Patent Description:
Unmanned aerial vehicles may be used for mounting a clamp. Unmanned aerial vehicles may be used to mount a clamp to a line.

The article entitled:" <NPL>, the video extract entitled "<NPL>, and the article of<NPL> disclose such vehicles.

The subject matter of the invention is as claimed in appended claim <NUM>. Optional features are disclosed in dependent claims <NUM>-<NUM>.

The following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects, advantages, and/or novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.

The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the claimed subject matter. It is evident, however, that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are illustrated in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter. Relative size, orientation, etc. of parts, components, etc. may differ from that which is illustrated while not falling outside of the scope of the claimed subject matter.

The present disclosure relates to supporting clamps in flight and mounting clamps to lines using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). For the purposes of the present disclosure, the terms unmanned aerial vehicle, UAV, and drone can be used interchangeably to indicate an aircraft without a human pilot onboard. UAVs can be a component of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS); which can include a UAV, a ground-based controller, and a system of communications between the UAV and the ground-based controller. UAVs may operate and/or fly with various degrees of autonomy, for example, fly under remote control by a human operator, fly autonomously by onboard computers, or fly using a combination of the two.

While there are many different styles of UAVs in use, some common features of UAVs include a body, propellers to develop lift, an electric motor-driven propulsion apparatus attached to the UAV (e.g., attached to the body), and a rechargeable electrical battery apparatus attached to the UAV. The description and figures within this disclosure relate to a UAV having six propellers attached to arms extending radially away from the body of the UAV, however, this is not meant to be limiting, and various styles, sizes, and propulsion systems are contemplated for use with the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, an overview of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) <NUM> in an application environment is illustrated. The UAV <NUM> can be one part of a clamp attachment system <NUM> that also includes (as noted previously) a ground-based controller <NUM>, and a system of communications <NUM> between the UAV <NUM> and the ground-based controller <NUM>.

The UAV <NUM> as part of the clamp attachment system <NUM> shall be used to mount or attach a clamp <NUM> to a line <NUM>. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the line can include, but is not limited to: an overhead conductor, a power line, a cable, a wire, a rope, a cord, a grounding/bonding device, etc. The line <NUM> may be positioned at a location that is not easily accessible, such as a distance above the ground, as shown in <FIG>. The line <NUM> shall comprise an overhead power line such that the line <NUM> is generally inaccessible (difficult to access, e.g., workers may need a helicopter or bucket truck to access the overhead conductor). Line <NUM> shall be used in electric power transmission networks to transmit electrical energy. The line <NUM> can comprise one or more overhead conductors that are suspended by towers and/or poles <NUM>. In this way, the UAV <NUM> may be piloted or flown a distance above the ground, whereupon the UAV <NUM> is able to mount the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view of the UAV <NUM> is illustrated according to some embodiments. The UAV <NUM> includes a body <NUM>. The body <NUM> can be a basic framework for mounting various components of the UAV <NUM>, such as a controller (not shown), rechargeable batteries <NUM>, an antenna <NUM> to receive communications from the ground-based controller <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), etc. In some embodiments, the body <NUM> can be centered about a central axis <NUM>. The body <NUM> can also provide a mounting location for a first arm <NUM> configured to mount a first propeller <NUM> at a distance from the body <NUM>. As such, the first propeller <NUM> is attached to the body <NUM> through the first arm <NUM>. Similarly, a second arm <NUM> is attached to the body <NUM> and provides a mount for a second propeller <NUM> to be attached to the body <NUM>. A third arm <NUM> is also attached to the body <NUM> and provides a mount for a third propeller <NUM> that is attached to the body <NUM>.

The body <NUM> is between at least one of the first propeller <NUM> and the second propeller <NUM>, the first propeller <NUM> and the third propeller <NUM>, or the second propeller <NUM> and the third propeller <NUM>. In some embodiments, the meaning of the body <NUM> being between a number of propellers is that the propellers are on opposing sides of the UAV <NUM>. In some embodiments, the meaning of the body <NUM> being between a number of propellers is that the propellers are attached to arms and the path of attachment between the propellers extends from one propeller, through an arm, through the body, and finally through another arm to another propeller. A geometric construct of a plane <NUM> can also be described that intersects the first propeller <NUM>, the second propeller <NUM>, and the third propeller <NUM>. In some embodiments, for ease of description, the plane <NUM> can be defined by the center points of the propellers <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a top, or plan, view of the UAV <NUM> proximate the line <NUM> is illustrated. As previously discussed, the figures collectively show a UAV <NUM> having six propellers in a particular orientation (e.g., generally within a single plane and oriented in a hexagonal fashion as shown in <FIG>), however, the UAV <NUM> can include any suitable number and arrangement of propellers.

Referring to <FIG>, a side, or elevation, view of the UAV <NUM> is illustrated in proximity to the line <NUM>. It is also to be understood that each of the propellers can be canted such that the axis of rotation of each propeller is not parallel to the central axis <NUM>, but angles toward the central axis <NUM> as the axis of rotation extends upward and away from the UAV <NUM>. Canting of the propellers in this way can increase the airborne stability of the UAV <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, the body <NUM> of the UAV <NUM> has a first side <NUM> and a second side <NUM>. A support structure <NUM> is attached to the first side <NUM> of the body <NUM>, for example, a pair of legs. The support structure <NUM> is configured to support the UAV <NUM> on a surface (e.g., the ground, a work surface, etc.) when the UAV <NUM> is not flying. In some embodiments, the support structure <NUM> can be rotated about a mounting joint at the body <NUM> during UAV <NUM> flight.

Returning to <FIG>, a guide <NUM> is attached to the first side <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The first side <NUM> is the side of the body <NUM> that faces downward, or toward the ground. The guide <NUM> is configured to support the clamp <NUM> for mounting the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM> by flying the UAV <NUM> toward the line <NUM>. The guide <NUM> is configured to support the clamp <NUM> for mounting the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM> by flying the UAV <NUM> toward the line <NUM> and causing contact between the clamp <NUM> and the line <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a detail view of the guide <NUM> is shown with the clamp <NUM> attached to the guide <NUM>. The guide <NUM> includes a mount <NUM> a first attachment feature, and a second attachment feature <NUM>. In some embodiments, the mount <NUM> and the second attachment feature <NUM> may be attached to each other with additional components between the mount <NUM> and the second attachment feature <NUM>, as is the case with the embodiment shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the second attachment feature <NUM> is attached directly to the mount <NUM>, as will be discussed below. Regardless of the attachment arrangement between the second attachment feature <NUM> and the mount <NUM>, the mount <NUM> can be attached to the UAV <NUM>, while the second attachment feature <NUM> can be attached to the clamp <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a detail view of the guide <NUM> is shown with the clamp <NUM> removed from the guide <NUM> and the support structure <NUM> removed from the body <NUM> for clarity. The mount <NUM> of the guide <NUM> is shown as mounted to the first side <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the mount <NUM> comprises one or more columns <NUM>. For example, the mount <NUM> may comprise a first column <NUM>, a second column <NUM>, a third column <NUM>, and/or a fourth column <NUM>. The first column <NUM>, the second column <NUM>, the third column <NUM>, and/or the fourth column <NUM> may be spaced apart and may extend substantially parallel to one another. In some embodiments, the first column <NUM>, the second column <NUM>, the third column <NUM>, and/or the fourth column <NUM> may be spaced apart to form a rectangular shape, though, other shapes are envisioned. Additionally, first ends of the first column <NUM>, the second column <NUM>, the third column <NUM>, and/or the fourth column <NUM> may be attached to a base <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a detail view of the mount <NUM> is illustrated. Opposing second ends of the first column <NUM>, the second column <NUM>, the third column <NUM>, and/or the fourth column <NUM> may include the first attachment feature <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first attachment feature <NUM> may comprise a first locking bracket <NUM>, a second locking bracket <NUM>, a third locking bracket <NUM>, and/or a fourth locking bracket <NUM>. The first locking bracket <NUM> may be attached to the first column <NUM>. The second locking bracket <NUM> may be attached to the second column <NUM>. The third locking bracket <NUM> may be attached to the third column <NUM>. The fourth locking bracket <NUM> may be attached to the fourth column <NUM>.

The first attachment feature <NUM> (e.g., the locking brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprises any number of structures configured to attach the mount <NUM> to the UAV <NUM>. In some embodiments, the locking brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise a wall that defines an opening into which a portion of the UAV <NUM> may be received, such as a rail <NUM>, <NUM> of the UAV <NUM>, for example. In this way, the locking brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may receive a rail of the drone, such as by the first locking bracket <NUM> and the second locking bracket <NUM> receiving a first rail <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of the UAV <NUM>, and the third locking bracket <NUM> and the fourth locking bracket <NUM> receiving a second rail <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of the UAV <NUM>. As such, in some embodiments, the first attachment feature <NUM> may function to removably attach the mount <NUM> of the guide <NUM> to the UAV <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the mount <NUM> comprises one or more lateral supports <NUM> that may extend between the columns <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the lateral supports <NUM> may comprise a first lateral support <NUM>, a second lateral support <NUM>, a third lateral support <NUM>, and/or a fourth lateral support <NUM>. The first lateral support <NUM> may extend between the first column <NUM> and the second column <NUM>. The second lateral support <NUM> may extend between the third column <NUM> and the fourth column <NUM>. The third lateral support <NUM> may extend between the second column <NUM> and the fourth column <NUM>. The fourth lateral support <NUM> may extend between the first column <NUM> and the third column <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lateral supports <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may extend in a direction that is non-parallel to the columns <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, such as by extending substantially perpendicular to the columns <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first lateral support <NUM> may extend substantially parallel to the second lateral support <NUM>. In some embodiments, the third lateral support <NUM> may extend substantially parallel to the fourth lateral support <NUM>. In this way, the ends of the lateral supports <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be attached to the respective columns <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to which the lateral supports extend between. As such, the lateral supports <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may provide additional support to the columns <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> so as to limit unintended vibration, flexing, deformation, or the like.

The mount <NUM> can also include the base <NUM>. In some embodiments, the base <NUM> is attached to an end of the columns <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that is opposite the first attachment feature <NUM>. In this way, the base <NUM> is spaced a distance apart from the UAV <NUM>. The base <NUM> may provide additional support to the columns <NUM>, <NUM>,<NUM>, <NUM> so as to limit unintended vibration, flexing, deformation, or the like.

Referring to <FIG>, the UAV <NUM> includes a rotation device <NUM> configured to rotate about an axis (e.g., the central axis <NUM>) that is perpendicular to the plane <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The rotation device <NUM> can also be termed a clamp carrier. The second attachment feature <NUM> is configured to support the clamp <NUM> and is attached to the rotation device <NUM> such that rotation of the rotation device <NUM> can maneuver the clamp <NUM> into a first position for mounting to the line <NUM> (e.g., the right-most clamp <NUM> shown in <FIG>). Additionally, rotation of the rotation device <NUM> can maneuver the clamp <NUM> into a second position for mounting to a second line. In some embodiments, the second line can be defined as the same line <NUM> that has had a clamp <NUM> mounted to the line <NUM> at a different location. In some embodiments, the second line is a different line than line <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the base <NUM> can provide a mounting location for a driver <NUM> (e.g., a servo motor). The driver <NUM> can be used to rotate the rotation device <NUM> a fixed number of degrees to help ensure that a clamp <NUM> is at the proper location to mount to the line <NUM>. In some embodiments, a controller on the UAV <NUM> can receive a signal from the ground-based controller <NUM> to cycle the rotation device <NUM> to mount the next clamp <NUM> in sequence. The driver <NUM> can then rotate the rotation device <NUM> a fixed number of degrees (e.g., <NUM> degrees) in order to place the next clamp <NUM> in a position to be mounted to the line <NUM>. In some embodiments, an operator using the ground-based controller <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) can use a single motion (e.g., depress a button), in order to cause the driver <NUM> to rotate the rotation device <NUM> to the next position. It is worthy of note that the rotation device <NUM> can be used such that the UAV <NUM> can approach the line <NUM> from a single orientation for each clamp mounting event. In other words, the operator or pilot of the UAV <NUM> does not have to consider which direction in which to orient the UAV <NUM> in order to mount the next clamp <NUM> in a mounting sequence.

Returning to <FIG>, the rotation device <NUM> can also include over-distance guards <NUM> extending generally downward from the rotation device <NUM>. The over-distance guards <NUM> can help protect the clamps <NUM> if the UAV <NUM> is driven too far toward/into the line <NUM>. For example, the over-distance guards <NUM> prevent the clamps <NUM> from being forcibly removed from the second attachment features <NUM> if the line <NUM> impacts that part of the guide <NUM>. Any suitable number and construction style of over-distance guards <NUM> are contemplated.

Returning to <FIG>, a connection feature <NUM> can include a fitting <NUM> configured to reliably transmit rotational force from the driver <NUM> (e.g., the servo motor) to the rotation device <NUM>. In some embodiments, the fitting <NUM> can be a splined fitting with a female spline member <NUM> attached to an output of the driver <NUM>. The female spline member <NUM> is configured to cooperate with a male spline member <NUM> mounted to the rotation device <NUM>. Any suitable device used to transmit rotational force between the driver <NUM> and the rotation device <NUM> can be used in the spirit of this disclosure.

Additionally, the guide <NUM> can include a quick disconnect feature <NUM> configured to disconnect the guide <NUM> from the UAV <NUM>. The quick disconnect feature <NUM> can include the spline members <NUM>, <NUM> as described above. The quick disconnect feature <NUM> can foster relatively quick replacement of a rotation device <NUM> after all of the clamps <NUM> from a first rotation device <NUM> have been mounted to a line <NUM> or multiple lines <NUM>. An operator or pilot can relatively quickly remove the empty rotation device <NUM> with a rotation device <NUM> with a full complement of clamps <NUM>.

For the purposes of this disclosure, the quick disconnect feature <NUM> includes any plug (e.g., the male spline member <NUM>) and socket (e.g., the female spline member <NUM>) connector that does not require the use of traditional hand tools to operate. When connected properly, the plug and socket lock the joint effectively to resist any tensile forces that tend to pull the connector apart. The quick disconnect feature <NUM> enables the mount <NUM> and the rotation device <NUM> to be relatively easily disconnected without tools by disengaging a locking mechanism and separating the plug and socket.

Referring to <FIG>, the quick disconnect feature <NUM> is shown with the female spline member <NUM> pulled upward (e.g., by using an operator's hand) against an internal spring force to release the internal lock in preparation for insertion of the male spline member <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the male spline member <NUM> has been inserted into the female spline member <NUM> and the female spline member <NUM> has been released and has moved to a downward locked position. In this position, the quick disconnect feature <NUM> is locked and the rotation device <NUM> is firmly connected to the mount <NUM> and thus the UAV <NUM>. As described, the second attachment feature <NUM> is configured to attach the clamp <NUM> to the guide <NUM>, and the quick disconnect feature <NUM> is configured to disconnect the second attachment feature <NUM> from the first attachment feature <NUM> such that the second attachment feature <NUM> is disconnected from the UAV <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view of a second attachment feature <NUM> is shown in detail. The second attachment feature <NUM> includes an attachment component <NUM>. The attachment component <NUM> may extend outwardly from a center of the second attachment feature <NUM> and may be sized to fit within an attachment opening defined by the rotation device <NUM>. In some embodiments, the attachment portion <NUM> may have one or more openings <NUM> to allow for mechanical fasteners (not shown) to pass therethrough so as to attach the second attachment feature <NUM> to the rotation device <NUM>.

