ADVANCING MODULAR PAYLOAD USE CASE FOR EVTOL PLATFORM THROUGH ELECTROMAGNETIC ADHERENCE AND COMPUTER VISION

The objective of this proposal is to research and develop computer-vision based smart harness capable of retrieving packages of up to 300 lbs. Our eVTOL platform can then transport these items up to 10 miles.   While our SBIR 19.3 Phase I focused on overall feasibility, and deemed it feasible, this application zeroes in on an important functionality that has as yet to be researched and developed: the smart harness.  Namely, what recognizes the package and what retrieves it?   In the past, humans have largely been used to connect harnesses and assure safety of cargo. In addition, helicopters (expensive, loud, dangerous) have been used to then transport the cargo. Our hover-primary eVTOL platform is incredibly maneuverable. Optimized for safety with built-in redundancy, it can be trusted to carry precious cargo.    Technically, the challenge might at first seem straightforward. But the challenge remains, as ever, in the integration and development of custom elements that need to work well in a variety of situations. We aim to implement a computer vision software algorithm to recognize a package, design a custom attachment for said package, and develop an electromagnetic attachment system that will hold the package.   Think of your old Macintosh MagSafe power adapter or the charger for the Apple Watch. Click, and you’re ready to go. The goal, ultimately, is to build in further autonomy to the platform so that it can intelligently move large objects without human supervision. To begin, we must be able to locate, identify, and capture the package properly and reliably.   This STTR, in cooperation with the University of Texas at Austin, aims to create a design and build a first-of-its-kind prototype that can perform these activities.