USOO6851647B1

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 6,851,647 B1

ROSenbaum et al. (45) Date of Patent: Feb. 8, 2005

(54) PORTABLE CATAPULT LAUNCHER FOR 3,068,612 A 11/1962 Simpson

SMALL AIRCRAFT 3,138,352 A 6/1964 Saholt ......................... 244/63
3,392,937. A 7/1968 Riblett, Jr.
(75) Inventors: Bernard J. Rosenbaum, Seabrook, TX 3,534,929 A * 10/1970 Johansen et al. ............. 244/63
(US); George E. Petter, Houston, TX 3,905,350 A 9/1975 Becker
3,968,947 A 7/1976 Schlegel et al.
(US); Joseph A. Gessler, Houston, TX 4.014,246 A 3/1977 Nissley, Jr.
(US); Michael G. Hughes, Pasadena, 4,060,930 A 12/1977 Hirtle et al.
TX (US) 4,079,901. A 3/1978 Mayhew et al.
4.238,093 A * 12/1980 Siegel et al. .................. 244/63
(73) Assignee: The United States of America as 4.279,195 A 7/1981 Miller
represented by the Administrator of 4,333,382 A 6/1982 Holt et al.
the National Aeronautics and Space 4,678,143 A 7/1987 Griffin
Administration, Washington, DC (US) 4909,458 A 3/1990 Martin
5,303,695 A * 4/1994 Shopsowitz .................. 124/17
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
SE
2Y- - - 2
A 3.9. R tal
O e a
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days. 6,626,399 B2 * 9/2003 Young et al. ................. 244/63
* cited by examiner
(21) Appl. No.: 10/417,377
1-1. Primary Examiner Tien Dinh
(22) Filed: Apr. 3, 2003 (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm- Theodore U. Ro
7
(51) Int. Cl.' ................................................... B64F 1706 (57) ABSTRACT
(52) U.S. Cl. ......................................................... 244/63
(58) Field of Search .............................. 244/63; 124/17, An apparatus for launching an aircraft having a multiplicity
124/18, 19, 20.1, 21, 22 of interconnected elongated tracks of rigid material forming
a track System and wherein each elongated track has a
(56) References Cited predetermined elongated track cross-sectional design, a
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS winch System connected to the track system wherein the
winch System has a variable mechanical advantage, one or
922,710 A 5/1909 Means more elongated elastic members wherein one end of each of
1,353,663 A * 9/1920 Napier ........................ 124/26 the one or more elongated elastic members is adjustably
1,388,361 A 8/1921. Mesurier connected to the track System, and a carrier Slidably
1,749,357 A 3/1930 Schmelz mounted to the track System wherein the carrier is connected
l2Y- - -2
A : 5. E. tile - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3.
aIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
to the winch system and to the other end of each of the one
2.856,139 A * 10/1958 Lockwood ................... 2, or more elongated elastic members.
2,860,620 A 11/1958 Effinger, Jr.
2.921,574 A 1/1960 Saito ........................... 124/29 12 Claims, 16 Drawing Sheets
U.S. Patent Feb. 8, 2005 Sheet 1 of 16 US 6,851,647 B1
U.S. Patent Feb. 8, 2005 Sheet 2 of 16 US 6,851,647 B1

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U.S. Patent Feb. 8, 2005 Sheet 5 of 16 US 6,851,647 B1
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U.S. Patent Feb. 8, 2005 Sheet 11 of 16 US 6,851,647 B1
U.S. Patent Feb. 8, 2005 Sheet 12 of 16 US 6,851,647 B1
U.S. Patent Feb. 8, 2005 Sheet 13 of 16 US 6,851,647 B1
U.S. Patent Feb. 8, 2005 Sheet 14 of 16 US 6,851,647 B1
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 US 6,851,647 B1
1 2
PORTABLE CATAPULT LAUNCHER FOR FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view illustrating a carrier
SMALL AIRCRAFT Slideably mounted to at least one elongated track, wherein
the carrier is interlocked with a trigger mechanism. Also
ORIGIN OF THE APPARATUS illustrated is a Second cable temporarily Secured via a
Spherical bearing attached to the Second cable wherein the
The apparatus described herein was made by employee(s) Spherical bearing is engaged with a cable catch.
of the United States Government and may be manufactured FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view illustrating a carrier
and used by or for the Government of the United States of Slideably mounted to at least one elongated track wherein a
America for governmental purposes without the payment of Safety pin engages an elongated track and is used to prevent
any royalties thereon or therefor. a premature launch.
BACKGROUND FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view illustrating a lever
and locking pin used to interlock two elongated trackS.
