In-Flight UAV Retrieval Using Extended Tether Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for retrieving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are limited by fixed retrieval locations, which restrict the range and effectiveness of UAV operations due to fuel reservation for return, and face challenges like turbulence and slow retrieval processes, especially when using carrier aircraft.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a retrieval ramp and tether system that allows in-flight capture and loading of UAVs onto an airborne aircraft, with a capture connector positioned outside turbulence, enabling the UAV to be securely transferred into the aircraft while avoiding turbulent air currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If UAVs are launched from a location close to the mission location, then the response time is reduced, but ground forces or operators are endangered
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of launching UAVs from ground locations close to the mission area (which endangers ground forces), the system inverts the approach by using an airborne carrier aircraft to launch and retrieve UAVs directly over the mission area. This eliminates the need for ground-based launch sites near sensitive locations while maintaining rapid response capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from ground-based UAV operations to airborne-based operations. By moving the launch and retrieval platform from the ground dimension to the airborne dimension, the system can operate close to mission areas without exposing ground forces to danger, effectively using a different spatial dimension to resolve the contradiction.
2Device complexity
If a fixed retrieval location is used, then the retrieval process is simplified, but the UAV's operational range is limited due to fuel reservation
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces fixed retrieval locations with a mobile airborne carrier aircraft that can dynamically position itself to meet UAVs at various locations. This dynamic approach allows UAVs to operate over extended ranges without needing to reserve excessive fuel for return to a fixed base, as the carrier can intercept them wherever they are needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The airborne carrier aircraft serves multiple functions: it acts as a mobile launch platform, a moving retrieval point, and a support vehicle for multiple UAVs simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain simplified retrieval operations while supporting extended operational ranges for multiple UAVs on different missions.
3Length of moving object
If a carrier aircraft is used for mobile retrieval, then the UAV's operational range is extended, but turbulence near the carrier aircraft causes capture difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a long tether as an intermediary element between the carrier aircraft and the UAV capture point. This tether extends the capture mechanism well beyond the turbulent wake area of the aircraft, allowing the UAV to be captured in relatively calm air while still being connected to and controlled from the moving carrier platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The capture system is segmented into distinct functional zones: the carrier aircraft body, the turbulent wake area to be avoided, the extended tether zone for capture operations, and the capture point. By spatially separating these functions and positioning the capture point outside the turbulence zone, the system maintains both extended range capability and reliable capture operations.
4Length of stationary object
If the capture connector is positioned close to the carrier aircraft, then the tether length is reduced, but the UAV is captured in turbulent air
Solution Approach 1:
The capture connector and its associated turbulence exposure are effectively extracted from the immediate vicinity of the carrier aircraft. By extending the tether and positioning the capture point far beyond the aircraft's wake area, the harmful turbulence is left behind while the capture function is maintained at a safe distance.
Data Source
AI summary
Presently disclosed systems and methods are configured for in-flight retrieval of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Such systems generally include a retrieval ramp, a tether system including a tether, and a capture connector. The retrieval ramp is configured to be moved between a stowed configuration and an extended configuration, in which at least a portion of the retrieval ramp is positioned outside the aircraft for retrieval of the UAV. The tether system is moveable to a capture configuration, in which a terminal tether end of the tether is positioned beyond a terminal end of the retrieval ramp, typically outside of turbulence generated by the aircraft. The system is configured to position the retrieval ramp, the tether system, and the capture connector in order to engage the UAV with the capture connector. Once captured, the system may move the UAV into the aircraft as the tether is retracted towards a retracted configuration.