Tethered Effector Interceptor UAV for Simplified Drone Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current counter-UAV systems are expensive, complex, and require detailed knowledge of the threat's position, velocity, and trajectory, making them unwieldy and difficult to operate, with a lack of trained personnel to effectively intercept UAVs in no-fly zones or near sensitive areas.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for intercepting UAVs using a remotely operated interceptor aerial vehicle equipped with a deployment device that includes an effector, such as a net, tethered to the vehicle, allowing for easy deployment and capture of target UAVs through a ground control system, which simplifies the operation by using visual feedback and radial command controls, eliminating the need for precise GPS location and trajectory knowledge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current counter-UAV systems are used to intercept target aerial vehicles, then interception capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the interception function into two independent components: the interceptor aerial vehicle that approaches the target, and the deployment device with effector that performs the capture. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture, reducing complexity while maintaining interception capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The effector acts as an intermediary between the interceptor aerial vehicle and the target aerial vehicle. Instead of the interceptor directly engaging the target, the effector (net, tarp, sheet, or entanglement device) serves as a mediating capture mechanism that can be deployed from a distance, reducing the complexity of direct engagement systems.
2Measurement precision
If detailed knowledge of threat position, velocity, and trajectory is required for interception, then interception accuracy improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interceptor aerial vehicle autonomously navigates to the target using onboard sensors and navigation systems. The vehicle self-determines its position, velocity, and trajectory relative to the target without requiring the operator to calculate or input this data manually, thereby maintaining interception accuracy while dramatically simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs real-time feedback through onboard cameras and sensors that continuously monitor the target's position and the interceptor's approach. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically adjust its trajectory and timing, ensuring accurate interception without requiring the operator to manually process complex trajectory data.
3Reliability
If traditional counter-UAV systems are deployed, then interception effectiveness is maintained, but loss of time in deployment and operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interceptor aerial vehicle is pre-positioned and pre-configured with the deployment device before engagement is required. The system maintains a ready-to-deploy state with the effector pre-loaded and the vehicle charged and positioned, eliminating time-consuming setup procedures and enabling rapid response to detected threats.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic, real-time deployment of the effector based on the current position and movement of the target. Rather than using static, pre-programmed interception points, the system adapts its deployment timing and location dynamically, allowing for faster response to moving targets and reducing the time from detection to successful interception.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for identifying a target aerial vehicle, deploying an interceptor aerial vehicle comprising at least one effector, maneuvering the interceptor aerial vehicle to a position to engage a target aerial vehicle, deploying the at least one effector to intercept the target aerial vehicle, and confirming that the target aerial vehicle has been intercepted.