Grenade-Launched UAV Deployment for Covert Flight Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current UAV launch systems lack the capability for quiet and covert operations, and they do not efficiently conserve UAV battery life, which limits the flight time of unmanned aerial vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A UAV launch system utilizing a modified grenade launcher with an explosive charge to propel the UAV to a usable height, incorporating a separable case that deploys counter-rotating blades for sustained flight, and a head-worn computing system for remote control and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional UAV launch system is used, then the UAV can be launched, but the operation is noisy and not covert
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful loud noise from traditional launch systems into a beneficial feature by using a controlled explosive charge. The explosion provides the necessary propulsive force for launch while the noise is contained and directed, transforming a harmful side effect into the primary launch mechanism that enables covert operations through rapid, unpredictable deployment
2Duration of action of moving object
If an explosive charge is used to propel the UAV, then flight time is extended by conserving battery, but the launch mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The launch system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a launch tube for directional deployment, a separable case that houses the explosive charge, and a UAV platform. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system by dividing the complex launch function into manageable, interchangeable parts
Solution Approach 2:
The UAV is nested within a separable case that contains the explosive charge. The case acts as a container that protects the UAV during storage and transport, then separates during launch to provide the propulsive force. This nesting arrangement consolidates multiple functions (protection, launch mechanism, battery conservation) into a compact integrated system
3Stability of the object's composition
If a separable case with counter-rotating blades is used for sustained flight, then flight stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Counter-rotating blades are deployed locally at specific phases of flight - during the explosive launch phase to provide immediate stability against the violent acceleration, and during sustained flight to maintain controlled hovering. This localized deployment of complex mechanisms only when needed preserves flight stability without requiring the system to be complex at all times
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 quiet and covert UAV deployment, significantly extending UAV flight time by using an explosive charge for launch and counter-rotating blades for sustained flight, while allowing for remote control and real-time data communication.
Implementation Method 1
A UAV launch system utilizing a modified grenade launcher with an explosive charge to propel the UAV to a usable height
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to unmanned aerial vehicle launch technologies and methods for receiving at a head-worn computer (HWC) a plurality of images captured by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) launched from a grenade launcher, and displaying the plurality of captured images in a sec-through display of the HWC.