Multi-axis gimbal and controller comprising same
OwnerScott Edward PARAZYNSKI, Wayne JOHNSON +1inventors
InventorsScott Edward PARAZYNSKI, Wayne JOHNSON, Stuart RUSH
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Abstract
The present disclosure relates generally to control systems, and in particular apparatus, methods, and systems for controlling flights remotely or onboard the vehicle. More specifically, the present disclosure describes embodiments of a control system that allows a user to control the motion of a target in or along one or more degrees of freedom using a single controller. The control system described herein also include mechanisms that permit the conversion of user intent into discrete 3-D motions with tactile feedback relative to the null command.
Claims30
A gimbal assembly for a control member to independently pivot about a first axis of rotation and a second axis of rotation, the gimbal assembly comprising:
- a post having a first end, a second end, and a body therebetween, the post having a null position at a predetermined angular displacement about each axis of rotation;
- a first biasing member disposed around the body of the post, the first biasing member being configured to generate a first or second biasing force when the post pivots about the first or second axis;
- and
- a cage assembly coupled to the first end of the post, the cage assembly including:
- a coupling member;
- a first cage member having a first surface with an opening, the first surface having a downward slope towards the perimeter of the opening, wherein the coupling member is disposed between the first biasing member and the first cage member and configured to be moved up or down the slope as the post pivots;
- a second cage member having a first slot elongated along the first axis, pivotal movement of the post about the second axis causing the first end of the post to translate along the first slot;
- and
- a third cage member having a second slot elongated along the second axis, pivotal movement of the post about the first axis causing the first end of the post to translate along the second slot, wherein the second cage member is disposed between the first cage member and the third cage member.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.