Unmanned Forward Observer Kit for GPS-Denied Precision Strikes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LRPF systems are expensive, require manned aircraft close to targets, risking human assets, and face challenges in target identification and guidance, especially in GPS-denied environments, leading to increased casualty rates and collateral damage.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost unmanned vehicle forward observer kit (FO Kit) that integrates with various platforms, providing real-time target data and guidance for munitions, using COTS components and additive manufacturing to reduce costs and enhance accuracy, and includes a modular open system architecture for adaptable sensor integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manned aircraft are used for LRPF weapons delivery, then target identification and guidance can be performed, but human assets are at risk and casualty rates increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, vulnerable manned aircraft with inexpensive, expendable unmanned vehicles. These unmanned vehicles can be lost without human casualties, yet still provide the necessary target identification and guidance functions through onboard sensors and communication systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes human operators in aircraft with automated unmanned vehicle systems. The unmanned vehicles perform target acquisition, tracking, and data relay functions that were previously performed by human forward observers and aircraft crews, eliminating human exposure to danger zones.
2Measurement precision
If expensive LRPF weapon systems are used, then precision strikes can be achieved, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the expensive LRPF weapon system into separate functional components: an inexpensive unmanned vehicle for target acquisition and guidance data collection, and a separate munition for the precision strike. This segmentation allows the guidance information to be provided by low-cost vehicles while the precision strike capability is maintained through the munition's own guidance systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The unmanned vehicle acts as an intermediary between the warfighter and the target, providing target acquisition, tracking, and guidance data without requiring the warfighter to be in close proximity. This intermediary role enables the use of more cost-effective munition systems while maintaining precision through the unmanned vehicle's guidance data.
3Loss of information
If forward observers are deployed close to targets, then real-time target data can be obtained, but vulnerability to enemy attack increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces vulnerable human forward observers with inexpensive unmanned vehicles that can operate close to targets without risk to human life. These unmanned vehicles provide the same target data acquisition functions while being expendable if lost or captured.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes human forward observers with automated unmanned vehicle systems equipped with sensors and communication capabilities. The unmanned vehicles perform observation, target identification, and data relay functions that were previously performed by human forward observers, eliminating their exposure to enemy fire.
4Measurement precision
If GPS-dependent guidance systems are used, then navigation accuracy can be achieved, but vulnerability to GPS jamming increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the navigation parameter dependency from GPS signals to alternative navigation methods. The unmanned vehicles are equipped with inertial navigation systems, visual odometry, and other GPS-independent navigation capabilities that maintain navigation accuracy even when GPS signals are jammed or denied.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive unmanned vehicles that can operate in GPS-denied environments through alternative navigation methods. These vehicles provide guidance data that is not vulnerable to GPS jamming, enabling precision strikes without dependency on vulnerable satellite navigation systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Unmanned systems, and primarily vehicles, and in most embodiments unmanned aerial systems (UAS), as well as novel guided and unguided munitions are presented herein. to the two combine to present unmanned weaponized systems that not only carry weapons functionality, but allow for advanced observation and reconnaissance. These unmanned systems are largely directed toward military applications where the weaponized unmanned system may be forward deployed to allow human warfighters to remain at long range distances from the potential targets, and to provide surveillance, target identification and tracking, general reconnaissance information, and the like, while also providing weaponized attack capabilities. The unmanned systems may, in some embodiments, include advanced command and control capabilities for communication between the system and the remote, rear-positioned warfighter, and between separate elements of the unmanned system. Many embodiments also include weapons systems, munitions, or rounds with guidance and real-time maneuverability capabilities as well.