Ammunition Deconfinement Device for Safe Explosive Neutralization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ammunition systems lack the ability to safely neutralize explosive charges after launch, particularly in situations where the trajectory is aberrant or civilian presence is detected, posing risks of collateral damage and unintended detonation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a controllable deconfinement device within the ammunition that can be activated via pressure or temperature changes, utilizing assembly pins that break to uncouple the compartment, allowing the explosive charge to decompose without increasing internal pressure, and including an igniter and powder charge for controlled activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a deconfinement device is added to existing ammunition, then the ability to neutralize explosive charge is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deconfinement device is integrated with the existing firing mechanism by combining the igniter and powder charge components into a unified system. The deconfinement function is achieved through the same structural elements (firing chamber, propellant, igniter) that serve the primary firing function, thereby adding neutralization capability without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The igniter and powder charge serve dual functions: they act as the primary firing mechanism to propel the projectile, and simultaneously function as the deconfinement mechanism to neutralize the explosive charge. This multi-functionality allows the ammunition to possess both firing and neutralization capabilities through a single integrated system
2Ease of operation
If controllable means are added to activate deconfinement device, then the safety and controllability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controllable means are merged with the existing firing mechanism components. The igniter and powder charge that form part of the standard firing system also constitute the controllable deconfinement mechanism, eliminating the need for separate control systems and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The deconfinement device utilizes the same propellant combustion process that drives the projectile forward to achieve neutralization. The system is self-regulating through the natural combustion characteristics of the powder charge, which provides both thrust and controlled deconfinement without requiring external control systems
3Device complexity
If assembly pins are used for deconfinement activation, then the structural simplicity is improved, but the reliability of controlled activation may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical assembly pin system is replaced with a pyrotechnic-based activation mechanism. The igniter and powder charge provide a more reliable and controllable activation method through chemical combustion, eliminating the need for mechanical pins while improving the reliability of controlled deconfinement activation
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
Enables safe prevention of explosive detonation at any time, reducing destructive impact and minimizing collateral damage, with minimal structural modifications to existing ammunition systems.
Implementation Method 1
These means consist of technical means making it possible to voluntarily activate the deconfinement device 12 in response to a command from an operator or from an automatic system. They comprise an igniter 14 and a powder charge 15.
Implementation Method 2
The rise in pressure in the compartment 5 makes it possible to actuate the deconfinement device 12.
Implementation Method 3
The decomposition of the explosive charge 6 is accompanied by a significant generation of gas. The gases then cause the rise in pressure necessary for the mechanical rupture of the pins 121, 122.
Implementation Method 4
By igniter is meant any device capable of producing a flame, hot gases and/or hot particles so as to cause combustion of a powder charge.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a munition (1) comprising an explosive charge (6) confined in a compartment (5) and a release device (12) capable of releasing the explosive charge (6) under the effect of a pressure or temperature increase within the munition (1). It aims to enable the controlled neutralization of the munition (1). According to the invention, the munition (1) further comprises means (14, 15, 16) for activating the release device, these means (14, 15, 16) being controllable.