Bi-Directional Capstan Winch Target Sled for Any-Angle Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing moving target trainers for air-to-surface and surface-to-surface training are costly, require extensive setup and maintenance, and do not provide realistic training conditions due to limitations in movement, angle restrictions, and vulnerability to errant rounds, making them unsuitable for widespread use.
Innovation Solution
A capstan winch assembly with a bi-directional drive wheel, tensioner system, and sensors to control a target sled on an endless loop, allowing for semi-autonomous operation and realistic target movement, enabling engagement from any angle and direction, with reduced downtime for repairs and lower environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a remote controlled vehicle with trailer is used for moving target training, then the target can be moved through engagement area, but the system cost is high and the vehicle is vulnerable to errant rounds
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the target into separate components: the target itself on a sled and the control vehicle. The target sled can be independently replaced if hit by errant rounds, while the control vehicle remains intact. This segmentation allows the target to be moved through the engagement area while protecting the control system from damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The target sled is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component. If the sled is hit by errant rounds during training, it can be quickly replaced without affecting the control vehicle or requiring extensive repairs. This allows continuous training operations with minimal downtime.
2Reliability
If offset headings are imposed on pilots to protect remote controlled vehicle, then the vehicle is protected from errant rounds, but the pilot cannot engage target on-axis which is most tactically sound
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the target sled from the control vehicle, the system allows the pilot to engage the target directly on-axis without worrying about protecting the control vehicle. The target sled absorbs any errant rounds, enabling tactically sound engagement methods while maintaining vehicle protection.
3Ease of operation
If rail system is used for moving target training, then the target movement is controlled, but the system requires extensive construction and has limited firing parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the complex mechanical rail system with a simpler rope-and-pulley mechanism. The target sled is moved along a defined path using a rope guided by pulleys positioned at key locations, eliminating the need for extensive rail construction while maintaining controlled target movement and realistic training conditions.
4Length of moving object
If remote control vehicle system is used, then the target can be moved at distance, but the control range is limited by terrain and vegetation due to signal degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary control approach where the target sled is equipped with its own propulsion system (motor and wheels). The remote control vehicle only needs to send basic control signals (forward, backward, stop) rather than controlling all aspects of movement. This reduces signal requirements and allows operation over longer distances despite terrain and vegetation interference.
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 system provides a cost-effective, portable, and realistic training solution that allows for engaging targets from any angle, reduces repair downtime, and operates remotely, offering improved training conditions for military aircraft.
Implementation Method 1
a motor configured to control rotation of the drive wheel bi-directionally
Implementation Method 2
a sensor configured to detect a location of the sled
Data Source
AI summary
A system for moving a practice target includes a capstan winch assembly including a drive wheel; a target sled; a rope that connects the target sled to the drive wheel in an endless loop, wherein a first end of the rope is connected to a first end of the target sled and a second end of the rope is connected to a second end of the target sled; a sensor configured to detect a location of the sled; a motor configured to control rotation of the drive wheel bi-directionally, wherein the rope is provided on the drive wheel so as to move by rotation of the drive wheel; a user input unit located remotely from the capstan winch assembly and the target sled; and a processor including a memory programmed to control rotation of the drive wheel, thereby controlling movement of the target sled.