Counter-Drone Capture UAV With Upward Net Interception
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing counter-drone mechanisms are not sufficiently accurate, require multiple attempts, have limited range, and pose safety risks due to the potential for unwanted UAVs to descend uncontrollably, making them inefficient and costly for capturing unwanted aerial objects.
Innovation Solution
A reusable and portable aerial drone equipped with a capturing device, such as a net or basket, that can approach and capture aerial objects from underneath, reducing the risk of mid-flight ejection and allowing multiple captures during a single flight, with a propulsion system and detection system for precise targeting and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing counter-drone mechanisms are deployed to capture unwanted UAVs, then capture capability is provided, but accuracy is insufficient and multiple attempts are required
Solution Approach 1:
The capturing device is inverted to face upward, allowing the aerial drone to approach unwanted UAVs from below and capture them while they are still airborne. This inversion enables accurate targeting and capture in a single attempt by positioning the capturing device in the optimal location relative to the target's flight path.
Solution Approach 2:
A detection system acts as an intermediary between the aerial drone and the unwanted UAV, providing precise detection and tracking capabilities that enable accurate targeting and capture in a single attempt, eliminating the need for multiple attempts.
2Length of stationary object
If existing counter-drone mechanisms are deployed, then capture capability is provided, but the range is limited to close proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The aerial drone is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a platform for detection/tracking and as a mobile capturing device. This universal design extends the operational range significantly compared to stationary counter-drone systems, allowing captures at various distances while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
3Productivity
If deployed nets are used to capture unwanted UAVs, then capture is achieved, but the mechanism cannot be used again once deployed
Solution Approach 1:
The capturing device features a deployable structure that can dynamically transition between deployed and retracted states. This dynamic design allows the device to be reused multiple times - it deploys for capture, then retracts for return to base, enabling continuous operation without permanent deployment and significantly improving productivity.
4Reliability
If counter-drone mechanisms cause unwanted UAVs to descend without control, then capture is achieved, but safety risks to nearby civilians increase
Solution Approach 1:
The aerial drone approaches and captures the unwanted UAV while it is still airborne and under control, before the target UAV would naturally descend or lose control. This preliminary capture action ensures the target is secured safely in the air, eliminating the hazard of uncontrolled descent and protecting nearby civilians.
Solution Approach 2:
The aerial drone acts as an intermediary that safely intercepts and captures the unwanted UAV in controlled flight conditions, preventing the need for the target UAV to descend uncontrolled and thereby eliminating safety risks to civilians on the ground.
Data Source
AI summary
An aerial drone is configured to capture aerial objects. The aerial drone has an airframe, a propulsion system mounted to the airframe, and a capturing device mounted to the airframe. The propulsion system is configured to control the movement of the aerial drone. The capturing device is configured to receive and capture an aerial object located above the aerial drone. A method of capturing an aerial object using the aerial drone is also contemplated.