The basic problem was the lack of a lightweight, portable FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view illustrating a first and
apparatus capable of being carried and operated by a perSon Second barrier plate as well as an energy absorbing material
to launch unmanned, remotely piloted Surveillance aircraft, 15 attached to an elongated track.
especially as it applies to rugged, remote Sites often encoun FIG. 16 is a partial perspective view illustrating two
tered in military applications (including anti-terrorism spe adjacent elongated tracks wherein locking grooves are incor
cial operation missions). Other needs for Such an apparatus porated in each respective elongated track.
include homeland defense applications and planetary
exploration, Such as Surveillance of Martian terrain. FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view illustrating how a
Launching unmanned, remotely piloted Surveillance air locking plate and Security bungee cord may be used to
craft is traditionally achieved by operating from a pre interlock two contiguous elongated tracks.
constructed runway Surface to gain takeoff speed or by using FIG. 18 is a partial cross sectional view illustrating how
a heavy, trailer-mounted catapult System that is not practical a Winch pin may engage a Self-actuating lock.
for remote Surveillance applications. Further, in the case of FIG. 19 is a partial top view of an end section of an
using a runway Surface, Such a Surface is generally not 25 elongated track and track System illustrating how a Self
available for remote operations. actuating lock may engage a tapered end of a winch pin.
While trailer-mounted catapult or runway Systems are FIG. 20 is a side view of a carrier and an adapter
adequate for the basic purpose and function for which they illustrating how the adapter can be detached and Similarly
have been Specifically designed, they are uniformly deficient attached to the carrier.
with respect to their failure to provide a lightweight, portable
launch mechanism that is capable of being carried, and DETAILED DESCRIPTION
operated, by a person to launch an unmanned, remotely FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the apparatus, which
piloted aircraft at a remote location. includes one elongated track 1 and another elongated track
Description 35 2 interconnected by a hinge 3 to form a track System 4. The
elongated tracks in this embodiment include a croSS
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Sectional area having a generally rectangular design as
illustrated in FIG. 4. In another embodiment, three or more
FIG. 1. is a Side view of an embodiment of an apparatus. elongated tracks are used (not shown). Multiple embodi
FIG. 2. is a longitudinally-Sectional, partially cut-away 40
ments for cross-sectional designs exist, for example, Such as
View of an embodiment of an apparatus. the ones illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The elongated
FIG. 3. is a side view of an embodiment of a track system tracks may be of equal or unequal lengths. In the embodi
in a fully retracted and Stowed configuration. ment illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, the generally rectan
FIG. 4. is an end view of an embodiment of an apparatus gular cross-sectional design results in elongated tracks that
with Selected components. are not flat, but rather, generally resemble a beam in Shape.
45 A material for the elongated tracks may comprise anodized
FIG. 5A. is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodi aluminum, however, other materials. Such as non-anodized
ment for an apparatus. aluminum, other types of metal, wood, plastic, and graphite
FIG. 5B. is another partial cross-sectional view of an may be used. With continued reference to FIG. 1 and FIG.
embodiment for an apparatus. 4, the embodiment incorporates two grooves, each groove
FIG. 6. is a side view illustrating an embodiment of a 50 15 located on opposite longitudinal Sides of each elongated
carrier. track, whereby the grooves extend the full length of the track
FIG. 7A. is a side, exploded view of an embodiment of a System 4. These grooves 15 can be integrated into the
winch System in relation to an elongated track. elongated tracks Separately or through a molding process.
FIG. 7B. is an exploded, partial cross sectional view of an Regardless of how the grooves are integrated, the grooves 15
embodiment of a winch System in relation to an elongated 55 are part of the track System 4. In another embodiment, with
track. reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, flanges 40, located on opposite
longitudinal Sides of each elongated track, are used. AS will
FIG. 8. is an end view of an apparatus with support be discussed below, these grooves 15 or flanges 40 are used
devices. as the primary means to Slidably mount a carrier on the track
FIG. 9. is a partial side, partial cross sectional view of an System 4. Further, utilizing the cross-sectional design illus
embodiment for a mounting plate, capture Screws, tie 60 trated in FIG. 4 results in a cavity that extends the entire
devices, and lateX Surgical tubes. length of each elongated track. In this embodiment, due to
FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of an embodiment for an the aforementioned cavity in this embodiment, the elongated
apparatus illustrating two longitudinal flanges and a carrier tracks are not Solid to the core and thus, weight Savings are
Slideably mounted on the two longitudinal flanges. achieved. In another embodiment (not shown), Solid (i.e.,
FIG. 11 is a partial side view of an embodiment of an 65 Solid to the core) elongated tracks are used.