The second attachment feature <NUM> comprises an alignment structure <NUM> that is attached to the attachment portion <NUM> that will be discussed in greater detail below. The alignment structure <NUM> configured to direct the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM> for mounting the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. In some embodiments, the second attachment feature <NUM> includes a cross-brace <NUM>. The cross-brace <NUM> may be disposed between the attachment portion <NUM> and the alignment structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the cross-brace <NUM> may extend substantially perpendicular to the attachment portion <NUM>, with the attachment portion <NUM> attached to the cross-brace <NUM>. In some embodiments, the alignment structure <NUM> may be attached to the cross-brace <NUM> opposite the attachment portion <NUM>. That is, in some embodiments, the attachment portion <NUM> may be attached to a first side of the cross-brace <NUM> while the alignment structure <NUM> may be attached to a second side of the cross-brace <NUM>.

The cross-brace <NUM> includes one or more attachment walls, such as a first attachment wall <NUM> and a second attachment wall <NUM>. The first attachment wall <NUM> and the second attachment wall <NUM> may be attached to the cross-brace <NUM> on the same side as the alignment structure <NUM>. In this way, the first attachment wall <NUM> and the second attachment wall <NUM> may be disposed between the elongated arms <NUM> of the alignment structure <NUM>. The first attachment wall <NUM> and the second attachment wall <NUM> may extend a distance outwardly from the cross-brace <NUM>, and may be spaced apart to define an opening <NUM> there-between. In some embodiments, the first attachment wall <NUM> and the second attachment wall <NUM> may comprise an attachment component <NUM> configured to attach the clamp <NUM> to the guide <NUM>. In some embodiments, the attachment component can be a first mating portion <NUM> such as a protrusion or nub. For example, the first mating portion <NUM> may project inwardly from the first attachment wall <NUM> toward the second attachment wall <NUM>. Although hidden in <FIG>, another first mating portion <NUM> may project inwardly from the second attachment wall <NUM> towards the first attachment wall <NUM>.

Remaining with <FIG>, the second attachment feature <NUM> can include an abutment wall <NUM>. In an example, the abutment wall <NUM> can be attached to the cross-brace <NUM>, such as by extending outwardly from the cross-brace <NUM>. For example, the abutment wall <NUM> may extend substantially perpendicular to the cross-brace <NUM>, and may extend downwardly from the cross-brace <NUM>. The abutment wall <NUM> may comprise an abutment extension <NUM>. In some embodiments, a first end <NUM> of the abutment wall <NUM> may be attached to the cross-brace <NUM> while a second end <NUM> of the abutment wall <NUM> may be attached to the abutment extension <NUM>. The abutment extension <NUM> may extend substantially perpendicular to the abutment wall <NUM>, such as by extending in the same direction as the elongated arms <NUM>. In this way, as illustrated in <FIG>, one end of the abutment extension <NUM> may be attached to the abutment wall <NUM> while another end of the abutment extension <NUM> may be spaced apart from the abutment wall <NUM>. In some embodiments, the end of the abutment extension <NUM> is in closer proximity to the cross-brace <NUM> than the first mating portion <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the first mating portion <NUM> is configured to mate with a second mating portion (to be discussed below) of the clamp <NUM> to attach the clamp <NUM> to the second attachment feature <NUM>. The first mating portion <NUM> may have a non-circular shape. That is, in an example, the first mating portion <NUM> may have a half-circular shape. The shape of the first mating portion <NUM> can ease attachment and/or detachment of the clamp <NUM> from the second attachment feature <NUM>, and thus, the guide <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view of the clamp <NUM> is illustrated. The clamp <NUM> may comprise a first jaw <NUM> and a second jaw <NUM> attached to the first jaw <NUM>. The first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> may be movable relative to each other. The first jaw <NUM> may extend between a gripping end <NUM> and an attachment end <NUM>. The gripping end <NUM> may be curved and may define one or more inner teeth, for example. In some embodiments, the first jaw <NUM> may extend non-linearly between the gripping end <NUM> and the attachment end <NUM>.

The second jaw <NUM> may be attached to the first jaw <NUM> and may define a gripping opening <NUM>. In some embodiments, the second jaw <NUM> may extend between a gripping end <NUM> and an attachment end <NUM>. The gripping end <NUM> may be curved and may define one or more inner teeth, for example. In this way, the teeth of the gripping ends <NUM>, <NUM> may provide an increased frictional surface so as to improve the gripping of the line <NUM> by the clamp <NUM>. In some embodiments, the inner teeth may be covered by a relatively soft or flexible cover <NUM>.

The attachment end <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM> may be attached to the attachment end <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM>. In some embodiments, the attachment end <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM> may be pivotably attached to the attachment end <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM>. That is, the first jaw <NUM> may pivot about an axis <NUM> relative to the second jaw <NUM>. In some embodiments, the axis <NUM> may intersect the attachment ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM>. In this way, the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> may move (e.g., rotate, pivot, etc.) relative to each other between an over-center position, an arrested position, and a closed position. In some embodiments, both the over-center position and the arrested position can be considered an opened position. In the opened position, the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> may receive the line <NUM> within the gripping opening <NUM> in order to mount the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. In the closed position, the line <NUM> may be gripped by the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM>, such that the clamp <NUM> may remain affixed to the line <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in order to assist in moving the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> between the opened and the closed positions, the clamp <NUM> may comprise a biasing member <NUM>. The biasing member <NUM> may extend between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. In some embodiments, the biasing member <NUM> may comprise a spring, such as a spring that extends along a biasing member axis <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of the biasing member <NUM> may be attached to the first jaw <NUM>. The second end <NUM> of the biasing member <NUM> may be attached to the second jaw <NUM>. In some embodiments, the biasing member <NUM> is configured to at least one of: rotate the first jaw <NUM> relative to the second jaw <NUM> about the axis <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) or rotate the second jaw <NUM> relative to the first jaw <NUM> about the axis <NUM>. In this way, the biasing member <NUM> may bias the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> towards a closed position (e.g., with the gripping end <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> tending to move towards the gripping end <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM>).

Referring to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the first jaw <NUM> can be formed of two parts that sandwich the second jaw <NUM>. In the cross-section view of <FIG>, one side of the first jaw <NUM> is removed to see the interaction between the components that make up the clamp <NUM>. The clamp <NUM> includes an arresting member <NUM> to selectively retain the clamp <NUM> in an opened position (e.g., the arrested position). For example, the arresting member <NUM> may hold the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> in the opened position, such that the clamp <NUM> may receive the line <NUM> within the attachment end <NUM>. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> may extend along an axis between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. The first end <NUM> may be attached to the first jaw <NUM>. For example, the first end <NUM> may be attached at an attachment location <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM>. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> may be pivotably attached to the first jaw <NUM>, such that the arresting member <NUM> may pivot relative to the first jaw <NUM> about an axis <NUM> (shown in <FIG>).

The second end <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> may be removably attached to the first jaw <NUM>. For example, the second end <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> may comprise a first ledge <NUM>. The first ledge <NUM> may comprise a protuberance, an outcropping, or the like that projects along a direction that is non-parallel (e.g., perpendicular, etc.) to an axis along which the arresting member <NUM> extends. In some embodiments, the first ledge <NUM> may engage a second ledge <NUM> that is defined on the first jaw <NUM>. For example, the first ledge <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> may rest upon the second ledge <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> when the clamp <NUM> is in the opened, arrested position (e.g., as illustrated).

Also, while in the arrested position, the arresting member <NUM> may be removably attached to the second jaw <NUM>. For example, the second jaw <NUM> can include a nose area <NUM>. In some embodiments, the nose area <NUM> can be formed on a relatively narrow portion of the second jaw <NUM> that moves between the two halves of the first jaw <NUM>. As shown, the nose area <NUM>, together with the second ledge <NUM>, sandwiches the first ledge <NUM> between the nose area <NUM> and the second ledge <NUM>. As such, the first ledge <NUM> presents a physical interference preventing rotation of the first jaw <NUM> relative to the second jaw <NUM>. Similarly, the physical interference prevents rotation of the second jaw <NUM> relative to the first jaw <NUM>. This is only one example of how the arresting member <NUM> can interact with the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to maintain the clamp <NUM> in the opened position (e.g., the arrested position) despite the force of the biasing member <NUM> urging the clamp <NUM> to move toward the closed position.

