Interceptor UAV Net Capture With Tethered Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing counter-UAV (CUAV) devices are expensive, complex, and require precise timing and detailed knowledge of the threat's position, velocity, and trajectory, making them unwieldy and difficult to deploy effectively, with a lack of sufficiently trained personnel to operate them.
Innovation Solution
A relatively inexpensive and easy-to-operate CUAV system using an interceptor UAV equipped with deployable effectors like nets, which can be maneuvered and controlled via a ground control system to capture target UAVs, utilizing a tether to prevent damage and allow for easy retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing counter-UAV devices are used to intercept target UAVs, then interception capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the counter-UAV function into two separate components: an interceptor UAV that performs tracking and positioning, and a ground-based effector deployment device that executes the interception. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler and more specialized, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining interception capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a tether as an intermediary element that connects the ground-based effector to the interceptor UAV. This tether allows the heavy effector to be launched from the ground while still being controllable and retrievable by the UAV, effectively decoupling the complexity of effector deployment from the UAV system.
2Reliability
If existing counter-UAV devices are used to intercept target UAVs, then interception capability is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requirement for trained personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The interceptor UAV is equipped with autonomous tracking and positioning capabilities that allow it to automatically follow and maintain position relative to the target UAV without requiring constant manual intervention. The gimbal system automatically orients the effector toward the target, reducing the skill level needed for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The tether acts as a mediator that simplifies operation by allowing the effector to be launched from the ground with minimal effort while the UAV handles the complex tasks of positioning and retrieval. The tether automatically pays out and reels in, reducing the operational burden on the operator.
3Measurement precision
If detailed knowledge of target position and trajectory is required for interception, then interception precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interceptor UAV performs preliminary tracking and positioning actions continuously before the interception moment. The gimbal system pre-positions the effector by orienting it toward the predicted target location based on current tracking data, allowing for precise interception without requiring the operator to calculate complex trajectory parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from the tracker and gimbal orientation to automatically adjust the effector's position and angle. This closed-loop control system continuously monitors target position and makes adjustments without requiring the operator to have detailed knowledge of ballistics or trajectory mechanics.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for identifying a target aerial vehicle, deploying an interceptor aerial vehicle comprising at least one effector, maneuvering the interceptor aerial vehicle to a position to engage a target aerial vehicle, deploying the at least one effector to intercept the target aerial vehicle, and confirming that the target aerial vehicle has been intercepted.