apparatus illustrating a carrier Slideably mounted on longi With continued reference to FIG. 1, a hinge 3 provides
tudinal flanges. one first means for connecting the elongated tracks in a
 US 6,851,647 B1
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contiguous and longitudinal manner as well as arranging the third embodiment, the primary and Secondary means dis
track System 4 from a fully extended configuration to a fully cussed above are both employed. In a fourth embodiment,
retracted configuration. Other first means for connecting the the individual use of the primary or Secondary means for
elongated tracks as described above include telescopically slidably mounting the carrier 5 to the track system 5 is
Sliding overlapping elongated tracks from the fully retracted utilized. Further, in an embodiment, two (2) roller bearings
to fully extended configuration and Vice versa; temporarily installed on each longitudinal side of the carrier (four (4)
joining two elongated tracks by the use of bolts, nuts, pins total roller bearings 12) may be used as illustrated in FIG. 6.
or any combination; and temporarily joining two elongated In additional embodiments, a multiplicity of roller bearings
tracks by the use of Spherical bearings and molded inden may be used. As illustrated in FIG. 6, in an embodiment, the
tures (not shown). Connection of the elongated tracks results carrier 5 may be generally elongated in Shape and may
in a continuous track System 4. In the embodiment illustrated include a cross-sectional design having a generally rectan
in FIG. 1, the hinge 3 may be centered across the border of gular shape. In this embodiment, the carrier's cross-sectional
the two elongated tracks and installed on both of the tracks, design forms a cavity as part of the carrier Structure. In
thus providing a means to fold the tracks. FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment, a carrier cross-sectional design that
the track System 4 in its folded configuration. By folding the results in a carrier that is Solid to the core is used (not
elongated tracks outward (i.e., the fully extended 15 shown). The shape of the carrier may be a function of the
configuration), the elongated tracks are connected end-to shape of the elongated tracks. Therefore multiple embodi
end in a longitudinal manner Such that the resultant track ments consisting of multiple shapes and sizes for the carrier
System 4 has four contiguous longitudinal Sides. In this exist. AS an example, FIG. 5A illustrates a generally trian
embodiment, two elongated tracks are utilized. However, for gular shape for a carrier 30. As an example, FIG. 5B
each additional elongated track greater than two, an addi illustrates a generally elliptical or more Specifically, circular,
tional first means for connecting the elongated tracks (e.g., shape for a carrier 31.
an additional hinge) may be added (not shown). With continued reference to FIG. 1, and reference to FIG.
With reference to FIG. 14, a lever 47 and locking pin 48 6, FIG. 12, FIG. 13, FIG. 18, and FIG. 20, in an embodiment,
lock provides one means for interlocking two contiguous an adapter 6 may be temporarily connected to the carrier and
elongated tracks. In one embodiment, the lock comprises a provides a means to temporarily attach an aircraft 8. In an
lever 47 and locking pin 48 wherein the lever 47 may be 25 embodiment, the adapter 6, is comprised of a center launch
attached to one of the respective contiguous elongated tracks bracket and two Side brackets, wherein the center launch
and the locking pin 48 may be connected to the Second bracket and two Side brackets are temporarily attached to the
contiguous elongated track. In the fully extended configu carrier 5. In one embodiment, the adapter 6 is temporarily
ration of this embodiment, the lever 47 may be placed over attached to the carrier 5 by fastenerS Such as Screws, nuts,
the locking pin 48 and Subsequently pressed down Such that bolts, or the like. In another embodiment (not otherwise
the lever 47 captures the locking pin 48 in a lever groove or shown), the adapter 6 is temporarily attached to the carrier
lever hole, thus interlocking the contiguous elongated trackS. 5 by a plurality of Self-actuating latch/pin devices. Multiple
As illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, in another embodiment, means for attaching the adapter 6 to the carrier 5 exist. In this
a means for interlocking two contiguous elongated tracks embodiment, the adapter 6 may utilize slots 43 to interface
may be comprised of a locking plate 49 of rigid material 35 with the aircraft. The number of slots 43 and their design
Slidably connected to one of the respective contiguous may be a function of the aircraft interface. Thus, for different
elongated tracks and to the other respective contiguous aircraft, different adapters may be Switched out and tempo
elongated track in the fully extended configuration. In this rarily connected to the carrier. The design as illustrated in the
particular embodiment, the locking plate 49 is slideably figures is not intended in any way to limit other designs. AS
connected by use of locking plate grooves 51, which are 40
Stated before, the adapter's design may be a function of the
incorporated into the connecting elongated tracks at prede aircraft interface. In another embodiment, the function of an
termined locations. The locking plate 49 is designed to adapter may be integrated with the carrier. In this embodi
correspond to the design of the locking plate grooves 51 ment (not otherwise shown), there is no separate adapter
Such that a slideable connection can be made. In this element.