In the opened, arrested position as shown in <FIG>, the biasing member <NUM> may exert a closing force <NUM> (represented by a curved arrow) on the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to bias the clamp <NUM> toward the closed position. When the arresting member <NUM> is in contact with the second jaw <NUM> (e.g., by virtue of the nose area <NUM> resting upon the first ledge <NUM>), the arresting member <NUM> may maintain the clamp <NUM> in the opened, arrested position, with the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> spaced apart despite the bias of the biasing member <NUM> toward the closed position.

As described, the arresting member <NUM> is configured to engage at least one of the first jaw <NUM> or the second jaw <NUM>. The arresting member <NUM> is movable between a first position relative to at least one of the first jaw <NUM> or the second jaw <NUM> and a second position relative to at least one of the first jaw <NUM> or the second jaw <NUM>. In the first position, the arresting member <NUM> is configured to at least one of: restrain rotation of the first jaw <NUM> relative to the second jaw <NUM> about the axis <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), or restrain rotation of the second jaw <NUM> relative to the first jaw <NUM> about the axis <NUM>. In the second position, the arresting member <NUM> is configured to at least one of: enable rotation of the first jaw <NUM> relative to the second jaw <NUM> about the axis <NUM>, or enable rotation of the second jaw <NUM> relative to the first jaw <NUM> about the axis <NUM>.

Remaining with <FIG>, the clamp <NUM> may be moved in a first direction <NUM> toward the line <NUM>. As the clamp <NUM> is moved toward the line <NUM>, a distance <NUM> between the line <NUM> and the arresting member <NUM> may be reduced.

Referring to <FIG>, the clamp <NUM> can be placed into an over-center position, which can aid an operator in placing the clamp <NUM> in the arrested position. As shown, if the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> are a suitable number of degrees away from each other, the biasing member <NUM> (or at least the biasing member axis <NUM>) will move from a first side <NUM> of the axis <NUM> to a second side <NUM> of the axis <NUM>. In this position, the biasing member <NUM> will thus be biasing the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> toward the opened position, rather than the closed position, and thus the clamp <NUM> will remain open without an external force maintaining the clamp <NUM> in the opened position. It is understood that a stop or limiter may be included on at least one of the jaws <NUM>, <NUM> to limit the rotational travel distance in the over-center position.

Referring to <FIG>, the line <NUM> may eventually come into contact with the arresting member <NUM> and apply a force in a second direction <NUM> onto the arresting member <NUM>. This force in the second direction <NUM> causes the first ledge <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> to dislodge from its sandwiched location between the second ledge <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> and the nose area <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM>. The second end <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> may therefore pivot in a backwards direction <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, as a result of the second end <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> no longer contacting the second ledge <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> and the nose area <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM>, the arresting member <NUM> may not maintain the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> in the opened (e.g., arrested) position. Rather, the force of the biasing member <NUM> may cause the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to move towards each other into the closed position.

Referring to <FIG>, in this way, the line <NUM> may be gripped between the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to mount the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. The biasing member <NUM> is configured to then maintain the clamp <NUM> in the closed position until it is acted upon by an outside force. As such, the clamp <NUM> can remain reliably mounted to the line for a relatively long time.

As a summary of the clamp <NUM> positions, the biasing member <NUM> is configured to urge rotation of at least one of the first jaw <NUM> or the second jaw <NUM> to at least one of an over-center position, an arrested position, or a closed position. When the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> are in the over-center position, the biasing member <NUM>, or at least the biasing member axis <NUM> is located on the first side <NUM> of the axis <NUM>. When the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> are in the closed position, the biasing member <NUM> is located on the second side <NUM> of the axis <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the first jaw <NUM> may define a slot <NUM> that is defined between spaced apart jaw walls of the first jaw <NUM>. This slot <NUM> may be sized to accommodate the arresting member <NUM> as the arresting member <NUM> pivots in the backwards direction <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) and through the first jaw <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the clamp <NUM> is shown attached to the second attachment feature <NUM> of the guide <NUM>. The second attachment feature <NUM> is configured to support the clamp <NUM> for mounting to the line <NUM> by flying, toward the line, the UAV <NUM> to which the guide <NUM> is attached as has been previously discussed. The attachment feature <NUM> includes an attachment component <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) configured to attach the clamp <NUM> to the guide <NUM>. In <FIG>, the clamp is shown in the arrested position and the clamp <NUM> is in position to be mounted to the line <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the line <NUM> (not shown in this figure), has contacted the arresting member <NUM>. The resultant force between the line <NUM> and the arresting member <NUM> causes the second end <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> to leave engagement or contact with the second ledge <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> and the nose area <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM>. As a result of the second end <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> no longer contacting the second ledge <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> and the nose area <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM>, the arresting member <NUM> may not maintain the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> in the opened (e.g., arrested) position, and the clamp <NUM> is beginning to move to the closed position.

Also in <FIG>, the second attachment feature <NUM> includes a backing portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the backing portion <NUM> is angled and is configured to be impacted by the arresting member <NUM>. As the biasing member <NUM> (not shown) forces the second jaw <NUM> to rotate relative to the first jaw <NUM>, a portion <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) strikes the arresting member <NUM> with significant force. This force propels the arresting member <NUM> (e.g., the first ledge <NUM>) into contact with the backing portion <NUM> as the arresting member <NUM> rotates.

The backing portion <NUM> is configured to exert a detachment force in the direction of arrow <NUM> on the clamp <NUM> to forcibly detach the clamp <NUM> from the guide <NUM>. The detachment force <NUM> is a function of kinetic energy (e.g., rapid movement of the second jaw <NUM> relative to the first jaw <NUM>) that causes the clamp <NUM> to move from the arrested position to the closed position. This detachment occurs as the clamp <NUM> moves from the arrested position to the closed position whereby a distance between a first jaw <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and a second jaw <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> is decreased to mount the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>.

The backing portion <NUM> is configured to exert the detachment force <NUM> to the arresting member <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> responsive to the arresting member <NUM> contacting the backing portion <NUM> as the clamp <NUM> moves from the arrested position to the closed position. The arresting member <NUM> then translates the force <NUM> to at least one of the first jaw <NUM> or the second jaw <NUM> to overcome the forces maintaining attachment between the clamp <NUM> and the second attachment feature <NUM>, thus removing the clamp <NUM> from the second attachment feature <NUM> and the guide <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, as previously discussed, the second attachment feature <NUM> includes an attachment component <NUM> includes a first mating portion <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) configured to mate with a second mating portion <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> to attach the clamp <NUM> to the guide <NUM>. In some embodiments, the second mating portion <NUM> is an aperture defined by a portion of the first jaw <NUM>. It is to be understood that the first mating portion <NUM> (e.g., the protrusion on the second attachment feature <NUM>) can be located instead on the clamp <NUM> and the second mating portion <NUM> (e.g., the aperture defined by the clamp <NUM>) can be located on the second attachment feature <NUM>. In order to ease the forcible, automatic removal of the clamp <NUM> instantaneously with the mounting of the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>, the attachment component <NUM> can be elastically deformable to attach the clamp <NUM> to the guide <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, the second attachment feature <NUM> can include the previously discussed abutment wall <NUM> and the abutment extension <NUM>. In some embodiments, a face <NUM> of the abutment extension <NUM> can contact the clamp <NUM> when the clamp <NUM> is attached to the second attachment feature <NUM>. It is possible that the clamp <NUM> may have some ability to rotate about the connection with the second attachment feature <NUM> at the first mating portion <NUM> engagement with the second mating portion <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>. However, the contact between the clamp <NUM> and the abutment extension <NUM> helps maintain the open side <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> at a particular angle with respect to the plane <NUM> (shown in <FIG>).

