Containerized rocket assisted payload (RAP) launch system
US6868769B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 2, 2004 |
| Grant date | Mar 22, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 2, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF41F3/042
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A rocket assisted payload launch system includes a heavy gauge metal shipping container that houses an array of containerized concentric launch tubes, or canisters. Spacers on each containerized concentric launch tube contact the adjacent tubes and retain the centers of the tubes a predetermined distance apart, and in a vertical orientation. A missile including rocket assisted payload (RAP) can be inserted into the open upper end of each tube, which also has a curved, closed bottom end. Umbilical cords are connected to each tube for providing target location information to the missile placed therein. A sequence controller selects the rocket assisted payload to be fired, and initiates the firing sequence by delivering power, via the umbilical cord, to the selected missile. The sequence controller may be manually operated, or may be operated, automatically, via a datalink, in the preferred mode of operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.