Non-pyrotechnic signature for medium caliber projectile

Abstract

A visible or invisible light-producing device in an inert target practice projectile creates visible and / or infrared light initiated by a deceleration sensitive triggering element when the projectile impacts a target. A visible signature is creating for recording the impact to provide training without the use of any pyrotechinc, or other hazardous materials being deposited on the impact area. The light producing device may be initiated by fuze electronics—prior to actual impact—to facilitate simulating an airburst projectile for training or testing purposes.

Description

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT INTEREST[0001]The inventions described herein may be manufactured, used and licensed by or for the U.S. Government for U.S. Government purposes.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]This disclosure relates to weapons systems. More specifically, this disclosure relates to target practice projectiles used for training and testing purposes.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0003]Untraced target practice projectiles do not provide visual feedback to the user when impacting the ground or the target, so it is difficult if not impossible to assess the accuracy of the target practice shot and thus the performance of military personnel firing the weapon. In addition, training devices need to be non-dud producing to ensure the safety of range crews and users.[0004]Current target practice projectiles that provide a visual signature contain flash producing chemicals that burn upon impact or just output a small cloud of colored material. These target practice devices require the outer ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The projectile is a weapon that uses electronics to create a flash. This can be done inside or outside the projectile. All the energy needed to create the flash can be generated and stored inside the projectile before or after the shot. The only kinetic energy needed is to close an electrical switch. This allows for safer and more realistic training with high-energy weapons. The use of electrical operation also makes it easier to train with new air bursting and other munitions.

Problems solved by technology

Untraced target practice projectiles do not provide visual feedback to the user when impacting the ground or the target, so it is difficult if not impossible to assess the accuracy of the target practice shot and thus the performance of military personnel firing the weapon.

These target practice projectiles are range and target limited due to the kinetic energy input needed to initiate a reaction that burns or disperses the contents of the projectile

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