Modular Payload Dispenser with Flicker Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weapon systems lack a lightweight, modular payload dispenser capable of efficiently dispersing small payloads in a toroidal radius from aerial vehicles, such as aircraft or Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).
Innovation Solution
A modular payload dispenser system utilizing additive manufacturing and a mechanical energy storage method, such as springs, to store potential energy for long periods. The system includes a munitions dispenser with flicker assemblies arranged in a circular pattern, featuring a bipolar magnetic latch and a servo motor to control the release of munitions in a toroidal pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional weapon systems are used, then payload dispersal capability is achieved, but weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The payload dispenser is divided into modular components including multiple flicker assemblies (each with door, latch, and spring mechanisms) arranged in a circular pattern. Each module can independently dispense one payload, allowing the system to be scaled and configured for different mission requirements while maintaining manageable complexity through standardization of sub-components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a spring-loaded mechanical energy storage mechanism where potential energy is stored in compressed springs within each flicker assembly. This mechanical energy storage method eliminates the need for complex powered actuators for each payload release, significantly reducing weight and complexity while enabling rapid sequential or simultaneous dispensing of multiple payloads through simple trigger mechanisms.
2Duration of action of moving object
If mechanical energy storage is used, then energy storage duration is extended, but energy release control precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex powered actuation systems with a purely mechanical spring-loaded release mechanism. Each flicker assembly contains a compressed spring that stores potential energy and uses a simple latch-trigger system for release control. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for powered motors or complex electronic control systems, achieving both long-term energy storage and precise release control through well-understood mechanical principles.
Solution Approach 2:
The springs within each flicker assembly are pre-compressed and armed before flight, storing potential energy in advance. The latch mechanism holds the stored energy until a trigger signal releases all payloads simultaneously or sequentially. This preliminary action allows the system to maintain ready-to-fire capability for extended periods without active power input, while ensuring precise release control when needed.
3Ease of manufacture
If additive manufacturing is used, then manufacturing efficiency and customization are improved, but structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies using metal materials (such as aluminum alloy or titanium alloy) for additive manufacturing of the payload dispenser components. By changing the material parameter from traditional plastics to metals, the system achieves both the manufacturing efficiency and design flexibility of additive processes while obtaining the required structural strength and durability for military-grade payload dispensing applications.
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
The system effectively disperses munitions in a lightweight, efficient manner, capable of storing energy for extended periods and releasing payloads in a controlled, toroidal pattern, enhancing the operational capabilities of aerial vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanical method of energy storage, such as a spring, such that potential energy may be stored for long periods of time
Implementation Method 2
The latch includes a bipolar magnetic latch comprising a first and second magnet pair, such that the first magnetic pair is arranged to magnetically repel each other and the second magnetic pair is arranged to magnetically attract each other
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus that includes a munitions dispenser comprising a plurality of flicker assemblies. The flicker assemblies include a flicker arm and a guide wall arranged in a circular pattern.