embodiment, the locking plate 49 of rigid material may be With reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 9, in an embodiment,
connected to the track system 4 by a security bungee cord 50 45 a multiplicity of latex Surgical tubes 7 is one means for
to prevent losing the locking plate 49 when it is not used as propelling the carrier longitudinally along the track System
a lock. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, two elon 4. In another embodiment, one latex Surgical tube may be
gated tracks are utilized. However, for each additional used. LateX may be natural latex. The one or more latex
elongated track greater than two, an additional means for Surgical tubes 7 store potential energy and Subsequently
interlocking two contiguous elongated tracks (e.g., an addi 50 convert the Stored potential energy to kinetic energy neces
tional lock as described above) may be added (not shown). Sary for propelling the carrier 5 and launching the aircraft 8.
With continued reference to FIG. 1 and reference to FIG. In additional embodiments, other means for propelling the
6, a carrier 5 is slidably mounted to the track system 4. With carrier longitudinally along the track System 4 are used (Such
reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, a flange-based carrier 41 is as one or more compression Springs, one or more extension
Slideably mounted to a track System. In an embodiment, the 55 Springs, one or more roll Springs, or one or more elongated
grooves 15 or flanges 40, as discussed above, are the primary elastic memberS Such as one or more polyurethane bands,
means to Slidably mount a carrier on the track System 4. one or more lateX bands, one or more Surgical tubes, one or
Further, the grooves 15 or flanges 40 also serve as guide rails more silicone bands, or one or more bungee cords). The
to ensure a proper trajectory for a carrier during the launch means for propelling the carrier longitudinally along the
phase. With continuing reference to FIG. 1, a Secondary 60
track System may be resistant to extreme temperatures, for
means to slidably mount the carrier 5 on the track system 4 example, Sub-Zero temperatures. The means for propelling
may include the use of a multiplicity of bearings engaging the carrier longitudinally along the track System may operate
the carrier 5 and track system 5. As illustrated in FIG. 6, in in a temperature range from about -65 degrees F. to about
one embodiment, roller bearings 12 may engage both the 180 degrees F. The means for propelling the carrier longi
carrier 5 and track System 4 thereby reducing the amount of tudinally along the track System may have an elongation at
friction during the launch phase. In another embodiment, 65 break up to about 750%. Another embodiment consists of a
friction during the launch phase may be further reduced by combination of the defined means for propelling the carrier
using a dry style lubricant 52 as illustrated in FIG. 12. In a (not shown). If two or more means for propelling the carrier
 US 6,851,647 B1
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are used, these means for propelling may be installed With continued reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and
parallel with respect to each other. An embodiment utilizes FIG. 4, in an embodiment, a manually driven winch System
one or more latex Surgical tubes with a predetermined outer 16, pulley 17, first cable 11, and second cable 18, may be
diameter (OD). In another embodiment, depending on the used to move the carrier 5 into a launch position. In another
initial launch condition requirements, the OD for the latex embodiment, a motor driven winch System is used. AS Stated
Surgical tubes may be Scaleable. This Scalability may also earlier, the first cable 11 is part of a Second means for
result in Scaling the dimensions of other elements of the connecting the means for propelling to the carrier 5. Moving
apparatus (e.g., the elongated tracks, carrier, combinations the carrier 5 to the launch position increases the potential
of elements, all of the elements, etc.). With reference to FIG. energy of the means for propelling the carrier longitudinally
2, a third embodiment may utilize five lateX Surgical tubes of along the track System 4. AS illustrated in FIG. 2, in an
0.625 inches OD latex Surgical tubes attached to two mount 1O embodiment, the carrier 5 may be moved to the launch
ing plates 9, 10 of rigid material (for example, a metal). In position by a second cable 18 and the manually driven winch
an embodiment, the means for propelling has two ends system 16. The second cable 18 is part of a third means for
wherein connecting the means for propelling to each mount connecting the carrier to the manually driven winch System
ing plate 9, 10 may be accomplished by a capture screw 13 16. With particular reference to FIG. 12, in an embodiment,
secured by a tie device 14 within both ends of the means for 15 the connection of the second cable 18 to the carrier 5 may
propelling as partially illustrated in FIG. 9. Multiple comprise one or more cable Spherical bearingS 53 attached
