This is a drone which is conformal or integral to the shape of an artillery shell. It separates at a predetermined altitude and sends BDAs (Bomb Damage Assessments) back to the origin, allowing them to self-correct.
Similar to the kits that are added to dumb bombs, wings spring out of the released PiggyBack Drone (PBD) and it uses the energy from the falling shell to glide while it does its reconnaissance. A small warhead could be integrated if further offensive capability is desired, or if it is prudent to destroy the unit before capture.
The PiggyBack Drone frees FPV drones to carry out offensive missions and recon drones to cover more ground after the initial target spotting is handed over to the barrel artillery unit, where their own staff runs the PBDs.-- minoradjustments, Nov 04 2024 G forces experienced by an artillery shell https://www.thiot-i...sted-at-100000-g-2/15,000 to 30,000 G [Voice, Nov 04 2024] The idea of shooting drones out of a cannon started with this https://www.weareth...-started-with-this/ [Voice, Nov 04 2024] Old stuff https://www.strateg...icles/20050913.aspxNot maneuverable, not fast, easily shot down [minoradjustments, Nov 05 2024] I'd have it shoot out the back with a small charge. Maybe have it rocket powered enough to get it to a dead stop while its propellers deploy.
I think this is patentable. [+]-- doctorremulac3, Nov 04 2024 //get it to a dead stop// The props themselves will work fine for slowing. Could get away with a spring-deploy to get some quick initial distance from the "mothership".-- neutrinos_shadow, Nov 04 2024 You'll do better attaching a parachute you can drop when at low speed, it will save the energy of slowing down.-- Voice, Nov 04 2024 This is not a powered unit. It gets its energy to glide from the munition’s fall. It is not an expensive long-duration unit and lasts as long as it lasts. Deployed from 200-1000m, it separates from the shell or rocket, spreads its folded wings and starts reporting with video/audio directly back to the shooters. After initial targeting is established the artillery unit is able to act independently and more efficiently.
An explosive charge can be used to self-destruct or to attack a secondary, smaller target. It may be fitted with a laser targeting device to identify new targets for loitering smart munitions.
The HUNT-IR (a camera on a parachute) was shot from a grenade launcher and gave info for a very limited time. Jungle cover made them less useful. The gliding and maneuvering capability of the PBDs allow a much wider range of missions.
[Voice] I think they’ve knocked the G problems for electronics in artillery; witness the 3m CEP for ATACMs. The PBDs mechanical aspect is limited to the wing deployment and minimal control surfaces. Everything else is solid state. ¡¡¡You need the energy of the falling shell for the PBD!!! Don’t worry about slowing down; a timed release and deployment of the wings is not a waste of energy. Pick your altitude depending on the mission. Unpowered glides can last a long time land cover miles. A parachute is pretty much a dropped dead weight.-- minoradjustments, Nov 05 2024 random, halfbakery