Ammunition Loading Machine with Rotating Crimp Disk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ammunition production systems, particularly those using pneumatic systems, suffer from inefficiencies and production losses due to powder failures, which obstruct the projectile feed mechanism, and require manual intervention and separate tools for crimping, limiting automation and caliber changes.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical 'two-out' ammunition production loading machine that automates the loading of two cartridges simultaneously, featuring a rotating main disk with bullet crimp case bushings that crimp the case to the bullet, eliminating the need for manual handling and separate tools, and integrating four rotating disks with timed drives for precise operation across multiple stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If pneumatic systems are used for projectile feed, then automation is achieved, but production losses occur due to powder failures obstructing the feed mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces pneumatic systems with a mechanical indexing disk system that physically indexes cartridges through defined stations. The indexing disk with recesses mechanically guides and positions cartridges without relying on pneumatic forces that can be disrupted by powder failures, thereby maintaining automation while improving reliability.
2Ease of operation
If separate tools are used for crimping, then crimping function is achieved, but device complexity increases and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the crimping function with the indexing disk by incorporating crimping surfaces directly into the disk structure. As the indexing disk rotates cartridges through its recesses, the cartridge cases are crimped onto the projectiles simultaneously during the indexing operation, eliminating the need for separate crimping tools and manual intervention while reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing disk serves multiple functions: it indexes cartridges between stations, positions them for loading, and simultaneously crimps the cartridge cases to projectiles. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated crimping equipment and manual operations, streamlining the entire ammunition loading process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual caliber changes are implemented, then adaptability to different calibers is achieved, but loss of time occurs during changeover
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an indexing disk with adjustable recess configurations that can be dynamically repositioned or reconfigured to accommodate different cartridge calibers. The mechanical indexing system allows for quick adjustment of the disk's indexing positions and recess dimensions, enabling rapid caliber changes without manual intervention or significant downtime, thus maintaining adaptability while minimizing time loss.
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 machine achieves full automation, reduces production losses, and increases efficiency by loading 240 parts per minute with precise caliber consistency, eliminating the need for manual caliber changes and separate tools, while maintaining a compact footprint suitable for restricted spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The bullet crimp case bushing has a tapered feature inside which crimps the case to the bullet
Implementation Method 2
Cases are loaded from below by a cam driven pusher that lifts the cases through a case feed disk
Data Source
AI summary
Described is an ammunition production loading machine. The machine will load two cartridges at once and is referred to as a ‘two-out” machine. The machine will be of a mechanical nature reducing the potential loss of production that occurs with pneumatic systems. Any pneumatic systems on the machine will operate only in failure instances, i.e. in the case of a powder failure the pneumatic system will obstruct the projectile feed mechanism. The machine consists of seven (7) major components, which operate in unison. The machine is intended to run a single caliber so changeover adjustments and time required to change calibers are eliminated. The machine is capable of precisely loading a complete cartridge at a rate of 240 parts per minute in a completely automated manner. The key features of this novel machine are the full automation from station to station and a cartridge retaining bullet crimp case bushing in a rotating main disk, which rotates cases from station to station. The bullet crimp case bushing has a tapered feature inside which crimps the case to the bullet. Machines in the prior art utilize slotted case inserts or features to hold the cartridge base in position for loading, which relies on a separate tool for crimping and are not fully automated. The herein described machine is fully automated and does not require a person to manually move parts from one station to the next, nor loading of individual inserts to effectuate the bullet to case connection.