Missile Launch Interface Apparatus with Rocket Boost and Jettison
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current missile launch systems limit the versatility of launch platforms, as missiles designed for specific platforms cannot be easily adapted for use on other platforms like helicopters, restricting their range and stand-off distance due to mechanical and propulsion system incompatibilities.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising rocket motors and a jettison device, along with sensors and a processor, allows for the launch of missiles from various platforms by providing an initial thrust boost and enabling jettison at predetermined conditions, facilitating the use of missiles designed for drop launch from fast jet aircraft on smaller platforms like helicopters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If missiles are designed for specific platforms with dedicated launch systems, then the missile can be launched reliably from that platform, but the missile cannot be easily adapted for use on other platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus provides a universal interface between missiles and launch platforms through standardized mechanical, electrical, and data connections. The apparatus can interface with multiple platform types (aircraft, helicopters, ground vehicles) and multiple missile types, enabling one apparatus design to serve multiple functions across different platforms and missile configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus acts as an intermediary device between the launch platform and the missile. It includes interface components that connect to the platform and components that connect to the missile, with internal systems (rocket motors, jettison mechanisms, sensors) that mediate the launch process. This intermediary role allows compatibility between platforms and missiles without requiring direct integration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If missiles are launched from smaller platforms like helicopters, then the platform has greater mobility and access, but the missile range and stand-off distance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus provides preliminary action by equipping itself with rocket motors that operate before the missile's main propulsion system is initiated. The rocket motors provide initial thrust to propel the missile away from the launch platform to a safe distance, enabling smaller platforms like helicopters to launch missiles with extended range capabilities without exposing the platform to danger.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system is segmented into two distinct phases: the apparatus's rocket motors provide initial thrust, and then the missile's own propulsion system takes over for sustained flight. This segmentation allows the missile to benefit from both the initial boost provided by the apparatus and the extended range capability of its own propulsion system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus remains attached to the missile throughout flight, then the missile can be launched from various platforms, but the apparatus interferes with the missile's normal operation and increases weight
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is extracted from the missile after serving its purpose. The jettison device separates the apparatus from the missile once the initial thrust phase is complete and the missile has reached a safe distance from the launch platform. This extraction removes the extra weight and potential interference with the missile's normal operation while retaining the benefits during the critical initial phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration of the missile system is dynamic rather than static. The apparatus is attached during launch and initial flight, then dynamically separated through the jettison mechanism. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to optimize performance at different flight phases: with the apparatus attached during initial thrust, and without it during sustained flight.
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 the launch of missiles with extended range and increased stand-off distance, enhancing the survivability of the launch platform and allowing the use of common munition stockpiles, reducing development and through-life costs by enabling the use of a wider variety of missiles across different platforms.
Implementation Method 1
one or more rocket motors, and a jettison device operable to jettison the apparatus from the missile; the apparatus being configured to launch from the launch platform with the missile and to jettison from the missile after operation of the rocket motors
Implementation Method 2
a jettison device operable to jettison the apparatus from the missile
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~2
Figure 3
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.