Sealed UAV Launch Tube for Quiet Covert Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current UAV launch systems lack the capability for quiet and covert operations, and existing technologies do not efficiently conserve UAV battery life for extended flight times.
Innovation Solution
A UAV launch system utilizing a modified grenade launcher with an explosive charge to propel a separable case containing the UAV, which deploys counter-rotating blades for sustained flight, and incorporates a sealing mechanism to minimize noise during launch, allowing for quiet operation and extended flight times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional UAV launch system is used, then the UAV can be deployed, but the launch process generates significant noise and compromises operational stealth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful explosive force into a beneficial propulsive mechanism by directing it through a sealed launch tube. The explosive charge propels the UAV while the containment structure directs the force productively and contains the noise, transforming a harmful factor into the primary propulsion mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The launch system is divided into separable components: a launch tube that remains with the platform and a separable case containing the UAV that is propelled forward. This segmentation allows the noisy launch mechanism to be isolated in a contained structure while the UAV deploys quietly once clear of the launch tube.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the UAV carries sufficient battery for extended flight, then flight duration increases, but the launch system becomes more complex and less deployable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of carrying heavy batteries for extended flight with a hybrid propulsion system. An explosive charge provides the initial propulsion impulse, substituting for what would otherwise require large battery capacity, thereby extending flight duration without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a sealed launch mechanism is used to contain noise, then operational stealth is improved, but the launch pressure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The launch tube acts as an intermediary structure between the explosive charge and the external environment. It contains the explosive force and directs it productively along the launch path, mediating between the high-pressure explosive event and the external atmosphere, thereby containing noise while managing pressure requirements.
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
Enables quiet and covert UAV deployment while significantly reducing battery consumption, thereby increasing UAV flight duration and operational effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a modified grenade launcher with an explosive charge to propel a separable case containing the UAV
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to unmanned aerial vehicle launch technologies and methods for receiving at a head-worn computer (HWC) a plurality of images captured by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) launched from a grenade launcher, and displaying the plurality of captured images in a see-through display of the HWC.