The contact between the clamp <NUM> and the abutment extension <NUM> enables the guide <NUM> to be configured to support the clamp <NUM> such that an imaginary clamp line <NUM> between the first jaw <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> when the clamp <NUM> is in the arrested position is non-parallel to the plane <NUM> intersecting the first propeller <NUM>, the second propeller <NUM>, and the third propeller <NUM> (shown in <FIG>).

Referring to <FIG>, the UAV <NUM> can include a propeller guard <NUM> that is at an angle <NUM> relative to the plane <NUM> intersecting the first propeller <NUM>, the second propeller <NUM>, and the third propeller <NUM> to direct the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. As has been discussed, the rotation device <NUM> enables the UAV <NUM> to approach the line <NUM> to mount the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM> from a single orientation (e.g., line <NUM>). The propeller guard <NUM> can extend help ensure the line <NUM> will not contact the propellers on the side of the UAV <NUM> that approaches the line <NUM>. A first side <NUM> of the propeller guard <NUM> can be located above the propeller, and then angle to a second side <NUM> of the propeller that is generally in front of the propeller (e.g., in the direction <NUM> of the application of the clamp <NUM>). The propeller guard <NUM> then extends along a third side <NUM> at an angle <NUM> relative to the plane <NUM> to direct the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. In some examples there may be an intermediate propeller guard portion <NUM> between the second side <NUM> and the third side <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the line <NUM> is shown in contact with the second side <NUM> of the propeller guard <NUM> to show the propeller guard <NUM> inhibiting and or prohibiting contact between the line <NUM> and the propellers of the UAV <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the line <NUM> is shown in contact with the third side <NUM> of the propeller guard <NUM> that is configured to direct the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. At contact, a force imparted to the propeller guard <NUM> third side <NUM> is represented by line <NUM>. The resultant forces on the UAV <NUM> can be represented in orthogonal directions as vertical force <NUM> and horizontal force <NUM>. The resultant vertical force <NUM> will urge the UAV <NUM> in an upward direction to direct the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. The vertical force <NUM> will continue to urge the UAV <NUM> in an upward direction as the UAV <NUM> is moving in the direction toward the line <NUM> (e.g., direction <NUM>).

Referring to <FIG>, the elevation view of the UAV <NUM> shows cooperation between the third side <NUM> of the propeller guard <NUM> and the alignment structure <NUM> of the second attachment feature <NUM>. As the line <NUM> passes away from the end of the third side <NUM> of the propeller guard <NUM>, the line <NUM> can contact the alignment structure <NUM> to further direct the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. In some embodiments, any gap between the third side <NUM> and the alignment structure <NUM> are significantly smaller than a diameter of the line <NUM> such that the line cannot pass between the third side <NUM> and the alignment structure <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the propeller guard <NUM> can include an upward facing stop <NUM> extending away from the first side <NUM> of the propeller guard <NUM>. In <FIG>, the line <NUM> is shown in contact with the stop <NUM> to demonstrate the potential of the stop <NUM> to reduce and/or eliminate the possibility of the line <NUM> passing over a portion of the front side of the UAV <NUM> and making contact with the propellers on the side opposite the forward side of the UAV <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the UAV <NUM> can include a first camera to provide visual assistance to a ground-based operator. For example, the first camera can include a system of communications <NUM> between the UAV <NUM> and the ground-based controller <NUM> such that the first camera can relay pictures and/or moving images from an aerial location to the ground-based controller <NUM>. The ground-based operator can view the images from the first camera in order to properly position the UAV <NUM> to align the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ground-based operator can view a screen on the ground-based controller to fly the UAV <NUM> to present the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM> and cause contact between the clamp <NUM> and the line <NUM> to move the arresting member xxx to automatically close the clamp <NUM> around the line <NUM> to mount the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>. In general, the first camera can be mounted to face a direction toward what may be considered the "front" of the UAV <NUM>, such that the ground-based operator can watch the line <NUM> as it is approached by the UAV <NUM> and guide the UAV <NUM> to the line <NUM>.

Additionally, the UAV <NUM> can include a second camera mounted on an arm of the UAV <NUM> and facing toward the clamp <NUM> that is attached to the guide <NUM> or the second attachment feature <NUM>. The second camera can include a system of communications <NUM> between the UAV <NUM> and one or more ground-based controllers. In some embodiments, a second ground-based operator can view the images from the second camera on a second ground-based controller <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) in order to limit the amount of information presented at the ground-based controller <NUM>. The second camera can relay information regarding the interaction between the clamp <NUM> and the line <NUM> that may not be within the viewing range of the first camera.

Returning to <FIG>, A power line protection device <NUM> can be provided for protecting a power line (e.g., line <NUM>) from animals (e.g., avifauna) and/or for protecting animals from the power line. In some embodiments, the animals comprise airborne animals, such as birds, bats, etc. In some examples, the animals may be airborne during the day and/or at night. To limit animal contact with the line <NUM>, the power line protection device <NUM> is provided. The power line protection device <NUM> is effective in deterring avifauna (e.g., birds, bats, and other flying creatures) from flying into the line <NUM> during the day and/or at night. For example, the power line protection device <NUM> can emit light, so as to deter avifauna (e.g., birds, bats, and other flying creatures) at night. Additionally, the power line protection device <NUM> is conspicuous during the day and can reflect light, so as to deter animals during the day.

In some embodiments, the power line protection device <NUM> may be brightly colored, such as by having an orange color, yellow color, red color, etc. However, these bright colors may not be visible in low light conditions (e.g., dawn, dusk, night time). As such, one or more structures, components, etc. may be provided for reflecting and/or emitting light, with this reflected and/or emitted light being visible in low light conditions and during the day.

In some embodiments, the line protection device <NUM> may be attached to the clamp <NUM>. The line protection device <NUM> may be attached in any number of ways, such as with mechanical fasteners, or the like. In some embodiments, the line protection device <NUM> may hang from a bottom side of the clamp <NUM>, such that the line protection device <NUM> is relatively visible by birds or other animals.

Referring to <FIG>, the UAV <NUM> shall include a guide <NUM>. The guide <NUM> includes a mount <NUM>, a first attachment feature <NUM>, and a second attachment feature <NUM> configured to support a clamp <NUM>. The mount <NUM> and the second attachment feature <NUM> shall be attached to each other with additional components between the mount <NUM> and the second attachment feature <NUM>, as is the case with the embodiment shown in <FIG>. However, in the embodiment in <FIG>, the second attachment feature <NUM> is attached directly to the mount <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the base <NUM> of the mount <NUM> may define one or more attachment openings <NUM>. For example, the base <NUM> may define a first attachment opening <NUM>, a second attachment opening <NUM>, a third attachment opening <NUM>, and/or a fourth attachment opening <NUM>. The attachment openings <NUM> may be sized to receive the second attachment feature <NUM>. In some embodiments, the guide <NUM> does not include a rotation device, and an operator is required to orient the UAV <NUM> for each particular clamp <NUM> to be mounted to the line <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a second attachment feature <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated. In these embodiments, the second attachment feature <NUM> comprises an attachment portion <NUM>. The attachment portion <NUM> may extend outwardly from a center of the second attachment feature <NUM> and may be sized to fit within one of the attachment openings <NUM>. The attachment portion <NUM> may have one or more openings to allow for mechanical fasteners to pass there-through so as to attach the second attachment feature <NUM> to the mount <NUM>.