embodiments exist for the tie device 14, for example a wire to the second cable 18 and a cable catch 54 attached to the
(as illustrated in FIG. 9), a clip (not shown), or a clamp (not carrier 5 wherein one of the one or more cable spherical
shown). In an embodiment, the means for propelling may bearings 53 are fastened to the cable catch 54. More than one
comprise one or more lateX Surgical tubes 7, thus, two Sets Spherical bearing may be installed on the Second cable 18 to
of one or more capture Screws (hereinafter referred to as the provide adjustability as well as redundancy in case of
first set and Second set of one or more capture Screws) and damage. In an embodiment, the Second cable may be unfas
two sets of one or more tie devices (hereinafter referred to tened to the cable catch 54 prior to launch but after the
as the first and Second set of one or more tie devices) are trigger 28 (discussed below in more detail) has engaged the
required for this specific embodiment (one set for each end carrier 5. The second cable 18, one or more cable spherical
of the one or more latex Surgical tubes 7). AS illustrated in 25 bearings 53, and cable catch 54 individually or in any
FIG. 2, in an embodiment, two mounting plates (hereinafter
referred to as the first mounting plate 9 and Second mounting combination is one third means of connecting the carrier 5
plate 10) may be required for each set of one or more capture to the manually driven winch system 16. An exploded view
Screws 13. In this embodiment, the first set of one or more of an embodiment of the manually driven winch system is
capture ScrewS 13 may be attached to the first mounting plate illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B. With reference to FIG. 7A
9 and the Second Set of one or more capture ScrewS 13 may and FIG. 7B, in an embodiment, the manually driven winch
be attached to the second mounting plate 10. Further, one system 16 employs a tapered winch spool 19 to manually
end of the one or more latex Surgical tubes may be attached wind the Second cable 18 and thus, move the carrier 5 into
to the first set of the one or more capture screws 13. the launch position by cranking a handle 20 while main
Secondly, the other end of the one or more lateX Surgical taining a relatively uniform input torque during the entire
tubes 7 may be attached to the second set of the one or more 35 process of moving the carrier 5 into its launch position. In
capture screws 13. Thirdly, the first set of one or more tie an embodiment, the winch handle 20 may be foldable. In
devices 14 may be wrapped around one end of the one or another embodiment, a non-foldable winch handle is used
more lateX Surgical tubes 7 to Secure the one end to the first (not shown). Further, in the embodiment whereby the manu
Set of the one or more capture ScrewS 13. Finally, the Second ally driven winch System 16 is used, a first Worm gear 21 and
Set of one or more tie devices 14 may be wrapped around the 40
a Second Worm gear 22 may be used to provide the required
other end of the one or more lateX Surgical tubes 7 to Secure gear reduction and avoid the back-drive potential of the
the other end to the Second Set of the one or more capture winding mechanism. In this embodiment, a threaded cylin
screws 13. In an embodiment, the first mounting plate 9 may der 23 may be employed to lock the first worm gear 21 and
be adjustably attached to the track system 4. Use of the first tapered winch Spool 19 as an integrated winch System. AS
mounting plate 9, the first Set of one or more capture Screws illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 18, and 19, in an embodiment,
13, and the first set of one or more tie devices 14 indepen 45 the manually driven winch system 16 may be mounted on
dently or in any combination represents one means to one of the elongated tracks by a winch pin 24, which may
adjustably attached one end of the means for propelling be attached to the threaded cylinder 23, a winch plate 25,
relative to the track system 4. As illustrated in FIG. 2, in an which may be Secured to the track System by the winch pin
embodiment, the Second mounting plate 10 may be con 24 and threaded cylinder 23 assembly, as well as a self
nected to a first cable 11, which is described in more detail 50 actuating lock 55, which may be attached to the track System
below. The use of a first cable 11, second mounting plate 10, 4 and secures the winch pin 24 to the track system 4. FIG.
Second Set of one or more capture Screws 13, and Second Set 19 illustrates how an embodiment of a self-actuating lock 55
of one or more tie devices 14 independently or in any engages a tapered end of a winch pin 24 Such that the
combination represents one Second means for connecting the Self-actuating lock slightly recoils via a simple Spring
means for propelling to the carrier. In an embodiment, the 55 mechanism and Subsequently locks itself to the winch pin
first cable 11 may be permanently or temporarily affixed to 24. In an embodiment, a cover 26 may be employed as
the carrier 5. The attachment of the means for propelling to illustrated in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B.
