to be followed by UAV 101 for delivery of the payload. Herein, the controller also evaluates the battery charge requirement for each of the alternative routes based on the fetched weather and geographical conditions on the routes and weight of the payload attached to the UAV 101.

[0049] Since, the UAV 101 is installed with the solar panel for recharge of battery, the controller also takes into consideration the recharging of the battery through sunlight for each of the routes, for evaluation of the charge requirement for each of the routes, by fetching time stamp, rain, presence/absence of cloud, as mentioned above.

[0050] Based on the critical scores, different case scenarios are possible that are mentioned herein below. For each of the cases, the point to be noted herein is that the alternative route is only selected in case the evaluated charge requirement is less than the SOC of the battery.

[0051] Case 1: In case the critical score of payload is more than critical scores of ETD, shelf life of UAV 101, and battery efficiency, the controller selects the route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destination where the payload is delivered safely, timely, and without damage/wear-and-tear to the UAV 101. Accordingly, the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to maneuver the UAV 101 through the selected alternative route such that payload is delivered safely. In this case, the ETD, shelf life of UAV 101, and battery efficiency are given second priority.

Case 1: CRP> CRBE > CRETD, wherein,
CRP= critical score of payload, CRBE= critical score of battery efficiency, and CRETD= critical score of estimated time of delivery.

[0052] Case 2: In case the critical score of ETD is more than critical score of payload and battery efficiency, the controller selects the route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destination where the ETD is least as compared to the other alternative routes. Accordingly, the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to maneuver the UAV 101 through the selected alternative route. In this case, the payload, shelf life of UAV 101, and battery efficiency are given second priority.

Case 2: CRETD> CRBE > CRP

[0053] Case 3: In case the critical score of battery efficiency is more than ETD and battery efficiency, the controller selects the route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destination where the charge requirement is least as compared to other alternative routes. Accordingly, the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to maneuver the UAV 101 through the selected alternative route. In this scenario, the ETD, shelf life of UAV 101, and payload are given second priority after battery efficiency.

Case 3: CRBE> CRETD> CRP

[0054] Case 4: In case the critical score of battery efficiency and ETD are equal, the controller selects alternative route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destination where the charge requirement is comparatively less while delivering the payload in least possible time as compared to other alternative routes. In this scenario, payload and shelf life of UAV 101 are given second priority after battery efficiency and ETD.

Case 4: CRBE>=CRETD> CRP

[0055] Case 5: In case the critical score of battery efficiency and payload are given equal critical score, the controller selects alternative route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destination on which the payload is safely delivered while consuming less charge from the, and accordingly, the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to maneuver the UAV 101 through the selected alternative route for safe delivery of the payload and to save charge of battery. In this scenario, the ETD and shelf life of UAV 101 are given second priority after battery efficiency and payload.

Case 5: CRP= CRBE > CRETD

[0056] In an embodiment of the present invention, in case the controller via the internet module fetches weather conditions on the alternative routes to be unideal and weather forecast for the primary route between the UAV's location and destination to be ideal after some time duration, then the alternative route is not selected and the UAV 101 flies through the primary route once the weather on the primary route is ideal for flight, as the critical score of ETD is less than the critical scores of payload and battery efficiency, thereby safely delivering the payload.

[0057] Case 6: In case the critical score of ETD and payload are equal, the controller selects the route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destination where the payload is safely delivered in least possible time irrespective of battery charge requirement, as long as the charge requirement is lower than the SOC of the battery. In this scenario, the battery efficiency and shelf life of UAV 101 are given second priority after ETD and payload.

Case 6: CRETD=CRP> CRBE

[0058] For instances where multiple payloads are to be delivered to different locations, the input from the operator is received regarding the different locations where the payloads are to be delivered. On receiving such input, the controller accesses the internet through the internet module for fetching routes to be followed for delivering the payloads. Also, the controller activates the weight sensor 103 for detecting weight of each of the payloads attached to the UAV 101.

[0059] Post detection of the weights of the payloads, the controller by accessing the internet also fetches the weather and geographical conditions on each of the routes, and based on the fetched weather and geographical conditions and detected weights of payloads, the controller evaluates the battery charge requirement for each of the routes.

