Tcuav

A Train Cable UAV (TCUAV) is a combination of three concepts: unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), and trains. A Train Cable UAV (TCUAV) consists of an overhead, unmanned "train" carrying and receiving energy from cables installed on dedicated electric towers, and a UAV device which is connected to the train via an electric, energy-transmitting wire.

The concept

By focusing on the operational pattern - that is, fixed routes vs. dynamically variable routes -TCUAV CREATES a security concept which draws on the advantages of various vision systems, to provide a "visual production line" for spatial & fixed route overhead vision.

Uninterrupted electric energy

The use of uninterrupted electric energy along a spatial defense system array provides a solution to one of the major challenges typical of UGV/UAV systems – an extended, continuous delay-activity time. The TCUAV allows a 24-hr. potential operational functioning. Extended hovering in the vicinity of the target allows the reduction of both direct & indirect costs of the system.

System faults

The majority of UAV system faults are caused by the failure of energy sources or of motor mechanics. The incorporation of uninterrupted energy and electric motors - which are by far more reliable - will help achieve a lower fault-flying time ratio. Other possible causes of failures include flight control, communication and human errors. The establishment of a predictable array of fixed routes will launch an automation process which will naturally reduce the rate of faults typical of these categories.

Kite effect

The use of cables allows the utilization of UAV's for hovering purposes (the kite effect), while also providing enhanced safety during landing. When the train is on the move, the UAV device maintains its flight momentum with relation to the ground, yet in comparison with the train, its speed at landing may be almost null. This assures a smooth, safe pulley-controlled landing. The use of a cable creates favorable flight conditions, reducing the need for coordination & integration with high-cost aerial control & monitoring systems.

Cable disconnection

The solutions further allow for cable disconnection: the UAV device is located in proximity to the target at a fully charged state, thus allowing short-range pursuit or interception prior to the arrival on-site of ground forces. This, naturally, reduces risks to human life.

See also

• History of unmanned aerial vehicles
• Driverless car
• Unmanned aerial vehicle
• Unmanned Ground Combat Vehicle
• Remotely operated vehicle
• JAUS, a popular message set for controlling UGVs
• List of unmanned aerial vehicles

References

External links

• TCUAV animation concept
• Current Unmanned Vehicles and Systems
• Article on Sperwer system
• The Joint Unmanned Systems Test, Experimentation, and Research Site
• "How Military Robots Work"
• Saab UAV/UCAV info page
• Unmanned Aerial Systems, Mini UAV
• UCAVs - Panacea or Pipe Dream?
• The Joint Unmanned Systems Test, Experimentation, and Research Site
• Israel sets combat drones against missile launchers in Gaza, World Tribune, May 8, 2007
• Israel Starts Reexamining Military Missions and Technology, Aviation Week, August 20, 2006

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