Vertical Drop Segmented Munitions Dispenser for UAVs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mortar pod munitions for UAVs are heavy and costly due to conventional horizontal munitions deployment methods, limiting their effectiveness in Close Air Support (CAS) roles and requiring a more efficient and lightweight dispenser system for vertical deployment.

Innovation Solution

A segmented munitions dispenser with vertically oriented launch tubes mounted in an array, allowing for the carriage and release of multiple munitions of varying sizes, featuring a frame and skin configuration for nested engagement and optional sleeves for diameter adjustment, integrated with electronics for target acquisition and ordnance control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If conventional horizontal munitions deployment methods are used, then munitions can be released, but the dispenser adds weight and cost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedispenser weightVSAvoidmunitions deployment capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The dispenser is divided into multiple independent launch tubes arranged in an array, with each tube capable of holding and releasing munitions independently. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex internal rack assemblies and door mechanisms, reducing overall weight while maintaining reliable munitions deployment capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using conventional horizontal deployment methods with door assemblies and internal racks, the patent inverts the approach by using vertical launch tubes that release munitions downward through gravity. This inversion simplifies the mechanical structure, reducing both weight and complexity while ensuring reliable munitions release.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Device complexity

If conventional horizontal munitions deployment methods are used, then munitions can be released, but the dispenser structure becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedispenser structureVSAvoidmunitions release function

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The dispenser structure is segmented into multiple independent launch tubes, each with simple cylindrical geometry. This segmentation replaces complex integrated structures with modular simple units, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining reliable munitions release function through independent tube operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent inverts the conventional horizontal deployment structure by adopting vertical launch tubes. This inversion eliminates the need for complex door assemblies, internal racks, and horizontal guidance mechanisms, resulting in a simpler structure that maintains reliable munitions release through gravity-assisted vertical deployment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed tube configuration is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but the dispenser cannot accommodate varying munition sizes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemunition size accommodationVSAvoidtube configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The launch tubes are designed with adjustable configurations, allowing the dispenser to adapt to varying munition sizes. This dynamic adjustability is achieved through modular tube designs that can be reconfigured or selected based on the specific munition type, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while enhancing versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The dispenser employs universal launch tube designs that can accommodate multiple munition types and sizes through standardized interfaces and adjustable internal configurations. This multi-functionality allows a single dispenser model to handle varying mission requirements without requiring custom-manufactured tubes for each munition type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 efficient, lightweight, and cost-effective vertical deployment of munitions, enhancing the UAV's capability in CAS roles by reducing weight and complexity while accommodating various munition types and sizes, and integrating advanced targeting and release mechanisms.

Implementation Method 1

Each tube in the array is configured to carry a selected munition releasably coupled in a cylindrical bore of the tube for substantially vertical release through a lower aperture

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS9863739B2Vertical drop segmented munitions dispenser

Publication Date: 2018.01.09 THE BOEING CO

AI summary

A munitions dispenser employs a plurality of launch tubes mounted in an array as a segmented dispenser assembly. Each tube in the array is configured to carry a selected munition releasably coupled in a cylindrical bore of the tube for substantially vertical release through a lower aperture. A frame, mountable to an air vehicle, carries the array of launch tubes. A skin covers the array of launch tubes with the skin and frame with the array configured for nested engagement of multiple segmented assemblies.