[0060] In case where the weather and geographical conditions are ideal, the controller determines an order in which the payloads are to be delivered through the fetched routes, and accordingly the motorized propellers 102 are directed for maneuvering the UAV 101 through the fetched routes in the determined order. In this case, the order of payload delivery is based on the weight of the payload and distance to the destination. For instance, based on the destinations of the payloads and weight of each of the payloads, the controller determines an order for delivery of the payloads in which the battery charge requirement will be less. Moreover, in case the destinations of the payloads are equidistant, the heavier payload is delivered first and light weight payload is delivered last.

[0061] In case of unfavorable weather and geographical conditions, the controller accesses the internet for fetching alternative routes for delivering each of the payloads along with weather and geographical conditions on each of the alternative routes. On successful fetching of the weather and geographical conditions, the controller evaluates the battery charge requirement for each of the alternative route. Herein, only such set of alternative routes is selected where the overall charge requirement is less than the SOC of the battery.

[0062] Upon evaluation of the charge requirement, the controller sends an alert on the computing unit 109 for displaying the parameters to allow the operator to allocate critical scores to each of the parameters i.e. battery efficiency, payload, and ETD. On receiving the input commands from the operator regarding the critical scores, the controller selects an order in which the payloads are to be delivered. Similar to delivery of single payload as mentioned herein above, multiple case scenarios are possible for delivery of multiple payloads that are mentioned below.

[0063] Case A: In case the critical score of payload is more than critical scores of ETD and battery efficiency, the controller selects an order of the alternative routes through which the payloads are delivered safely, without damage/wear-and-tear to the UAV 101 or payloads. Accordingly, the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to maneuver the UAV 101 through the alternative routes in the selected order such that payload is delivered safely. In this case, the ETD, shelf life of UAV 101, and battery efficiency are given second priority.

[0064] Case B: In case the critical score of ETD is more than critical score of payload and battery efficiency, the controller selects the order of alternative routes between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destinations where the ETD is least as compared to the other possible order of alternative routes, based on which the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to maneuver the UAV 101 through the alternative route in the selected order for quick delivery of the payloads. In this case, the payload, shelf life of UAV 101, and battery efficiency are given second priority.

[0065] Case C: In case the critical score of battery efficiency is more than ETD and battery efficiency, the controller selects an order of the alternative route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destinations where the charge requirement is least as compared to other possible order of alternative routes. Accordingly, the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to maneuver the UAV 101 through the alternative route in the selected order such that payloads are delivered while consuming comparatively less charge from the battery. In this scenario, the ETD, shelf life of UAV 101, and payload are given second priority after battery efficiency.

[0066] Case D: In case the critical score of battery efficiency and ETD are equal, the controller selects an order of alternative route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destinations where the battery charge requirement is comparatively less while delivering the payloads in optimal possible time as compared to other possible order of alternative routes. In this scenario, payload and shelf life of UAV 101 are given second priority after battery efficiency and ETD.

[0067] Case E: In case the critical score of battery efficiency and payload are given equal critical score, the controller selects alternative route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destinations on which the payloads are timely delivered while consuming less charge from the, and accordingly, the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to maneuver the UAV 101 through the selected order of the alternative routes for timely delivery of the payload and to save charge of the battery. In this scenario, the ETD and shelf life of UAV 101 are given second priority after battery efficiency and payload.

[0068] Case F: In case the critical score of ETD and payload are equal, the controller selects order of the alternative route between the real-time location of UAV 101 and the destinations where the payloads are safely delivered in least possible time irrespective of battery charge requirement, as long as the charge requirement is lower than the SOC of the battery. In this scenario, the battery efficiency and shelf life of UAV 101 are given second priority after ETD and payload.

[0069] While the UAV 101 is maneuvering through the determined route/routes, the controller activates an anemometer 105 installed with the UAV 101 for detecting real-time wind speed in surroundings. The anemometer 105 operates by measuring the velocity of air movement, which is crucial for various applications such as meteorology, aviation, and renewable energy generation. The most common type of anemometer 105 is the cup anemometer 105, which consists of three or four hemispherical cups mounted on horizontal arms, attached to a vertical shaft.

