Mobile UAV Launch and Retrieval System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) face challenges in cost, range, and regulatory hurdles for effective operation in transportation networks, particularly due to the need for enhanced Command and Control (C2) communications and the limitations of small UAS vehicles in covering long distances and operating beyond visual line-of-sight.
Innovation Solution
A launch and retrieval system mounted on mobile platforms like railcars or ships, equipped with a command and control system that includes sensors for wind and platform data, communications for data exchange, and processors to determine optimal launch conditions, enabling the operation of UAS for surveillance or delivery within defined operating envelopes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If UAS vehicle range is increased to cover long transportation routes, then coverage area is improved, but vehicle size and mass increase proportionally leading to higher cost and operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the transportation network into multiple segments served by mobile platforms distributed along the route. Each mobile platform serves a local area, and multiple platforms work together to provide comprehensive coverage of the entire network, avoiding the need for a single large UAS to cover the entire distance.
Solution Approach 2:
Mobile platforms serve as intermediaries between fixed infrastructure and UAS vehicles. These platforms are positioned along the transportation network to provide localized launch and retrieval capabilities, enabling UAS operations without requiring long-range flight capabilities.
2Reliability
If fixed launch and recovery installations are deployed throughout the transportation system to enable beyond LOS operation, then operational range is improved, but the amount of assets required becomes prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixed installations to dynamic mobile platforms that can move along the transportation network. This mobility allows a limited number of platforms to serve multiple locations over time, reducing the total number of assets needed compared to having fixed installations at every potential launch point.
Solution Approach 2:
Each mobile platform is designed to perform multiple functions: launching UAS, retrieving UAS, providing C2 communications, and serving multiple locations along the transportation network. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of assets required compared to specialized fixed installations.
3Speed
If satellite communications systems are used to enable beyond visual LOS C2 operations, then communication range is improved, but the systems are too bulky or expensive for sUAS vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
Mobile platforms serve as communication intermediaries between ground control and UAS vehicles operating beyond visual line of sight. The platforms carry C2 communications equipment and relay commands and data, allowing sUAS to operate at extended ranges without requiring them to carry bulky satellite communication systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for mobile launch and retrieval of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) include a rail-based, ground-based, or water-based mobile platform carrying a mobile station for launching and retrieving vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) or non-VTOL UAS while the platform is in motion, based on current position and weather conditions. The mobile platform may include facilities for communicating with the airborne UAS, stowing a retrieved UAS, and reloading/refitting a stowed UAS. The mobile platform may include positionable wake control devices and a partially positionable launch and retrieval mechanism for alleviating turbulence or crosswinds. The mobile platform may include long-range sensors for detecting or identifying obstacles near a rail-based platform that may interfere with the operating envelope of the launch and retrieval mechanisms. The launch and retrieval system may be intermodal and scalable either up or down as mission parameters demand.