the track System 4 may be at any point, but it is recognized With continued reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 12, FIG. 21A,
that if this attachment is as far aft as possible relative to the and FIG. 21B, a trigger 28 may lock the carrier 5 in the
track System 4, then this location maximizes the potential 60
launch position as well as releases the carrier 5 from the
energy Storage and acceleration length. In addition; attach launch position thereby launching the aircraft 8. The trigger
ment of the means for propelling to the track System 4 may 28 is attached to an elongated track in Such a location
be adjustable in a longitudinal manner thereby providing a wherein the carrier 5 is temporarily locked to the trigger 28
means to vary the amount of potential energy necessary to in a pre-launch position. In an embodiment, the trigger 28 is
launch aircraft of varying mass. In another embodiment, an comprised of a trigger block housing 44, trigger latch 45,
ultraviolet or “UV' coating 39 as illustrated in FIG.2 may 65 trigger release lever 46, and at least one spring (not other
be applied to the latex Surgical tubes to protect the lateX wise shown) as is commonly known in the art. In an
Surgical tubes from UV induced degradation. embodiment, the trigger 28 may be Self-actuating. For
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7 8
example, the carrier 5 is moved to a launch position and the two elongated tracks together. The user then uses the
interlocks with the trigger latch 45 in Such a manner bi-pod Stand 27 to elevate and aid in the Securing of the track
whereby no manual intervention is required. Specifically, the System 4 in its fully extended configuration at a predeter
trigger latch 45 recoils upon contact with the carrier 5, mined angle relative to a Surface. The user then useS rocks
wherein the recoil movement activates the at least one Spring or other heavy material on top of the first cord 29 attached
and the trigger release lever 46 in a coordinated movement. to the bi-pod stand 27 to help secure the track system 4 to
In another embodiment, a non Self-actuating trigger is used the Surface. The user next secures the container 34 to the
(not shown). With reference to FIG. 13, in an embodiment, Second cord 32, which is attached to one of the elongated
a Safety pin 42 may be employed to ensure an unintentional tracks and Subsequently is used as a weight 33. After the
launch does not occur. In this particular embodiment, the track System 4 is Secured to the Surface, it is ready for
Safety pin 42 is placed in a predetermined position in front operation. The user temporarily Secures the Second cable 18
of the carrier 5 when the carrier 5 is in its pre-launch via the attached spherical bearing 53 to the cable catch 54
position. Thus, if the trigger 28 is unintentionally activated, and then moves the carrier 5 to the launch position via a
the safety pin 42 if properly used, will retain the carrier 5 and manually driven winch system 16, pulley 17, first cable 11,
prevent an unintentional launch. 15
and second cable 18 thereby extending the means for
With continued reference to FIG. 1 and reference to FIG. propelling the carrier, which herein in this embodiment
8, in an embodiment, a bi-pod stand 27 may be used to comprises a multiplicity of lateX Surgical tubes 7. The carrier
elevate and aid in the Securing of the track System 4 in its 5 is locked in a launch position by the trigger 28, which is
fully extended configuration at a predetermined angle rela Self-actuating. The user employs the Safety pin 42 in its
tive to a Surface. Other embodiments for the Stand, Such as predetermined location to ensure an unintentional launch
tri-pod, telescopic, and an adjustable jack exist (not shown). does not occur. The user next temporarily attaches the
As illustrated in FIG. 8, in an embodiment, a first cord 29 aircraft 8 to the adapter 6, which is temporarily secured to
may be attached to one of the elongated members of the the carrier 5. When the user is ready to launch the aircraft 8,
bi-pod Stand 27 on one end and to the other elongated the user will remove the safety pin 42 as well as the second
member of the bi-pod stand on the other end secures the cable 18 from the cable catch 54 and then release the trigger
track System 4 to a Surface. Specifically, rocks or other heavy 25 28. The Subsequently conversion of Stored potential energy
material may be set on top of the first cord thereby mini to kinetic energy in the multiplicity of lateX Surgical tubes 7
mizing any movement of the track System 4 resultant from propels the carrier 5 along the track System 4. At the end of
a launch. In another embodiment, a Second cord 32 may be the launch Sequence, the carrier 5 impacts the energy adsorp
attached to one of the elongated tracks and Subsequently tion barrier 35 and the aircraft 8 is launched. After the
attached to a weight 33. In one embodiment, the weight may aircraft 8 is launched, the user removes the rocks or other
be a container 34 (ref. FIG. 3) that is used to stow the heavy material on top of the first cord 29 and de-attaches the
apparatus. In this manner, a downward force is applied to container 34 from the second cord 32. The user then
minimize movement of the track System 4 as a result of the disengages the locking plate 49 to unlock the two elongated
launching process. Thus, the container 34 may serve two tracks. The user next retracts the apparatus, prepares the
functions. The container's 34 primary function is to stow the apparatus for Stowage, and Stows the apparatus in the
35 container 34.
apparatus in its retracted configuration for easy transport.
