Tether Control System Instruction Manual
1 System Box Overview
1.1 System Introduction
The HLF10KS tethered UAV portable automatic deployment and recovery system mainly consists of: a winch, a tether box, integrated tether cable, and an integrated ground power supply. It provides wired power supply, data transmission, and cable deployment/recovery functions for tethered UAVs. The winch assembly includes the system box, main frame, cable storage drum, and control circuit.
1.2 Main Technical Specifications
| No. | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Main body dimensions | 382mm × 352mm × 226mm (L × W × H) |
| 2 | Dimensions (incl. handle & control panel) | 450mm × 352mm × 240mm (L × W × H) |
| 3 | Single cable length | 260m |
| 4 | Weight | 13kg ± 0.5kg |
| 5 | External power supply | AC 220V |
| 6 | Max. cable retrieval speed | ≥ 2 m/s |
| 7 | Operating mode | Passive payout / Active retrieval |
| 8 | Power supply output voltage | DC 800V |
| 9 | Max. output power | 10000W |
1.3 Operating Instructions
1.3.1 Tether Box Panel Description
Main Power Circuit Breaker: Master switch for all electrical components, including the tether box control power and the main tether power.
Main Power Switch Button: Controls the power supply to the UAV. When pressed, the system energizes the high-voltage DC circuit, outputting DC 800V to power the UAV's onboard power supply.
Main Power Indicator Light (Integrated into the button ring): Indicates the power supply status of the tether box.
Torque Adjustment Knob: Used to adjust the cable retrieval torque.
Transparent Cover: Allows visual inspection of the cable remaining on the drum.
LCD Display Information:
Output Voltage: Displays the current DC output voltage from the ground power supply.
Output Current: Displays the current DC output current from the ground power supply.
Output Power: Displays the current output power from the ground power supply.
Input Voltage: Displays the current DC input voltage to the ground power supply.
1.3.2 Wiring Instructions
Connect the supplied power cable from the mains or a generator to the tether box. Connect the aviation plug end to the corresponding socket on the tether box. The other end (plug) can be connected to a power strip rated for a minimum of 4500W.
The high-voltage output from the tether box uses an XT90 connector. Connect this cable to the UAV's onboard power supply as shown in the diagram. Ensure the load-bearing hook is properly secured (the hook line bears the tension).
2 Operating Procedure
Startup: Before operation, turn the torque adjustment knob to the minimum setting. Close the main circuit breaker. The system powers on, and the display screen illuminates.
Powering the UAV: To supply power to the UAV, press the "Main Power Switch" button. The cooling fan in the tether box will start, and the "Main Power Operation" indicator light will remain steadily on. The display will show the cable's output voltage, current, and power. When the system detects a load current, the indicator light will begin to breathe (pulsing on/off), indicating that power is being supplied to the UAV.
Operation During Flight:
Takeoff: Set the torque knob to minimum or apply slight torque (e.g., in windy conditions). The UAV will pay out the cable as it ascends.
Landing/Retrieval: Adjust the torque knob gradually from low to high, synchronizing with the UAV's descent speed. Alternatively, you can preset the torque knob to a suitable level from the start to maintain constant tension on the cable. In this mode, the UAV pays out cable by pulling against the tension during ascent/hovering, and the winch automatically retrieves cable during descent due to the maintained tension.
Shutdown: After completing the mission, first turn off the "Main Power Switch" to cut off the high-voltage DC output. Then, perform any remaining cable retrieval. Finally, turn off the main power circuit breaker and disconnect the power cable.
3 Safety Precautions
Before starting, ensure the equipment is placed on a relatively level surface.
Operators must wear insulated gloves to prevent accidental electric shock.
When adjusting the speed/torque knob, turn it slowly and gradually. Avoid turning it suddenly to the maximum setting.
After deployment and recovery, neatly coil the power cable and store it inside the box. Do not drag it on the ground.
Avoid dragging the tether cable on the ground during use to prevent fraying. Be mindful of sharp objects like stones that could cut the cable.