Autonomous Aerial Supply Delivery: Parachute Release and Impact Study

Abstract Military missions are often limited by the quantity of supplies that soldiers can carry with them. The purpose of this research was to develop an autonomous aerial cargo delivery device capable of resupplying soldiers in contested and remote locations. Specifically focusing on the final leg of delivery, this device aims to transport cargo from existing long-range Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to soldiers on the ground in a controlled and safe manner. The solution developed through this research included low altitude drops of small, palletized, parachute-suspended loads from assorted UAS in flight. The device developed to accomplish this would be responsible for safely holding a variety of cargo, releasing from the UAS, decelerating in flight on its descent, and absorbing shocks on impact with the ground. By receiving signals from the UAS, this device would operate autonomously as no human interaction is required for its operation. Engineering analysis was conducted on these areas and an initial prototype was constructed based on relevant findings. Although intended for use with multiple UAS platforms, the Squad Operations Advanced Resupply (SOAR) UAS, currently in development at the US Army DEVCOM Soldier Center, was selected specifically as the basis for prototype modeling and design. Through pilot testing, evaluation, and analysis it was determined that this method of inserting supplies into remote and contested environments is a viable and novel solution to small unit resupply. The device’s reliability was confirmed in its operation and data showed that the device increased survivability of cargo. This method of airdrop has great potential for future military and humanitarian applications and is worthy of further development.