[0070] As wind blows, this exerts pressure on the cups, causing them to rotate. The speed of this rotation is directly proportional to the wind speed; faster winds result in quicker rotations. The anemometer 105 typically employs a magnet and a Hall effect sensor to convert the rotational speed into electrical signals. Each rotation generates a pulse that are counted by the controller, which processes the data to detect the wind speed in real-time. In case the detected wind speed exceeds a threshold limit that may affect the body of UAV 101 or may decrease the SOC than the battery charge requirement for reaching destination, the controller triggers return to source (RTS) mechanism. The RTS mechanism mentioned herein refers to actuation of the propellers 102 for returning the UAV 101 to the source location to prevent any damage to the UAV 101 or payload/payloads. The threshold limit mentioned herein refers to a value of wind speed that is pre-fed in a database of the controller and is considered unsafe for the flight of UAV 101. Herein, the controller also sends an alert on the computing unit 109 for notifying the operator regarding unfavorable conditions for the UAV 101 to fly.

[0071] Also, during the flight of the UAV 101 through the determined route, the controller activates a pressure altimeter 106 for detecting live altitude at which the UAV 101 is flying. The pressure altimeter 106 used herein detects altitude of the UAV 101 by measuring atmospheric pressure and using the relationship between pressure and altitude to provide real-time altitude readings. As the UAV 101 maneuvers through varying atmospheric conditions, the pressure altimeter 106 continuously senses changes in ambient pressure, allowing it to calculate the UAV's height above a reference point, typically sea level. The fundamental principle behind the pressure altimeter 106 is based on the barometric formula, which states that air pressure decreases with increasing altitude. In simpler terms, the higher the drone ascends, the less air there is above it, resulting in lower atmospheric pressure. The altimeter 106 contains a pressure sensor that detects the ambient air pressure and converts it into a digital signal. This sensor often employs a diaphragm that flexes in response to pressure changes, as atmospheric pressure decreases with altitude, the diaphragm expands, and the resulting displacement is measured electronically. This process allows the altimeter 106 to derive the current pressure reading in relation to a predetermined standard pressure value at sea level. For accurate altitude readings, the pressure altimeter 106 is correctly calibrated at the beginning of a flight to establish the local sea-level pressure, which serves as the reference point for all subsequent altitude calculations. This calibration process is crucial because any changes in weather conditions, such as variations in temperature or barometric pressure due to atmospheric disturbances significantly affect the accuracy of altitude readings.

[0072] In case the processor linked with the controller and voltage sensor detects the SOC to be below a required level for reaching the destination at the same altitude, the controller directs the motor driver for regulating the motors coupled with the propellers 102 to gradually descend the UAV 101 relative to ground surface, enabling the UAV 101 to reach the destination with the current SOC of the battery. This descend in flight of the UAV 101 only happens in case the processor predicts inability of the UAV 101 to safely reach the destination while flying constantly at same altitude.

[0073] For example, if the UAV 101 is flying at an altitude of 100m above ground surface and the processor predicts inability of the UAV 101 to reach the destination at same altitude at current SOC, the controller directs the motor driver to regulate the motors of propellers 102 to gradually descend the UAV 101. For instance, the UAV 101 will descend to 80m, 60m, 40m gradually. Herein, the UAV 101 will fly for some distance (example 1-2 km) at the altitude of 80m before descending to 60m.

[0074] While the UAV 101 is flying towards the destination, the controller activates a LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) sensor 107 and a RADAR (Radio Detection And Ranging) gun 108 arranged on the UAV 101 that works in collaboration for detecting any obstacle in path of the UAV 101. The LiDAR sensor 107 mentioned herein works by operates by emitting laser pulses toward the environment and measuring the time this takes for these pulses to reflect back after hitting an object. The sensor 107 emits thousands of laser beams per second, allowing to create a high-resolution 3D map of the surroundings. The reflected light carries information about the distance and shape of objects, enabling the UAV 101 to identify not only the position of obstacles but also their dimensions and surface characteristics. This precision is particularly advantageous for applications requiring fine spatial awareness, such as low-altitude flight or navigating through complex environments, including urban landscapes or densely forested areas.

