Precision Resupply System Using Guided Missile Delivery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current resupply systems for remote locations, such as the Joint Precision Airdrop System, face issues with supply damage, inaccurate delivery, and wastefulness due to the delivery of large crates that exceed operational needs, posing risks to forward operating units and requiring time-consuming destruction of excess supplies.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising sensors to track supply expenditures, a portable computing device for data collection and communication with a processor to predict needs, and a precision supply delivery system using a repurposed guided missile with packing inserts for secure, timely, and accurate delivery of essential supplies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If large crates are used for supply delivery, then the quantity of supplies delivered increases, but the accuracy of delivery decreases and supply damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The supply delivery system is segmented into multiple small, modular containers instead of using large crates. Each container is independently deliverable and can be precisely targeted. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high delivery accuracy while still delivering substantial quantities of supplies through multiple coordinated drops.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from traditional horizontal/aerial drop dimensions to three-dimensional precision delivery using GPS-coordinated vertical drops. Supplies are delivered from altitude with precise horizontal and vertical positioning, adding dimensional precision to the delivery process while maintaining quantity through multiple delivery points.
2Quantity of substance
If large crates are used for supply delivery, then the quantity of supplies delivered increases, but supply damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The supply containers are designed with built-in cushioning and shock-absorbing structures before delivery. The containers feature protective packaging, energy-absorbing materials, and crash-resistant designs that prevent supply damage during the delivery process, allowing large quantities to be delivered safely without impact damage.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional airdrop systems are used, then supply delivery capacity increases, but delivery time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning supplies in modular containers at forward bases or aerial platforms before they are needed. GPS coordinates and delivery schedules are pre-programmed, allowing rapid execution when delivery is initiated. This preliminary preparation dramatically reduces actual delivery time while maintaining high capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional mechanical airdrop mechanisms with GPS-guided precision delivery systems. This substitution enables faster, more accurate delivery of large quantities of supplies by using computer-controlled positioning and coordinated multi-point delivery rather than manual or mechanical crate drops.
4Quantity of substance
If excess supplies are delivered, then the quantity of supplies delivered increases, but loss of time increases due to destruction requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system delivers supplies in precisely controlled partial quantities matched to actual operational needs rather than excessive amounts. GPS tracking and real-time communication enable the system to deliver only what is required, eliminating the need for destruction of excess supplies and the associated time loss and security risks.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for asset inventory and resupply for supplying individuals in remote locations is disclosed. The individuals may be people and/or machines. The system and method involve providing multiple individuals in the field with sensors that automatically collect data on the expenditure of their supplies. In some cases, wearable sensors are provided to people in the field. The data is sent to a central depository which tracks their inventory of supplies and anticipates needed supplies, compiles and packages additional supplies so that the additional supplies can be delivered to the individuals in the field. A precision supply delivery system is provided for delivering the supplies.