PLATFORM-BASED PYROTECHNICS SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE PRESENTLY DISCLOSED SUBJECT MATTER

The presently disclosed subject matter relates to deployment of pyrotechnics.

BACKGROUND

Pyrotechnics include the use of chemical reactions for the production of a desired result (herein below "pyrotechnic effect") including, but not limited to, heat, light, gas, smoke or sound. In one common type of application, pyrotechnics are used by launching projectiles loaded with a chemical compound which is ignited after launch and provides the desired result e.g. illuminating an area of interest

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The presently disclosed subject matter includes a platform-based pyrotechnic deployment system. The disclosed pyrotechnic deployment system can be mounted and operable from both manned and unmanned platforms.

The term "platform" is used herein to include both manned and unmanned vehicles, including aerial vehicles, ground vehicles, and marine vehicles. Unmanned vehicles (UVs), which, in the past, were predominantly used for military applications, are today becoming increasingly popular in civilian applications. Unmanned vehicles include various types, such as for example Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs also known as Unmanned Aerial systems), Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), Unmanned Marine Vehicles (UMVs), etc. UAVs, for example, are used in a large variety of applications including traffic monitoring, remote sensing and reconnaissance, transportation, search and rescue, domestic policing, electronic warfare, decoys, and more.

It is noted that examples set forth below of a pyrotechnic system mounted on an unmanned aerial vehicle, should not be construed as limiting and the same or similar principles can be applied also to other types of manned or unmanned vehicles.

According to one example of the disclosed subject matter, a pyrotechnic system, comprising a pyrotechnic payload, is installed onboard a UV. The UV can carry the pyrotechnic payload to a desired location where the pyrotechnic payload is activated.

Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a UAV-based pyrotechnic deployment system, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. In the illustrated example UAV 10 is carrying pyrotechnic payload device 12 configured to carry the payload material or compound. The payload compound can be of any type for providing various pyrotechnic effects. For example, the pyrotechnic payload can be any one of: pyrotechnic illuminating payload, pyrotechnic smoke screen or smoke signaling payload, pyrotechnic tear gas payload, pyrotechnics radar communication jamming payload, etc.

Using a mobile platform such as a UAV for pyrotechnics deployment allows to provide a more constant and effective pyrotechnic effect For example, it allows to carry large amounts of pyrotechnic material and can therefore provide a desired pyrotechnic effect for longer periods of time as compared to other conventional methods such as pyrotechnic projectiles. For example, a Searcher MK-III, an LAI (Israeli Aerospace Industries) made UAV, can carry a payload of up to 120 kg.

Using a mobile platform such as UAV for pyrotechnics deployment, further allows to direct the UAV to fly to a desired deployment area (14) and activate and\or disperse the pyrotechnic payload material once the UAV gets there. This approach allows to activate the payload at an accurate and sustainable location. By maintaining and/or controlling the altitude of the UAV, efficiency of consumption of the pyrotechnic material is increased as compared to other types of pyrotechnic devices which descend toward the ground and accordingly typically show a continuous degradation in performance (e.g. illumination) with their descent Furthermore, according to some examples, by controlling the altitude of deployment, the affected area below can be sustained or adjusted. Assuming for example that the pyrotechnic payload is an illuminating payload, the altitude of the payload can be selected to illuminate a specific area. By maintaining the UAV at a specific altitude, the selected area can be sustained. Furthermore, the altitude of the payload can be adjusted during operation in order to change the size of the affected area.

The controllability of the pyrotechnic deployment system disclosed herein also allows to adapt to various changes occurring in real-time during execution of the mission. For example, the deployment area can be repeatedly updated during operation of the UAV. Also, as described below, a UAV can operate a pyrotechnic payload while tracking a moving object on the ground.

According to a further example, a UAV-based pyrotechnic deployment system as disclosed herein, operating for providing a smoke screen over a certain area, can be responsive to sudden change in wind direction and/or speed. Responsive to a change in wind direction and/or speed, the UAV can reposition itself in order to maintain the smoke screen in the desired location notwithstanding changes in the wind.

In addition, a UAV-based pyrotechnics deployment system can be activated over populated areas, where conventional projectile pyrotechnics are unavailable for safety reasons.

