MLB Bat UAV: System Summary
The MLB Bat is a complete UAV system that operates autonomously
and delivers high quality video imagery and sensor data in real
time. The 10 lb aircraft has a wing span of 72 inches, but it
can be disassembled to fit into an 18" x 18" x 36" box. The
compact ground station is transported in a small case so the
entire system is man-portable. The aircraft can be prepared
for flight within minutes and the mission course is specified
by keying a series of waypoints into the ground station. The flight operations
are autonomous from catapult launch to wheels-down recovery. The Bat
has flight duration of up to 6 hours, telemetry range of 7 miles, and a payload capacity
of 4 lb. With systems starting at $48,000, the Bat provides the most capability for any
UAV in its size or price class.
Performance and Operating Envelope
A
1.2 cubic inch gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine powers the aircraft
and a special muffler reduces the noise level so that it is
nearly inaudible at an altitude of 500 feet. Typical altitude
for operation is 100 to 1500 feet above the local terrain,
with a cruising speed of 30 mph. The Bat can easily operate
in limited visibility conditions without danger to persons
on the ground or possibility of detection. Our aircraft have
flown under 200 foot cloud ceilings and in gusty winds exceeding
30 mph. Such conditions would ground many larger and more
expensive UAVs.
The Bat has a guidance system that maintains
position accuracy under autonomous control in calm conditions
within 25 ft of the specified course. Altitude is kept within
10 ft and airspeed within 2 mph.
Configuration and Construction
The aircraft and its systems are modular in
design for simple maintenance and replacement of damaged components.
The airframe is constructed of Kevlar, carbon fiber, and aluminum. The configuration has a pusher engine
to permit unobstructed installation of sensors in the nose.
The fuselage is strong and lightweight, with ample room for
systems and payload packaging.
Ground Station
MLB has developed a compact ground station for
operating the Bat using a laptop PC as the primary control
console. The PC has a moving map display showing the aircraft’s
location, speed, and height in real time. There are system-monitoring
windows to keep track of the Bat’s performance and a
live video capture window. The flight path is specified as
a series of mission legs, each with its own altitude, speed,
and waypoint. This data is specified by the operator using
the PC console.
Price and Terms
The standard Bat system with ground station and support equipment
starts at $48,000 for US customers.
Delivery date will be specified on receipt of order. MLB provides warranty
against manufacturer defects for 30 days after delivery.
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