Autonomous GPS Tracker for Launch Hardware Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tracking systems for launch spacecraft hardware are limited in their ability to provide precise impact location data for spent fuel stages and fairings, as they rely on ground-based sensors that lose tracking once the hardware is out of view, leading to safety concerns and inefficiencies in payload mass and cost due to the weight and expense of existing tracking solutions.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, autonomous tracking device attached to launch hardware, equipped with a GPS receiver, data recorder, and communications transmitter, which collects and transmits data via satellite, allowing for continuous tracking from launch to impact without requiring electrical power or services from the host launch vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ground-based tracking systems are used to monitor launch hardware, then tracking coverage is available during ascent, but tracking is lost when hardware passes out of view
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is self-contained with its own power supply, GPS receiver, and communications transmitter, allowing it to independently track and report its position throughout the entire flight path without requiring external services from the launch vehicle or ground infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an autonomous tracking device as an intermediary between the launch hardware and ground-based monitoring systems, enabling continuous tracking by having the hardware itself carry the tracking functionality rather than relying solely on external ground-based systems
2Reliability
If existing tracking systems are attached to launch vehicles, then continuous tracking is achieved, but weight and expense increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is designed as a lightweight, disposable unit that is attached to the launch hardware and discarded after use, eliminating the need for expensive, heavy, reusable tracking systems while providing sufficient tracking coverage for the duration of the flight
Solution Approach 2:
The device requires no electrical power or data services from the host vehicle, making it completely independent and eliminating the need for complex power and data interface systems that would add weight and complexity
3Loss of information
If electrical systems are installed on fuel stages for tracking, then tracking data can be collected, but potential for fuel leakage and explosions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is completely self-powered with an integrated power supply, eliminating all electrical connections to the fuel stage and thereby removing the hazard of fuel leakage and explosion associated with electrical systems on fuel stages
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the electrical systems entirely from the fuel stage environment by providing the tracker with its own independent power supply, separating the tracking function from any potential fuel hazards
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise tracking of launch hardware, reducing safety risks and payload mass by providing accurate impact location data and aerodynamic heating rate measurements, thereby enhancing safety and reducing costs associated with launch operations.
Implementation Method 1
The tracker includes a GPS receiver and modem for communicating flight path data to a communications satellite
Data Source
AI summary
A GPS tracker is disposed on launch hardware that separates from a spacecraft launch vehicle during ascent to orbit with the launch hardware having a suborbital trajectory from launch to impact while being tracked so as to track the launch hardware during suborbital flight, such as for tracking separated fuel stages, external tanks, external boosters, and payload fairings that return to earth.