Innovative Launch of a UAV – Up-To-Date Solution from the Middle Ages

Abstract

A trebuchet was a kind of siege engine in the Middle Ages that launched the projectiles well above the ground. The AMORES (Autonomous MObile REmote Sensing) project found a trebuchet-like solution to launch UAVs in safe altitude. The feasibility studies were based on a multibody model described with a non-linear differential equation system. Studies showed, that proper angle of attack, pitch angle, flightpath angle and airspeed can be provided for the UAV, while the energy demand of the launch can be stored in the potential energy of the transport vehicle of the UAS. The theory was verified by a series of launch tests. Subsequently a simplified supporting structure was constructed and a commercial car winch was applied to provide power for the installation and arming of the device. This way the device became a simple, maintenance free and cost effective solution for UAV launch with unique high release feature. The patent of the solution is pending.