An Open-Source Projectile Launching Device for MAV Pursuit-Evasion and Dogfighting Research

This paper introduces an open-source, lightweight, compact projectile launching device designed to fill the gap in target acquisition systems for micro aerial vehicle (MAV) pursuit-evasion and dogfighting research. This device unifies projectile storage, feeding, and launching functions in a single integrated design. When fully loaded with projectiles, it weighs only 70.5 g, making it highly compatible with small MAVs (e.g., 3.5 -inch MAVs). The device features a single friction wheel mechanism and a spring-slide rail design for projectile feeding, enabling stable launches in all orientations. Furthermore, we developed a trajectory prediction model by integrating aerodynamic principles and the Magnus effect, specifically adapted to full-pose launch conditions. Based on the projectile impact dispersion, we proposed a noise model which can enhances the accuracy and portability of the capture. Experimental validation confirms the stability of launching projectiles and the accuracy of the trajectory predictions. This study achieves, for the first time, a hardware-model co-design for full-orientation projectile launching in MAVs, advancing close-range MAV combat technologies towards practical applications. The related results have been made publicly available via GitHub.