Spring Drone Launcher With Gas-Triggered Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drone launch devices using motorized mechanisms are costly and heavy, limiting the compactness and volume available for drones due to their integration within the launch tube.
Innovation Solution
A spring-loaded push-type drone launch device utilizing a detent mechanism activated by gas pressure, which reduces costs and weight, and a separate tool for arming the device, increasing the volume available for the drone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If motorized mechanisms are used for drone launch, then automation and reliability are improved, but weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motorized mechanisms with a spring-based mechanical system. The compression spring stores energy when compressed and automatically propels the drone upon release, eliminating the need for motors, batteries, and electronic control systems while maintaining reliable launch functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded mechanism is self-actuating through manual compression and release. The user compresses the spring to load it, then simply releases it to automatically propel the drone, eliminating the need for complex motorized control systems and reducing overall device weight.
2Extent of automation
If motorized mechanisms are integrated into the launch tube, then automation is improved, but volume available for drone is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the automation mechanism from the launch tube interior and places it in the exterior mounting structure. The spring and associated components are positioned outside the launch tube, freeing up the entire interior volume for drone placement while maintaining automated launch functionality through the external mechanical system.
3Ease of operation
If motorized mechanisms are used, then launch control is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the launch system into distinct functional components: the compression spring for energy storage, the launch tube for positioning, the mounting structure for external attachment, and the release mechanism for activation. This modular segmentation simplifies the overall system compared to integrated motorized systems while maintaining ease of operation through separate, specialized components.
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 solution provides a cost-effective, lightweight, and compact drone launch system that ensures rapid and reliable deployment of drones without the limitations of motorized systems.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring, called an ejection spring, having a longitudinal axis coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the launch tube and having a first end bearing against the rear end of the launch tube and a second end bearing against the ejection element
Implementation Method 2
Device for launching a drone using spring thrust
Implementation Method 3
control means for controlling the unlocking of the ejection assembly, by moving at least one retaining element from the locked position to the unlocked position, wherein the control means include: a pressure relief housing, located at the rear of the launch tube and containing a pressure relief chamber suitable for connection to a gas pressure source
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for launching a drone (2) using spring thrust, in which the means (7) that control the unlocking of an ejection assembly (5) from its armed position comprise a release housing (34) containing a release chamber (71), at least one release element (70) which, with said housing (37), delimits said chamber (71) and is able to move, under the action of the pressure of a gas introduced into said chamber (71), from a position of rest to a release position in which the at least one release element (70) unlocks the ejection assembly (5), and return means (74) for returning the at least one release element (70) to the position of rest. The invention also relates to a method for launching drones using the device and to a tool for implementing this method. Figure to be published with the abstract: