Counter-UAS Laser Platform With AI Detection and Modular Payload
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a high-energy laser (HEL) weapon system capable of detecting, classifying, and defeating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) threats in various operational scenarios, including military bases, convoys, airports, and key infrastructure, with advanced AI detection and tracking algorithms, and a modular design for ease of use and upgradability.
Innovation Solution
A fully self-contained HEL weapon system with integrated radar and electronic warfare subsystems, AI detection and tracking algorithms, and a modular Line Replacement Unit (LRU) design, featuring a scalable architecture and detachable laser payload for maintenance and transportability, providing area protection and flexible employment options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a high-energy laser weapon system is designed with integrated radar and electronic warfare subsystems for automated UAS detection and tracking, then the system's detection precision and tracking effectiveness are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines radar subsystems, electronic warfare subsystems, and high-energy laser weapon systems into an integrated C-UAS platform. This merging of multiple detection and engagement technologies into a single unified system improves measurement precision for UAS detection and tracking while managing device complexity through integrated architecture design.
Solution Approach 2:
The weapon system is designed with multi-functional capabilities including radar detection, electronic warfare operations, and high-energy laser engagement. This universal platform can perform multiple functions (detection, classification, tracking, and destruction) across different operational scenarios, improving detection precision while avoiding the need for separate specialized systems.
2Ease of operation
If the HEL weapon system is designed as a fully self-contained unit with power supply and thermal management, then the ease of operation is improved, but the weight of the object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-contained HEL weapon system is divided into distinct functional modules including power supply subsystems, thermal management subsystems, laser generation modules, and control systems. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system portability and ease of operation as a unified platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates integrated power supply units and thermal management capabilities that operate autonomously without requiring external support infrastructure. This self-service design enables the weapon system to function independently in various operational scenarios, improving ease of operation despite the added weight of self-contained subsystems.
3Ease of repair
If the laser payload is made detachable for maintenance and transportability, then the ease of repair and transportability are improved, but the reliability may be affected by connection interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The laser payload is designed as a detachable module that can be separated from the main weapon platform. This segmentation enables easy removal and replacement of the laser payload for maintenance, upgrade, or transport purposes, significantly improving ease of repair while maintaining system reliability through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable laser payload design allows for rapid replacement of degraded or damaged laser modules. Used payloads can be quickly removed and replaced with fresh or refurbished units, enabling continuous operational capability. This approach maintains reliability by ensuring replacement payloads are available while simplifying maintenance operations.
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
The system effectively detects, tracks, and defeats UAS threats at standoff ranges with advanced AI algorithms, ensuring reliability, maintainability, and cost-effectiveness, while being easily integrated with civilian and military vehicles or containers.
Implementation Method 1
a 10 kW or 20 kW laser system
Implementation Method 2
integrated radar and electronic warfare subsystems
Data Source
AI summary
A high energy laser (HEL) weapon system for counter-UAS (C-UAS) use comprises a fully self-contained laser system including a power supply, thermal management, high-capacity batteries, and integrated radar and electronic warfare subsystems.