The platform-based pyrotechnic deployment system disclosed herein comprises a control system which is configured to control the operation of the pyrotechnic payload. Using the control system, a pyrotechnic payload device can be activated according to specific needs. For example, a pyrotechnic payload device can be activated at a specific time or once the UAV is located over a specific geographical area. Control over operation of the pyrotechnic payload can be by a human operator or by another computerized device, communicating with a platform-based pyrotechnic deployment system over a communication link. Alternatively or additionally, platform-based pyrotechnic deployment system can operate autonomously and control operation of the pyrotechnic payload based on predefined instructions uploaded to a data-storage device (e.g. located onboard the UAV).

According to an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a vehicle-based pyrotechnic system, comprising: a pyrotechnic payload carried by the vehicle and comprising a pyrotechnic control unit operatively connected to at least one pyrotechnic payload device; the pyrotechnic payload device comprising a container, containing pyrotechnic compound; the vehicle is configured to carry the pyrotechnic payload to an activation location and the pyrotechnic control unit is configured to control activation of the pyrotechnic payload device at the activation location for generating a respective pyrotechnic effect.

In addition to the above features, the system according to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter can optionally comprise one or more of features (i) to (xiii) below, in any technically possible combination or permutation:

(I). The system further comprising a control system located at a location different from the vehicle and configured to communicate over a communication link with a vehicle; the control system comprising a user interface for enabling an operator to control and monitor the operation of the UAV; the pyrotechnic control unit is configured to activate the pyrotechnic payload device responsive to a command received from the control system.

(Π). Wherein the pyrotechnic payload device is connected to the vehicle by a hoisting device; the hoisting device being controllable by the pyrotechnic control unit to lift or lower the pyrotechnic payload device.

(m).Wherein the pyrotechnic payload device is divided into a plurality of cells, each cell containing a certain amount of pyrotechnic compound and an ignitor and is configured to be activated individually; the pyrotechnic control unit is connected to the plurality of cells and is configured to selectively activate one or more cells.

(iv) .Wherein different cells comprise different amounts of pyrotechnic payload and are configured to be activated for different periods of time.

(v) .Wherein different cells comprise different types of pyrotechnic payload compounds, each type is directed for providing a different pyrotechnic effect; the control unit is configured, responsive to a command, to select one or more cells with a certain type of pyrotechnic payload compound to obtain a respective pyrotechnic effect

(vt). Wherein the pyrotechnic control unit is configured, responsive to a received command, to activate the pyrotechnic payload, to: process the command and obtain a desired activation time period; based on the activation time period obtainable from each cell, select one or more cells to be activated in order to obtain the desired activation time period; determine an activation sequence indicating the order of activation of the one or more cells; and generate corresponding commands for activating the cells according to the activation sequence.

(vil).Wherein the pyrotechnic payload comprises a pyrotechnic dispensing device comprising: at least one activation chamber, connected to a pyrotechnic compound storage; the dispenser being responsive to the pyrotechnic control unit for releasing a specific amount of compound from the pyrotechnic compound storage into the activation chamber.

(vin).The system comprising a pressuring device configured to condense the pyrotechnic compound in the activation chamber before activation.

(be). Wherein the vehicle is an unmanned vehicle, comprising a driving control unit configured to direct the vehicle to a desired pyrotechnic activation location.

(x). Wherein the vehicle is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) where the driving control unit is a flight control unit (xl).Wherein the flight control unit is configured, responsive to a lock and track command, to lock on an object of interest sighted by an onboard imaging device and track the object of interest; and the pyrotechnic control unit is configured to activate the pyrotechnic payload device while the UAV is tracking the object of interest.

(xll).The system comprising a directionality control device comprising a cover and a cover-control unit for controlling the position of the cover with respect to the pyrotechnic payload device; the cover-control unit being responsive to the pyrotechnic control unit for receiving instructions to control the position of the cover and adapt the position of the cover accordingly.

(xlll).Wherein the control unit is configured, responsive to detecting a change in environmental conditions, to determine whether the change has an effect on a desired pyrotechnic effect, and if it does, to generate instructions for repositioning the vehicle in order to reduce the changes.

