Satellite Communication Antennas for Unmanned Missile Beyond Line of Sight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face challenges in maintaining reliable communication with mission control stations when flying out of sight, as existing solutions like airborne relay stations are vulnerable to interference and weather-dependent.
Innovation Solution
The UAV is equipped with distributed satellite communication antennas that can be aligned and controlled to establish a reliable communication link with a satellite network, allowing bidirectional data transmission even beyond the horizon, and the method involves aligning antennas for optimal communication during flight, using a satellite communication device connected to an on-board computer to establish and maintain a radio link.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If airborne relay stations are used to extend line-of-sight connection, then communication range is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to vulnerability to interference and weather dependence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a satellite as an intermediary communication relay to extend the line-of-sight connection beyond the horizon. The satellite acts as a mediator between the ground-based mission control station and the unmanned aerial vehicle, enabling communication when direct line-of-sight is unavailable. This resolves the contradiction by providing extended range through the satellite intermediary while maintaining reliability through secure satellite communication links that are less vulnerable to local interference and weather conditions compared to airborne relay stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional ground-based relay communication to three-dimensional satellite-based communication. By utilizing the satellite's position in orbit above the Earth, the system creates a new spatial dimension for communication, allowing the UAV to maintain contact with mission control even when out of direct line-of-sight. This dimensional change enables extended communication range without being constrained by ground-based relay station limitations.
2Extent of automation
If predetermined flight route is stored in mission data memory, then autonomous flight capability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates as flight path cannot be changed after launch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the unmanned aerial vehicle can transmit its current position and flight status data back to the mission control station via satellite communication. This enables real-time monitoring and allows mission control to receive updated information about the vehicle's location, facilitating dynamic adjustments to the flight plan based on current operational conditions, target acquisition status, or environmental factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static predetermined flight route into a dynamic, adaptable navigation system. Through satellite communication links, the system allows real-time modification of flight parameters, target designations, and mission objectives. The flight plan evolves from a fixed pre-programmed path to a flexible, dynamically adjustable trajectory that can respond to changing mission requirements and operational conditions throughout the flight duration.
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
This solution enables reliable and jamming-resistant communication between the UAV and mission control stations, allowing for real-time data exchange and mission control even when the UAV is out of direct line of sight, with the ability to adjust flight paths and transmit image data.
Implementation Method 1
a satellite communication device which is electrically connected to the on-board computer for data exchange and is provided with at least one satellite communication antenna as a transmitting and/or receiving antenna for the satellite communication device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The missile (1) has a trunk (10) that receives a cargo, and control surfaces (16) attached at the trunk and movable via control surface drives. An on-board computer (20) is provided with a mission data memory (22) and a control computer (24), which impinges the control surface drives with control signals. A satellite communication device (26), is electrically connected with the on- board computer for data exchange. Satellite communication antennas (32-48) are designed as transmitting and/or receiving antennas for the satellite communication device. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a method for data communication between an uncrewed missile i.e. cruise missile, aviating a specific mission and a mission control station (2) a method for mission planning for the uncrewed missile.