The container may also serve as the weight 33 to minimize The corresponding Structures, materials, acts, and equiva
the movement of the track System 4 during an actual launch. lents of all means or Step plus function elements in the
With continued reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, as well as claims below are intended to include any Structure, material,
reference to FIG. 15, an energy absorption barrier 35 may be or acts for performing the functions in combination with
used to absorb exceSS kinetic energy remaining at the end of 40 other claimed elements as Specifically claimed.
the launch Sequence. In an embodiment, an energy absorb The embodiment of the apparatus described herein are
ing material 36 may be sandwiched between two barrier only for purposes of illustration and understanding of the
plates 37, 38 to form the barrier 35. In an embodiment, the apparatus. Those skilled in the art will be able to devise other
barrier 35 may be installed at the end of one of the elongated embodiments of this apparatus, which do not depart from the
tracks. The two barrier plates of rigid material 37,38 may be 45 Spirit of the apparatus as disclosed herein. Accordingly, the
Selected from a group consisting of metal, wood, plastic, and apparatus shall be limited in Scope only by the attached
graphite. In one embodiment, the two barrier plates may be claims.
comprised of aluminum. The energy absorbing material may What is claimed is:
be selected from a group consisting of polyurethane, a 1. An apparatus for launching an aircraft, comprising:
Visco-elastic polymer, and foam. For the purposes herein, 50 a multiplicity of interconnected elongated tracks of rigid
foam is defined as any of various light, porous, Semi-rigid or material forming a track System and wherein each
Spongy materials. For the purposes herein, Visco-elastic is elongated track has a predetermined elongated track
defined as any material the exhibits properties of both croSS-Sectional design;
liquids (viscous Solutions) and Solids (elastic materials). a winch System connected to the track System wherein the
The apparatus as described above has two basic configu 55 winch System has a variable mechanical advantage;
rations: the extended configuration (illustrated in FIG. 1) one or more elongated Surgical latex tubes wherein one
and the retracted configuration (illustrated in FIG. 3). In the end of each of the one or more Surgical latex tubes is
extended configuration, the track System 4 is folded outward adjustably connected to the track System, wherein the
to its full length and may be interlocked. In the retracted
configuration, the track System 4 is folded inward where it adjustable connection of the one end of the one or more
may be interlocked and compactly Stored in a backpack or 60 lateX Surgical tubes to the track System is formed of a
other container. first mounting plate adjustably connected to the track
Multiple methods exist for using the various embodi System, a first Set of one or more capture Screws
ments described above. With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and connected to the first mounting plate on one end of the
8, for example, in one method, the user un-Stows the first Set of one or more capture Screws and connected to
apparatus from the container 34 and extends as well as 65 one end of the one or more lateX Surgical tubes on the
interlocks the track System 4, comprised of two elongated other end of the first Set of one or more capture Screws,
tracks, to its full length. The locking plate 49 is used to lock and a first Set of one or more tie devices wrapped
 US 6,851,647 B1
10
around the one end of the one or more lateX Surgical mechanical advantage and wherein the Winch System is
tubes connected to the first Set of one or more capture formed of a winch pin wherein the winch pin is
Screws, and attached to the track System, a threaded cylinder
a carrier Slidably mounted to the track System wherein the wherein the threaded cylinder is attached to the winch
carrier is connected to the Winch System and to the pin, a winch plate wherein the winch plate is Secured by
other end of each of the one or more elongated elastic the winchpin and threaded cylinder to the track System,
members. a first Worm gear wherein the first Worm gear is
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connection of the attached to the Winch plate, a Second Worm gear
carrier to the other end of the one or more lateX Surgical wherein the Second Worm gear is attached the threaded
tubes is formed of a first cable connected to the carrier on
one end of the first cable, a Second mounting plate where the cylinder, a handle wherein the handle is attached to the
Second mounting plate is connected to the first cable on the winch plate, and a tapered winch Spool wherein the
first cable's other end, a Second Set of one or more capture tapered winch Spool is attached to the threaded cylin
Screws connected to the Second mounting plate on one end der;
of the Second Set of one or more capture Screws and a carrier of a predetermined carrier cross-sectional design
connected to the other end of the one or more lateX Surgical 15 slidably mounted to the track System and connected to
tubes on the other end of the second set of one or more the manually driven winch System;
capture Screws, and a Second Set of one or more tie devices means for propelling the carrier longitudinally along the
wrapped around the other end of the one or more lateX track System;
Surgical tubes connected to the Second Set of the one or more an adapter temporarily connected to the carrier and pro
capture Screws. viding a means to temporarily attach the aircraft;
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the carrier is
connected to the Winch System by a Second cable. a trigger attached to the track System used to temporarily
4. An apparatus for launching an aircraft, comprising: lock the carrier in a launch position and Subsequently
a multiplicity of interconnected elongated tracks of rigid release the carrier;
material forming a track System and wherein each 25 a Stand attached to the track System wherein the Stand
elongated track has a predetermined elongated track props the track System on a Surface at a predetermined
croSS-Sectional design; angle with respect to the Surface; and
a winch System connected to the track System wherein the a barrier attached to the track System wherein the barrier
winch System has a variable mechanical advantage and absorbS eXceSS energy.
