Controllable Launcher Pneumatic Trajectory Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing launchers for payloads lack controllability and predictability in their trajectories, often resulting in unpredictable and uncontrollable movements, and are not easily reusable or resettable for quick subsequent launches.
Innovation Solution
A controllable launcher system comprising a base, guide rail assembly, carriage, and energy source, with additional features like alignment devices, leveling mechanisms, and a counterbalancing system to ensure stable and precise launches, capable of calculating the required energy for a desired trajectory and featuring a short recycle time for rapid reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional launchers (circus-type with elastic cords or bow-shaped poles) are used, then the launcher can be simple in structure, but the trajectory is unpredictable and uncontrollable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical launchers (elastic cords, bow-shaped poles) with a pneumatic system. A pneumatic cylinder with piston and rod provides controlled pneumatic pressure to propel the carriage, enabling predictable and controllable trajectory while maintaining reasonable structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a guide rail assembly as an intermediary component between the pneumatic system and the payload. The guide rails constrain and direct the carriage motion, ensuring the payload follows a predictable trajectory while the pneumatic system provides the propelling force
2Device complexity
If traditional launchers are used, then the launcher can be simple in structure, but the recycle time is long and reuse is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service reset mechanism where the carriage automatically returns to the launch position using the pneumatic pressure differential. After payload launch, the pneumatic system naturally reverses the carriage position without manual intervention, enabling quick recycle time and repeated use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent recovers and reuses the pneumatic pressure energy after each launch cycle. The pneumatic system that propels the carriage upward is the same system that returns the carriage to the launch position, creating a reusable cycle with minimal time loss
3Manufacturing precision
If the launcher propels payload vertically onto tall structures, then the trajectory accuracy is improved, but the acceleration forces may cause injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a controlled pneumatic system with adjustable pressure to dynamically control the acceleration profile of the payload. The pneumatic pressure can be regulated to provide gradual acceleration rather than sudden impulse, reducing injury risk while maintaining vertical trajectory accuracy for tall structure launches
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a deceleration mechanism that prepares for and executes controlled deceleration during the launch sequence. This cushioning effect prevents excessive acceleration forces from causing injury while maintaining the vertical trajectory needed for tall structure launches
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 safe, accurate, and repeatable launches of payloads along predictable trajectories, minimizing the risk of injury and allowing for quick recycling and reuse, with the ability to launch payloads vertically onto tall structures like buildings.
Implementation Method 1
The launcher includes a pneumatic system with a compressed air reservoir that is fluidly coupled to the rodless pneumatic cylinder
Implementation Method 2
the carriage and the piston components, which may be substantially equal in weight, may be connected in a closed loop connection. Based on the weight distribution and the closed loop connection, the carriage and the piston components move comparable distances to one another in substantially opposite directions
Implementation Method 3
the carriage and the piston components, which may be substantially equal in weight, may be connected in a closed loop connection
Implementation Method 4
The deceleration mechanism, based on the counterbalancing system, may decelerate the carriage and the piston such that other components of the launcher may not move excessively during or after the launch of a payload
Data Source
AI summary
A controllable launcher for propelling a payload through a predictable and repeatable trajectory to a desired height. The launcher has an energy source for propelling a carriage and a piston in substantially opposing directions and a controller for controlling the trajectory of the propelled payload to enable the payload to land gently at a safe impact distance from the edge of a destination structure.