How to hit a target

Abstract

The present invention is a method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile fired at a target after a first projectile. The subsequent projectile can change course based on information from the self-destruction of the previous projectile to improve its ability to detect the target. The present invention also includes a projectile and a fuse.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method of striking a target using a projectile having a guided bomb. The present disclosure also relates to a projectile and a fuse. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, artillery shells utilize projectiles with time or proximity fuses when striking targets such as missiles, aircraft, or helicopters. Projectiles with time fuses are set to explode at a specific time, determined by parameters such as launch velocity and distance to the target. Alternatively, projectiles utilize proximity fuses that cause the projectile to explode in proximity to the target once the target is detected by sensors within the projectile. These types of sensors are also called target seekers.

[0003] An example of a method and apparatus for striking a target using a guided projectile equipped with a target tracker can be found in EP 0048068. This document discloses a striking method using a guided explosive projectile or missile equipped with target trackers / seekers that automatically guide the projectile or missile to the target. To improve accuracy, the explosively launched projectile or missile is equipped with a transmitter that activates when the projectile / missile detects a target. Upon activation, the transmitter transmits a signal indicating the target's location relative to the projectile and any subsequent projectiles. Guided by the position-indicating signal transmitted from the initial projectile, the subsequent projectiles change their trajectory to match the target trajectory. Thus, the subsequent projectiles acquire a relatively accurate trajectory to the target. The invention described in EP 0048068 differs from the invention described in this application in that the strike involving the subsequent projectiles is based solely on data from the target tracker.

[0004] Additional problems that the present invention is intended to solve will become apparent from the detailed description of the various embodiments. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to improve the ability to strike a target when several projectiles are fired at the target in sequence.

[0006] The present invention relates to a method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile fired at a target after a first projectile, where the subsequent projectile can change its trajectory to improve its target direction by utilizing information from the self-destruction of the previous projectile.

[0007] A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile fired at a target employs the following concept: a projectile previously fired at a target detects the target and transmits target position data to the subsequent projectile.

[0008] Subsequent projectiles utilize the received target position data to set their course to the target and detonate on external command or at the estimated point of impact based on the estimated target trajectory.

[0009] A predicted target trajectory is calculated based on the target's position data.

[0010] The explosion occurs at the optimal impact point based on the predicted target trajectory.

[0011] An external command is a signal sent from the launch control system.

[0012] The target position data is a direction relative to the projectile.

[0013] The target's position information is a specific position in a three-dimensional positioning system.

[0014] The position data is used to dictate the sensitivity of sensors within the projectile.

[0015] The sensitivity of the sensor can be changed from 360° in all directions to sensitivity in parts less than 90°.

[0016] Additionally, the present invention relates to projectiles that utilize the aforementioned method of improving the point of impact.

[0017] The present invention also relates to a fuse for use with a projectile, said projectile utilizing the above-mentioned method of improving the point of impact.

[0018] An advantage of the present invention is that the action of the launched projectiles is more efficiently utilized against the target. A first projectile that self-destructs can transmit, directly or indirectly, using communications to provide timing data to subsequent projectiles that have not yet detected the target. Additionally, the target can be detected at the time of launch, and the target's location can be transmitted to subsequent projectiles, improving the ability of the subsequent projectiles to strike the target. The subsequent projectile sets its course to the target and detonates when the target is detected by an internal sensor, or alternatively, at an estimated time, or when an external signal is transmitted to the projectile.

[0019] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a flowchart for a method of striking a target using a guided projectile, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram of an apparatus for striking a target, according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates target movement according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] A target trajectory according to an embodiment of the present invention [Figure 5] Schematic diagram of a projectile according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 illustrates a projectile trajectory in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] When a projectile fired from a barrel weapon and not guided is used to strike a moving target, such as an air target, the projectile is aimed at a point where the projectile will reach the target. This type of point is commonly called the point of aim and is predicted based on measurements and estimation. The same estimation can also predict the trajectory of a projectile fired at a target. The estimation or prediction is based on the projectile's previous position and assumptions about how the projectile will behave in the future.

[0022] A system designed to strike a target using artillery shells and projectiles can include three parts: fire control, weapon, and projectile. Such a system is also called a ballistic-based air defense. The projectile can be understood as various types of projectiles, such as grenades, missiles, and / or rockets, used to strike a target. A fire control system used in a ballistic-based air defense includes one or more sensors and some methods for managing and evaluating detection data. The one or more sensors used in the fire control system are also called a sight. Information extracted from the sight is used to control the direction of the sight and the weapon.