According to another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a method of operating a vehide-based pyrotechnic system, the system comprising a pyrotechnic payload carried by the vehicle and comprising a pyrotechnic control unit operatively connected to at least one pyrotechnic payload device; the payload being operable to generate a respective pyrotechnic effect; the device comprising a container, containing pyrotechnic compound; the method comprising:

using the pyrotechnic control unit for extracting from a received activation command activation parameters, the parameters including at least an activation location;

directing the vehicle to the activation location; and

using the pyrotechnic control unit for activating the pyrotechnic payload at the desired location. In addition to the above features, and features i-xi mentioned with respect to the system, the method according to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter can optionally comprise features (i) to (iii) below, in any technically possible combination or permutation:

(i).Wherein the pyrotechnic payload device is divided into two or more compartments, each compartment capable of being activated individually, the activation parameters include a desired activation time period and/or intensity; the method further comprising: selecting one or more compartments based on the desired activation time period and/or intensity and based activation time period obtainable from each compartment; and generating instructions for activating the selected compartments.

(FIJ.The method further comprising: determining a payload activation sequence indicative of the order of activation of the selected compartments.

(m).Wherein the at least one received command includes a tracking command instructing the vehicle to operate an imaging device onboard the vehicle for locking and tracking an object of interest; the method further comprising locking and tracking the object of interest and activating the pyrotechnic payload during tracking.

According to another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a non-transitory program storage device readable by a computer, for executing the method as disclosed in the previous aspect

According to another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a pyrotechnic system comprising: a pyrotechnic control unit operativeiy connected to at least one pyrotechnic payload device; the device is divided into a plurality of compartments, each compartment containing a certain amount of pyrotechnic compound and is configured to be activated individually; the pyrotechnic control unit is connected to the plurality of compartments and is configured to selectively activate one or more compartments in order to obtain a desired effect

In addition to the above features, and features i-xiii mentioned with respect to the system, the method according to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter can optionally comprise features (i) to (iv) below, in any technically possible combination or permutation:

(I). Wherein different compartments comprise different amounts of pyrotechnic payload and are configured to be activated at different periods of time.

(Π). Wherein different compartments comprise different types of pyrotechnic payloads, each type is directed for providing a different pyrotechnic effect

(ΙΠ). Wherein the control unit is configured to process a received command and obtain a desired activation time period; based on the activation time period obtainable from each compartment, select one or more compartments to be activated in order to obtain the desired activation time period; determine an activation sequence indicating the order of activation of the one or more compartments; and generate corresponding commands for activating the compartments according to the activation sequence.

(Kf). Wherein the compartments include at least one activation chamber, connected to a pyrotechnic compound storage; the dispenser being responsive to the pyrotechnic control unit for releasing a specific amount of compound from the pyrotechnic compound storage into the activation chamber; the control unit is configured to control an amount of compound which is released from the storage to a respective chamber based on the parameters in the received command. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the presently disclosed subject matter and to see how it may be carried out in practice, the subject matter will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a platform-based pyrotechnic deployment system over a deployment area, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 2 is functional block diagram of a platform-based pyrotechnic deployment system, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig.3 is a functional block diagram of a first pyrotechnic payload, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram of a second pyrotechnic payload, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 5 is a schematic illustration of a pyrotechnic payload dispenser, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Figs 6 is a schematic illustration of a pressuring device, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 7 is a flowchart of a sequence of operations carried out, in accordance with an example of the presently disclosed subject matter; and

Figs. 8a-8c are a schematic illustrations of a directionality control device, in accordance with an example of the presently disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the drawings and descriptions set forth, identical reference numerals indicate those components that are common to different embodiments or configurations. Elements in the drawings are not drawn to scale. Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specification discussions utilizing terms such as "directing", "activating", "extracting", "determining", or the like, include actions and/or processes of a computer that manipulate and/or transform data into other data, said data represented as physical quantities, e.g. such as electronic quantities, and/or said data representing the physical objects.