wherein the Winch System is a manually driven winch 8. An apparatus for launching a Surveillance aircraft,
System and is formed of a winch pin wherein the Winch comprising:
pin is attached to the track system, a threaded cylinder a multiplicity of elongated tracks of rigid material
wherein the threaded cylinder is attached to the winch wherein the elongated tracks are interconnected to form
pin, a winch plate wherein the winch plate is Secured by a contiguous track System and wherein each of the
the winch pin and threaded cylinder to the track System, 35 multiplicity of elongated trackS has one or more lon
a first Worm gear wherein the first Worm gear is gitudinal grooves that extend the full length the track
attached to the Winch plate, a Second Worm gear System;
wherein the Second Worm gear is attached the threaded one or more hinges installed on two contiguous elongated
cylinder, a handle wherein the handle is attached to the tracks each hinge centered across the two contiguous
winch plate, and a tapered winch Spool wherein the 40 elongated tracks for connecting the contiguous elon
tapered winch spool is attached to the threaded cylin gated tracks to each other in a longitudinal and con
der; tinuous manner forming a contiguous Surface on all
one or more elongated elastic members wherein one end four longitudinal Sides and providing a means to fold
of each of the one or more elongated elastic members and unfold the track System to a retracted and extended
is adjustably connected to the track System; and 45 configuration, respectively;
a carrier Slidably mounted to the track System wherein the one or more locks installed acroSS two contiguous elon
carrier is connected to the Winch System and to the gated tracks for locking two elongated tracks together
other end of each of the one or more elongated elastic in the track System's extended and retracted configu
members. rations,
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the winch system 50
a manually driven winch System attached to the track
further comprises a Self-actuating lock wherein the lock is System wherein the winch System has a variable
attached to the track System and Secures the Winchpin to the mechanical advantage;
track System.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the winch system a carrier of rigid material slidably mounted to the track
further comprises a cover wherein the cover is attached to 55
System along the one or more longitudinal grooves,
and covers the winch plate. an adapter of rigid material temporarily connected to the
7. An apparatus for launching an unmanned, remotely carrier wherein the adapter comprises a multiplicity of
piloted aircraft, comprising: slots to interface and temporarily attach the Surveil
a multiplicity of elongated tracks of rigid material form lance aircraft;
ing a track System; 60 a first mounting plate adjustably attached to the track
first means for connecting the multiplicity of elongated System;
tracks in a contiguous and longitudinal manner and a first Set of one or more capture Screws attached to the
wherein the first means for connecting provides a first mounting plate;
means to Store and Set-up the track System in a retracted one or more lateX Surgical tubes of a predetermined outer
and extended configuration, respectively; 65 diameter wherein the first end of the one or more latex
a manually driven winch System attached to the track Surgical tubes is attached to the first Set of one or more
System wherein the winch System has a variable capture Screws on an individual basis,
 US 6,851,647 B1
11 12
a first Set of one or more tie devices wrapped around the a Stand attached to the track System wherein the Stand
first end of the one or more latex Surgical tubes Securing props the track System on a Surface at a predetermined
the first end of the one or more lateX Surgical tubes to angle with respect to the Surface; and
the first Set of one or more capture Screws, a barrier attached to the track System wherein the barrier
a Second set of one or more capture Screws attached to the 5 absorbS eXceSS energy.
Second end of the one or more latex Surgical tubes on 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein each of the one or
an individual basis, more lockS is formed of a locking plate of rigid material
Slidably connected to one of the elongated tracks and to a
a Second Set of one or more tie devices wrapped around contiguous elongated track relative to the one of the elon
the Second end of the one or more lateX Surgical tubes gated tracks.
Securing the Second end of the one or more lateX 10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the carrier is
Surgical tubes to the Second Set of one or more capture formed of a structural body of the material, a multiplicity of
ScreWS, Support members attached to the Structural body, and a
multiplicity of bearings attached to the multiplicity of Sup
a Second mounting plate attached to the Second Set of one port members on an individual basis.
or more capture Screws, 15 11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein each of the one or
a first cable attached to the Second mounting plate on one more lateX Surgical tubes is Selected from the group con
end and to the carrier on the other end; Sisting of polyvinyl chloride, and thermo plastic elastomer
a Second cable attached to the carrier on one end and to polymers.
the Winch System on the other end; 12. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a pulley
attached to the track System wherein the first cable is
a trigger attached to the track System used to temporarily threaded around the pulley.
lock the carrier in a launch position and Subsequently
release the carrier; k k k k k