Wing and Bomb Bay Launched (WBBL) Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Topic No.: N05-005 Topic Title: Wing and Bomb Bay Launched (WBBL) Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) Proposal No.: N051-005-0854 Firm: Acuity Technologies Inc. 3475 Edison Way Bldg P Menlo Park, California 94025 Contact: Robert Clark Phone: (650) 369-6783 Web Site: www.acuitytx.com Abstract: We propose to design an uninhabited aerial vehicle capable of being launched from the bomb bay or wing pylon of a P3 or other aircraft capable of carrying 500 pound stores. It would cruise at 60 to 85 knots with 10 hour endurance and 100 pound payload capacity. The design may be scaled up or down as required. We also propose to build a half scale flying prototype model using the design and construction techniques planned for the full scale UAV, and to flight test and wind tunnel test it in phase 1 and the phase 1 option. The WBBL UAV has a folding wing design in which the wings sweep back over the fuselage. The variable sweep also enables flight in wide speed range, allowing launch and rapid descending insertion into an area at up to 250 knots. Propulsion is via a ducted fan in a pusher configuration which provides a clear omnidirectional view for forward and downward looking sensors. Retractable landing gear may be fitted to enable recovery on a runway, land based testing, and other mission profiles. The form factor and aerodynamics of the stored configuration are similar to conventional P3 stores. Benefits: The availability of a small UAV that can be launched from the wing or bomb bay of an aircraft is of potential use in patrol missions of several types. Launch from another aircraft extends the operating range of a UAV and allows deployment as needed in changing situations. By expanding coverage area and patrolling hazardous or hostile areas the risk to aircraft and personnel is reduced. Aircraft to aircraft operation greatly increases the range at which direct communication at UHF and microwave frequencies can be conducted. Folding wings and empennage and a compact ducted fan propulsor allow this UAV to be easily stored and well protected in transport, both on an aircraft and in ground handling. The wings and the fuselage of the UAV are secured together during transport, making the aircraft rugged and easy to manage both as a P3 store and during ground transportation. Return