The terms "computer", "computerized device", "control unit" or the like should be expansively construed to cover any kind of electronic device with data processing circuitry, including for example a processor operatively connected to a computer memory (e.g. digital signal processor (DSP), a microcontroller, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.), or any other computing device such as a personal computer device, a server device, a communication device or any combination thereof.

As used herein, the phrase "for example," "such as", "for instance" and variants thereof describe non-limiting embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. Reference in the specification to "one case", "some cases", "other cases" or variants thereof means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment(s) is included in at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. Thus the appearance of the phrase "one case", "some cases", "other cases" or variants thereof does not necessarily refer to the same embodiments).

It is appreciated that certain features of the presently disclosed subject matter, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the presently disclosed subject matter, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. In embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, fewer, more and/or different stages than those shown in Figs. 7 may be executed. In embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter one or more stages illustrated in Fig. 7 may be executed in a different order and/or one or more groups of stages may be executed simultaneously. Figs. 2, 3, 4 and 5 illustrate a general schematic of the system architecture in accordance with an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. Functional elements in Figs. 2, 3, 4 and 5 can be made up of any combination of software and hardware and/or firmware that performs the functions as defined and explained herein. Functional elements in Figs. 2, 3, 4 and 5 may be centralized in one location or dispersed over more than one location. In other embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the system may comprise fewer, more, and/or different functional elements than those shown in Figs. 2, 3, 4 and 5. For example, the onboard control system described with reference to Fig. 2, can be a distributed system where different control units logically associated with the onboard control system are physically located at different places onboard the vehicle.

The term "compartment" is used herein below to collectively refer to "cells" and "chambers".

Bearing the above in mind, attention is now drawn to Fig. 2 showing a block diagram schematically illustrating a platform-based pyrotechnic deployment system, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. Fig. 2 shows UAV 10 configured as UAV-based pyrotechnic deployment system 100. UAV 10 can be a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) UAV, or any other type of UAV. As mentioned above, the same or similar principles to those described in Fig. 2 with respect to a UAV are applicable to other types of platforms.

In general, an unmanned vehicle (UV) is controlled by some type of control system (illustrated in Fig. 2 as control system 120) which can be located on the ground (also known as ground control unit (GCU)) or at some other location remote from the operating zone of the UV (e.g. on another aircraft, a marine vessel or a ground vehicle). The control system is configured to enable an operator to monitor and control the operation of UAV 10. Control of the UAV 10 can include both control over the operation of the UAV itself, as well as control over the operation of various payloads which are installed onboard the UAV.

UAV 10 further comprises communication unit 115 configured to provide a communication link (e.g. LOS and/or BLOS) with communication unit 125 of control system 120. Communication between UAV 10 and the control system 120 can be realized by any suitable communication infrastructure and protocol known in the art Communication unit 115 can comprise or be otherwise operatively connected to an aerial data terminal (B/LOS ADT) configured to communicate with a ground data terminal (GDT), located at control system 120, as known in the art

UAV 10 can further comprise an onboard control system comprising various control units. Control units onboard the UAV can comprise data processing devices configured, inter alia, for generating instructions to a respective onboard device or subsystem.

Onboard control system can comprise for example, UAV flight control unit 111 which is operatively connected to UAV flight control devices 150. UAV flight control unit 111 is configured to control various flight control devices for navigating the UAV to a desired location. UAV flight control unit 111 is configured, responsive to received flight commands (e.g. from control system 120) or based on flight command pre-stored on an onboard data-storage device, to generate instructions for controlling UAV flight control devices 150 in order to navigate the UAV to a desired location. Flight control system can further comprise UAV navigation unit 117 operatively connected to onboard navigation devices (e.g. GPS, INS; not shown) and configured to determine its current location and a heading to a desired target location. UAV navigation unit 117 can operate together with flight control unit for providing flight instructions and directing the UAV to a desired location. UAV flight control devices can include for example throttle, stabilizers, propellers, configured for providing lift and directing the UAV from its current position to a new desired position. Of course different types of platforms may have additional or different control devices. For example other autonomous vehicles have driving control units other than a flight control unit directed for controlling the vehicle in the relevant environment (e.g. steering, transmission and braking mechanisms in a land vehicle).

