Removable UAV Adapter Assemblies for Launcher Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed wing UAVs typically require a large runway for deployment, which is not always available, and existing launchers are often manufacturer-specific, limiting flexibility and accessibility.
Innovation Solution
The development of adapter assemblies that can be removeably coupled to UAVs, allowing them to interface with various launchers, enabling deployment on different types of launchers and reducing the need for a runway by using a carriage that accelerates along a short track to propel the UAV into the air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed wing UAVs use traditional runway-based deployment, then they achieve reliable takeoff, but they require a large runway which is not always available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a launcher as an intermediary device between the ground and the UAV. The launcher includes a carriage that moves along a track and provides a grip mechanism to hold and propel the UAV. This intermediary system enables UAV deployment in locations without traditional runways by providing a compact alternative launch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The launcher system is segmented into distinct functional components: a track structure, a movable carriage with grip portions, and a release mechanism. This segmentation allows the system to be compact while providing the necessary functions for UAV deployment, eliminating the need for a long continuous runway.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturer-specific launchers are used, then the launcher is optimized for specific UAVs, but flexibility and accessibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The launcher is designed with universal features that allow it to accommodate different UAV types. The grip portions can be adjusted or configured to match different UAV configurations, and the track system can be adapted to various mounting surfaces. This multi-functionality enables a single launcher design to serve multiple UAV models without requiring completely different launcher systems for each manufacturer.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adapter assemblies are removeably coupled to UAVs, then flexibility in launcher selection is improved, but the coupling process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is pre-configured with specific coupling features that match the launcher's grip portions. The mounting brackets and attachment mechanisms are prepared in advance during adapter manufacturing, so that during deployment, the adapter can be quickly attached to the UAV without complex field assembly procedures. This preliminary preparation simplifies the coupling process while maintaining flexibility.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Adapter assemblies for aircraft and launchers for deploying aircraft are described herein. An example adapter assembly for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a first adapter to be removeably coupled to a first side of a fuselage of the UAV. The first adapter includes first and second posts to interface with a carriage of a launcher. The adapter assembly also includes second adapter to be removeably coupled to a second side of the fuselage of the UAV. The second adapter includes third and fourth posts to interface with the carriage of the launcher. (Fig. 3)