The second attachment feature <NUM> comprises an alignment structure <NUM> that is attached to the attachment portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, attachment portion <NUM> may extend along an axis, with the alignment structure <NUM> extending non-parallel to the axis. In some embodiments, the alignment structure <NUM> may define an angle with respect to the axis along which the attachment portion <NUM> extends. The angle may be, for example, between about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees. In some embodiments, the alignment structure <NUM> may comprise a pair of elongated arms <NUM> that extend substantially parallel to each other, and may be attached to each other by a connection portion <NUM>. As will be explained above with other embodiments of the second attachment feature, the alignment structure <NUM> may assist in aligning the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the second attachment feature <NUM> can include a guide structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the guide structure <NUM> may be attached to the connection portion <NUM> of the second attachment feature <NUM>. The connection portion <NUM> may comprise a wall <NUM> that defines a guide opening <NUM> into which the guide structure <NUM> may be received. In this way, the guide structure <NUM> may extend along an axis outwardly from the second attachment feature <NUM>. The guide structure <NUM> may assist a drone operator who is operating the UAV <NUM> to provide a point of reference relative to the UAV <NUM> and the line <NUM>. In some embodiments, the guide structure <NUM> can include a ball at a distal end of the guide structure <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a guide <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated. The guide <NUM> comprises a mount <NUM> and a rotation device <NUM>. The rotation device <NUM> is configured to attach several second attachment features <NUM> and is configured to rotate to present each second attachment feature <NUM> sequentially to a line <NUM> in order to mount the clamp <NUM> to the line <NUM>.

The rotation device <NUM> comprises a cover <NUM> and a base <NUM>. In some embodiments, the cover <NUM> may be attached to the base <NUM>, with the base <NUM> being movable relative to the cover <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may have a top side and a bottom side. In some embodiments, the top side may face the UAV <NUM> while the bottom side may face the base <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the top side of the cover <NUM> may comprise one or more attachment structures that assist in attaching the cover <NUM> to the UAV <NUM>. For example, the cover <NUM> may comprise a first attachment structure <NUM>, a second attachment structure <NUM>, a third attachment structure <NUM>, and a fourth attachment structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first attachment structure <NUM>, the second attachment structure <NUM>, the third attachment structure <NUM>, and the fourth attachment structure <NUM> may extend outwardly from the top side of the cover <NUM>. In this way, top surfaces of the first attachment structure <NUM>, the second attachment structure <NUM>, the third attachment structure <NUM>, and the fourth attachment structure <NUM> may define a first plane, while remaining portions of the cover <NUM> may define a second plane that is non-coplanar (e.g., offset) with respect to the first plane. It is to be appreciated that a bottom side of the UAV <NUM> may comprise one or more recesses that are sized and/or shaped to receive the first attachment structure <NUM>, the second attachment structure <NUM>, the third attachment structure <NUM>, and the fourth attachment structure <NUM>.

The cover <NUM> may receive a fastener <NUM> (e.g., a threaded fastener) through the cover opening defined by the cover <NUM> so as to attach the cover <NUM> to the UAV <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the base <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, the base <NUM> comprises a base wall <NUM> that is surrounded by a surrounding wall <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may be attached to the surrounding wall <NUM> so as to define a gap, a space, a recess, or the like between the cover <NUM> and the base wall <NUM>. In some embodiments, the base wall <NUM> may have a substantially rounded shape, though other shapes (e.g., square, etc.) are envisioned.

In some embodiments, the base <NUM> comprises one or more walls that define attachment openings. For example, the base <NUM> may comprise a first wall <NUM> that defines a first attachment opening <NUM>, a second wall <NUM> that defines a second attachment opening <NUM>, a third wall <NUM> that defines a third attachment opening <NUM>, and a fourth wall <NUM> that defines a fourth attachment opening <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM>, the third wall <NUM>, and the fourth wall <NUM> may project outwardly from the surrounding wall <NUM>. In this way, ends of the first wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM>, the third wall <NUM>, and the fourth wall <NUM> may be spaced a distance apart from the surrounding wall <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM>, the third wall <NUM>, and the fourth wall <NUM> may be spaced apart between about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees about the surrounding wall <NUM>. For example, the first wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM>, the third wall <NUM>, and the fourth wall <NUM> may be spaced apart about <NUM> degrees from one another. However, in other examples, such a spacing may be different than as illustrated herein.

In some embodiments, the second attachment feature <NUM> may be attached to the base <NUM>. For example, the second attachment feature <NUM> may be received within one of the attachment openings <NUM> in a as described herein with respect to <FIG>. In this way, the base <NUM> may receive a plurality of second attachment features <NUM>, such as a second attachment feature <NUM> within each of the first attachment opening <NUM>, the second attachment opening <NUM>, the third attachment opening <NUM>, and/or the fourth attachment opening <NUM> (collectively attachment openings <NUM>).

Remaining with <FIG>, the base <NUM> may comprise a first stopper <NUM> while the cover <NUM> may comprise a second stopper <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first stopper <NUM> comprises a projection, protuberance, or other structure formed along an interior wall of the base <NUM>. The second stopper <NUM> may comprise a projection, protuberance, or other structure formed along an interior wall of the cover <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first stopper <NUM> and the second stopper <NUM> may face each other when the cover <NUM> is attached to the base <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a biasing device <NUM> may comprise a first biasing end <NUM> and a second biasing end <NUM>. The first biasing end <NUM> and the second biasing end <NUM> may project outwardly from an axis (e.g. central axis <NUM>) along which the biasing device <NUM> extends. That is, in some embodiments, the biasing device <NUM> may define an opening that extends along an axis, with the first biasing end <NUM> and the second biasing end <NUM> extending perpendicular to the axis.

When the cover <NUM> is attached to the base <NUM>, the first biasing end <NUM> of the biasing device <NUM> may engage the first stopper <NUM> while the second biasing end <NUM> of the biasing device <NUM> may engage the second stopper <NUM>. For example, a protrusion end of a protrusion may be received within an opening <NUM> defined within the base <NUM>. In this way, due to the cover <NUM> being attached to and non-movable relative to the UAV <NUM>, the biasing device <NUM> may cause the base <NUM> to move relative to the cover <NUM>. For example, with the first biasing end <NUM> of the biasing device <NUM> engaging the first stopper <NUM> and the second biasing end <NUM> of the biasing device <NUM> engaging the second stopper <NUM>, the biasing device <NUM> may apply a biasing force to the base <NUM> to cause the base <NUM> to rotate relative to the cover <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a push mechanism (not shown) may be attached to a bottom side of the base <NUM>. The push mechanism may project outwardly from a perimeter of the base <NUM>, and may be fixedly attached to the fastener. In some embodiments, the biasing device <NUM> may cause the base <NUM> to move relative to the cover <NUM>. In operation, the base <NUM> may be limited from further movement due to the clamps <NUM> contacting the push mechanism. Once a clamp <NUM> has been attached to the line <NUM>, the force applied by the biasing device <NUM> to the base <NUM> may cause further rotation of the base <NUM>, at least until the next clamp <NUM> contacts the push mechanism. In this way, the base <NUM> and the cover <NUM> may provide an auto-indexing feature for attaching clamps <NUM> to one or more lines <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a guide <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, the guide <NUM> comprises a first attachment portion <NUM> and a second attachment portion <NUM>. A clamp <NUM> may be received by the first attachment portion <NUM> and the second attachment portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the guide <NUM> is configured to receive a plurality of clamps <NUM>, such as four clamps, for example.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a clamp <NUM> is illustrated according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the clamp <NUM> can include a first jaw <NUM>, a second jaw <NUM>, a biasing member <NUM>, and an arresting member <NUM>, etc. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> comprises a first arresting portion <NUM> and a second arresting portion <NUM>. The first arresting portion <NUM> may have a first end <NUM> that is pivotably attached to the first jaw <NUM>. The second arresting portion <NUM> may have a first ledge <NUM> that engages a second ledge <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM>, similar to previously described embodiments. In some embodiments, the first arresting portion <NUM> and the second arresting portion <NUM> may be attached by an arresting pivot <NUM>. In this way, the first arresting portion <NUM> and the second arresting portion <NUM> may pivot relative to each other about the arresting pivot <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the second arresting portion <NUM> comprises a stop member <NUM>. The stop member <NUM> may selectively abut the first arresting portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> is movable between an extended position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>) in which the first arresting portion <NUM> and the second arresting portion <NUM> extend along an axis <NUM>, and a folded position (e.g. as illustrated in <FIG>) in which the first arresting portion <NUM> and the second arresting portion <NUM> extend non-linearly with respect to each other. In some embodiments, when the first arresting portion <NUM> and the second arresting portion <NUM> are in the extended position, the stop member <NUM> may limit the arresting member <NUM> from moving to the folded position by abutting the first arresting portion <NUM>.

In operation, the arresting member <NUM> may maintain the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> in the opened position when the arresting member <NUM> is in the extended position. When the line <NUM> contacts the arresting member <NUM>, the first arresting portion <NUM> and the second arresting portion <NUM> may pivot from the extended position to the folded position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). With the arresting member <NUM> in the folded position, the biasing member <NUM> may move the clamp <NUM> from the opened position to the closed position.

Referring to <FIG>, some embodiments of the clamp <NUM> is illustrated. In some embodiments, the clamp <NUM> may comprise a first jaw <NUM>, a second jaw <NUM>, a biasing member <NUM>, and an arresting member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> may extend non-linearly between opposing ends. For example, a center portion <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> may form an angle.

The arresting member <NUM> may be pivotably attached to the second jaw <NUM> at the attachment location <NUM>. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> may be attached to the second jaw <NUM> at a location that is between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM>. For example, a location towards a center <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> may be pivotably attached to the second jaw <NUM>, such that the arresting member <NUM> may pivot relative to the second jaw <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> includes a first ledge <NUM>. The first ledge <NUM> may comprise a protuberance, an outcropping, or the like. The first ledge <NUM> may engage a second ledge <NUM> that is defined in the first jaw <NUM>. For example, the first jaw <NUM> may define an opening in which the second ledge <NUM> may be formed. In some embodiments, the second ledge <NUM> may be formed adjacent to an axis <NUM>. In such some embodiments, the axis <NUM> and the second ledge <NUM> may be located on a same side (e.g., below) the location of the pivotable attachment between the arresting member <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM>. In some embodiments, the second ledge <NUM> may comprise a shelf, an outcropping, or the like.

In operation, the first ledge <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> may rest upon the second ledge <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> when the clamp <NUM> is in the opened position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). In the opened position, the biasing member <NUM> may exert a closing force <NUM> on the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to bias the clamp <NUM> towards the closed position. When the arresting member <NUM> is in contact with the second jaw <NUM> (e.g., by virtue of the first ledge <NUM> resting upon the second ledge <NUM>), the arresting member <NUM> may maintain the clamp <NUM> in the opened position, with the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> spaced apart.

Referring to <FIG>, a clamp <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, the clamp <NUM> can include a first jaw <NUM>, a second jaw <NUM>, a biasing member <NUM>, and an arresting member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> may be disposed at a rear of the first jaw <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> may be removably attached to the first jaw <NUM> at the attachment location <NUM>. The arresting member <NUM> can extend between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. The first end <NUM> may be removably attached to the first jaw <NUM>. For example, the first jaw <NUM> may define a second ledge <NUM> that is formed between the walls that define a slot <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> may engage and rest upon the second ledge <NUM>. In some embodiments, the second jaw <NUM> comprises a stopper <NUM>. The stopper <NUM> may be positioned within the slot <NUM>. The arresting member <NUM> may initially be inserted within the slot <NUM> so as to rest upon the second ledge <NUM>. Opposite the second ledge <NUM>, the stopper <NUM> may contact and engage the arresting member <NUM>. In this way, the second ledge <NUM> may be disposed on a first side <NUM> of the arresting member <NUM> while the stopper <NUM> may be disposed on an opposing second side of the arresting member <NUM>.

In operation, the arresting member <NUM> may rest upon the second ledge <NUM> of the first jaw <NUM> when the clamp <NUM> is in the opened position (e.g., as illustrated). In the opened position, the biasing member <NUM> may exert a closing force <NUM> on the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to bias the clamp <NUM> towards the closed position. When the arresting member <NUM> is in contact with the stopper <NUM>, the arresting member <NUM> may maintain the clamp <NUM> in the opened position, with the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> spaced apart.

The arresting member <NUM> may be moved in a direction away from the clamp <NUM> such that the arresting member <NUM> may be removed from the second ledge <NUM>. As the arresting member <NUM> is removed from the second ledge <NUM>, the stopper <NUM> may no longer contact and/or engage the arresting member <NUM>. In this way, the arresting member <NUM> may not maintain the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> in the opened position. Rather, the force of the biasing member <NUM> may cause the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to move towards each other into the closed position. In this way, the line <NUM> may be gripped between the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a clamp <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated. The clamp <NUM> can include a first jaw <NUM>, a second jaw <NUM>, a biasing member <NUM>, and an arresting member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> may be disposed at a rear of the first jaw <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> comprises one or more arresting arms. For example, the arresting member <NUM> comprises a first arresting arm <NUM>, a second arresting arm <NUM>, and a third arresting arm <NUM>. The first arresting arm <NUM> may extend from a rear of the second jaw <NUM> and through a slot <NUM> defined by the first jaw <NUM>. In some embodiments, the second arresting arm <NUM> may be pivotably attached to the first arresting arm <NUM> at a first pivot attachment <NUM>. In this way, the first arresting arm <NUM> and the second arresting arm <NUM> may pivot relative to each other. In some embodiments, the arresting member <NUM> includes the third arresting arm <NUM> that is pivotably attached to the second arresting arm <NUM> at a second pivot attachment <NUM>. In this way, the second arresting arm <NUM> and the third arresting arm <NUM> may pivot relative to each other. Opposite the second pivot attachment <NUM>, the third arresting arm <NUM> may be attached to the first jaw <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the first jaw <NUM> comprises a stopper <NUM> that extends between the walls that define the slot <NUM>. The second arresting arm <NUM> and/or the third arresting arm <NUM> may abut and/or contact the stopper <NUM>.

In operation the second arresting arm <NUM> and the third arresting arm <NUM> may pivot towards the stopper <NUM> so as to contact the stopper <NUM> adjacent to the second pivot attachment <NUM>. In the opened position, the biasing member <NUM> may exert a closing force <NUM> on the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to bias the clamp <NUM> towards the closed position. When the second arresting arm <NUM> and the third arresting arm <NUM> are in contact with the stopper <NUM>, the first arresting arm <NUM> is limited from pivoting downwardly towards the third arresting arm <NUM>. In this way, when the arresting member <NUM> abuts and/or contacts the stopper <NUM>, the arresting member <NUM> may maintain the clamp <NUM> in the opened position, with the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> spaced apart.

In some embodiments, to move the clamp <NUM> from the opened position toward the closed position, the arresting member <NUM> may be moved in a direction away from the stopper <NUM>. For example, the second arresting arm <NUM> may comprise a gripping location <NUM> that is adjacent to the second pivot attachment <NUM>. A force may be applied to the gripping location <NUM> to move the second arresting arm <NUM> away from the stopper <NUM>. In turn, the third arresting arm <NUM> may likewise move away from the stopper <NUM>. With the second arresting arm <NUM> and the third arresting arm <NUM> moving away from the stopper, the first arresting arm <NUM> may move towards the third arresting arm <NUM> (e.g., downwardly). In this way, the arresting member <NUM> may not maintain the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> in the opened position. Rather, the force of the biasing member <NUM> may cause the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to move towards each other into the closed position. In this way, the line <NUM> may be gripped between the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a clamp <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated. The clamp <NUM> can include a first jaw <NUM>, a second jaw <NUM>, and a biasing member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the clamp <NUM> may not include an arresting member. Rather, the position of the biasing member <NUM> may maintain the clamp <NUM> in an opened position versus a closed position.

For example, in the opened position, as illustrated in <FIG>, the biasing member <NUM> may be located on a side of the axis <NUM>, such as by being located below the axis <NUM>. In this way, the biasing member <NUM> may apply a force to the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM>. However, due to the biasing member <NUM> being located below the axis <NUM>, the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> may remain in the opened position. In other words, the biasing member <NUM> is urging the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to the opened position because the clamp <NUM> is in an over-center position.