In addition to a pyrotechnic payload which is described in more detail below, UAV 10 can be equipped with other payloads as well. For example, UAV 10 can comprise an electro optic device (e.g. camera) configured to capture images of the UAVs surroundings and facilitate locking and tracking on an object of interest

Reverting to control system 120, it includes at least one computer device (comprising one or more computer processors) configured to execute computer instructions enabling to control the operation of UAV 10. The control system can further comprise a user interface comprising a display unit 121 and input device 123. Display unit 121 comprises one or more display devices (e.g. one or more LED screens) for displaying information including for example received sensing-data generated by electro optic device onboard UAV 10. Input device 123 is configured to enable an operator to interact with the control system. Input device 123 includes for example, one or more of: keyboard, joystick, computer mouse, touch pad, touch screen or any other device enabling operator-interaction with the control system. An operator can use the user interface for interacting with the control system and issue specific commands directed for controlling the UAV and/or one or more payloads onboard the UAV.

As mentioned above, according to the presently disclosed subject matter, UAV 10 is configured as vehide-based pyrotechnics deployment system configured to carry and operate a pyrotechnic payload 12. The specific structure of the pyrotechnic payload device can depend, inter alia, on the type of payload compound which it contains. The payload can be attached to the UAV by any equipment suitable for carrying such a payload, including for example any one of cable, rod, chain, strap, cord, or the like.

According to some examples, pyrotechnic payload device 12 can be attached and carried by some type of a mechanical hoisting device (16) fixed to the UAV and capable of being adjusted to pull the pyrotechnic payload device upwards towards the UAV or lower the pyrotechnic payload device downwards below the UAV. Mechanical hoisting device can be for example any one of: a winch, an electric pulley, an electrical telescopic rod, etc. A hoisting device can be also used in other types of vehicles. For example, a hoisting device can be used in a marine vehicle, where the pyrotechnic payload device is attached to a platform floating on the water and is lowered down into the water where it is operated.

According to some examples, mechanical hoisting device 16 can comprise or be otherwise operatively connected to some type of a motor (e.g. servomotor) and a hoisting control unit (optionally implemented as part of control unit 113). The hoisting control unit can be configured to control the mechanical hoisting device to raise or lower (or move sideways) the pyrotechnic payload device responsive to received instructions. Instructions to raise or lower the pyrotechnic payload device can be received for example from control system 120. Alternatively or additionally, instructions for controlling mechanical hoisting device 16 can be pre-stored on a computer data-storage device onboard the UAV and operatively connected to the control unit

For example, during flight the pyrotechnic payload device can be pulled closer to the UAV. Upon arrival to a designated area, pre-stored instructions can include instructions for lowering the pyrotechnic payload device as part of the pyrotechnic payload activation sequence. Furthermore, as mentioned above, in some examples controlling the altitude of the pyrotechnic payload device can serve in order to adjust the size of the area affected by the pyrotechnics. Thus, the hoisting mechanism can be used in order to adjust the altitude of the pyrotechnic payload device and obtain a pyrotechnic effect over an area of a desired size. This can help for example to reduce the need to alter the altitude of the UAV.

In some cases, it may be required to control the directionality of the pyrotechnic effect. For example it may be required to block the pyrotechnic effect in the direction of the platform (e.g. in order to avoid disrupting the operation of an onboard camera by an illuminating pyrotechnic payload or to avoid blocking the camera field of view by dispersed smoke). Or, in another example, it may be required to direct the pyrotechnic effect to a certain direction (e.g. direct illumination to a specific direction). Accordingly, pyrotechnic payload system 100 may further comprise a controllable directionality device. The device can be controlled in order to obtain a desired directionality of the pyrotechnic effect.

Fig. 8 is a schematic illustration of a directionality control device, in accordance with an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. According to the illustrated example, control device is designed as a cover situated around the pyrotechnic payload device and configured to enable to control the direction in which the pyrotechnic effect propagates.

