Cartridge Data Link Conductive Coating for Fouling Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ammunition systems face challenges in quickly and efficiently transferring power and data to guidance components within projectiles, particularly when using non-conductive case materials, which can lead to fouling and residue contamination in the gun bore.
Innovation Solution
A data link system is integrated into the cartridge system, comprising electrical conductors and insulators, allowing for the rapid transfer of power and data signals between an external system and the projectile, using a network of conducting and insulating materials to minimize fouling and residue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If non-metallic cellulose case material is used, then complete burning during firing is achieved minimizing particulate fouling, but electrical power and data transfer to guidance components becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A conductive coating is applied to the inner surface of the cellulose case to serve as an intermediary that enables electrical power and data transfer while the cellulose material itself continues to burn completely. The conductive coating acts as a mediator between the non-conductive cellulose case and the electrical guidance system
Solution Approach 2:
The case is constructed as a composite structure combining cellulose material with a conductive coating layer. This composite approach allows the bulk cellulose to provide complete combustion and minimal fouling while the conductive coating layer provides the necessary electrical pathways for power and data transfer
2Productivity
If power and data are provided as quickly as possible prior to firing, then energy storage requirements are minimized and rate of fire is increased, but the risk of fouling and residue contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive coating serves as a stable intermediary pathway that allows rapid power and data transfer without requiring extended preparation time. The coating enables immediate electrical connection when the projectile is loaded, eliminating the need for prolonged energy storage while maintaining clean combustion characteristics
3Device complexity
If a continuous electrical conductor system is used in the casing, then power and data transfer is enabled, but fouling and residue contamination in the gun bore increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical conductor system is implemented as a thin conductive coating applied to the inner surface of the cellulose case rather than as discrete conductor elements. This composite structure allows complete combustion of the cellulose while the conductive coating maintains electrical pathways and leaves minimal residue
Solution Approach 2:
The conductor system is extracted from the bulk material and applied as a surface coating, separating the electrical function from the structural and combustion functions. This allows the cellulose to burn completely while the conductive layer remains as a thin, low-fouling pathway
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 data link system enables rapid and efficient power and data transfer to guidance systems, reducing fouling and residue contamination, thereby increasing the rate of fire and maintaining the integrity of the gun bore.
Implementation Method 1
a conductive coating is applied to the inner surface of the case to facilitate the transfer of power and data from an external system to the projectile
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatus for a data link system according to various aspects of the present invention may be incorporated into a cartridge system. The cartridge system may comprise a case and a projectile. The data link system may be connected to the case and the projectile to provide signals. The data link system a first connection point and a second connection point disposed on the case and an electrical connector connected to the first connection point and the second connection point