[0023] In a first embodiment, the projectiles are launched sequentially without the launcher moving horizontally or vertically, traveling in single file or near-single file toward the target. Launched projectiles are programmed with time slots, meaning that sensors within the projectiles can detect the target for a specific time interval. In this case, the time slot of the first projectile is used to communicate with subsequent projectiles. If the target is not detected by the first projectile within the set time slot, that projectile explodes. This notifies subsequent projectiles that have not detected a target within the search area of ​​their target tracker / sensor. Even when communication with the preceding projectile is lost, the subsequent projectile can still obtain this information by noticing that it has not received any communication when the target has not yet been detected by the preceding projectile. Alternatively, the subsequent projectile may have a sensor to obtain information about the explosion of the preceding projectile, which may be, for example, an optical sensor, and can detect the explosion of the preceding projectile. If the preceding projectile is no longer able to detect the target, the subsequent projectile may change its trajectory to better position itself to detect the target. Alternatively, the projectile receives information that it has not detected a target before self-destructing. In cases where several subsequent projectiles are fired, different trajectories can be selected to allow the subsequent projectiles to cover a wider area.

[0024] In a second embodiment, the projectiles are launched in sequence without horizontal or vertical movement of the launcher, and proceed to the target in single file or nearly single file. When the first projectile detects the target, communication with the first subsequent projectile can be simplified by transmitting only a direction. The first subsequent projectile receives information from the first projectile and sets its course to the communicated direction. When the first subsequent projectile detects the target, it transmits a direction to the subsequent projectile, etc.

[0025] In a third embodiment, projectiles are launched toward a target in any manner. In this embodiment, the relative position of the launched projectile is unknown. Each projectile has a device for measuring its current position, which can be measured by inertial navigation, satellite navigation, or a combination of inertial and satellite navigation. When the first projectile detects a target, it transmits its current position and the target's position relative to the current positions of the subsequent projectiles. The first projectile transmits target information to the first subsequent projectile, which includes the position of the first projectile and the target's position relative to the first projectile's position. The second projectile calculates the position of the first projectile and the target's position relative to the first projectile based on its current position, as well as the maneuver required to propel the second projectile toward the target.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows a flowchart for a method of striking a target using a guided projectile, step 1. When a strike is initiated, as in step 2 in FIG. 1, a sight is guided to the target. Typically, this is accomplished by an external device, such as a reconnaissance radar that continuously transmits information about the target's location as a function of time. This external device is called an assigning device. In parallel with the sight being aimed at the target, a tube can be aimed at a precalculated aim point, the aim point's location being based on data from the assigning device. Once the tube is in position, a strike can begin by firing a projectile at the target. The projectile moving to the target has a target tracker, sensor, or proximity fuse that can detect the target. As seen in step 3, i.e., detecting the target, when the first fired projectile detects the target, or when the first of the fired projectiles detects the target, the projectile records the target's position relative to the projectile. In step 4 of FIG. 1, target information is transmitted to subsequent projectiles by a first projectile transmitting a signal to the subsequent projectiles. This communication may be transmitted using dedicated communications equipment, may be transmitted in various forms, such as radio or optical communications, or by other means. In each embodiment, each projectile has its own unique address, and the target information is transmitted to all subsequent projectiles. The next step is step 5, in which the first projectile transmits the information to the subsequent projectiles, and then the projectile is detonated. In alternative embodiments, the detonation may occur after the first projectile receives confirmation from the subsequent projectile. In embodiments in which projectiles are fired in a time slot, the projectile self-destructs at the end of its time limit. In this case, a communication may be transmitted to the subsequent projectile before detonation, and / or the subsequent projectile may be programmed or configured to know the first projectile's time slot and, therefore, the end of the first projectile's time limit.

[0027] In step 6, subsequent projectiles receive the information and use it to update their target location. Based on their current location and estimated course, subsequent projectiles can be steered to improve their trajectory to better position themselves relative to the target. The process of steering a projectile to better position itself relative to the target is seen in step 7, i.e., course correction. If projectiles are launched using time slots as in the first embodiment, and the subsequent projectile does not receive information from the previous projectile, and the previous projectile explodes at the end of the time slot, the subsequent projectile knows that the target has not yet been detected. When the subsequent projectile knows the time slot and thus the self-destruct / auto-detonation time of the first projectile, it can determine that the first projectile is no longer able to detect the target if it has reached the time limit and has not yet received target information. The subsequent projectile may then modify its course to increase its chances of detecting the target.

