Missile Launch Adapter with Rocket Motors and Jettison

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current missile launch systems are limited by the need for specific mechanical interfaces between missiles and launch platforms, restricting the versatility of launch platforms and limiting access to a variety of missiles.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus provides an interface between a missile and a launch platform, featuring rocket motors and a jettison device, allowing the apparatus to launch from the platform with the missile and then jettison from the missile after the rocket motors have operated.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If specific mechanical interfaces are provided on both missile and launch platform for launch system operation, then launch reliability is improved, but adaptability or versatility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaunch reliabilityVSAvoidplatform adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus serves as an intermediary device between the launch platform and the missile. It includes a first mechanical interface that attaches to the launch platform and a second mechanical interface that attaches to the missile, enabling compatibility between platforms and missiles that would otherwise be incompatible due to differing mechanical interface specifications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus is designed with universal mechanical interfaces that can attach to different launch platforms and work with different missile types. The first mechanical interface is configured to be attachable to various launch platforms, while the second mechanical interface is configured to be attachable to various missiles, making the apparatus a multi-functional adapter

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If launch platforms use dedicated launch systems for specific missiles, then launch performance is optimized, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaunch capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The launch system is segmented into three independent components: the launch platform, the apparatus (interface device), and the missile. The apparatus is a separate modular unit that can be attached or detached, allowing the launch platform to maintain its simplicity while gaining access to various missile types through the intermediary apparatus

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution enables launch platforms, such as helicopters, to access a wider range of missiles with minimal adaptation, providing increased range and stand-off distance, and enhancing platform survivability.

Implementation Method 1

The apparatus comprises one or more rocket motors... the rocket motors provide an initial boost to the missile

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRocket propulsion: Rocket

Implementation Method 2

a jettison device operable to jettison the apparatus from the missile... The jettison device may comprise an explosive bolt charge

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectExplosive force: Explosion

Data Source

PatentUS20250164211A1Apparatus for providing an interface between a missile and a launch platform

Publication Date: 2025.05.22 MBDA UK

AI summary

There is disclosed apparatus for providing an interface between a missile and a launch platform. The apparatus comprises one or more rocket motors, and a jettison device operable to jettison the apparatus from the missile. The apparatus is configured to launch from the launch platform with the missile and to jettison from the missile after operation of the rocket motors. A missile adapted to be launched with the apparatus is also disclosed.