[0075] On the other hand, the RADAR gun 108 uses radio waves to detect objects and their speed. The radar gun 108 sends out a pulse of electromagnetic energy, which bounces off any objects in its path and returns to the RADAR gun 108. By analyzing the frequency shift of the returned signal, the radar determines not only the distance to the object but also its velocity, providing critical data on the movement of obstacles. This is especially useful in dynamic environments where objects are in motion, such as other aircraft, vehicles, or animals. Radar operates effectively in a variety of weather conditions, including fog, rain, and darkness. When these two work in synchronization on the UAV 101, they create a complementary detection mechanism. While LIDAR provides detailed information about the environment in terms of shape and distance, the radar gun 108 adds a layer of functionality by detecting the speed and movement of obstacles. The UAV's onboard processing unit integrate data from both LiDAR sensor 107 and gun 108, allowing for real-time analysis and decision-making. For example, if the LIDAR detects an object ahead and determines its distance, the radar assess whether that object is stationary or moving towards the UAV 101. This synergistic approach enables the UAV 101 to make informed navigation decisions, such as adjusting its flight path or altitude to avoid potential collisions. The combination of these enhances the UAV's ability to operate in various environments. The LIDAR sensor 107 create highly detailed maps for autonomous navigation, while the radar provides reliable obstacle detection even in adverse weather conditions. The data fusion from LIDAR and RADAR not only improves obstacle detection but also enables features such as obstacle avoidance protocols, enhancing the UAV's autonomy and reliability during flight.

[0076] In an embodiment, the controller herein also continuously monitors SOC of the battery during the flight of the UAV 101 towards the destination, and in case the SOC falls below a threshold on the computing unit 109 for alerting the operator regarding critical battery levels of the UAV 101. Herein, the first alert is sent when the SOC falls below 20% and another alert is sent when SOC falls below 10%. Also, in case the SOC falls below a critical level i.e. 5%, the controller turns off non-essential components of the UAV 101 (load shedding) to prevent the UAV 101 from crashing, before reaching the destination.

[0077] In an embodiment of the present invention, in case the UAV 101 is deployed for irrigation of an agricultural land, operator gives input commands regarding area of the agricultural land and the controller determines a route to be followed by the UAV 101 for reaching the land for irrigating the land and accordingly the controller actuates the propellers 102 for maneuvering the UAV 101 along the determined route for successful, timely, and effective irrigation of the land. In this case also, based on the area of agricultural land and distance of the land from real-time location of the UAV 101, the controller evaluates battery charge requirement and the controller only directs the propellers 102 if the evaluated battery charge requirement is less than the SOC of the battery. If the weather and geographical conditions for the determined route is unfavorable, the controller selects alternative routes and sends an alert on the computing unit 109 requiring critical scores for the different parameters. In this case, the parameters are total time consumption for irrigating the land, battery efficiency, and area of the lands. On the basis of the critical scores allocated by the operator, the controller determines one of the routes to be followed by the UAV 101 for reaching and irrigating the land, and the controller directs the UAV 101 for maneuvering the UAV 101 through the determined route.

[0078] In another embodiment of the present invention, in case multiple agricultural lands are to be irrigated, the controller determines an order in which the lands are to be irrigated along with the routes to be taken by UAV 101 for reaching the lands and accordingly directs the propellers 102 for maneuvering the drone through the routes in the determined order. If weather and geographical conditions fetched for each of the routes are determined to be unfavorable, the controller selects alternative routes and sends an alert on computing unit 109 for allowing the operator to allocate critical score for each of the parameters i.e. battery efficiency, total time consumption, and area of each of the lands. Based on the critical scores allocated by the operator, the controller selects an order in which the irrigated lands are to be irrigated and accordingly the propellers 102 are actuated to fly the UAV 101 through the alternative routes in the selected order for irrigating the lands by taking into the consideration that parameter allocated with highest critical score is considered first.

[0079] The present invention works best in the following manner which includes the UAV 101 attached with a payload to be delivered as disclosed in the proposed invention. The UAV 101 system operates through the streamlined method where the controller receives input commands from the operator regarding the destination for payload delivery. Upon activation, the UAV's GPS module determines its real-time location, while the internet module fetches the optimal aerial route, considering current weather and geographical conditions. The controller evaluates the payload weight by means of the weight sensor 103 and battery state of charge (SOC) via voltage sensor 104 in connection with the processor to estimate battery charge requirement for the flight. If conditions are ideal and SOC is sufficient, the controller directs the motorized propellers 102 to navigate the UAV 101 along the selected route. In adverse conditions, the controller alerts the operator, allowing for critical scoring of parameters like payload, ETD, shelf life of UAV 101, and battery efficiency, subsequently fetching alternative routes for evaluation. The controller selects the most favorable route based on the critical scores, prioritizing safe, timely delivery while minimizing charge requirement. Throughout the flight, the UAV 101 continuously monitors wind speed by means of the anemometer 105 and if wind speed exceeds the predetermined threshold, the controller prompts the return to the source location to avoid damage. Simultaneously, the altitude is determined via pressure altimeter 106 and if processor linked with the controller and voltage sensor detects the SOC to be below a required level for reaching the destination at the same altitude, the controller directs the motor driver for regulating the motors coupled with the propellers 102 to gradually descend the UAV 101 relative to ground surface, enabling the UAV 101 to reach the destination with the current SOC of the battery. Also, the LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor 107 and the RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun 108 determines the presence of obstacle(s) in path of the UAV 101, along with determining speed of the approaching obstacle(s), respectively for avoiding collision of the UAV 101 with the detected obstacle.

