1 System Box
1.1 System Overview
The AF-G30 portable automatic retraction and deployment system for tethered drones primarily consists of a retraction and deployment winch, a tethering box with integrated tethering cables, and an integrated tethered ground power supply, which provides wired power, information transmission, and cable retraction for the tethered drone. The retraction and deployment winch primarily includes the system box, main frame, cable storage reel, and control circuitry.
1.2 Main Technical Parameters
| NO. | Items | Technical Parameters |
| 1 | System Box Dimensions | 472mm*377mm*453mm (L/W/H) |
| 2 | System Box with Handle | 500mm*410mm*470mm (L/W/H) |
| 3 | Control Panel Dimensions | 120m |
| 4 | Single Cable Length | 39.5kg±0.5kg |
| 5 | Weight | AC380V |
| 6 | External Power Supply | Min. 2m/s |
| 7 | Maximum Reeling Speed | Passive payout/active take-up |
| 8 | Operating Mode | DC800-1000V |
| 9 | Power Supply Output Voltage | 30kW |
| 10 | Maximum Power Supply Output Power | ≤20kW |
1.3 Instructions
1.3.1 Tether Box Panel Description:
1) Main Power Circuit Breaker: This is the main switch for all electrical functions, including the tether box control power supply and the tether power mains.
2) Main Power On/Off Button: This is the on/off button for the aircraft power supply. Pressing this button activates high-voltage DC power to the system, outputting 800-1000V DC high voltage, which supplies the drone's onboard power supply.
3) Main Power On/Off Indicator (integrated in the main power on/off ring): This indicates the tether box power status.
4) Torque Adjustment Knob: This controls the reeling torque.
6) Transparent Panel: This allows for a visual inspection of the winch cable length.
7) LCD Display:
Output Voltage: This displays the current DC voltage output of the ground power supply.
Output Current: This displays the current DC current output of the ground power supply.
Output Power: This displays the current output power of the ground power supply.
Input Voltage: This displays the current three-phase AC line voltage input of the ground power supply.
1.3.2 Wiring Instructions
1) Connect the included power cord from the mains or generator to the mooring box. Connect one end of the power cord directly to the mooring box's aviation socket, and the other end directly to the mains or generator.
1.3.2 Wiring Instructions
1) Connect the included power cord from the mains or generator to the mooring box. Connect one end of the power cord directly to the mooring box's aviation socket, and the other end directly to the mains or generator.
2) The high-voltage cable output of the tethering box uses an XT90 connector. Connect the cable to the drone's onboard power supply as shown below, and secure the load-bearing hook (the cable is pulled by the load-bearing hook).
1.3.3 Operation Instructions
1) During operation, first adjust the torque adjustment knob to the lowest setting, then close the circuit breaker. This will power on the system and illuminate the display on the display panel.
2) To power the drone, press the "Main Power On/Off" button. The tethered box cooling fan will begin operating, and the "Main Power Running" indicator will illuminate steadily. The display will show the current output voltage, current, and power of the main power cable. When the system is carrying current, the indicator will flash, indicating that power is being supplied to the aircraft.
3) When the drone is ready for takeoff, adjust the torque knob to the highest setting. Use low or slightly increased torque (in windy conditions) to pull the cable through the drone. When reeling in the cable, adjust the torque knob from low to high, synchronizing with the drone's descent speed. Alternatively, adjust the torque to the appropriate level from the start to maintain a constant tension in the cable. The drone will release the cable and force it to hover. During landing, the cable will automatically reel in due to the tension.
4) After completing the mission, turn off the main power switch and disconnect the high-voltage DC power before reeling in the remaining cables to prevent accidental electric shock. Finally, turn off the main power switch and unplug the power cord. 5
1.3.4 Precautions
1) Before use, please level and position the equipment as much as possible, ensuring it is relatively balanced.
2) Operators must wear insulating gloves to prevent accidental electric shock.
3) When adjusting the speed control knob, turn it slowly from low to high, and do not suddenly increase it to maximum speed.
4) After retracting or extending the power cord, wrap it tightly and place it in the box. Do not drag it on the ground.
5) The mooring cable should not be dragged on the ground during use to prevent it from becoming frizzy. Be careful to avoid stones or other sharp objects on the ground to prevent cutting the cable.