Fig. 8a shows an example of a directionality control device having a conical cover 81 situated around the pyrotechnic payload device and blocking propagation of the pyrotechnic effect in all circumventing directions. Thus, the pyrotechnic effect is directed downwards. The directionality control device can further comprise an engine (not shown) configured for lifting and lowering the cover in order to control the angle of the pyrotechnic effect distribution. Directionality control device can further comprise a cover-control unit operatively connected to control unit 113 and be responsive to instructions generated thereby for controlling position of the cover (e.g. lifting and lowering) with respect to the pyrotechnic payload device. Flg. 8b shows an example of a directionality control device having a conical cover 81 situated around the pyrotechnic payload device. Different than fig. 8a, here the conical cover includes an opening 83 from which the pyrotechnic effect can propagate. By positioning the opening at the desired direction, the directionality of the pyrotechnic effect can be controlled. The directionality control device can further comprise an engine (not shown) configured for turning the cover in order to control the position of the opening and thereby control the direction of propagation of the pyrotechnic effect As explained above, directionality control device can comprise a cover-control unit (not shown) being responsive to instructions received from control unit 113 for controlling the position of the cover (e.g. the direction of opening 83) with respect to the pyrotechnic payload device.

Fig.8c is side view of the directionality control device shown in fig.8b, where propagation of the pyrotechnic effect is directed sideways to the left, as indicated by the arrow pointing to the location of the opening. The bottom of the cone can be either dosed, to block propagation of pyrotechnic effect downwards, or can be open to allow propagation in that direction.

As mentioned above, the platform-based pyrotechnic deployment system 100 disclosed herein comprises a control unit configured for controlling activation of the pyrotechnic payload. In general, pyrotechnic payload system 100 comprises at least one pyrotechnic payload device 12 comprising a device casing, which provides structural support for the device and contains a pyrotechnic compound (e.g. in a dedicated container within the casing) and an ignitor (e.g. an electric ignitor aka electric match) configured to initiate, upon activation, a chemical reaction for creating the desired pyrotechnic effect (e.g. illumination). An electric ignitor allows to control activation of the pyrotechnic payload for example by control system 120 located remotely from the UAV and/or by control unit 113.

In some examples, the initiated reaction results in a chemical reaction which generates a desired product The generated product can be dispersed as part of the same reaction or as a result of a subsequent reaction. In other examples, where the payload material is in ready to use condition, the reaction is initiated only for the purpose of releasing the material.

Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of a pyrotechnic payload, in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter. In some scenarios it may be desired to have better control of activation of the pyrotechnic payload. For example, more precise control over the activation time period and/or the intensity of the pyrotechnic effect may be needed. Pyrotechnic payload device 30 is divided into a plurality of isolated cells (31). Each cell comprises a certain amount of pyrotechnic compound and an ignitor (e.g. electric ignitor). The ignitors of all cells are connected by an activation circuit connection (e.g. a dedicated printed circuit board) to control unit 113. Each cell, or combination of cells, can be activated individually i.e. without activating other cells in the payload device. To this end, cells are made of a resilient material and are properly sealed and/or isolated in order to avoid unintentional activation by other activated cells.

According to one example, responsive to an activation command received at control unit 113, cells in the pyrotechnic payload device can be activated sequentially. For example, assuming a command is received at the pyrotechnic control unit 113 to activate the pyrotechnic payload for a given period of time, pyrotechnic control unit 113 calculates, based on activation time period of each cell, how many and which of the cells should be activated to provide the required operation time of the pyrotechnic payload.

Furthermore, according to another example, assuming the activation command also includes a required intensity (defined for example as intensity of illumination, or as density of particles of pyrotechnic product in the a given space (e.g. volume of air)), pyrotechnic control unit 113 calculates, based on the intensity provided by the activation of each cell, how many and which of the cells should be activated to obtain the required intensity. In the event that more than one cell is required, pyrotechnic control unit 113 can be configured to activate two or more cells simultaneously.

According to further examples, different cells can contain different amounts of pyrotechnic compound, each amount providing a different effect (e.g. different activation time period and/or different intensity). Thus, a specific cell or combination of cells can be activated based on a desired effect (e.g. activation time period and/or activation intensity).

According to another example, different cells can contain different types of pyrotechnic compound, each providing a different pyrotechnic effect Thus, a specific cell can be activated based on a desired type of effect (e.g. illumination, smoke screen, tear gas, etc.).

Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of another example of pyrotechnic payload, in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter. Different than the pyrotechnic payload illustrated in Fig. 3, in Fig. 4 shows a pyrotechnic payload device having individual cells which are spaced apart from each other and connected by a connector (41) for example, a cable, chain, strap, rod, etc. According to some examples, one or more of the cells shown in Fig.4 can be further divided into smaller cells, each equipped with a dedicated activation mechanism including a dedicated ignitor, to enable individual activation of each cell. Pyrotechnic payload as disclosed in Figs. 3 and 4 above can be in some examples configured as a dispensable device, where each cell is dedicated for a one time use.

Fig. 5 is a schematic illustration of a pyrotechnic payload dispenser, in accordance with an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. Dispenser 35 is a pyrotechnic payload device configured to control the amount of pyrotechnical compound which is used during activation. Dispenser 35 comprises one or more activation chambers 33, were activation of the pyrotechnical material (e.g. by a respective chemical reaction) occurs. As shown in the illustration, the dispenser can include activation chambers of different sizes. In some examples, different chambers can comprise different pyrotechnic compounds, each providing a different pyrotechnic effect For example, one can provide an illumination effect and another can provide a smoke screen effect

Each one of the chambers is connected by a designated activation circuit to control unit 113. Each chamber can be activated individually. Chambers 33 are made of a resilient material and are properly sealed and/or isolated in order to avoid unintentional activation by another activated chamber.

Responsive to received commands, control unit 113 can determine which of the chambers should be activated. Control unit 113 can be configured to process incoming commands and select based on command data, an appropriate chamber for activation. Control unit 113 can be further configured to generate an activation command for activating the selected chambers at a desired time and desired location, based on the received command. Selection of an appropriate chamber can be made, for example, based on the desired pyrotechnic effect (in case different chambers provide different effects) and other parameters, such as required activation time period, activation intensity, etc.

According to some examples, dispenser 35 further comprises pyrotechnic compound storage 37 for storing pyrotechnic compound and a dispensing mechanism 39 configured to dispense pyrotechnic compound from the storage cells into the chambers 33. Dispensing device can be connected to control unit 113 configured to control its operation. The dispensing device allows to dispense, into a respective chamber, a measured amount of pyrotechnic material. Examples of a dispensing devices, which demonstrate optional structural principles of the dispensing device disclosed herein are described in US Patent No. 9010272 (see for example figs. 1 to 6), US Patent US3893492 (see for example fig. 1), and US Patent US2956711, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Control unit 113 can determine, based on pre-stored logic (stored for example on a computer data-storage device onboard the UAV including for example non-transitory computer memory) the amount (and possibly also the type) of pyrotechnic compound which is required for a given reaction, and generate instructions to the dispenser (e.g. to activate the dispensing device) to dispense that amount of pyrotechnic compound into the appropriate chamber. For example, assuming a received command indicates a required illumination time period, the control unit is configured to calculate the required amount of pyrotechnic compound, and generate instructions to the dispenser to release the calculated amount of illuminating compound from the storage to a respective chamber.

According to some examples, dispenser 35 can be configured as a reusable device where the dispenser itself is not consumed during activation of the payload and the activation chamber can be refilled to be used repeatedly.

According to some examples, a chamber can also comprise a pressuring device configured for applying pressure on the pyrotechnic compound inside the chamber. The pressuring device is connected to control unit 113 and can be activated by the control unit in order to condense the compound before activation. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 6, each chamber can comprise a plate 61 connected to a motor 63 which can lift or lower the plate within the chamber. The size and shape of the plate is such that it covers the entire upper surface area of pyrotechnic compound 65. By lowering the plate down, toward the pyrotechnic compound, pressure is applied on the compound and the compound is condensed. An electric ignitor can be located at the bottom of the chamber to enable activation with different amounts of pyrotechnic compounds.

Fig. 7 is a flowchart of a sequence of operations carried out according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. Operations described with reference to Fig. 7, can be executed, for example, with the help of a platform-based payload deployment system as described above with reference to Fig. 2. It is noted however that any description of operations which is made with reference to elements in Fig. 2 is done by way of example and for the purpose of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting in any way.

At block 701 a command to activate the pyrotechnic payload is received. As explained above, such a command can be generated, for example, by pyrotechnic control unit 113, onboard the platform or received from an external source. The command comprises data indicative of various activation parameters which may include, by way of example only, one or more of:

- Activation time, indicating when the activation should occur.

- Activation time period, indicating a requested desired time period for the activation to last

Activation type, indicating which of different types of pyrotechnic compounds should be activated.

- Activation location, indicating a desired location of activation.

Activation area, indicating a desired area to be affected by the payload (e.g. an illuminated area).

- Activation intensity, indicating a desired intensity of activation.

Commands are processed (e.g. by control unit 113) and an activation scheme is generated based on the information in the command (block 703). The activation scheme includes instructions for activating various platform (e.g. UAV) sub-systems. For example, flight instructions are generated (e.g. by flight control unit) to control the flight control devices for navigating the UAV (e.g. with the help of onboard GPS) to the location at a desired pyrotechnic activation area. Further instructions can be generated in order to control and sustain a desired altitude during activation.

As explained above, a combination of one or more compartments (chambers and/or cells) can be selected to be activated based on the desired activation parameters (e.g. the desired time period of activation and/or intensity) and based on information pertaining to the available compartments in the pyrotechnic payload (e.g. information indicative of the activation time period and/or intensity obtainable by activation of each of the unspent compartments in the pyrotechnic payload device).

An activation sequence can also be determined in order to achieve the desired effect The activation sequence indicates the activation order of the selected compartments. The activation sequence can include instructions to activate compartments sequentially and/or simultaneously, depending on the desired effect Furthermore, assuming more than one type of pyrotechnic compound is available in the pyrotechnic deployment system, based on the desired pyrotechnic effect appropriate compartment(s) are selected to be activated in the activation sequence. Thus, the resulting effect is controlled, inter alio, by selecting an appropriate combination of compartments and determining an appropriate activation sequence.

As mentioned above, pyrotechnic deployment system 100 can be responsive to changes occurring in real-time, during activation, to generate instructions for controlling the pyrotechnic payload and/or the platform in order to adapt to these changes. One example, mentioned above, is related to changes in wind velocity. For example, flight control unit can be configured to calculate wind velocity as known in the art (e.g. with the help of onboard Pitot tube) and feed this data to control unit 113. Control unit 113 can be configured to determine whether there is a change in the wind velocity and whether a detected change would influence the resulting pyrotechnic effect (e.g. location of a smoke screen). If it is determined that a change to the pyrotechnic effect is probable, control unit 113 can generate flight instructions for repositioning the platform (e.g. UAV) in order to maintain the desired pyrotechnic effect (e.g. maintain the smoke screen at the desired location).

According to another example, activation of the pyrotechnic payload can be synchronized with object tracking. For example a UAV can comprise a sensing unit comprising some type of electro optic device configured to locate and track a sighted object The control system allows providing the sensing unit with control-data, induding, for example, different types of commands, each command comprising instructions for directing the UAV and the sensing unit to perform various operations with respect to a sighted object of interest Commands include for example, lock and track commands, zoom commands, centering commands, etc The sensing unit is configured to execute the received command and provide the control unit with the requested sensing-data.

In some cases it may be desired to activate the pyrotechnic payload while tracking an object (e.g. a stationary or moving object). For example, it may be desired to activate an illuminating pyrotechnic in order to illuminate an object while it is being tracked (e.g. a moving car) or to illuminate a stationary object which is being viewed (e.g. illuminate a window in a building). In case the object of interest changes its position, control unit 113 can generate flight instructions for repositioning the platform (e.g. UAV) and/or for controlling the directionality control device in order to maintain the desired pyrotechnic effect focused on the object

Once the UAV arrives at the desired activation area (block 705), and at the desired activation time, activation of the pyrotechnic payload commences, according to the previously determined activation scheme (block 707).

It is to be understood that the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited in its application to the details set forth in the description contained herein or illustrated in the drawings. The presently disclosed subject matter is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Hence, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basis for designing other structures, methods, and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present presently disclosed subject matter.