[0028] One or more subsequent projectiles travel to a position where the target can be detected using a target tracker, sensor, or proximity fuse. If the target cannot be detected, the projectile can be set to detonate using an external command, such as a signal transmitted from an assignment device. A laser included in the assignment device can detect both the projectile and the target. The assignment device can then send a communication to the projectile to detonate it at the appropriate time to impact the target. Even if the tracker cannot detect the target and the projectile receives the external signal and detonates, the subsequent projectile has already received the target's location. Therefore, the subsequent projectile may have already changed its course to a position closer to the target and is therefore more likely to be in a better position to inflict damage on the target than if it had not received the full information. Communication with the projectile can be adapted based on the environment and may in its simplest form include only a signal to detonate. As a further alternative, in the event that the target tracker cannot detect the target and cannot communicate with the projectile (e.g., due to a radio communication ban), the projectile can be configured to detonate by calculating a target trajectory based on information about the target's location already received from a previous projectile. The previous projectile may communicate data about the target's relative location, or, if the projectile has a positioning system, absolute location data. The projectile can also estimate the target's velocity based on the location information. Subsequent projectiles can make inferences about the target's trajectory based on estimates of the target's location and velocity. An optimal impact point for detonation can then be calculated based on the target's trajectory estimate. Even if the tracker cannot detect the target and the projectile is detonated based on the optimal impact point, subsequent projectiles have already received the target's location. Therefore, the subsequent projectiles are likely to be in a better position to inflict damage on the target than if they had not received the full information, since they may have already changed course to a position closer to the target.

[0029] Of the three different modes, the mode for generating a signal for the projectile to explode is determined in step 8, i.e., detecting a target / external command / calculated trajectory. Once the decision to detonate the projectile is made, step 9, i.e., communicating with subsequent projectiles, may transmit their updated position through measurement or calculation, in the same manner as step 4. Then, step 10, i.e., detonating the projectile, is performed in the same manner as step 5. In the first embodiment, if a projectile is fired in a time slot and a target is not detected, the subsequent projectile also automatically explodes at the end of the time limit. Any additional subsequent projectiles repeat the process from step 6.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, ballistic-based air defense system 20 includes launch control 21, one or more weapons, and one or more projectiles to be launched at a target. System 20 receives assignments from external reconnaissance sensor 22, which is capable of scanning a large number of targets at great depths at the expense of accuracy and frequency. Ballistic-based air defense system 20 also includes launch control sensor 23, which, when assigned, can measure the location of individual targets and the location of launched projectiles with high accuracy and frequency over a small area with limited depth. Processing unit 25 is used to estimate the aim point at which weapon 26 should be aimed. Equipment for communication with the projectile may be included but is not shown.

[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates a target area 100 for a target moving toward a protected object 104 in the second and third embodiments. The target passes through several locations or points on its route to the protected object 104. At point 101, far from the protected object 104, the target may be struck by a first projectile fired early. The first projectile, while still a significant distance from the target, may detect the target at point 101 using its target tracker, sensor, or proximity fuse. The first projectile 105 communicates information about the target's location to subsequent projectiles, shown in FIG. 3 as projectiles 106 and 107. Projectile 105 then explodes, striking the target with shrapnel or other explosive material on its way to the protected object. Thus, the target may be eliminated or may continue toward the protected object. If the target continues toward the protected object, it will eventually reach point 102. The projectile 106 begins a course correction to move to a more appropriate position, and when the target is detected at point 102, the projectile 106 explodes at the appropriate location. Before the second projectile 106 explodes, it communicates target information to the subsequent projectile 107, which then makes a course correction to get into a more appropriate position for explosion when the target is detected at point 103.

[0032] FIG. 4 illustrates a target trajectory 1000 for a protected object 1001 in the second and third embodiments. The target is flying toward the protected object 1001. The target is detected by a reconnaissance sensor as it passes point 1002. The reconnaissance sensor assigns a launch control sensor. The launch control sensor locates the target between points 1002 and 1003 and begins tracking and measuring the target's position and velocity. At point 1003, the target begins to change course, for example, to see the protected object 1001. At point 1004, the target finishes changing course. At point 1005, the target begins to maneuver the aircraft and set a course to attempt to hit the protected object. Launch control may begin predicting aim point 1007 as the target passes point 1006. The prediction is based on data from the launch control sensor and, optionally, further based on assumptions regarding the guidance law applied to the target. The strike on the target may begin early, with a first projectile launched toward the target communicating the target's location to a subsequent projectile. The first subsequent projectile sets its course toward the target, and when the target is detected, the first subsequent projectile communicates the target's location to a second subsequent projectile. If the first subsequent projectile fails to detect the target, the first subsequent projectile may be detonated according to an estimated target trajectory, which is estimated based on previously received position information about the target. Alternatively, if the first subsequent projectile fails to detect the target, the first subsequent projectile may be detonated according to an external command, which may be communicated from a sensor, such as a radar, that measures the projectile's position relative to the target. Similarly, subsequent projectiles may be detonated via detection and a calculated target trajectory using a target tracker, or via an external command. If the tracker fails to detect the target, the projectile may be detonated according to a calculated trajectory or an external command in lieu of a calculated trajectory. However, if there is interference that makes the external command unobtainable, the projectile can be detonated by a target tracker or a calculated target trajectory.If the projectile does not receive information from the target tracker or external signal for detonation, the calculated target trajectory is available for detonation of the projectile. Once the first subsequent projectile is detonated, the second subsequent projectile sets its course to the target and continues the process.