In some embodiments, to move the clamp <NUM> from the opened position towards the closed position, the clamp <NUM> may be moved into proximity to the line <NUM>. As the line <NUM> moves towards the clamp <NUM>, the line <NUM> may contact a jaw wall <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM>. Contact between the line <NUM> and the jaw wall <NUM> of the second jaw <NUM> may provide a sufficient amount of force for the second jaw <NUM> to overcome the biasing force of the biasing member <NUM>. In turn, the second jaw <NUM> may begin to rotate relative to the first jaw <NUM>. This rotation may allow for the biasing member <NUM> to move upwards such that, the biasing member <NUM> may be located on an opposite side of the axis <NUM> (e.g., above the axis). In this way, the biasing member <NUM> may no longer maintain the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> in the opened position. Rather, the force of the biasing member <NUM> may cause the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM> to move towards each other into the closed position. In this way, the line <NUM> may be gripped between the first jaw <NUM> and the second jaw <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a clamp <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated. The clamp <NUM> can include a first jaw <NUM>, a second jaw <NUM>, and a biasing member <NUM>. The illustrated clamp of <FIG> is similar to the clamp <NUM> of <FIG>. However, in some embodiments, the clamp <NUM> can include a disengagement structure, such as a wheel <NUM>. The wheel <NUM> may be rotatably attached to the first jaw <NUM>. In some embodiments, when the clamp <NUM> moves into proximity with the line <NUM>, the line <NUM> may engage a leg <NUM> of the wheel <NUM>. Such an engagement may cause the wheel <NUM> to rotate. As the wheel <NUM> rotates, one or more legs <NUM> of the wheel <NUM> may contact a mounting structure (not shown) to which the clamp <NUM> is mounted. This contact may assist in releasing the clamp <NUM> from the mounting structure.

Referring to <FIG>, some embodiments mounting structure <NUM> is illustrated for mounting the clamps <NUM> to a line <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more of the clamps that have been described herein may be used in association with the mounting structure <NUM>. The mounting structure <NUM> may comprise a base <NUM> and a wheel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the base <NUM> may be attached to the UAV <NUM>, while the wheel <NUM> may be attached to the base <NUM>. In some embodiments, the mounting structure <NUM> comprises a mounting arm <NUM> that is movable relative to the wheel <NUM>.

The mounting arm <NUM> may extend between a gear end <NUM> and an engagement end <NUM>. In some embodiments, the gear end <NUM> may be located in proximity to a center of the wheel <NUM> while the engagement end <NUM> may be located towards a perimeter of the wheel <NUM>. The gear end <NUM> may comprise a stopper <NUM> for engaging with gears <NUM> of the wheel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the gears <NUM> define one or more slots, openings, or the like that are formed in a portion of the wheel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the mounting arm <NUM> may normally be biased to a position in which the engagement end <NUM> is in contact with the wheel <NUM> and the gear end <NUM> is located a distance away from the gears <NUM>. Due to the force of gravity (e.g., from the clamps <NUM> being supported on a perimeter of the wheel <NUM>), the wheel <NUM> may pivot downwardly as represented by arrow <NUM>. As the wheel <NUM> rotates, the engagement end <NUM> may receive a portion of the clamp <NUM>, such as a wall <NUM>. In this way, a wall of the clamp <NUM> may be positioned between the engagement end of the mounting arm <NUM> and the wheel <NUM>. The outwardly flared shape of the engagement end <NUM> may further facilitate receiving a portion of the clamp <NUM>.

As the portion of the clamp <NUM> is received by the engagement end <NUM>, the gear end <NUM> of the mounting arm <NUM> may move into engagement with the gears <NUM>. That is, the stopper <NUM> of the mounting arm <NUM> may pivot so as to be received within one of the gear openings of the gear <NUM>. With the stopper <NUM> in place, the wheel <NUM> is substantially limited from inadvertently rotating. However, once a clamp <NUM> has received a line and the clamp is disengaged from the wheel <NUM>, the wheel <NUM> may rotate, thus positioning the next clamp <NUM> in place relative to the line <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a mounting structure <NUM> according to some embodiments is illustrated for mounting a set of clamps <NUM> to a line <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more of the clamps that have been described herein may be used in association with the mounting structure <NUM>. The mounting structure <NUM> may comprise a frame <NUM> and a clamp holder <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more of the clamps <NUM> may be attached to the clamp holder <NUM>. The frame <NUM> may be attached to the UAV <NUM>, such that the clamps <NUM> may be transported towards the line <NUM>. In some embodiments, the mounting structure <NUM> comprises a wire <NUM> that may be attached to the frame <NUM> and to a triggering mechanism <NUM> of the clamps <NUM>. In this way, one of the clamps <NUM> may be attached to a line <NUM>. As the UAV <NUM> is flying away, the wire <NUM> may cause the triggering mechanism <NUM> to disengage from the clamp <NUM> and, thus, cause the clamp <NUM> to move from the opened position to the closed position. In this way, the clamp <NUM> may be attached to the line <NUM>. Once one of the clamps <NUM> is attached to the line <NUM>, gravity may assist in causing the next clamp <NUM> to slide down the clamp holder <NUM> towards an end <NUM> of the clamp holder <NUM>.

As described herein, the present application provides for an unmanned aerial vehicle (e.g., a drone) to maneuver a clamp from the ground to a line (e.g., overhead conductor) and mount the clamp to the line without the physical presence of a line worker near the line. To achieve this, an auto-triggering clamp is described to enable the clamp to automatically latch onto the line by using kinetic energy that has been converted from potential energy in a biasing member as the clamp triggers itself through contact with a line. A carrier system has also been developed to work with available commercial drones to enable the clamp to be carried to the line and then be released once the clamp has latched onto the line. This system may replace conventional bucket truck or helicopter installation methods.

The drone pilot may mount the drone guide to the drone. Then, the pilot may install a clamp into the carrier and set a trigger so that the clamp may be ready to be installed on a line. Some drone guides shall be capable of holding multiple clamps to help accelerate the installation process of multiple clamps (e.g., drone does not have to return to ground for every clamp). Next, the pilot shall power up the drone and navigate up to the line. The pilot may then maneuver the drone so that the clamp is driven into the line which shall trip the trigger and close the clamp around the line. The clamp shall (e.g., nearly) simultaneously release from the guide and shall remain fixed to the line while the pilot navigates the drone to the next install location. When there are no more clamps left to be installed, the pilot shall land the drone and repeat the installation process until all of the clamps have been installed.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing at least some of the claims.

Various operations of embodiments are provided herein. The order in which some or all of the operations described should not be construed to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. Alternative ordering will be appreciated having the benefit of this description. Further, it will be understood that not all operations are necessarily present in each embodiment provided herein. Also, it will be understood that not all operations are necessary in some embodiments.

Unless specified otherwise, "first," "second," or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first component and a second component correspond to component A and component B or two different or two identical components or the same component.

Moreover, "exemplary" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, illustration, etc., and not necessarily as advantageous. As used in this application, "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". In addition, "a" and "an" as used in this application are to be construed to mean "one or more" unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Also, at least one of A and B or the like means A or B or both A and B. Furthermore, to the extent that "includes", "having", "has", "with", or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to "comprising".

Claim 1:
An unmanned aerial vehicle (<NUM>) for mounting a clamp (<NUM>) to a line (<NUM>) comprising:
a body (<NUM>);
a first propeller (<NUM>) attached to the body;
a guide (<NUM>) attached to the body and configured to support the clamp for mounting to the line by flying the unmanned aerial vehicle toward the line; and
a propeller guard (<NUM>) attached to the body and configured to inhibit the propeller from contacting the line and to direct the clamp to the line,
characterized in that
the propeller guard is below the propeller, to an exterior side of the propeller relative to the body, and above the propeller.