Counterdrone Sensor Fusion for Fast Threat Drone Interception
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The prevalence of drones capable of carrying payloads, such as cameras and improvised explosive devices, poses challenges in preventing them from entering restricted areas and detecting threats, as their maneuverability and ease of operation make them difficult to intercept effectively.
Innovation Solution
A counter drone system comprising sensor systems, counter drones, and a processor that network together to detect and intercept threat drones through sensor data fusion, autonomous guidance, and coordinated deployment of counter drones with various payloads, enabling rapid and effective response strategies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional detection and interception methods are used, then the system is simple to operate, but the detection precision and interception effectiveness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor systems (acoustic, radar, optical, RF) into an integrated detection network that feeds data to a central processor. This merging of multiple detection modalities enables precise drone identification and tracking while maintaining systematic operation through centralized control algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces counterdrones as intermediary devices equipped with sensors and payloads that can detect, track, and intercept threat drones. These counterdrones act as mobile detection nodes that extend the system's reach and precision without requiring direct human intervention in the interception process.
2Speed
If manual interception methods are used, then the system is easy to operate, but the response speed is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-deploys counterdrones in the operational area with sensors and interception payloads ready. When a threat is detected, these pre-positioned counterdrones can immediately engage without requiring manual assembly or preparation, enabling rapid response while maintaining ease of operation through automated engagement protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements autonomous detection, tracking, and interception capabilities where the counterdrones independently identify threats and execute interception maneuvers without continuous human control. This self-service operation maximizes response speed while keeping the system simple to operate through pre-programmed engagement rules.
3Reliability
If multiple sensor systems are integrated, then the detection capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into modular sensor units (acoustic sensors, radar systems, optical cameras, RF detectors) that can be independently deployed and maintained. Each sensor type specializes in detecting specific drone characteristics, improving reliability through diverse detection capabilities while managing complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The counterdrones are designed as multi-functional platforms that can perform detection, tracking, communication, and interception tasks. This universality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating multiple functions into single devices rather than requiring separate specialized systems for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
The system comprises a plurality of sensor systems, a counter drone, and a processor. A sensor system of the plurality of sensor systems comprises one or more sensors that are connected to a network. The counter drone is connected to the network. The processor is configured to receive an indication of a potential target from the plurality of sensor systems; generate a fused data set for the potential target, determine whether the potential target comprises the threat drone based at least in part on the fused data set; and in response to determining that the potential target comprises the threat drone, provide counter drone instructions to the counter drone.