The invention relates to a method and an arrangement for operating a rail vehicle (1), wherein, before travel of the rail vehicle (1) is started, an environment of the rail vehicle (1) is captured by at least one sensor (17) on board a flying unmanned aerial vehicle (3) and corresponding sensor signals are generated, and wherein the rail vehicle (1) is released or not released for travel depending on a result of an evaluation of the sensor signals.

The invention relates to a method and an arrangement for operating a rail vehicle (1), wherein, before travel of the rail vehicle (1) is started, an environment of the rail vehicle (1) is captured by at least one sensor (17) on board a flying unmanned aerial vehicle (3) and corresponding sensor signals are generated, and wherein the rail vehicle (1) is released or not released for travel depending on a result of an evaluation of the sensor signals.

A method for commissioning a field device or a service job on the field device uses a mobile transport unit having a position determination unit designed for navigation and further having an output unit. The method includes: transmitting a commissioning or service notification to the mobile transport unit, wherein the notification contains the identification of the field device and an operating action to be carried out on the field device; locating the installation position of the field device by the mobile transport unit based on the identification of the field device; guiding an operator to the installation position via autonomous navigation of the mobile transport unit through the installation; and assisting the operator when performing the operating action, wherein the mobile transport unit specifies and/or explains to the operator all operations or actions to be carried out.

A method for commissioning a field device or a service job on the field device uses a mobile transport unit having a position determination unit designed for navigation and further having an output unit. The method includes: transmitting a commissioning or service notification to the mobile transport unit, wherein the notification contains the identification of the field device and an operating action to be carried out on the field device; locating the installation position of the field device by the mobile transport unit based on the identification of the field device; guiding an operator to the installation position via autonomous navigation of the mobile transport unit through the installation; and assisting the operator when performing the operating action, wherein the mobile transport unit specifies and/or explains to the operator all operations or actions to be carried out.

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) ground station, comprising: a landing surface having a perimeter and a center; a plurality of pushers held above the landing surface by a plurality of linear actuators; at least one electro-mechanical connector attached to one of the plurality of pushers, mechanically adapted to be electrically connected to a compatible electro-mechanical connector of a UAV; and a landing detection controller adapted to instruct the plurality of linear actuators to move the plurality of pushers simultaneously from the perimeter toward the center when a landing event related to the UAV is detected.

A mechanically secure docking platform for unmanned VTOL aircraft (drone) or other automated vehicle, acting as an automated battery recharging system for drones or a battery quick change system for drones. The system also is capable of enabling an automated data logistics system for drones, an autonomous guidance system for landing and docking for drones, and/or an autonomous guidance system for undocking and takeoff for drones.

A UAV landing platform having movable covers to securely store/maintain/charge a UAV. The UAV may be launched from the landing platform, and the landing platform can have visual indicators to guide the landing of the UAV back onto the landing platform. There can be an optional mechanism to self-adjust/self-level the landing surface such that a UAV can safely land onto the landing platform even when the landing platform is on a traveling vehicle.

Methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for operating a drone consistent with an access level of the drone and/or an operator of the drone. Various embodiments may include determining, by a processor of the drone, whether the drone is registered with an agency or the operator of the drone is registered to operate the drone. In response to determining that the drone and/or the operator is registered, the drone processor may operate the drone consistent with an access level of the drone and/or operator. In response to determining that the drone and/or the operator is registered, the drone processor may restrict operations of the drone.

In one aspect, an example system includes: (i) a base including a bottom surface and a first coupling-point; (ii) a vertically-oriented elongate structure comprising a lower end, an upper end, and an inner channel, wherein the inner channel comprises an upper access-point disposed proximate the upper end, wherein the base is coupled to the elongate structure proximate the lower end; (iii) a deployable cushioning-device coupled to the elongate structure; and (iv) a tether comprising a first portion, a second portion, a third portion, and a fourth portion, wherein the first portion is coupled to the first coupling-point, the second portion is coupled to a second coupling-point of the UAV, the third portion extends through the inner channel, the fourth portion extends from the upper access-point to the second coupling-point, and the fourth portion has a length that is less than a distance between the upper access-point and the bottom surface.

A landing platform for an unmanned aerial vehicle, including a plurality of substantially funnel-shaped centering housings configured to cooperate with a corresponding plurality of projections of the aerial vehicle for reaching a predetermined landing position. The platform can include a mechanism for recharging the battery of the aerial vehicle and/or with an arrangement for serial data transfer.