Variable-Payload Spring Launcher with Automatic Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing launch devices are inadequate for operating in hostile environments and cannot accommodate payloads with different flight characteristics without requiring manual reloading or adjustment, posing challenges for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
Innovation Solution
A launch device integrated with an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) featuring a spring-loaded launcher, a variable capacity launch system, and a payload feed drum that allows for automatic loading and launching of different payloads with varying sizes and shapes, using a launch algorithm to calculate optimal firing angles and velocities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different launch devices are used for different missions, then the ability to accommodate different payloads with varying flight characteristics is improved, but space and weight constraints prevent loading and transport of multiple launch devices
Solution Approach 1:
The launch device is designed with a universal carriage that can accommodate multiple different payloads with varying flight characteristics. The carriage includes adjustable retraction distances and spring forces that can be programmed via a launch algorithm to optimize performance for different payload types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized launch devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The carriage is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities where the retraction distance and spring force can be varied based on the specific payload being launched. The system includes a programmable launch algorithm that computes optimal parameters in real-time, allowing a single device to adapt to different mission requirements without manual reconfiguration.
2Weight of stationary object
If a single launch device is selected to reduce weight and space, then transportability is improved, but the device may not be suitable for launching the specific payload best suited for each mission
Solution Approach 1:
The launch device incorporates variable parameters including adjustable spring force, retraction distance, and launch angle that can be modified based on the specific payload characteristics. The system uses a launch algorithm that takes payload weight, size, and target distance as inputs and computes the optimal launch parameters, enabling a single device to perform across multiple mission types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual reloading and adjustment is required between launches, then the ability to switch between different payloads is improved, but hands-on intervention at the launcher is required which is unsafe in hostile environments
Solution Approach 1:
The launch device incorporates an automatic payload loading system where a magazine feeds successive payloads into the carriage without requiring operator intervention. The system can be remotely reloaded at safer locations and then autonomously launches different payloads from the same device in hostile environments, eliminating the need for hands-on adjustment at the launcher.
4Device complexity
If the carriage retraction is fixed for a single payload type, then the launch device structure is simplified, but the same payload cannot be used for all missions with different flight characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The carriage features dynamic retraction capability where the retraction distance can be programmatically adjusted based on the specific payload and mission requirements. The spring force and retraction distance are computed by a launch algorithm that optimizes performance for different payload weights and sizes, allowing the same carriage structure to serve multiple payload types without manual mechanical reconfiguration.
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
Enables autonomous operation in hostile environments, allowing for the launch of diverse payloads without manual intervention, overcoming obstacles and achieving precise trajectory control.
Implementation Method 1
The carriage is spring biased towards the fore panel and/or away from the rear panel
Implementation Method 2
a spring-loaded launcher to launch different payloads
Data Source
AI summary
A spring loaded device for launching projectiles in a hostile environment. The device has an articulable launch assembly. The launch assembly has a spring loaded carriage for holding the projectile when loaded by an operator or a superjacent magazine. The carriage is retracted by a screw to a predetermined position based upon spring rate and the desired initial launch velocity and launch angle. Upon command or target acquisition a release mechanism releases the carriage for forward translation and launch of the projectile.