US 12741763 B2 / Sep 22, 2026

Multi-stage alignment of unmanned aerial vehicles with base stations during docking

A landing platform for a base station that is configured to dock with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The landing platform includes: a stage that defines landing areas, which are configured to receive the UAV during docking; alignment members that are configured to engage and reposition the UAV during a first stage of alignment; and a charging hub that is configured for electrical connection to the UAV. The charging hub includes a registration member, which is configured to mechanically interface with and reposition the UAV on the landing platform during a second stage of alignment, and a charging head that is repositionable in relation to the registration member from a normal position into a deflected position during a third stage of alignment to facilitate engagement of corresponding electrical contacts on the UAV and the charging head.