Modular Glide Projectile Payload Coupling for Mission Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing miniature projectiles launched from UAVs are limited to a specific mission due to a permanently secured warhead, making them inflexible for different mission requirements.
Innovation Solution
A projectile system with a removably engaged warhead or payload unit, allowing easy manual attachment and detachment by field personnel using threaded or other locking mechanisms, enabling interchangeable payloads for various missions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the warhead is permanently secured to the projectile body with multiple bolts during manufacture, then the structural strength and reliability are improved, but the adaptability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The projectile system is divided into separable components: a reusable projectile body and interchangeable warheads. The projectile body contains a threaded engagement feature that can receive different warhead types, allowing the system to be segmented into modular units that can be reconfigured for different missions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the warhead and projectile body transitions from a static permanent bond (multiple bolts) to a dynamic removable engagement (threaded connection). This allows the configuration to change based on mission requirements while maintaining structural integrity when engaged.
2Reliability
If the warhead is permanently secured with multiple bolts, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation and ease of repair worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The warhead is extracted from the permanent assembly and made removable from the projectile body. This allows field personnel to take out the existing warhead and replace it with a different type without requiring tool-based disassembly of a permanently bonded structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded engagement feature enables field personnel to perform warhead replacement themselves without requiring specialized tools or returning the projectile to a manufacturing facility. The system becomes self-servicing at the operational level.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a threaded engagement is used for removable payload attachment, then the adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded engagement feature serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection, enables payload interchangeability, and incorporates locking capabilities. This universal feature replaces multiple separate mechanisms that would otherwise be needed for attachment, detachment, and securing.
Solution Approach 2:
The threading integrates the attachment and locking functions into a single mechanism. Rotational and/or axial positional locking features are combined with the threaded engagement itself, merging multiple functions into one unified interface rather than requiring separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
A projectile for use with an unmanned aerial vehicle is adaptively configured to permit the projectile payload unit to be selectively changed by personnel in the field. The projectile body may be threaded or otherwise configured to engage a correspondingly configured aft end of a payload unit. Payload units designed for different mission functions may be engaged by the projectile body so that a mission-appropriate payload can be selected and secured to the projectile body aboard ship or other location from which the unmanned aerial vehicle is to be dispatched.