Aerodynamic Web Sub-Projectile Shotgun Ammunition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-projectile firing weapons, such as modern shotguns, suffer from random patterns of unguided projectiles, which are ineffective for close-range targeting of drones and other soft targets, and result in inconsistent and inefficient energy distribution.
Innovation Solution
A shotgun shell design featuring sub-projectiles arranged around the circumference, supported by a plastic housing, and linked by high tensile strength filaments to form a web that deploys aerodynamically upon firing, ensuring consistent spread and increased range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If unguided projectiles are used from a modern shotgun shell, then the weapon can fire multiple projectiles at soft targets, but the pattern spread is random and gradually expands, creating tight patterns close in that reduce hit probability
Solution Approach 1:
The shotgun shell contains multiple sub-projectiles (typically 6-12) that are individually shaped and oriented, rather than using traditional unguided shot. Each sub-projectile is a separate unit with its own aerodynamic properties, allowing controlled dispersion while maintaining pattern consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-projectiles are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration within the shell, with specific orientation relative to the barrel axis. This spatial arrangement creates a conical pattern of dispersion rather than random two-dimensional spread, improving hit probability at various ranges.
2Productivity
If traditional shotgun shot is used, then multiple projectiles can be fired, but the energy of the shot quickly diminishes with distance
Solution Approach 1:
The sub-projectiles vary in mass and aerodynamic characteristics to optimize energy distribution across different ranges. Heavier sub-projectiles maintain energy for longer distances, while lighter ones provide immediate impact, creating a balanced energy profile throughout the pattern.
3Reliability
If a single small BB size round is used to hit a soft target like a drone, then it can incapacitate the target if it hits in the right location, but the chance of hitting the target is reduced due to tight pattern spread close in
Solution Approach 1:
The shotgun shell contains multiple sub-projectiles (typically 6-12) that are individually shaped and oriented, rather than using traditional unguided shot. Each sub-projectile is a separate unit with its own aerodynamic properties, allowing controlled dispersion while maintaining pattern consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-projectiles are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration within the shell, with specific orientation relative to the barrel axis. This spatial arrangement creates a conical pattern of dispersion rather than random two-dimensional spread, improving hit probability at various ranges.
4Area of stationary object
If exploding projects with proximity fuses are used, then shrapnel can be scattered over a wider area, but the electronics, cost, and time needed to deploy them are prohibitive for man-portable weapons
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the complex electronic fuse system entirely, relying instead on the aerodynamic properties of the sub-projectiles themselves to create the spreading pattern. The sub-projectiles are shaped and oriented to automatically deploy in a controlled manner without requiring explosives or electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-projectiles are simple, inexpensive components made from lightweight materials, replacing expensive electronic fuse systems. Each sub-projectile is a disposable element that performs its function and is then discarded, eliminating the need for complex reusable electronic systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides immediate and consistent spread of sub-projectiles, increasing the likelihood of intercepting incoming drones or projectiles, while maintaining longer range due to the heavier sub-projectiles and automatic web adjustment in case of sub-projectile detachment.
Implementation Method 1
Each sub-projectile is designed with a slight airfoil planform with the lifting force directed outward from the center of the shell. Upon the projectille leaving the barrel of the weapon an immediate outward force is supplied by the aerodynamics of the sub-projectiles to pull the linking filaments and the circumferential filaments into a web shape.
Data Source
AI summary
An invention for using commonly available weaponry, namely shotguns or larger caliber cannons, for the control of drones and other projectiles by use of an ammunition containing aerodynamically designed series of sub-projectiles linked together by high tensile strength web in such a manner as to expand to the predetermined maximum size immediately upon exiting the barrel of the weapon and continuing along a steady and predictable flight path to the target while maintain the shape of the web to provide the most consistent interception pattern increasing the odds of success.