Aircraft Payload Saddle Latch Assembly for Autonomous VTOL Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) require human intervention to load and unload payloads, limiting the ability to release payloads while airborne or in remote areas.
Innovation Solution
Aircraft with payload saddle assemblies featuring latch assemblies that can secure and release payloads automatically, allowing for autonomous delivery without human intervention, transitioning between thrust-borne lift for VTOL and wing-borne lift for forward flight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated latch assemblies are implemented for autonomous payload release, then productivity and operational efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is designed to automatically secure and release payloads without human intervention. The system uses sensors to detect payload presence and orientation, and automatically actuates the latch mechanism to release the payload at the designated location, enabling autonomous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated systems. Electrical actuators and sensors substitute for human hands and eyes, converting a manually-operated mechanical system into an automated electromechanical system that can detect, decide, and execute payload release autonomously
2Adaptability or versatility
If payload release is automated for airborne delivery, then operational flexibility is improved, but reliability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly incorporates sensors that provide feedback about payload presence, orientation, and latch status. This feedback loop allows the control system to monitor the securing process, detect anomalies, and make real-time adjustments to ensure reliable payload release at the intended location
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed with redundancy and fail-safety features to cushion against potential failures. The latch mechanism includes backup securing methods and the control system has contingency protocols to handle unexpected situations, ensuring that payload release remains reliable even under adverse conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A tailsitter aircraft includes an airframe having first and second wings with first and second pylons extending therebetween, a thrust array attached to the airframe, payloads and payload saddle assemblies coupled to the pylons each configured to secure a respective payload. The thrust array includes propulsion assemblies configured to transition the airframe between a forward flight orientation for wing-borne lift and a VTOL orientation for thrust-borne lift. Each payload saddle assembly includes a latch assembly and a retainer configured to secure the respective payload against a respective pylon. A latch assembly is movable between various positions including an open position and a closed position and is configured to secure the respective payload in the closed position and release the respective payload in the open position. Each latch assembly is configured to move from the closed position to the open position to release the respective payload in the VTOL orientation.