[0033] 5 shows a schematic diagram of a projectile 50 having a sensor 52, which may be, for example, an optical or electromagnetic tracker, a proximity fuse, or a different sensor. The projectile also has a controller, which may be wings 54 or other control means, and a servo 56 or different actuator that controls the wings or other control means. A processing unit 58, such as a microcomputer, receives information from the sensor 52 and deduces possible guidance laws. The processing unit communicates with the servo 56, which in turn controls the wings 54 to move the projectile 50. The processing unit 58 also communicates with a communication unit 60 to communicate signals to subsequent projectiles.

[0034] The communications unit 60 can also receive information from an external transmitter, such as information to detonate the projectile at a specific time, or information about the target's location transmitted from a forward projectile. The projectile 50 also includes a warhead 62. The sensor 52 may include a device for controlling the sensitivity, such as the directional sensitivity, of the sensor, for example, by controlling the antenna lobe, thereby improving sensitivity to a particular area, such as an area where a target is estimated to pass.

[0035] 6 illustrates a first embodiment of a strike sequence 200 in which projectiles 201, 202, 203, and 204 are time-slotted and configured to be launched sequentially at a target along a projectile trajectory. A time slot, also known as a time gate, refers to the activation of a projectile's proximity fuse for a specific period of time, from a first point in time to a second point in time (the end of the time limit). If the proximity fuse fails to detect the target within the configured time slot, the projectile self-destructs / auto-detonates / auto-detonates.

[0036] The first projectile 201 explodes at the end of a time limit. Subsequent projectiles 202, 203, and 204 are programmed or notified of the time slot of the first projectile. When the first projectile 201 automatically explodes at the end of the time limit, the subsequent projectiles change course if their current trajectory is not close enough to detect the target. Some time after the explosion of the first projectile 201, the subsequent projectiles 202, 203, and 204 move to their new trajectory. Preferably, the subsequent projectiles are deployed to increase the likelihood that one of them will detect the target. Different algorithms can be utilized to increase the likelihood of detection based on the current state of the estimated target, the distance to the target, the type of projectile, etc.

[0037] Alternative Embodiments The invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described, but can be varied in different ways within the scope of the claims.

[0038] It is understood that the number of sensors, launchers, or systems of requirements and the details involved in the target-to-target fire control methodology are applicable to weapon systems, platforms, and other configuration characteristics currently available.

[0039] It will also be understood that the target fire control method as described above is applicable to virtually any guided vessel or system, including aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, and missiles.

[0040] The present invention is not limited to any particular type of target, but rather may be utilized with a variety of target types, such as surface targets and air targets.

[0041] Also, all types of projectiles are available, including grenades, explosive grenades, missiles, and rockets.

[0042] The present invention is not limited to a particular number of projectiles or targets, but rather may be applied to any number of target objects or projectiles currently available.

Claims

1. A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile fired at a target after a first projectile, comprising: a previously fired projectile detecting the target; and said previously fired projectile transmitting position information of said detected target to said subsequent projectile, whereby said subsequent projectile changes its course based on said position information of said previously fired projectile at the time of self-destruction, thereby improving its ability to detect said target; the location information of the target is only a direction from the previously fired projectile to the target; A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile.

2. the subsequent projectile sets its course to the target at the received position information and explodes at an estimated point of impact based on the estimated target trajectory.

10. A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile according to claim 1.

3. estimating the target trajectory using the position information of the target; 3. A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile according to claim 2.

4. Utilizing the estimated target trajectory, calculate an optimal impact point for detonation.

4. A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile according to claim 2 or 3.

5. the subsequent projectile sets its course to the target at the received position information and explodes upon external command; 10. A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile according to claim 1.

6. a signal transmitted from a launch control system is used as the external command; 6. A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile according to claim 5.

7. the position information is used to indicate the sensitivity of sensors within the projectile; A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. changing the sensitivity of the sensor from 360° in all directions to sensitivity in a portion less than 90°; 8. A method for improving the point of impact of at least one subsequent projectile according to claim 7.

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