Open-Source Self-Destructing UAS with Modular Functionality Concept for AFSOC Adaptive Airborne Enterprise

In this proposal we offer a new approach to developing a very safe large UAS (referred to here as “SafeUAS”): unmanned vehicles that break apart upon command and gently parachute to the ground. The design intent is to reduce ground collision impact severity by lowering the individual part sizes into smaller pieces with less mass and kinetic energy. The FAA has studied collision impact severity and we believe this technique will achieve FAA certification[1].A multi-faceted approach to trigger breakup, including automated, manual, event, and Al-based triggers, are used to eliminate potential ground-level damage and reduce human and object impacts. The aircraft comes apart in a controlled manner, quickly and reliably. Each part will weigh less than 25 pounds and have a parachute to minimize impact kinetic energy; major components will be steerable with AI-controlled site selection, always looking for a safe place to land. Upon breakup, transmitters will send distress signals with the locations of each part. The aircraft can be quickly and easily re-assembled for subsequent flights.