[0080] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A priority driven UAV navigation and control system, comprising an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 101 inbuilt with a plurality of motorized propellers 102 and a solar panel, focused towards delivering payload to different destinations, characterized in that:

i) a voltage sensor 104, operated by one or more processors and paired with a battery installed in said UAV 101 (Unmanned Aerial vehicle) for sensing voltage across said battery in view of determining State of Charge (SOC) of said battery;
ii) a user-interface inbuilt in a computing unit 109, wirelessly associated with said UAV 101, wherein said interface is accessed by an operator for feeding a destination to where said payload is to be delivered;
iii) a GPS (Global Positioning System) module integrated within said UAV 101 to acquire real-time location of said UAV 101, wherein upon acquiring of said real-time location, a controller associated with said system determines a route to be followed by said UAV 101 for delivering said payload to said destination;
iv) an internet module synched with said controller to fetch climatic and geographical conditions forecast on said route via accessing internet, and in case said weather and geographical conditions are unfavorable for flight of said UAV 101, said controller fetches alternative routes for said destination by accessing said internet and GPS, wherein said controller synchronously generates alert on said interface for requesting said operator to allocate critical scores to different flight parameters to be considered for delivering said payload, and based on said critical scores, said controller selects one of said alternative routes for navigating said UAV 101 to reach out to said user fed destination;
v) a weight sensor 103 configured with said UAV 101 for detecting weight of said payload attached with said UAV 101, wherein based on said detected weight and said selected route/alternative routes, said controller evaluates battery charge requirement for said destination, and in case said requirement is equal to or recedes said SOC of battery, said controller directs said motorized propellers 102 installed with said UAV 101 for navigating said UAV 101 through said route/alternative route;
vi) an anemometer 105 embodied on said UAV 101 for detecting real-time wind speed while said UAV 101 flies through said route/alternative route, wherein in case said real time wind speed exceeds a threshold limit, said controller triggers an RTS (Return to Source) mechanism for returning said UAV 101 to source location to prevent any damage to said UAV 101 or loss of said payload; and
vii) a pressure altimeter 106 arranged on said UAV 101 for determining live altitude at which said UAV 101 is flying, wherein upon detecting said SOC to be below a required level for reaching said destination at same altitude, said controller regulates motor coupled with said propellers 102 to gradually descend relative to the ground surface, enabling said UAV 101 to reach said destination with current SOC.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said climatic and geographical conditions as mentioned herein, includes wind speed, rain, time stamp and altitude, clouds.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said flight parameters as mentioned herein, includes battery efficiency, payload and desired ETD (Estimated Time of Delivery), shelf life of UAV 101.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1 and 3, wherein said critical scores of flight parameters involve assigning a particular weight to said battery efficiency, payload and desired ETD based on the importance of parameters for said operator.

5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said computing unit 109 is wirelessly linked with said controller via a communication module 110, includes but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module and GSM (Global System for Communication) module.

6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said system utilizes a predictive warning technique that sets warning at multiple thresholds for battery capacity levels, including a first threshold at 20% battery capacity and second threshold at 10% battery capacity.

7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case said SOC of battery falls below a critical value, said controller turns off non-essential components of said UAV 101 (load shedding) to prevent said UAV 101 from crashing, before reaching said destination.

8) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said UAV 101 is embedded with a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor 107 and a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun 108 for detecting presence of obstacle(s) in path of said UAV 101, along with determining speed of said approaching obstacle(s), respectively, and accordingly said controller interprets said collected data to navigate said UAV 101 to avoid collision of said UAV 101 with said detected obstacle.

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